Podcasting Tips and Advice?

Cowboy Bebop

So a friend of mine has stated an interest in producing a podcast with himself as the main host and myself as a guest on his first show. However this is the first time either of us have done this sort of thing, so I was wondering if anyone had some general tips or advice either from a technical stand point or advice for structuring the show that could aid us as we delve into unknown waters?

PA I choose you!

Wezoin

Podcasts are supposed to be recurring, which means they need to have a broad enough subject matter to be able to make more shows, but also a specific enough subject matter that people will go "I'm interested in X, this podcast is about X, I want to listen to this podcast." Make it clear what the show is about at the start, without going "This podcast is about _____" because thats boring. Start broad, work into specifics. That way someone who just hears the start can think "Alright, they're going to talk about the stuff I want to hear about" and then decide whether or not that particular episode is right for them. If I listen to the first minute and decide to turn it off, you want me to be thinking "I'll see what they're talking about next episode" instead of "This show isn't what I expected, I'm not listening to it anymore."

The other thing to think about is why would anyone want to listen to you (I don't mean to be rude, its an actual question.) Are you an expert on something? Have an unusual experience to share? It's important to give your podcast purpose, or else you'll fall prey to the "two guys nobody really cares about sitting around talking about something or other."

Garageband has a podcast feature, seems pretty good from what I can see. Not sure how it compares to any others.

Salvation122

Unless you manage to pull a legitimately big name into featuring for you, under no circumstances should your show last over 90 minutes. There are two or three shows that I'd love to listen to regularly, but they're fucking four hours an ep, and I simply cannot be dicked to deal with that.

Dr. Gero

This particular podcast goes over the making of a podcast, with links to recommended software, hardware, and hosting services. Check it out.

Reckless

Keep it to an hour. Don't do it live. Edit out the awkward silences, of which there will be plenty if you don't have any broadcasting experience. Bring in some music once and again to keep things fresh. No excessive use of sound effects. Speak clearly. The more you record and listen to yourself, the better you'll get.

Most importantly is have fun. Broadcasting is supposed to be enjoyable. I'm a little burnt out right now because I've been doing a 2.5hr show M-F for the past few months, but I still love getting up in the morning to do it.

Cowboy Bebop

Thanks guys there's some really good nuggets of information in here that I'll make sure to pass on to my friend.