Podcast like a pro

PodcastsâÂÂu00c2u0080ÂÂu00c2u0088- best described as audio shows you can play at your convenience on your smartphone - are now enjoying immense popularity in the US, and have begun picking steam in India, too. Earlier called audioblogging, podcasting became more commonplace only in the 2000s, with the introduction of broadband Internet and portable devices such as the iPod.

If you're interested in learning about this medium, head over to The Revolver Club for two workshops that will equip you with all the information you need to start producing your own audio podcasts.

The workshops, conducted by podcast experts Chhavi Sachdev and Dhaval Mehta, will take you through not just the basics of creating content, but also deal with radio etiquette, sound editing, distribution platforms, and how you can go about marketing your finished product.

Chhavi Sachdev

Make it available
Chhavi Sachdev, who runs audio content and production house Sonologue, first began making podcasts back in 2008. "Smartphones weren't really around when I started. Recording a podcast involved a lot of effort, and only a diehard enthusiast would do it. Today, it is simpler once you learn the necessary skills," says Sachdev, who is a regular contributor to BBC and NPR podcasts.

At the upcoming workshop, she will touch on the basics of podcasting. "I'll begin with how you can fine-tune the kind of content you want to talk about, move on to what equipment to use, and how you can record and mix. Finally, I will discuss how you can distribute your podcast," adds Sachdev.

Dhaval Mehta

Make it visible
Dhaval Mehta, CEO of digital marketing agency DPM'Social, will follow this up with a workshop on podcast marketing. "Although I've been making podcasts since 2005, this is the first time I'm hosting a workshop on the subject," he says. Mehta will share his personal trade secrets on how he promoted various podcasts in non-traditional ways to gain listeners.

"Earlier, I used to email newsletters about my latest podcast to friends and family. It's a simple thing that worked. Today, getting your podcast to a larger audience would involve sharing it on social media platforms."

Interested folks may sign up for one or both workshops. All you need is your laptop, headphones and ideas for that path-breaking podcast.