How to Start a Podcast: Record Your First Episode (Guide)

Ready to hit record? This beginner‑friendly guide shows you how to choose a suitable room, pick the right mic, set levels, and capture clean audio—so your first episode sounds polished without a studio. It builds our *How to Start a Podcast* series with expert tips from professional podcaster, **Naomi Mellor.** **How to record a podcast:** - **Use a dynamic mic and close technique:** Record in a quiet, soft‑furnished space and speak 3-6 inches from a **dynamic microphone,** such as the Shure **MV7+** or **SM7B** to minimize room noise and capture a warm, clear voice. - **Monitor and set conservative levels:** Wear **closed‑back headphones** (e.g. **SRH840A**), run a 30‑second test, and avoid audio clipping and keep editing simple. Alternatively, the Shure MV7+ offers Auto Level Mode, making this step even easier and saving you even more time. - **Keep the workflow simple:** Outline your episode, record in one take when possible, **edit lightly** for clarity, export at podcast‑friendly settings, **host your RSS**, and submit to major directories. There is a 5-part video series with Naomi to help you get started; watch the full guide with Naomi below:

Shure is a proud supporter of [the Skylark Collective](https://skylarkcollective.co.uk), which is focused on empowering women in the podcast industry. Learn more about the [MV7+ Podcast Microphone](https://www.shure.com/mv7plus) and [SRH840A Professional Studio Headphones](https://www.shure.com/products/headphones/srh840) in the video. For more ways to make your podcast sound extraordinary, check out our [podcasting tips and gear here](https://www.shure.com/en-US/performance-production/applications/podcasting).

About the author — Shure Incorporated

Shure has been helping people sound extraordinary for more than 100 years. Founded in 1925, we are a leading global manufacturer of audio and collaboration technology, known for our commitment to quality, performance, and durability. From the biggest broadcast events and live performances, to critical business meetings and university lectures, to your home office or studio, you can always rely on Shure.

Products in this story: - [SM7B — Vocal Microphone](https://www.shure.com/en-US/products/microphones/s/sm7b) - [MV7+ — Podcast Microphone](https://www.shure.com/en-US/products/microphones/m/mv7) - [MV7i — Smart Microphone & Interface](https://www.shure.com/en-US/products/microphones/m/mv7i) - [SM7dB — Dynamic Vocal Microphone With Built-in Preamp](https://www.shure.com/en-US/products/microphones/s/sm7db)