Abbey Graves Productions

In this bonus episode of Abbey the Podcast Lady, I’m diving into one of my favorite topics: podcast gear and software, specifically for beginners who are thinking about getting started during the holiday season.

If you’ve been eyeing those Black Friday or Cyber Monday deals (or maybe someone in your life wants to gift you a podcast setup), this is for you. I’m here to make it simple, clear, and budget-friendly. You do not need to break the bank to start podcasting well.

Start With a Good Microphone

First things first: a microphone matters. You don’t have to get the fanciest one on the market, but a solid mic will instantly level up your sound. My go-to recommendation for beginners is the Rode PodMic USB. It’s super versatile with both USB and XLR connections, and it’s built to last. Whether you’re just starting or planning to grow, this mic has you covered.

If you’re thinking about doing interviews or mobile recording, check out the Rode Wireless Go. It’s a small wireless mic setup that makes recording on the go a breeze.

Software That Makes Podcasting Easier

Let’s talk software! There are so many tools out there, and it can feel overwhelming fast—but don’t worry, I’ve got you.

• Riverside is perfect for remote interviews and recordings. It’s user-friendly and gives you high-quality audio and video.
• Descript is one of my favorite editing tools. It lets you edit audio by editing the transcript—yes, really! It’s also great for multi-cam video editing.
• Adobe Podcast is amazing for beginners. It uses AI to clean up your audio, so you sound studio-ready even if you recorded in your closet (which I totally support).

Use What You’ve Got

If you’re thinking, “Abbey, I don’t even have a mic yet,” that’s OK! You can absolutely start recording with just your phone. Seriously. Many successful podcasters began with the basics and so can you. Tools like Adobe’s Enhance Speech can clean up your phone audio and make it sound amazing.

Don’t Overspend

It’s easy to fall into the “I need everything” trap, especially with all the holiday deals flying around. But here’s the truth: you don’t need to buy it all right now. Focus on what you actually need to get started. The content is what matters most, and you can always upgrade later.

You’re Not Alone

And finally, please don’t feel like you have to figure it all out on your own. If you’ve got questions or need a little guidance, I’m always just a DM or email away. I love helping new podcasters take their first steps!

So if podcasting is on your heart and you’re ready to finally hit record—this is your sign. You’ve got this. Let’s make it happen together.