Everything You Need to Start a Podcast in 2026

Everything you need to start a podcast in 2026, and the expensive stuff you can skip.

The complete starter list across three buckets: the space you record in, the gear that actually matters, and the software that records, edits and publishes from one place. Two full builds included, one under $150 and one complete creator setup, plus the anti-shopping list of popular gear that wastes beginners' money.

🎙️ GEAR MENTIONED
- PodMic USB - https://www.amazon.co.uk/R%C3%98DE-Microphone-Connectivity-Podcasting-Music-Making/dp/B0BQM4TKF7
- Shure SM7B - https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/aw/d/B0002E4Z8M
- Shure SM7dB - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Shure-SM7dB-Dynamic-Preamp-Streaming-Black/dp/B0CCSVYWMH
- Audio interface - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Focusrite-2i2-Interface-Songwriting-Podcasting/dp/B0C5JRTS3Y
- Beyerdynamic DT 270 PRO - https://www.amazon.co.uk/beyerdynamic-Over-Ear-Headphones-Recording-Monitoring-black/dp/B0FN84PVVJ
- Rode PSA1+ boom arm - https://www.amazon.co.uk/R%C3%98DE-PSA1-Professional-Damping-Management/dp/B09JBVR5B4/
- Elgato Key Light Neo - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Elgato-Key-Light-Neo-Clamp/dp/B0FL2LHRYP

🚀 TRY RIVERSIDE Record, edit and publish in one place: mrc.fm/riverside Use code MRC for 20% off any paid plan.

📺 WATCH NEXT
- Fix your recording space: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CqqOmKrahYI&t=44s
- Podcast hosting platforms compared: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EnEjpK7jGXI&t=620s

⏱️ CHAPTERS

0:00 What you actually need
0:40 The space (free)
2:06 Microphones
4:38 Headphones and accessories
6:12 Camera and lighting
7:35 Software: record, edit, publish
11:40 What NOT to buy
13:03 The two builds

I cover variety of tools on my channel - Adobe Audition, Audacity, Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve and more. I look forward to bringing you more interesting creator focused content in the future - make sure to hit subscribe now!
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👋 About Mike

I’ve been teaching creators how to improve their audio, video, and livestream quality for years. My goal: make podcasting easier, faster, and better for every creator - no matter your level.

If you enjoyed this, tap Subscribe and watch the next creator tutorial waiting for you on screen! 🎬✨


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Podcasting Success Strategies: Get Podcast Sponsorships

If you're podcasting and not tapping into sponsorship opportunities, you're leaving serious money on the table. With Podcasting Success Strategies: Get Podcast Sponsorships, you'll learn how to attract sponsors, build profitable alliances, and monetize your podcast like the pros.

💡 Inside this course, you’ll discover:

• How to find and approach sponsors—corporations, associations, foundations, and even individuals with marketing budgets.
• Strategies to leverage partnerships for paid promotion, brand credibility, and explosive audience growth.
• Why podcast sponsorship is one of the most underrated income streams for content creators.
• Techniques to position your podcast for high-profile guests and corporate endorsements.
• Real examples of how podcast sponsorships have created massive traction and influence.

You’ll also gain insights into how sponsorships can explode your visibility, build trust with your audience, and bring real ROI—without relying solely on ads or product sales.

🔥 Sponsorships are big business, and podcasts are the next frontier. Ready to get your piece of the pie?

👉 Enroll now and unlock the playbook for podcast sponsorship success!

Top 3 Podcasting Equipment for Superior Audio Quality

Wireless Lavalier Microphone for Android, iPhone, and Computers

Get top quality sound recording on your Android, iPhone, or computer with this Wireless Lavalier Microphone - without the restrictions of wires! It comes equipped with a noise reduction chip, providing clear audio for recording, podcasts, YouTube, and TikTok. Pack of 2 ensures you always have a backup or an extra mic for dual use.

Purchase this Wireless Lavalier Microphone on Amazon now

USB C Lavalier Microphone Wireless Mini Mic

This USB C Lavalier Microphone is a compact and handy addition to any aspiring content creator’s arsenal. Designed specifically for Type-C Android devices, tablets, or PCs, it's perfect for video recording. Additionally, the microphone’s denoise recording feature helps ensure quality sound while the rotatable clip offers flexibility of use.

Shop this USB C Lavalier Microphone on Amazon

TONOR TC-777 Podcast Microphone

Rank up your quality with the TONOR TC-777 Podcast Microphone. Designed for podcasting, streaming, and vocal recording, this USB computer microphone with a cardioid condenser ensures crisp audio detailing. It’s compatible with PC, laptops, and PS4/5 and comes with a tripod stand and pop filter, proving it’s a great all-in-one audio solution for aspiring podcasters and streamers.

Grab your TONOR TC-777 Podcast Microphone on Amazon