Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links. That means if you decide to make a purchase after clicking one of the links here, I’ll make a small commission at no additional charge for you. Yay for both of us!
How to get started
Ok y’all, here is the real scoop: when I decided that I wanted to start a blog (the idea of starting a podcast wasn’t even on the radar at the time) I had no idea how to do it. I tried to make sense of what the internet was telling me, but even the articles aimed at beginners required some understanding of this system of tubes.
I didn’t have that.
It didn’t take long for me to realize that the only way to get started was to dig in. I started downloading things, trying out tools, pretending to understand the difference between wordpress.com and wordpress.org. Things were ugly.
Before long, I actually did start to understand the basics. Shortly after, slightly more than the basics. It really just all started to come together. Now, of course, nothing is perfect. I’m learning daily. But my comfort level is definitely improving!
time to share
As people ask me what it takes to get started, I have to mask my giggles before composing some sort of an answer. Asking me? That’s hilarious!
But, I’m being asked enough that it is probably time for me to recognize that I really have claimed a little space right here on this web and in the podcast space. For anyone who is dreaming of having a place for their thoughts, I’m ready to help!
I thought I would use this space to share with you the resources I use to create all things FindingFinishLines.com, Finding Finish Lines – The Podcast, and CrestRealtyGAFL.com. In many cases, I have tried several products, tools, or services before finding these and right here are my favs!
If you have any specific questions that I don’t answer here, or you just want to chat, holler at me! Send me an email, hit me up in the DMs on Facebook or Instagram or leave a comment.
Blog resources
First things first: To create a website, you need to claim your own little space. The very best way to do this is to create a self-hosted WordPress.org website. Here is how I have done this:
Hosting : Bluehost
Domain: Bluehost
Theme: Genesis Framework from StudioPress. While I use other hosting, you can snag the Genesis framework at 35 Child themes for FREE if you host with StudioPress!
Sign up for a WP Engine plan and receive the Genesis Framework and 35+ StudioPress Themes free!Child Theme: On this website, I use the Captivating theme from Restored316.com. CrestRealtyGAFL.com currently uses the Splendor theme, also from Restored316.com.
Graphics: any graphics you see, and almost all of the stock photos, are from Canva.com
Affiliate Program: ShareASale
Podcast resources
Podcasting is a bit like starting a blog. You need to purchase a place where your podcast can live on the internet. Just like in blogging, this is called a Podcast host.
*NOTE * it definitely looks like you could host your podcast right on your wordpress.org website using a plugin. Don’t do this! You will destroy your speed. If you are starting on a shoestring budget, I get it! Use a free host. Just know that the service won’t be quite like a paid version.
Here is how I am creating:
Microphone: Blue Yeti
Headphones: Bose noise canceling fancy headphones. You will be wearing these a TON. Make sure you get some nice ones.
Editing: I use Garageband, free through my MacBook. I run it through Audacity.com before uploading it.
Hosting: Buzzsprout – the very best podcast hosting! I can’t say enough about how much I love them. Also, by signing up using my link, you will receive a $20 Amazon gift card after your second month!
Interviews: Squadcast.fm.
Transcription: I use Buzzsprout’s free option. Yup! Another reason why they are the best! Though, I will warn you that it does need quite a bit of cleaning up before publishing.
I’ll continue to add to this page as I learn more tools that I think could be helpful.
If you are interested in my simple web design or podcast creation services, reach out! Let’s talk!
