A Beginner's Guide to Start Podcasting

72% of adults in Ireland are now listening to podcasts on a monthly basis.

They're listening 48 minutes per day - That's 12 days per year listening to podcasts!

Podcasting has exploded into a mainstream medium, and in 2025, it’s an incredible opportunity for businesses, entrepreneurs, and creators to connect with audiences in a personal, impactful way.

Ever thought about launching a podcast, but felt overwhelmed by the process?

This guide will walk you through every step with practical tips to get started - without breaking the bank or your schedule. At GK Media, we’ve helped dozens of clients turn their ideas into audio gold, and we’re excited to share that roadmap with you.

First, let’s tackle the why.

Podcasting isn’t just about jumping on a trend - it’s about building a platform where your voice becomes a trusted resource. Unlike text or video, podcasts reach people during their downtime - commutes, workouts, or chores - making it a uniquely intimate medium. It’s also cost-effective and scalable, with a low barrier to entry compared to other content types.

According to Edison Research, over 60% of U.S. adults have listened to a podcast – and those numbers continue to climb yearly. Your audience is out there waiting - why not meet them where they are?

Step 1: Define your niche.

  • This isn’t about casting the widest net; it’s about depth.

  • What do you know that others want to learn? Are you a business owner with operational insights? A creative with storytelling tips?

  • A niche keeps your content focused and attracts a loyal listener base. At GK Media, we’ve seen niche podcasts outperform broad ones every time - specificity breeds connection.

 Step 2: Gear Up

  • A decent USB microphone delivers crisp sound and plugs right into your laptop. Pair it with free software like Audacity or GarageBand for recording and editing. Headphones help you monitor audio quality - any pair will do to start. Sound matters more than perfection.

  • Listeners forgive a little background noise if the content’s good. Our clients come to use our studio space as they prefer to bring a guest to a professional studio, rather than their home. But work with your budget first, and scale up from there.

 Step 3: Plan your episode.

  • Keep it simple: a 15-20 minute chat works for beginners.

  • Start with a quick intro - who you are, what’s coming up. Then dive into your topic. Maybe it’s “Three Lessons from My First Year in Business” or “How to Hack Your Morning Routine.”

  • Wrap up with a call-to-action - invite feedback or point listeners to your website.

  • Scripting helps, but don’t over-rehearse; authenticity trumps polish in podcasting. Record a test run, listen back, and tweak as needed. Nervous? Imagine you’re chatting with a friend - it’ll loosen you up.

Step 4: Editing is your secret weapon.

  • Trim awkward pauses or “ums” with Audacity’s easy tools - just highlight and delete.

  • Add a royalty-free intro tune from sites like Free Music Archive to sound pro without copyright headaches. Keep it short - 10 seconds max.

  • Export as an MP3, and you’re ready to share. Don’t obsess over perfection; your first episode won’t be flawless, and that’s okay. Listeners love growth stories.

Step 5: Distribution is simpler than ever.

  • Platforms like Spotify for Creators host your show for free or cheerfully cheap, bringing it to Apple Podcasts, Google, and more.

  • Upload your file, write a catchy title (think “Start Here: My Top 5 Tips”), and craft a description with keywords - SEO matters in audio too.

  • Alternatively, you can invest in a paid platform on Podbean to incorporate Dynamic Ad insertion. Then add basic cover art via Canva.

Hit publish, and you’re live!

  • Sharing is caring, and that applies to your podcast too. Share the link on LinkedIn, Instagram, wherever your audience hangs out. Repurpose your podcast highlights as social media teasers to get people interested.

Remember! Consistency is your growth engine.

  • Start with one episode a month - manageable for busy schedules - then scale to biweekly as you find your rhythm.

  • Engage listeners by asking for questions or feedback via email or social. Over time, you’ll build a community. At GK Media, we’ve seen clients go from zero to thousands of downloads by sticking to this plan. One client, a health coach, hit 10,000 monthly listeners in six months with weekly 30-minute episodes.

  • Monetisation comes later - sponsorships, ads, or premium content - but focus first on value. Every episode is a chance to showcase expertise, drive traffic, or sell subtly.


A client recording their podcast in GK Media Studios.

 

Ready to start?

  • Pick your niche today, record a five-minute test, and send it to a friend for feedback. You’ll be amazed how fast it comes together.

At GK Media, we’re here to guide and support you - our studio recently won the Business All-Star Best Podcast Studio in Ireland award 2025, alongside the best audio and visual equipment.

And if you don’t like editing - we can do that for you too!

Not to mention scheduling your episodes, providing social media video clips to hook people in, and creating bespoke graphics to powerfully promote your podcast.

Just get in touch via info@gkmedia.ie

A Night in the Life of a Palliative Care Nurse: A Conversation with Hilary Neville


Introduction

In a recent episode of our podcast, I had the pleasure of engaging in a profound conversation with Hilary Neville, a night nurse with over 25 years of experience in the community. We delved into her experiences working with palliative care patients and being present during end-of-life moments. This blog post aims to share the insights and lessons from our conversation.

The Role of a Night Nurse

One of the first questions I asked Hilary was what it's like to be with people who have died. It's a question many hesitate to ask, possibly out of concern for their own family members. Hilary expressed her gratitude for being able to be present during such significant moments in people's lives. She recalled her first night as a night nurse, where she arrived at an elderly man's home and confirmed that his wife had passed away. This experience highlighted the gap between the daytime community nurses and the night nurses, and the crucial role they play in providing comfort and reassurance during these difficult times.

Life Beyond Nursing

Hilary also shared her experiences working in a foreign country where she and her husband enjoyed a tax-free income and provided accommodation. Despite the fun and party atmosphere of the place, she acknowledged that it lacked a sense of reality and that people could reinvent themselves there. However, she always knew they would eventually come back home, which they did when she was expecting their first baby.

Balancing Motherhood and Nursing

As a mother of five, Hilary explained that working night shifts allowed her to be more present for her kids during the day. She also expressed her support for her children's decision to explore the world, believing it broadens their horizons.

The Emotional Toll of Palliative Care

When asked about the emotional toll of working with patients nearing the end of their lives, Hilary shared that she has never been afraid of death. She emphasized the importance of having support and outlets to offload the emotional burden of her work. She mentioned how she used to have a friend to talk to after the school run, and now she has a group of friends who connect through WhatsApp. They provide each other with support and understanding, which helps them cope with the challenges of their profession.

The Challenges and Rewards of Palliative Care

Hilary also discussed the challenges of being a nurse in palliative care. She sometimes feels like a politician because she has to navigate different expectations and understandings from different people. However, she also gets to hear the patients' life stories and experiences, which she believes are worth telling.

Words of Wisdom

When asked about words of wisdom, Hilary recalled advice she received as a first-time mother: to listen to the midwife and be open to guidance. She applies this principle to her work in palliative care, always asking patients and their families about their expectations and understanding of the situation before providing guidance or sharing her own thoughts.

Memorable Experiences

Hilary shared several memorable experiences, such as caring for an elderly lady for an extended period during the start of the COVID-19 pandemic and being present when a 101-year-old patient passed away, surrounded by her family.

Tokens of Remembrance

Hilary carries two significant items with her as reminders of her patients. The first is a set of three coins given to her by a patient she had formed a special bond with. The second item is a pin of a little hare, given to her by the mother of a baby she nursed during the COVID-19 pandemic. These tokens serve as a constant reminder of the profound impact her work has on the lives of her patients and their families.

Conclusion

Our conversation with Hilary Neville provided a deep insight into the life and work of a night nurse in palliative care. It highlighted the emotional toll, the challenges, and the rewards of this profession. It also underscored the importance of support, understanding, and open communication in providing the best possible care for patients and their families.

The Journey of Mark Duffy: From Drumming to Photography


Introduction

In our recent episode, we had the pleasure of hosting Mark Duffy, a professional landscape and commercial photographer. Mark shared his journey from being a drummer to becoming a successful photographer, his experiences with social media, and his insights on the music industry. Let's dive into the details of our enlightening conversation.

The Instagram Journey

Mark Duffy has grown his Instagram page to an impressive 48,000 followers, a feat that required an immense amount of work. He describes it as an obsession, emphasizing the importance of engaging with his followers and promptly responding to messages. Mark believes in the value of connecting with people and sharing his self-taught journey in photography, even if it doesn't always have a direct commercial benefit.

Despite not following the traditional advice of niching down, Mark posts a variety of photography genres on his page. He has also found work opportunities through Instagram, including collaborations with camera companies and commercial photography gigs.

The Learning Curve

Mark's journey in photography was not without its challenges. He discussed his experience studying music in college and the difficulties he faced finding information on specific terms and techniques. He emphasized the importance of having a mentor, especially when learning complex photography techniques like the Orton effect.

Mark often shares helpful links and resources with others who are learning, but he also encourages them to do their own research and make their own choices. This approach reflects his belief in the importance of self-learning and individual decision-making.

Collaborations and Reviews

Mark is an ambassador for a tripod company, a role that doesn't earn him anything from affiliate links. Instead, he receives equipment in exchange for content. He offers his followers discounts on the company's products, but also emphasizes their freedom to choose other brands if they prefer.

When it comes to reviewing products and creating content, Mark strives for honesty and authenticity. He prefers to have a thorough understanding of the product before creating content around it, even if it means taking longer to post videos. This approach ensures a more knowledgeable and authentic presentation.

The Misconception of Social Media Success

Mark and I discussed the misconception that having a large following on social media automatically leads to commercial success. Despite having a verified account and a significant number of followers, Mark explained that it hasn't translated into as much commercial work as he had hoped for. He believes the problem lies in not knowing what potential clients are searching for and that he hasn't had to advertise himself yet.

Mark shared an example of a video he did sarcastically, an unboxing video of wireless microphones. Despite using engagement hacking tactics to generate more comments and engagement, the video didn't result in any additional work or business opportunities.

The Shift from Music to Photography

Mark's decision to sell his drum kit and step away from gigging was a significant turning point in his life. He had been playing drums for over 20 years and had a deep passion for music. However, he felt more inspired and accepted in the fields of photography and videography.

Mark noticed that the music industry was changing, with fewer people learning instruments and more focus on production and technology. He decided to prioritize his love for photography and put his drums on the backseat.

The Impact of Drumming on Photography

Mark's background in drumming has had a significant impact on his photography career. Being a drummer taught him discipline and the importance of practice, which he now applies to his photography. He can spend hours perfecting a shot, taking hundreds of photos to get just a few usable ones.

Mark believes that his experience playing different genres of music has made him a more open and well-rounded person. He aspires to be remembered as one of the greatest photographers to come out of Ireland and constantly seeks to improve his skills and put his own unique spin on his work.

Conclusion

Mark's journey from drumming to photography is a testament to his passion, dedication, and hard work. Despite the challenges and misconceptions surrounding social media success, he continues to pursue his passion for photography and connect with his audience.

If you're interested in Mark's work, I highly recommend checking out his Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube. He encourages listeners to reach out with any questions they may have, except for one secret technique he calls "the glow," which he keeps under wraps.

Investing in Employees and Personal Growth: A Conversation with Jessica Lavery

As the host of this podcast, I had the pleasure of engaging in a fascinating conversation with Jessica Lavery, the marketing manager for Resilience Healthcare. Our discussion covered a wide range of topics, from the importance of investing in employees to the challenges and rewards of working in marketing.

The Importance of Employee Investment

Jessica kicked off our conversation by emphasizing the importance of investing in employees and supporting their personal growth. She suggested that businesses should encourage their employees to attend conferences, talks, and courses to expand their knowledge and bring new insights back to the business. This is a valuable lesson for any business leader looking to foster a culture of continuous learning and improvement.

Jess's Background and Personal Values

We then delved into Jessica’s background and her loyalty as a friend. I had previously spoken to a mutual friend, Keira, who praised Jessica for being the kindest and most loyal friend. Jessica attributes her loyalty to the belief that what goes around comes around, and she treats others the way she wants to be treated. She emphasized the importance of being a friend's biggest cheerleader, even when they're not present.

Jessica also shared her belief in supporting and cheering on other women, especially in the age of social media. This is a powerful reminder of the importance of solidarity and support in our increasingly connected world.

From Fashion Journalism to Marketing

Jessica’s journey into marketing was not a straightforward one. She initially had a passion for fashion journalism and even had a fashion column in the Galway Advertiser. However, after graduating in 2008, she found that there were no jobs available in journalism. Determined to find a way, she took a job as a makeup artist at Brown Thomas, despite having no prior experience in makeup.

This experience taught Jessica the importance of adaptability and resilience in the face of adversity. It also gave her a unique perspective on the power of marketing, as she observed how people always found a way to buy makeup, even during the financial crisis of 2008.

Balancing Motherhood and Career

At the age of 23, Jessica became a mother, which brought about another significant change in her life. She reflected on the transition from being a student to being responsible for someone else. Despite the challenges of balancing motherhood with her desire to still live a carefree life in her 20s, Jessica acknowledged that becoming a parent brought purpose and a sense of achievement to her life.

Lessons from a Career in Marketing

Jessica shared valuable insights from her career in marketing, emphasizing the importance of proving oneself every day by delivering results for clients and building strong relationships. She also highlighted the importance of brand awareness and consistency in marketing, using the example of Pampers advertising to a broad audience, even if not everyone currently needs their products.

Jessica also discussed the challenges of dealing with reactive decision-making in marketing, where sales fluctuations can lead to sudden changes in marketing plans. She believes that marketers should take back control and not let a bad weekend dictate their entire strategy.

Embracing Fitness and Finding Joy in the Small Things

Jessica also shared her experience of being pregnant for the second time and her dedication to going to the gym. She found joy in the small things, such as spending time with her kids and enjoying the beautiful weather. She made the most of her time off and manifested a new job and a new car within two weeks.

Attracting New Talent and Creating a Positive Work Environment

Finally, Jessica discussed her role in attracting new talent and creating a positive work environment at Resilience Healthcare. She believes that by fostering happiness among employees, they become advocates for the company and help attract new talent.

One aspect of Jessica's job is creating content, particularly videos, to give a voice to the service users they work with, many of whom have autism and may be nonverbal. She finds this aspect of her job incredibly rewarding as she helps these individuals find their voice and platform.

In conclusion, my conversation with Jessica Lavery was a treasure trove of insights and lessons on personal growth, resilience, and the power of marketing. Her story is a testament to the importance of investing in employees, embracing change, and finding joy in the small things.