How to Start a True Crime Podcast in a crowded field? Thanks to a constant flow of books, videos, and podcasts on a wide range of gory cases, true crime is more popular than ever. But the genre’s expansion has also given rise to a lot of garbage, and several recent dramatizations and documentaries have felt woefully ethically deficient. Dahmer on Netflix and the Ted Bundy film Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile have drawn criticism for glorifying their subject and casting overly beautiful leads.
I can say that the storyteller’s responsibility is to handle the subject matter, at the very least, with caution and tact. When committed with integrity, true crimes can be good: they can give victims’ stories credibility and support their families as they fight for justice.
Key Takeaways
- The true crime genre is pretty competitive, with podcasts, blogs, and websites all vying for attention.
- People enjoy true crime podcasts to know more about crimes and how they were solved, as well as to hear about scary, mysterious, or creepy stories.
- There are various types of true crime stories, including crime and criminal biographies, espionage, hoaxes and deceptions, murder and mayhem, organized crime, serial killers, and white-collar crime.
- Podcast listeners will prefer shows with multiple hosts, as it can enhance the quality of the program.
- Thorough research on the crimes being covered is essential for providing a unique perspective and engaging the audience effectively.
Understand the Appeal of True Crime Podcasts
The first step is to learn how to launch a true crime podcast. However, what makes it function? What is it about real-life crime stories that draws viewers in? True crime podcasts are popular for two main reasons:
People Want to Learn About Intriguing Crimes
They are curious to know more about crimes and how they are resolved by the police. True crime fans are always curious. They want to know about the latest crimes and how they were solved. They’re interested in the detective work and the minds of the criminals. Meeting this curiosity is key to keeping your listeners hooked.
Listeners Enjoy Scary and Mysterious Stories
True crime podcasts also offer a thrill. They enjoy learning about eerie, enigmatic, or just plain unsettling topics.
Never forget these explanations. You’ll be well on your way to launching a podcast that matches with audience members with their help.
“The true crime genre seeks to understand the motivations behind real criminal acts, providing a thrilling and educational experience for listeners.”
| Attraction to True Crime | Percentage of Audience |
|---|---|
| Desire to Learn About Intriguing Crimes | 75% |
| Thrill of Scary and Mysterious Stories | 65% |
| Empathy and Understanding of Victims | 60% |
| Questioning the Justice System | 55% |
Choose Your True Crime Podcast Genre or type
Let’s move on to discussing the various true-crime story types. Understanding these types is essential for anyone interested in learning how to produce a true-crime podcast. The most common sorts of true-crime podcasts are:
Crime and Criminal Biographies
Explore the lives of famous criminals. Look into their backgrounds and how they made their choices. This lets you understand what made them tick. The lives and crimes of criminals are the main subjects of these true-crime podcasts.
You can tell them as a friend, relative, or member of the law enforcement community. There’s a lot of emotional appeal to this podcast. Before committing a crime, it explores the inner workings of the mind of the perpetrator.
Organized Crime
Writers of true crime find this to be a fascinating genre. There are a few things one has to know in order to begin a podcast about organized crime. An extremely well-organized illicit operation is known as organized crime.
It frequently has ties to public servants. It’s a massive criminal enterprise that takes part in illicit operations. This covers money laundering, prostitution, and drug trafficking. These crimes frequently involve powerful individuals. This is why learning about this true crime subgenre is intriguing.
Espionage
Podcasts with an espionage theme typically tell the story from the viewpoint of a government official. The story follows the character as they go from their nation of origin to a new location.
They are apprehended for their espionage here. International listeners are drawn to this kind of true crime podcast. It demonstrates how various nations conduct themselves behind closed doors.
White-collar Crime
Creating a podcast about white-collar crime may be a fascinating endeavor. This is due to the fact that such crimes frequently go unreported. It involves those who steal, embezzle, and conduct other offenses.
Usually, they make use of their position inside a business or government agency. Authors of true crime who are interested in business and finance tend to gravitate toward this genre.
Hoaxes and Deceptions
Look into cases where people were tricked by elaborate schemes. Learn why people do these things and how they fool others.
Murder and Mayhem
Examine the worst crimes. See what drives people to commit such acts. Think about how these crimes affect others.
Serial Killers
Study the minds of serial killers. Find out what drives them and how they operate. This is a deep dive into human darkness.
| True Crime Podcast Genre | Key Characteristics | Potential Audience Appeal |
|---|---|---|
| Crime and Criminal Biographies | Focuses on the lives, motives, and decision-making processes of notorious criminals. | Intrigued by the psychology and personal histories that shape criminal behavior. |
| Espionage | Explores the thrilling world of covert operations, intelligence gathering, and international intrigue. | Fascinated by the high-stakes game of classified information and those who seek to obtain it. |
| Hoaxes and Deceptions | Investigates captivating cases of elaborate hoaxes, social engineering, and the human tendency to believe the unbelievable. | Intrigued by the motivations and methods behind complex schemes and scams. |
| Murder and Mayhem | Examines the darkest corners of humanity, exploring cases of murder, violence, and chaos. | Drawn to the analysis of factors that lead to devastating events and their lasting impact. |
| Organized Crime | Unravels the intricate web of organized criminal networks, from the Mafia to drug cartels. | Fascinated by the power structures, tactics, and societal implications of complex criminal enterprises. |
| Serial Killers | Delves into the twisted minds and horrifying crimes of serial killers, exploring patterns, motives, and societal factors. | Captivated by the chilling exploration of the darkest aspects of the human condition. |
| White-collar Crime | Exposes the world of financial fraud, corporate corruption, and the abuse of power by those in positions of authority. | Interested in the high-stakes world of white-collar criminality and its far-reaching consequences. |
Remember, the true crime podcast genre you choose should align with your personal interests and expertise, ensuring that you can create engaging and well-researched content for your listeners. Embrace the opportunity to explore the diverse and captivating narratives that define the true crime landscape.
Set Up Your Podcast Recording Space
When it comes to affordable cameras and mics, there are several options available. Pop filters can be simply set up to assist limit distortion, and most entry-level microphones are decent enough to start with. Pillows and towels make surprisingly good, low-cost sound-absorbing materials.
To create, share, and record your live stream podcast, select a streaming program. For optimum exposure, we advise you to record your audio in a different file that you may upload via an RSS Feed to podcast hosting websites.
Begin by finding a small, enclosed room in your home for podcast recordings. It could be a closet, a bedroom corner, or a “blanket fort” for this purpose. The aim is to create a space that blocks out external sounds and echoes. This lets your voice stand out.
- Use sound-absorbing materials like blankets, pillows, or acoustic foam panels to line the walls. This helps reduce echo and reverb.
- Place your microphone close to your mouth but not too close. This balance is key for volume and clarity.
- Try different room layouts and microphone positions to find the best spot for your podcast recording setup.
By carefully setting up your podcast recording space, you’re on the path to high-quality podcast sound quality. A well-designed podcast recording environment is crucial for the success of your true crime podcast recording setup.
“Consistency in your podcast recording setup is key to maintaining a professional and polished audio experience for your listeners.”
Select the Right Podcasting Equipment
Starting your true crime podcast? Quality equipment is key to better audio. The right microphone can change your podcast’s sound. It’s crucial for engaging your listeners.
Microphone Options for Beginners
Beginners should look at USB microphones like the Blue Snowball or the AT2100. They’re small, affordable, and sound great. They’re easy to use and don’t need extra setup, so you can focus on your content.
Professional Microphone Setups
For more experience, consider professional microphones. The Electro-Voice RE20 and the Shure SM7B are top picks. These XLR microphones need an Audio interface like the Focusrite Scarlett Solo but offer top-notch sound.
The microphone you pick depends on your setup and budget. Good equipment makes your podcast stand out. It keeps your audience hooked and sets you apart in the podcast world.
Get your complete podcast equipment setup by visiting Podcast Equipment Bundle.
| Microphone | Type | Price Range | Suitable For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blue Snowball | USB | $50 – $100 | Beginner Podcasters |
| AT2100 | USB | $80 – $150 | Beginner Podcasters |
| Electro-Voice RE20 | XLR | $350 – $500 | Professional Podcasters |
| Shure SM7B | XLR | $300 – $450 | Professional Podcasters |
how to start a true crime podcast
Starting a true crime podcast is exciting and rewarding. It needs careful planning and execution. To launch a successful podcast, research your competition, set up your recording space, and create engaging content.
First, research the true crime podcast world. Make sure your podcast name and concept are unique. This will help you stand out in the crowded market.
- Research the true crime podcast genre and find your niche. Choose a focus like crime biographies, espionage, or serial killers.
- Set up a good recording space and get the right equipment. This includes a quality microphone and audio editing software.
- Plan your early episodes well. Focus on researched content and a compelling story. This will build a strong foundation for your podcast.
Also, think about adding music and sound effects to make your podcast more immersive. By following these steps, you’ll create a true crime podcast that grabs the attention of fans.
| Key Considerations for Starting a True Crime Podcast | Importance |
|---|---|
| Researching the true crime podcast genre and identifying your niche | Crucial to stand out in a crowded market |
| Setting up a professional recording space and equipment | Ensures high-quality audio production |
| Carefully planning and executing your early episodes | Establishes a strong foundation for your podcast |
| Enhancing your podcast with music and sound effects | Creates a more immersive listening experience |
Finding Your Niche and Story
Find a premise that stands out
It’s best to avoid copying the theme or substance of other people when choosing a podcast premise. Choose a topic that interests you or that appears realistic to you. Think about the areas in which you already excel or where you can quickly make contacts and obtain information.
Thankfully, murder mysteries are not the only type of true crime stories available. Podcasts on true crime include a wide range of subjects, including organized crime, cults, criminal biographies, and white collar crimes.
How do you choose your stories?
For many people “true crime” conjures up tales of decades-old disappearances or unsolved murders, but this doesn’t interest Alexi and his team at Tortoise Media.
“We try to do stories that are more forward-looking than traditional true crime podcasts, so it wouldn’t be up my street to look at a case that had been unsolved for 20 years or a completely cold case,” he explained.
“I think often with those sorts of stories, a) they’ve been done quite a lot, and b), they don’t necessarily have public interest elements attached to them.”
Alexi, who was previously Head of Investigations at The Times, said the subjects of his podcasts feature two key elements: a strong narrative core (so, a compelling story and central characters), and a broader social objective.
In other words, he’s looking for something that makes the story bigger than itself; something that will provoke a discussion of, and even action on, wider issues. For example, his latest series Hoaxed not only tells the mind-bending tale of one of Britain’s most toxic conspiracy theories – that there’s a satanic pedophile ring operating out of Hampstead, north London – but it also explores how such misinformation campaigns are able to spread and mutate, and why law enforcement consistently fails to crack down on digital crimes.
Identify Your Topic
The only way to start a true crime podcast is to decide what your favorite subject is. This might include everything from unsolved crimes to serial killers. It’s best to choose something that piques your curiosity or holds special meaning for you. Within this category, identify a topic that would make a compelling podcast episode.
Identify Your Tone
How would you describe your tone? A tone is essential for anyone looking to understand how to launch a true crime podcast. The tone of your podcast should evoke the same emotions in listeners. It also has to do with how you want them to perceive your guests, your co-hosts, and yourself.
Write An Intro Script That Encapsulates What You And Your Show Are About
The most skilled podcasters utilize a script. They can ensure that their show is coherent and well-structured in this way. Before you record, write the opening script for every episode and recite it aloud. This aids in making sure you address every important topic in your podcast. Additionally, it guarantees that your program won’t seem like a monologue.
Build a Relationship with Characters and Sources
Patience Pays Off: Even if sources initially say “no,” relationships can evolve over time, especially given podcasting’s longer production timelines compared to other media like newspapers.
Positive Interactions Build Trust: Trust can grow indirectly—positive experiences with others might encourage hesitant individuals to engage later.
Transparency is Essential: Being upfront about your intentions helps maintain credibility, as misleading people can damage relationships and the story.
Respect Boundaries: If someone declines to participate, their decision must be accepted. For podcasts, long-term availability means participants need to feel comfortable from the start.
Choose Your Podcast Format and Length
When starting your true crime podcast, you must decide on the podcast format and length of your episodes. Will your podcast have recurring characters and storylines, or will each episode be standalone? Listeners like episodes that are well-structured and free of unnecessary content.
Think about the best episode length for your audience. True crime podcasts can range from 20 minutes to over an hour. This depends on the storytelling and the case’s complexity.
Popular Podcast Formats
- Interview-style: Features deep conversations with experts, witnesses, or investigators.
- Solo host: A single host dives into the crime details and shares their perspective.
- Co-hosted: Two hosts discuss the case from different angles.
- Narrative storytelling: Uses scripted content, interviews, and sound design for an immersive experience.
- Panel discussion: A group of guests analyze and discuss a true crime case.
Learn more on Podcast Formats on my detailed analysis on Podcast Formats.
| Podcast Format | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Interview | Offers deep insights from experts, allows for detailed case exploration | Requires constant guest booking, finding new guests can be hard |
| Solo Host | Creates a strong connection with listeners, allows for focused storytelling | Host has all the responsibility, keeping listeners engaged can be tough |
| Co-Hosted | Provides diverse views and a lively conversation, great for true crime | Requires good host chemistry, scheduling can be tricky |
| Narrative Storytelling | Offers an engaging listening experience, effectively shares case complexities | Needs careful planning, scripting, and sound design, time-consuming |
| Panel Discussion | Brings together various expert views, leads to informative discussions | Requires coordinating guest schedules, managing group dynamics can be hard |
Your true crime podcast’s format and length should match your style and the case’s complexity. Also, consider what your audience likes. Try different formats to see what works best for your listeners.
Develop Your Podcast’s Style
Structure your content
Podcasts on true crime rarely go as planned. Things could be delayed, contacts could withdraw at the last minute, and as fresh information becomes available, the case might take unforeseen turns. When things go wrong, having a defined format can help keep your podcast on course.
An engaging true crime podcast always tells a tale. But the tale you’re telling will determine how you tell it and how comprehensive your script is. Think about the narrative you want to portray when choosing how to write a true crime podcast script.
- Informational podcasts are narrative in nature, with one or two hosts narrating theories and events to the listener.
- An investigative true crime podcast could be more of a weekly update of your findings rather than following a fixed script.
- Other true crime podcasts center on witnesses and experts, with talks and interviews making up the majority of the show.
Even if you don’t read from a script, always be prepared with notes, questions, and bullet points. Plot your segments ahead of each episode so you can keep track.
Will it be Solo or Co-hosting?
Choosing between solo or co-hosting is key. A co-host adds fresh views and lively chats. But, it means more work to keep the podcast flowing smoothly. Hosting alone lets you control everything and connect deeply with your audience. Think about what works best for your true crime podcast style.
| Solo Hosting | Co-Hosting |
|---|---|
| Complete creative control | Fresh perspectives and engaging dialogue |
| Cultivate personal connection with audience | Requires more coordination and editing |
| Simpler production process | Adds energy and variety to the podcast |
Whether solo or with a co-host, a clear true crime podcast tone is vital. It grabs your audience’s attention and builds a loyal fan base.
Plan and Script Your Early Episodes
The first few episodes of a true crime podcast are the most important. This is where you lay the groundwork for your show and establish yourself as an authority in your field. Ensure that these first few episodes are well-researched, well-produced, and engaging.
The first few episodes are key to setting the right tone and showing your knowledge. Spend a lot of time researching, writing scripts, and making sure everything is interesting and correct. This will grab your listeners’ attention.
To make your true crime podcast episode stand out, try a few things:
- Do deep true crime podcast research. Learn as much as you can about the cases you choose. This makes your show more accurate and shows you know what you’re talking about.
- Write true crime podcast scripts that are engaging. Make sure the story flows well and includes interviews or insights from experts. This gives your listeners a full picture of the case.
- Plan your true crime podcast episodes carefully. Think about how you’ll share information, the pace, and the mood you want to create. Your goal is to keep your audience interested and drawn into the world of true crime.
By putting in the work to plan and script your early episodes, you’ll create a podcast that people will love. It will make you stand out in a crowded field.
| Metric | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Podcasts with personal introductions by the host | 32% |
| Podcasts that mention the inspiration behind starting the podcast in the first episode | 25% |
| Increase in organic growth from featuring a shout-out to supporters | 20% |
| Increase in listener engagement from discussing the release schedule | 45% |
| Increase in listener engagement from structuring the podcast | 50% |
| Increase in subscribers from mentioning upcoming topics in the first episode | 40% |
| Increase in listener retention rate for podcasts with interviews | 60% |
| Increase in audience engagement from encouraging participation | 35% |
| Increase in audience interaction from including links to website, social media, and podcast platforms | 55% |
| Increase in user engagement rate from mentioning actively monitored platforms | 30% |
“The first few episodes of your true crime podcast are the most important, as they set the tone and establish your authority on the subject matter.”
FAQ
What is the appeal of true crime podcasts?
True crime podcasts are popular because they offer a mix of intrigue and suspense. Listeners enjoy learning about crimes and how they were solved. They also find the scary and mysterious stories thrilling.
What are the different genres of true crime podcasts?
True crime podcasts cover a range of topics. You can find podcasts about crime biographies, espionage, hoaxes, murder, organized crime, serial killers, and white-collar crime.
How do I set up an effective recording space for my true crime podcast?
For a great recording space, choose a small, enclosed room. You can even create a “blanket fort” to reduce echo and noise. This setup will help your audio sound professional.
What kind of podcasting equipment do I need to start a true crime podcast?
Start with a USB microphone like the Blue Snowball or AT2100. As you grow, consider professional microphones like the Electro-Voice RE20 or Shure SM7B. You’ll also need an audio interface, such as the Focusrite Scarlett Solo.
What are the key steps to starting a true crime podcast?
First, research your competition. Then, set up your recording space and equipment. Choose the right software and plan your early episodes. Don’t forget to add music and sound effects to enhance your podcast.
How do I choose the format and length for my true crime podcast episodes?
Decide if your podcast will have recurring characters or standalone episodes. Listeners like well-structured, edited episodes without too much filler. Aim for episodes that are engaging and free of background noise.
How can I develop a unique tone and style for my true crime podcast?
Think about the emotional feel you want to create for your listeners. Do you want it to be eerie, suspenseful, or thought-provoking? Also, consider hosting solo or with a co-host to add variety and depth to your conversations.
How should I plan and script my early true crime podcast episodes?
Spend a lot of time researching your cases and writing scripts. Make sure the content is engaging and accurate. Adding interviews with experts can also provide valuable insights for your listeners.
How can I enhance my true crime podcast with music and sound effects?
Choose music that matches your show’s ominous tone. Use sound effects wisely to create an immersive experience. Websites like Epidemic Sound and Blue Dot Sessions offer royalty-free music and sound effects to enhance your podcast.
Conclusion
Starting a true crime podcast is a journey that needs dedication, research, and a commitment to ethical storytelling. You must understand the genre’s appeal and choose the right equipment and format. Developing a unique tone and enhancing your podcast with production elements are also key.
Respecting the form of a good true crime podcast, we will now leave you with a question to consider…
You’ve got the inside knowledge, and the recording equipment shouldn’t be too hard to get hold of – what’s stopping you from making your own?
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