Advice from Blubrry’s Dave Clements
Top teachers and educators understand the importance of constant evolution in engaging their students, connecting with fellow educators, and sharing their expertise with a broader audience. Enter podcasting, the next and future stellar teaching tool for education podcasts! At Blubrry Podcasting, we’ve seen firsthand how educators are using podcasts to bring learning to life — and we’re here to help them get started.
We chat with Dave Clements, Blubrry support analyst, to walk through how educators can dive into the world of podcasting with ease.
“Podcasting isn’t just about talking into a mic — it’s about creating a learning experience that goes beyond textbooks and lectures,” Dave explains. “It’s an incredibly powerful medium for teachers.”
Why Educators Should Start a Podcast
Podcasting allows educators to transform their lessons and reach a wider audience. According to Dave, there are three major reasons educators should consider starting a podcast:
- Expand Your Classroom: “Your classroom doesn’t have to end at the school walls,” says Dave. “Podcasting allows students to study anywhere, anytime—it’s flexible and fits into their busy lives.”
- Share Expertise: Teachers can connect with peers worldwide, discussing best practices and sharing experiences that can inspire others.
- Build a Community: “Podcasting creates an avenue to build a real sense of community, not just with students but with parents, other educators, and even industry experts,” Dave adds.
Podcasts also double as professional development tools, enabling collaboration and growth within the education field.
The Tools You Need to Get Started
You don’t need a professional recording studio to start your podcast. Dave recommends three basic tools to launch:
- A Good Microphone: “Invest in a solid USB microphone like the Audio-Technica ATR2100x or Samson Q2U,” Dave advises. “They’re affordable and sound fantastic.”
- Recording & Editing Software: Free tools like Audacity and GarageBand are perfect for beginners. “Don’t overcomplicate things,” Dave says. “Start simple and build from there.”
- A Reliable Podcast Host: That’s where Blubrry comes in. Blubrry provides everything you need to publish, distribute, and grow your podcast, with special programs designed specifically for educators and students.
“At Blubrry, we make sure you can focus on your content, not the technical headaches,” Dave reassures.
How Blubrry Makes Podcasting Easier for Educators & Students
Blubrry believes starting a podcast should be straightforward and accessible, especially for educators. Here’s what’s available:
- Educator Account: Free podcast hosting for your first year! Simply apply and start your educational podcast without worrying about the cost.
- Student Discount: Students receive 50% off hosting plans for one year, making it easier to engage in podcasting projects.
- Easy-to-Use Publishing Tools: “Our dashboard is designed to be intuitive. You don’t have to be a tech wizard to get your podcast published and distributed,” Dave emphasizes.
Blubrry takes care of the hosting, distribution, and analytics, freeing educators up to focus on what matters most: teaching and inspiring through content.
Publishing & Growing Your Podcast
Once your episodes are ready, it’s time to get them into the world. Here’s Dave’s simple checklist for publishing through Blubrry:
- Upload Your Episode: Drag and drop your audio file into Blubrry’s user-friendly dashboard.
- Add Show Notes & Transcripts: “This helps make your content more accessible and easier to find,” Dave points out.
- Distribute Everywhere: Submit your podcast to platforms such as Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart Radio with just a few clicks.
And once you’re live, promote your podcast! Share it with your students, post on social media, and collaborate with fellow educators to grow your audience organically.
Ready to Get Started?
Starting a podcast as an educator is more achievable than ever. Here’s your quick action plan:
- Choose your podcast topic and format
- Get the right microphone and editing software
- Sign up for Blubrry’s Educator or Student Plan
- Publish and promote your episodes
“Your voice has the power to inspire,” says Dave. “Podcasting can help you reach students and fellow educators in ways you never imagined.”
If you’re ready to start, visit Blubrry.com and take advantage of our special educator and student discounts today. Your community is waiting — start your podcasting path now!