By Elana Melzer, Head Producer
Has your professor assigned a podcasting project? Have no fear, McK Radio is here! McK Radio is located in Carnegie 110, and we are your source for all things podcasting at McKendree!
The McK Radio podcasting studio is home to state-of-the-art microphones from Heil Sound, along with a soundboard and computer programmed with Audacity. Using the equipment may seem overwhelming at first, but we are here to help you learn more about the process of podcasting.
Here are 5 tips to make your podcast the best one yet!
1.Write a script.
Get all your ideas out before podcasting by writing a script. Write out your ideas in a way that makes sense and flows well. The script does not need to be word-for-word, but make sure you have the key points written out, so you are prepared when it comes time to speak in front of the microphone!
2. Use the Audacity help menu.
Audacity is the software we use at McK Radio to record and edit our audio. It can be difficult to navigate at first, but once you get the hang of it, you’re ready to go. Check out the Audacity help menu when you open up the software or check it out here.
3. Get used to the equipment.
The microphones and soundboard may appear intimidating, but they are your friends! Get comfortable speaking into the microphone and wearing headphones before you start recording. Adjust the microphone so it is at a comfortable height for you and so that it is close to your face. The microphone should be about two-to-three inches from your mouth. The audience can’t hear you if you’re far away from the mic!
4. Remember that you can edit.
It’s not the end of the world if you mess up a sentence or two. Audacity allows you to go back into the recording and edit it. You can easily cut out the part where you messed up and rerecord it. Just be careful not to go overboard with the editing! Don’t spend an hour editing. It’s important to make sure that the podcast still sounds natural.
5. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
If you find yourself unsure of what to do next, reach out to the McK Radio team for help! We love to help people no matter what the problem may be. Reach out to the 2023-24 head producer Elana Melzer at elana.melzer22@mckendree.edu, or send a message to @mck.radio on Instagram!
