Books

Meinzer, a podcast host three times over as well as a former producer, provides advice on direction, structure, and central storytelling elements needed for the narrative backbone of a podcast. This is a motivational primer that focuses less on equipment and more on all the nitty-gritty elements surrounding the world of podcasting. This includes, but is not limited to, how to book guests, prepare a script, conduct interviews, schedule release dates, and realistically monetize your podcast.

Call Number at UNC-CH: TK5105.887 .M45 2019

This informational comic book is a great resource on radio show storytelling techniques. Abel, host of the Out On The Wire podcast, interviews popular journalists and producers on the inner workings of their podcasts, going behind the scenes to reveal how they find and process information and eventually turn it into compelling stories. This book includes practice phrases and helpful examples of question structuring to get any amateur interviewer started or to push expert storytellers.

Call Number at UNC-CH: PN1991.75 .A24 2015

Powers covers the technical aspects of podcasting, offering step-by-step instructions on configuring software such as Audacity and what to look out for when recording for best audio quality. While the book provides detailed guidance on the essentials of podcasting technology by walking you through each step of an online process, for visual learners it also offers video course companions (free if the book is purchased, otherwise there is a fee). This would be a good companion to have on hand for a quick reference when something goes wrong while recording, editing, or uploading, especially if you use Audacity.