Gear & software we actually recommend.
What we point clients toward when they ask — hosting, mics, and the software in our own editing workflow.
Some links below are affiliate links. If you sign up or buy through one, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you — we only list tools we'd actually recommend.
Our top 5 picks
1. Captivate
Podcast-first hosting built around growth tools — analytics, dynamic ad insertion, and a clean publishing flow.
Visit Captivate →2. Blubrry
Reliable, long-standing host with strong stats and a WordPress plugin (PowerPress) if your site runs on WP.
Visit Blubrry →3. Buzzsprout
The easiest starting point for new shows — simple UI, one-click directory submission, solid free tier.
Visit Buzzsprout →4. Podbean
Good value at scale, with built-in monetization options if you're planning to run ads or a paid tier.
Visit Podbean →5. Libsyn
One of the oldest hosts in podcasting — proven infrastructure, though the interface shows its age.
Visit Libsyn →What's on the desk
Shure MV7
USB/XLR hybrid mic — start plug-and-play over USB, add an audio interface later without buying a new mic.
View Shure MV7 →Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
Closed-back monitoring headphones — the standard reference pair for hearing exactly what you're recording.
View ATH-M50x →Samson MBA38 Boom Arm
Sturdy desk-clamp boom arm with internal cable routing — keeps your mic positioned without cluttering the desk.
View Samson MBA38 →Fifine BM88 Boom Arm
Budget-friendly alternative boom arm — solid build quality if you're not ready to spend Samson money yet.
View Fifine BM88 →Ulanzi D200X
Compact key light for video podcasts — enough output for a clean on-camera look without a full studio setup.
View Ulanzi D200X →Ulanzi D100H Dial
On-camera light with a physical dial for quick brightness/temperature adjustments mid-recording.
View Ulanzi D100H →What's in our workflow
Descript
Edit audio like a text document — delete a word from the transcript and it cuts it from the recording.
Visit Descript →Auphonic
Automated leveling, noise reduction, and loudness normalization — a strong first pass before manual cleanup.
Visit Auphonic →Riverside.fm
Remote recording that captures separate local tracks per guest, so a bad connection doesn't ruin the audio.
Visit Riverside.fm →Ecamm Live
Mac-based live production and recording — useful if you're running a video podcast with multiple sources/scenes.
Visit Ecamm Live →MacWhisper
Fast, local, offline transcription for Mac — useful for a quick transcript pass without uploading audio anywhere.
What we're reading
Profit from Your Podcast
You can make money with your podcast and this book will show you how.
View on Amazon →Podcasting For Dummies
Another helpful guide that is simple, easy to understand reference.
View on Amazon →NPR's Podcast Start Up Guide
Well rounded help guide that takes you from conception to creation, to launch.
View on Amazon →Send us your next episode.
Book a 15-minute call and we will tell you exactly what your turnaround and pricing would look like.
Book a call