Navigating the Podcasting Waters: A Marine Industry Guide for 2024

The marine industry is a world filled with stories waiting to be told. Podcasting has emerged as a powerful medium to narrate these tales, connect with like-minded sea enthusiasts, and share knowledge that spans the seven seas. In 2024, starting a podcast can seem as daunting as navigating through uncharted waters, but with guidance I’ve been able to help dozens of people launch successful podcasts.

Granted it is way harder than anyone thinks, and at 90 episodes myself, I’ll be the first to tell you it’s not for the faint of heart.

For more follow Merrill Charette and check out our full blog at www.mida.pro

Setting Sail: The Genesis of Your Podcast

Before you embark on your podcasting voyage, you must christen your ship—name your podcast. Don’t get picky or overthink it because you can change it later on. The name of your podcast is the flag you raise; it signals your presence and purpose in the marine podcasting realm. It should resonate with the spirit of the marine industry, be it the adventurous, the scientific, or the conservationist angle you wish to explore.

Creating your podcast artwork is the visual hook that captures attention in a sea of content. Utilize design platforms like Canva or hire a designer to craft an image that encapsulates the essence of your marine message. Remember, your artwork sails across various platforms, so it must adhere to the required dimensions universally.

Charting Your Course: Recording Essentials

The second way you can do this is actually record just a few short episodes and release them all at once. It’s important to have your content ready to go. This could mean preparing a series of episodes on topics such as marine conservation, the latest in naval technology, or deep-sea discoveries.

When it comes to recording, the quality of your audio is crucial, don’t use the standard mic on your laptop, go buy yourself a mic that is compatible to your laptop. They are relatively affordable and the cost of entry to podcasting is relatively cheap.

The Art of Podcast Navigation: Editing Your Episodes

Editing is the compass that ensures your podcast is on the right course. Editing your podcast is not like editing video… it shouldn’t be polished, I’m trying to emphasize the conversational nature of podcasting.  

For marine-themed podcasts, editing can also involve layering in sounds that evoke the ocean, from the gentle lapping of waves to the call of seabirds. These elements can transport listeners, immersing them in the aquatic world you’re discussing.

Launching Off the Dock: Publishing Your Podcast

With your podcast polished and ready, it’s time to launch it into the world. Give your podcast episodes a title that will draw somebody to want to click on. The titles are your beacons in the fog, guiding listeners to your content. They should be compelling, clear, and reflective of the episode’s core message. You don’t need to start a podcast with “Episode X” ; it’s a waste of space for people to figure out what the episode is about.

Choosing the right distribution platform is like selecting the right currents to carry your ship far and wide. Buzzsprout can distribute your podcast to platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Play, ensuring your marine tales reach a global audience.

Sailing the Promotional Currents

Promote your podcast and publish content around your podcast. In the marine industry, promotion might involve sharing clips from your podcast on social media platforms, engaging with marine communities, and leveraging partnerships with marine organizations or influencers.

The Captain’s Log: Consistency and Growth

Consistency is the only cheat code, highlighting the importance of regular content creation. As a marine podcaster, your journey is continuous. Share regular updates on marine life, conservation efforts, or personal sea-bound adventures to keep your audience engaged and looking forward to your next episode.

Promotion is the rudder that steers your podcast to new audiences. Your promotional efforts should be as targeted as a ship’s navigation system. Engage with marine conservation forums, boating clubs, and oceanography enthusiasts on platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook. Share behind-the-scenes content, such as the making of an episode or your personal experiences at sea, to create a connection with your audience.

Consider collaborating with marine experts, influencers, and enthusiasts who can share your podcast with their followers. “Tell people that the new episode is out,” Use email newsletters to inform subscribers about new episodes, and don’t forget to engage with your listeners through comments or dedicated Q&A sessions.

The Captain’s Log: Consistency and Growth (Continued)

Your podcast is a living entity that thrives on regular content delivery. Set a podcasting schedule and stick to it, whether it’s weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly. This consistency helps build a loyal listener base, as they know when to expect new content from you.

To maintain a steady course, plan your episodes well in advance. Create a content calendar that outlines future episodes, including topics, potential guests, and any special series you might want to run. For marine industry podcasts, consider timing episodes with events such as World Oceans Day or the launch of a significant marine conservation initiative.

Riding the Waves: Adapting and Innovating

The marine industry is ever-evolving, and so should your podcast. Stay abreast of the latest trends in marine technology, conservation efforts, and global maritime news. Adapt your content to reflect these changes, and don’t be afraid to innovate. Perhaps you could host live podcast recordings aboard a vessel or at marine industry events, adding a dynamic element to your content.

Consider the impact of your podcast on the marine industry. Aim to not only inform and entertain but also to inspire action and change. Highlight stories of innovation, conservation success stories, and the individuals making a difference in the marine world.

The Journey Ahead

Launching a podcast in the marine industry is like setting sail on an unending voyage of discovery and connection. “You got to just press record,” your voice can be the one that brings the marine industry’s stories to the surface, engaging listeners from all ports of call.

As you continue to grow your podcast, remember that each episode is a new horizon. Stay true to your course, and don’t be deterred by the occasional stormy weather. With passion, consistency, and a willingness to adapt, your podcast can become a leading voice in the marine industry.

Merrill Charette

Brought to you by 

SHIPSHAPE.PRO – Innovative platform that bridges the gap in marine repair

& 

MIDA.PRO – Marine Industry Digital Agency – Web dev / Marketing

Podcast – SHIPSHAPE INTERNATIONAL OCEAN INSIGHT