As someone who has worked in podcast production for over a decade, at this point I can say I’ve tried pretty much every software there is. When I was thinking about the DIY podcasters among us, the question I posed myself was simple:

Can you do a good enough job of recording and editing your podcast just with free tools, or is it worthwhile investing in a more robust paid option?

Whether you're recording your first episode or ready to level up your podcast production game, I'm about to break down the real MVPs of podcast software - both the wallet-friendly gems and the worth-every-penny investments that actually deserve your hard-earned cash.

In this episode, I’ll be breaking down the best free and paid software tools for podcasters currently available.

While the podcast recording and editing options are quite vast, the trick is to find software that aligns with your needs and skills. Whether you're looking for a simple setup with GarageBand or Audacity, or aiming for full-fledged production powerhouses like DaVinci Resolve or Adobe's suite, there's something here for you.

CHAPTER MARKERS

00:00 Introduction to Podcast Recording Tools

00:49 Free Podcast Recording Tools

02:47 Using Your Phone for Recording

03:52 Free Video Editing Software for Podcasters

05:10 Paid Podcast Recording Tools

08:32 Paid Video Editing Software

09:13 Final Recommendations and Wrap Up

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

Audacity

Descript

Riverside.fm

Davinci Resolve

BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:

Podcast Content Calendar

Book A Consultation

Custom Review Of Your Audio/Edit

YouTube Channel

GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:

SE Dyncaster DCM8

Rode Boom Arm

XLR Cables

Sony ZV E10

Elgato Camlink

Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light

Aputure Light Box Min

Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend

Focusrite Clarett+

Rode Streamer X

Rodecaster Pro II

Rodecaster Pro Duo

In today's video, I'm comparing two powerhouse AI audio background removal tools: Descript Studio Sound and Adobe V2. As someone who's produced podcasts for over a decade, I know the struggle of dealing with less-than-perfect audio, so I'm putting these tools through their paces to help you make the best choice for your show.

I'll walk you through real-world scenarios we face daily at Bamby Media - from pesky car noise to those annoying clothing rustles (we've all been there! 😅). Whether you're recording without a proper mic or dealing with room echo, I've got you covered with practical solutions and honest feedback on what actually works.

CHAPTER MARKERS

00:00 Introduction to Audio Fixing Tools

00:14 Overview of Descript Studio Sound and Adobe V2

00:24 Pre-recorded Audio Samples

01:27 Testing Car Noise Removal

05:33 Evaluating Rubbing Noise Reduction

08:44 Handling No Microphone Audio

10:28 Fixing Distant Microphone Audio

12:16 Final Thoughts and Recommendations

13:42 Conclusion and Custom Review Offer

BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:

Podcast Content Calendar

Book A Consultation

Custom Review Of Your Audio/Edit

YouTube Channel

GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:

SE Dyncaster DCM8

Rode Boom Arm

XLR Cables

Sony ZV E10

Elgato Camlink

Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light

Aputure Light Box Min

Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend

Focusrite Clarett+

Rode Streamer X

Rodecaster Pro II

Rodecaster Pro Duo

Choosing the right microphone can make or break your content. 

That might sound a bit dramatic, and to be honest it probably is.

I know for most creators it might not be a huge deal if you go with a dynamic microphone when a condenser microphone would have been better suited.

Sure, a slightly different range in frequency response isn’t going to be noticed by the majority of people consuming your content.

But there is something so satisfying and almost unquantifiable about listening to audio that has been captured the right way with the right equipment.

With that in mind, I went looking for the best wireless microphone system for content creators.

As I started looking at what creators were already using, the Rode Wireless Pro and DJI Mic 2 emerged as direct competitors.

And so began the tests.

I’ve been using these two systems for a solid four months on locations that I know a content creator would go: hotel rooms with concrete floors, windy outdoor environments, city streets, the beach, studios and multi-speaker podcast panel discussions. 

In each location, I’ve made sure to compare not only the ease of use, portability and functionality of each system but more importantly the sound quality.

If you’ve been trying to decide between the Rode Wireless Pro and DJI Mic 2, let this podcast episode be your guide.

BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:

Podcast Content Calendar

Book A Consultation

Free Podcast Audit Service

YouTube Channel

GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:

Rode Wireless Pro

DJI Mic 2

----

SE Dyncaster DCM8

Rode Boom Arm

XLR Cables

Sony ZV E10

Elgato Camlink

Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light

Aputure Light Box Min

Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend

Focusrite Clarett+

Rode Streamer X

Rodecaster Pro II

Rodecaster Pro Duo

If you're a founder still lurking behind your company logo like it's your last line of defence, I've got news for you: your business needs YOUR face, not just your fancy branding and pictures of your team or thriving office culture. 

Though those things are nice, a potential customer has nothing to hold onto. We buy from people, not businesses. 

That’s why you need to be building your personal brand, and I feel like podcasting is the cheat code you’ve been searching for.

Now, before you roll your eyes at this article thinking 'not another personal brand lecture,' roll those eyes back into their appropriate location and give me a few minutes of your time.

This podcast episode will show you why a podcast can solve your problems.

BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:

Podcast Content Calendar

Book A Consultation

Free Podcast Audit Service

YouTube Channel

GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:

SE Dyncaster DCM8

Rode Boom Arm

XLR Cables

Sony ZV E10

Elgato Camlink

Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light

Aputure Light Box Min

Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend

Focusrite Clarett+

Rode Streamer X

Rodecaster Pro II

Rodecaster Pro Duo

It's a special day for me—my birthday! 🎉 And what better way to celebrate than combining two of my loves: music and microphones? So, join me on this little auditory adventure as we dive into some budget-friendly microphone options that are perfect for vocalists. 

I've gathered a selection of XLR and USB microphones, a lineup that includes the SE DCM8, SE Neom, Rode NT USB Mini, Rode PodMic (in both USB and XLR formats), and the Shure MV7 (also in both formats). My goal? To sing a section of one of my unfinished songs and see which microphone captures my voice with the best clarity and tone.

00:00 Birthday Excitement and Favorite Gifts

00:41 Microphone Testing Plan

02:03 Microphone Lineup and Song Performance

03:40 Microphone Reviews and Impressions

09:52 Final Thoughts and Recommendations

BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:

Podcast Content Calendar

Book A Consultation

Free Podcast Audit Service

YouTube Channel

GEAR WE USED TO MAKE THIS EPISODE:

SE DynaCaster DCM8

Rode PodMic:

Shure MV7

SE Neom

NT-USB Mini:

Rode Boom Arm

XLR Cables

Sony ZV E10

Elgato Camlink

Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light

Aputure Light Box Min

Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend

Focusrite Clarett+

Rode Streamer X

Rodecaster Pro II

Rodecaster Pro Duo

If I were to start a podcast in 2025, here's exactly what I'd do, drawing from my decade of experience as the head honcho of Bamby Media. We've launched nearly 500 shows, so I've learned a thing or two about what works in this ever-evolving industry. Whether you're a seasoned content creator or just dipping your toes into the podcasting world, these tips will help you make your mark. 

00:00 Introduction and Credentials

00:30 Essential Equipment: Microphone and Boom Arm

01:41 Planning Your Content: 50 Topic Ideas

02:13 Audio vs. Video: Making the Choice

03:09 Promoting Your Podcast: Social Media and More

04:03 Batch Recording: Scheduling and Consistency

04:47 Podcast Artwork: First Impressions Matter

05:33 Getting Help: Launch Packages and Support

07:14 Defining Your Unique Value

08:30 Monetization: Offerings from Day One

09:41 Outsourcing Editing: Focus on Content

11:07 Choosing a Hosting Platform

11:48 Final Steps: Releasing and Focusing on Quality

BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:

Podcast Content Calendar

Book A Consultation

Free Podcast Audit Service

YouTube Channel

GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:

SE Dyncaster DCM8

Rode Boom Arm

XLR Cables

Sony ZV E10

Elgato Camlink

Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light

Aputure Light Box Min

Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend

Focusrite Clarett+

Rode Streamer X

Rodecaster Pro II

Rodecaster Pro Duo

Today I’m taking you behind-the-scenes to the inner workings of Bamby Media throughout 2024. I reflect on the year's pros and cons, discuss the impact of AI on podcast production, and explore how smoother processes and systems contributed to a calm work environment. I also take a look at personal achievements, challenges with software, and the effects of AI-generated podcasts. 

Additionally, the episode touches upon the significance of the Bamby Media YouTube channel, free podcast audits, and team upskilling. We round off with future aspirations and the new studio space that is coming in 2025.

00:00 Introduction and Unexpected Challenges

02:12 Reflections on 2024: Pros

02:20 The Impact of AI on Our Workflow

03:33 Calmer Year and Improved Processes

05:52 Personal Growth and New Ventures

06:53 YouTube Channel Success

08:21 Client Engagement and New Services

09:13 Team Development and Training

12:40 Travel and Industry Recognition

14:15 Significant Client Growth

16:25 Cons and Areas for Improvement

22:38 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:

Podcast Content Calendar

Book A Consultation

Free Podcast Audit Service

YouTube Channel

GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:

SE Dyncaster DCM8

Rode Boom Arm

XLR Cables

Sony ZV E10

Elgato Camlink

Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light

Aputure Light Box Min

Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend

Focusrite Clarett+

Rode Streamer X

Rodecaster Pro II

Rodecaster Pro Duo

I take a look at Spotify's recent announcement of their rebrand to 'Spotify for Creators' for podcasters and its impact on audio podcasting. I review the new monetization requirements on Spotify, comparing them with YouTube's more lenient YouTube Creator Program and monetisation options for audio-only shows.

I discuss the potential shift towards video podcasting, the challenges smaller creators may face, and the different revenue models of Spotify and YouTube. Featuring insights from an interview with Spotify CEO Daniel Elk that Colin and Samir did on their podcast, we'll examine the pros and cons of Spotify's approach and what it means for the future of podcasting.

Resources Mentioned:

Colin and Samir interview Daniel Ek

Spotify for Creators

Captivate

Spotify Revenue Share

Imgur

BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:

Podcast Content Calendar

Book A Consultation

Free Podcast Audit Service

YouTube Channel

GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:

SE Dyncaster DCM8

Rode Boom Arm

XLR Cables

Sony ZV E10

Elgato Camlink

Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light

Aputure Light Box Min

Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend

Focusrite Clarett+

Rode Streamer X

Rodecaster Pro II

Rodecaster Pro Duo

As the festive season approaches, the question of whether to take a break from releasing podcast episodes over Christmas and New Year often looms large, especially for podcasters. 

It's a time when many are eager to unwind, enjoy family time, and perhaps forget about their usual routines. But is a break the best move for your podcast? I’ve trawled through the data we collect from our own client roster and the podcasting industry more broadly to give you my take.

Podcasting is an evolving and growing medium, drawing people away from algorithm-driven platforms to more meaningful interactions with the content they love. By staying consistent, especially over the Christmas period, you'll be ready to leap into the New Year, taking advantage of the increased listener engagement. 

I hope this gives you the clarity and confidence to keep those episodes rolling, even through the holiday season. I know it’s a lot of work, and I also appreciate that you simply might need a break.

It’s okay if you don’t take my advice and instead fall in a heap for a couple of weeks. I get it.

At the end of the day, it’s your show so you can do whatever you want. That’s the beauty of the medium. I’m just here to give you a bit of a push if you’re open to it.

Resources Mentioned:

PodPoll - Deadset Studios

Podcast Landscape 2024 - Sounds Profitable

The Podcast Election - Scott Galloway

BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:

Podcast Content Calendar

Book A Consultation

Free Podcast Audit Service

YouTube Channel

GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:

SE Dyncaster DCM8

Rode Boom Arm

XLR Cables

Sony ZV E10

Elgato Camlink

Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light

Aputure Light Box Min

Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend

Focusrite Clarett+

Rode Streamer X

Rodecaster Pro II

Rodecaster Pro Duo

As the wireless microphone offerings expand, so does my need to review them. Traditionally, the wireless microphone space was a bit lacklustre. They had clunky receivers that you had to try to hide under your clothes, the connections would drop out and the ability to connect seamlessly to a smartphone was rare.

Today, that is no longer the case. 

We’ve got Rode, DJI, Hollyland and Sennheiser as well as many others all putting their hats into the ring and today I’m putting the DJI Mic 2 to the test.

As a podcast producer with over 60 clients globally, I'm always on the hunt for audio and video equipment that can simplify our client workflow while delivering top-notch quality. If you're in the same boat, or perhaps just curious about whether this kit holds its ground against competitors like the Rode Wireless Pro, keep reading.

I've spent the last month and a half putting the DJI Mic 2 through its paces across a variety of environments—from the roaring waves of the beach, to the tranquil hinterland of Byron Bay, and within the confines of my home studio. My aim? To see how this system performs under different conditions and with varying sound profiles.

BAMBY MEDIA LINKS:

Book A Consultation

Free Podcast Audit Service

YouTube Channel

Apply to Join PodCoach

GEAR WE USE HERE AT BAMBY MEDIA:

DJI Mic 2

sE Neom

SE Dyncaster DCM8

Rode Boom Arm

XLR Cables

Sony ZV E10

Elgato Camlink

Aputure Amaran 200d LED Video Light

Aputure Light Box Min

Pre-Amp/Mixers we recommend

Focusrite Clarett+

Rode Streamer X

Rodecaster Pro II

Rodecaster Pro Duo