Podcasting Tips from the Trenches

Click HERE for an extensive forum thread full of useful podcasting tips!

I figure I might as well help you learn as I do.  Here are some things I've learned by show #3.

TIPS #1

1. Audio Consistancy - It's really annoying to keep changing the volume of a podcast, so don't make people do it.  After I listen to the show on my speakers I burn the show to disk and then listen to it in my car.  For some reason I can hear annoying changes in audio in the car better than I can in headphones.  So field test the audio somewhere other than on your computer.
2. If your Starting a New Show - WORK AHEAD!  I cannot stress this enough.  With the exception of shows with very up to the minute comedy or news shows, most programs can be at least 90% finished in advance. Wait until you have several shows ready before you start publishing them.  I waited to get three finished because I did a weekly show, so less for a monthly and more for a daily.  Remember that because this is new it's exciting, but like any other hobby you might not want to do it every single day.  If you are a few weeks ahead on your shows, you can take the time off you need. 
   
3. Take Critisism Well - Everyone can improve.  Your friends and family can save you from putting something really terrible out in front of the whole world.  But you have to listen, and REALLY listen to what they have to say.  Be honest with yourself and decide if the critique is valid.  If it is, change it.  Remember, your goal is to be embarassed by your first couple shows down the line.  Otherwise your not improving at all!
4. Don't Be Afraid to Throw Things Away - I know, that piece took you 8 hours.  It's the only chance you'll get interview so and so.  You have a deadline.  Doesn't matter.  You know if you love a piece or not.  Your trying to make the show you've always wanted on the air.  So if your honest, you can tell if something you've done sucks.  Better to be late than bad.  Here is something that I killed because it was bad.