What Is An Audio Podcast? #

An audio podcast is a recorded series or single episode where you share stories, interviews, or discussions in sound-only form. Podcasts can range from casual conversations to highly produced narratives with sound effects and music. They’re designed to be listened to on-demand, which means your audience can engage with your work anytime and anywhere.

Why Choose This Format? #

Audio podcasts are perfect if you want to explore storytelling through sound, dive deeply into conversations, or create something that feels personal and accessible. They’re also a great way to experiment with performance—your voice, music, and sound design can create mood, emotion, and emphasis.

What You Might Learn #

• Oral storytelling: Practice communicating ideas through voice, pacing, and tone rather than visuals.
• Research & preparation: Learn how to structure an episode, develop questions, or script a story.
• Interview skills: Build confidence in asking good questions and listening actively.
• Technical skills: Gain experience in audio recording, editing, and mixing.
• Audience awareness: Learn how to keep listeners engaged without visuals.
• Collaboration: Work with others as co-hosts, editors, or sound designers.

General Process #

1. Choose your focus: Decide if your podcast will be an interview, narrative, discussion, or something experimental.
2. Plan & script: Outline your episode, draft interview questions, or write narration.
3. Record: Use a quiet space and recording tools (microphone, phone, or borrowed equipment).
4. Edit & mix: Cut out mistakes, balance audio levels, and add music or effects for polish.
5. Finalize & share: Export your episode and decide whether to share publicly or keep as a class/portfolio project.

Accessibility Considerations #

• Provide a full transcript of your podcast for accessibility and searchability.
• Use clear speech and minimize background noise for clarity.
• Add chapter markers or timestamps if possible for easy navigation.

See our Accessible Audio guide for more in-depth information.

Resources #

Get Support #

Book an appointment with a consultant at the DKC. We would love to help you with your audio podcast project! 

Guides #

Here are some guides that could help you on your journey:

• Getting started with audio projects
• Free media resources guide to find music or sound effects
• Getting Started with Choosing a Digital Project

Software #

See our Getting Started with Audio Projects guide for a list of beginner and advanced video editing software options.

Spaces & Equipment #

Equipment and spaces that could help you in the process:

• Vocal Recording Booth – The Vocal Booth in HCC 116 does not require training. It includes a device connected to a computer that has a high-end webcam, condenser mic, and dimmable LED ring.
• HCC Equipment Checkout – Audio Kits can be checked out from the HCC Info Desk for all your audio recording needs. Professional grade equipment will enhance the production value of your project and allow you to make better content. The kit is available to all UMW students, faculty, and staff. No training required, but come to the DKC in HCC 408 if you need help getting started.

Examples #

Created by Shannon Hauser 09/18/25