Podcasting

An image showing the Rodecaster Pro II with a Podmic and a laptop connected via USB

Podcasting in the Rapidmooc Studio (WA0.21)

Podcasting has exploded in popularity in recent years, becoming a powerful tool for both creators and listeners. With its on-demand format and ability to delve into niche topics, podcasts offer a unique space for learning, entertainment, and community building.

Digital Learning and Audio Visual Services have collaborated to set up a podcasting station within our Rapidmooc Studio in Westwood. The equipment in the room comprises a Rodecaster Pro IILink opens in a new window, 4 x Rode Podmic'sLink opens in a new window on PSA1+Link opens in a new window stands and 4 x Nth 100 headphonesLink opens in a new window.

The podcasting space allows for 4 in-person participants and external participants can be included via Teams, Zoom etc on a laptop or tablet using Bluetooth or the provided USB-C cable.

FAQs

Who can use the podcasting equipment

At the present time, access to the studio is staff only. By default, this includes:

Staff - all academic and professional services staff
PGR - all PhD students, GTAs etc.

With the support of a Staff member, this service is also available to:

PGT - for departmentally sponsored events or projects only (at the request of the Department)
UG - for departmentally sponsored events or projects only (at the request of the Department)
Students Union Societies - at the request of the relevant SU Officer/staff member

Please note that only Staff members are able to access the RapidMooc studios.

Where can I get help?

Contact the Digital Learning team for support with using the podcasting equipment for teaching and learning. We will give you an introduction to using the equipment and can talk to you about developing a podcast.

Contact the Audio Visual team for technical supportLink opens in a new window if the equipment is not working e.g. one of the microphones or headphones stops working or if there are cabling or power issues.

Visit the Rode Support and Documentation pagesLink opens in a new window for more information on the Rodecaster Pro II, especially if you want to dig into the more advanced features of the equipment

TL/DR - How do I get started (in fewer than 100 words)

Book and access the WA0.21 Rapidmooc studioLink opens in a new window.
Turn the Rodecaster on using the red button on the back.
Insert a micro SD card into the slot on the back.Link opens in a new window
Connect external presenters using the USB-C or bluetooth.Link opens in a new window
Put on the headphones.
Press the record button.
Speak into the microphone.
Press and hold the record button to stop recording.
Copy the files from the SD card onto your laptop directly or using the Rode Central app via the USB-C cable.Link opens in a new window
Turn off the Rodecaster and remove your SD card.

What does the podcasting equipment look like?

Rodecaster Pro II
4 x microphones and headphones
Podcasting table
Room layout

Rodecaster Pro II Tutorial

Plan your podcast

Define your podcast's purpose and target audience

Determine the main topic or theme of your podcast.
Identify your target listeners and their interests.
Decide on the tone and style you want to convey (informative, entertaining, conversational, etc.).

Plan your content and format

Decide on the structure of your episodes (interview-based, solo commentary, co-hosted, etc.).
Create an episode outline or script, especially for your first few episodes.
Decide on the frequency and length of your episodes.

Promote and build your audience

Create social media accounts and a website for your podcast.
Develop a 'marketing' plan to promote your podcast and attract listeners.
Consider guest appearances or cross-promotions with other podcasts in your niche.

Prepare for recording

Book the studio via the Rapidmooc Booking page.

Practice your delivery and ensure you're familiar with the content.
Confirm how external presenters will connect and check that your device supports Bluetooth or USB-C (or you have a suitable adapter).
Decide if you are going to record onto a microSD cardLink opens in a new window, or use a DAW such as Garageband or AudacityLink opens in a new window and purchase / install the required option.
Choose between recording a single stereo track or as multitrack, as this affects the Rodecaster settings; multitrack allows adjusting individual speaker levels in edit but uses more storage.
Bring a bottle of water and any notes or resources you need.

Record your podcast

Prepare the recording equipment

Turn on the Rodecaster using the small red button on the back of the unit.
Basic: If you are using a microSD card for recording, place this into the microSD card slot on the back of the unit near the power button.
Expert: If you are using a laptop to record, plug the USB-C cable into your laptop, open your DAW software and select the appropriate Rodecaster audio device.

Connect your remote guestsLink opens in a new window

Have a laptop or tablet ready with Teams or other software installed.
Connect the laptop or tablet to the Rodecaster Pro II via USB-C cable, enabling remote guests to join the recording session. Select 'Rodecaster Pro II Chat' as the speaker on your device. Volume is controlled from your device.
Alternatively, use Bluetooth to connect to the Rodecaster. This will be linked to the 5th fader (which has a blue light).

Perform audio checks

Check the 4 Rode PodMic microphones are properly positioned for each speaker - ideally about 10 to 15cm from your mouth.
Ask participants to speak into their assigned microphones and adjust levels as needed. Tip: for a 'warmer' sound, speak across the end of the microphone to reduce sibilance and 'pops'.

Check the headphone monitoring levels for all participants.

Record your session

Press the record button on the top left-hand side of the Rodecaster. Press it again to Pause, and hold it to stop recording. Red means recording; Amber means paused; Green means not recording.
Make a test recording if possible to confirm everything is working
Your session will save automatically to the microSD card and you can transfer the recording using the Rode Central appLink opens in a new window or by inserting your SD card into your laptop.

Edit and publish your podcast

Edit and post-process the audio

Import the recorded audio files into your preferred audio editing software e.g.
Remove any unwanted sections, such as long pauses or mistakes.
Apply noise reduction and leveling to enhance the audio quality.
Add intro and outro music, if desired.
Export the final audio file in a suitable format (e.g., MP3, WAV).

Create show notes and metadata

Write a brief episode description and create show notes with timestamps for important topics or segments.
Include relevant links, references, or additional resources mentioned during the recording.
Add appropriate metadata, such as episode title, description, keywords, and artwork.

Upload and distribute the podcastLink opens in a new window

Upload the final audio file and accompanying metadata to your preferred podcast hosting platform.
Submit your podcast's RSS feed to major directory platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and others.
Share the new episode on your podcast's website and social media channels.

Promote and engage with your audience

Encourage listeners to leave reviews and ratings, which can help increase visibility and attract new listeners.
Respond to comments and feedback from your audience, fostering a sense of community.
Consider creating additional promotional content, such as video teasers or blog posts related to the episode topic.

Teaching and Learning with Podcasts

Digital Pedagogy Library - Representing History Podcast AssessmentLink opens in a new window

LDCU - Talking Online Learning Link opens in a new window(created using this equipment in WA0.21)

Help and Community

Please join our Team's channelLink opens in a new window to discuss and learn from other users of our Podcasting service.