How to Start a Podcast in Denver

Denver, Colorado — known for its vibrant arts scene, booming tech industry, stunning mountain views, and passionate local community — has become one of the fastest-growing podcasting hubs in the American West. With a population that values storytelling, innovation, and authentic connection, the city offers a unique ecosystem for aspiring podcasters to launch, grow, and thrive. Whether you’re a history buff, a coffee shop owner, a tech entrepreneur, or a former athlete looking to share your journey, starting a podcast in Denver gives you access to a rich network of talent, venues, and listeners eager to engage with local voices.

But launching a podcast isn’t just about hitting record. It requires strategy, consistency, and an understanding of the local landscape. This comprehensive guide walks you through every step needed to start a podcast in Denver — from ideation and equipment selection to publishing, promotion, and community building. By the end, you’ll have a clear roadmap to launch a professional, engaging, and sustainable podcast that resonates with Denver’s diverse audience.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Define Your Podcast’s Purpose and Niche

Before you buy a microphone or record your first episode, ask yourself: Why are you starting this podcast? What unique perspective or value do you bring to Denver’s audio landscape?

Denver is home to hundreds of podcasts covering everything from craft beer brewing in Boulder to urban hiking trails in the foothills, from Indigenous history in the Rocky Mountains to startup founder interviews in RiNo. To stand out, you need a clear niche. Avoid overly broad topics like “life in Colorado.” Instead, drill down: “Women in Denver Tech: Behind the Code,” “Denver’s Hidden Street Art Tour,” or “Ski Patrol Stories from Vail to Breckenridge.”

Your niche should align with your passion, expertise, and audience demand. Use tools like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts to search for existing shows in your area. Look for gaps: Are there no podcasts about mental health for first responders in the Front Range? Is there no show exploring Denver’s Latinx culinary heritage? Fill that void.

Once you’ve defined your niche, craft a one-sentence mission statement. For example: “This podcast gives Denver residents weekly insights into sustainable living through interviews with local farmers, zero-waste entrepreneurs, and eco-conscious designers.”

Step 2: Choose Your Podcast Format

Your format determines how you structure each episode and how often you’ll need to produce content. Here are the most popular formats for Denver-based podcasters:

• Interview Format: Invite guests — local authors, chefs, musicians, city council members, or community leaders. This format builds relationships and leverages your guests’ audiences.
• Monologue Format: Solo episodes where you share stories, opinions, or educational content. Ideal if you’re comfortable speaking on camera (or mic) and have deep expertise.
• Co-Hosted Format: Two or more hosts discussing topics. Great for chemistry, humor, and dynamic conversation. Many successful Denver podcasts, like “The Mile High Mindset,” use this style.
• Storytelling / Narrative Format: Scripted, cinematic episodes with music, sound design, and voice acting. Popular for true crime, historical deep dives, or cultural exploration.
• Hybrid Format: Mix of interviews, monologues, and field recordings. Perfect for location-based content — think “Walking Through LoDo” with ambient city sounds.

Beginners often find the interview format easiest because it reduces the pressure of speaking nonstop. You can also record interviews remotely using Zoom or Riverside.fm, which is ideal if your guests live outside Denver.

Step 3: Name Your Podcast and Design Your Brand

Your podcast name is your first impression. It should be memorable, searchable, and reflect your niche. Avoid generic names like “Denver Talks” or “The Colorado Podcast.” Instead, try something specific and evocative: “The Rocky Mountain Microbrew Chronicles,” “Denver’s Forgotten Rails,” or “High Altitude Hustle.”

Check name availability:

• Search Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google to ensure no one else is using it.
• Verify domain name availability (e.g., yourpodcastname.com) for future website building.
• Check social media handles on Instagram, Twitter (X), and TikTok.

Design a professional logo using tools like Canva or hire a local Denver designer through Fiverr or Upwork. Your logo should work in black and white (for podcast art directories) and be legible at small sizes. Include Denver-specific imagery if relevant — a mountain silhouette, a Coors Field skyline, or a pine tree — but avoid clichés.

Choose a color palette that reflects your tone: earth tones for nature-focused shows, bold hues for comedy, muted grays for business or tech. Consistency across your cover art, website, and social media builds brand recognition.

Step 4: Acquire Your Recording Equipment

You don’t need a studio to start, but quality matters. Poor audio is the

1 reason listeners abandon podcasts. Here’s a beginner-friendly gear setup under $500:

• Microphone: Shure MV7 (USB/XLR hybrid) or Audio-Technica AT2020USB+. Both deliver broadcast-quality sound and plug directly into your laptop.
• Headphones: Sony MDR-7506 or Audio-Technica ATH-M30x. Essential for monitoring your audio while recording.
• Pop Filter: A simple $10 foam shield reduces plosive sounds (“p,” “b”).
• Microphone Stand: A desk arm or boom stand keeps your mic stable and at the right height.
• Recording Software: Audacity (free) or Adobe Audition (paid). Both work on Mac and Windows.
• Optional: Audio Interface: If you upgrade to an XLR mic like the Shure SM7B, you’ll need an interface like the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2.

Denver’s climate can be dry and dusty. Keep your gear in a clean, climate-controlled space. Consider a small dehumidifier if you’re recording in a basement or garage.

Step 5: Record Your First Episodes

Plan your first 3–5 episodes before you record. Create a simple content calendar. Each episode should have:

• A clear title
• A 1–2 sentence description
• Key talking points or questions
• A rough runtime (20–40 minutes is ideal for beginners)

Find a quiet space. Avoid rooms with hard surfaces like tile or glass — they create echo. Use blankets, rugs, or acoustic foam to dampen sound. Many Denver podcasters record in home offices, libraries (like the Denver Public Library’s media studios), or rented co-working spaces like WeWork or The Hive.

Record in WAV format (not MP3) for higher quality. Speak clearly, breathe naturally, and leave 2–3 seconds of silence at the start and end of each take. This gives you room to edit.

If interviewing remotely, ask guests to record their audio locally using headphones and a quality mic. Use Riverside.fm or Zencastr to capture separate audio tracks — this ensures clean, professional sound even if their internet is spotty.

Step 6: Edit Your Audio

Editing removes mistakes, long pauses, background noise, and enhances clarity. Here’s a basic workflow:

1. Import your audio into Audacity or Adobe Audition.
2. Trim silence at the beginning and end.
3. Use the Noise Reduction tool (in Audacity: Effect > Noise Reduction) to remove hum or fan noise.
4. Apply a compressor to even out volume levels (set threshold around -18dB, ratio 3:1).
5. Use a limiter to prevent clipping (set ceiling to -1dB).
6. Export as MP3 at 128 kbps (mono) or 192 kbps (stereo) for optimal file size and quality.

Consider adding a short intro/outro theme. You can commission original music from local Denver composers on Fiverr or use royalty-free tracks from Free Music Archive or Epidemic Sound. Be sure to credit properly.

Step 7: Choose a Podcast Hosting Platform

A hosting platform stores your audio files and distributes them to directories like Apple, Spotify, and Google. You need one — and only one — to launch.

Top options for Denver podcasters:

• Buzzsprout: Beginner-friendly, free plan available, great analytics. Ideal for first-time creators.
• Anchor (by Spotify): Free, includes distribution and monetization tools. Good for testing the waters.
• Transistor: More advanced, ideal for teams or businesses. Offers custom websites.
• Podbean: Offers video podcasting and monetization options.

Once you sign up, upload your first episode, add your title, description, and cover art. Include keywords like “Denver,” “Colorado,” “local podcast,” and your niche in the description for SEO.

Submit your RSS feed to Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, and YouTube. This process takes 1–7 days. Don’t skip YouTube — many Denver listeners discover podcasts through video thumbnails.

Step 8: Launch with a Strategy

Don’t just drop one episode and wait. Launch with a plan:

• Release 3 episodes on day one. This gives new listeners more to consume.
• Create a launch email list using Mailchimp or ConvertKit. Offer a free downloadable guide (e.g., “10 Hidden Hiking Trails Near Denver”) in exchange for emails.
• Announce your launch on local Facebook groups: “Denver Podcasters,” “Denver Foodies,” “Denver Entrepreneurs Network.”
• Reach out to local bloggers, influencers, and community pages. Offer to be a guest on their show in exchange for a shoutout.
• Post on Instagram and TikTok with behind-the-scenes clips: “Recording my first Denver podcast episode in my apartment!”

Track your initial downloads. Use your hosting platform’s analytics to see where listeners are coming from. Are they from Denver, Boulder, or out of state? Adjust your content accordingly.

Step 9: Promote Locally

Denver is a city that supports local. Leverage that.

• Visit local coffee shops — especially those with community boards — and leave QR codes linking to your podcast.
• Partner with Denver-based businesses: “This episode is brought to you by Black Eye Coffee in Capitol Hill.”
• Submit your podcast to Denver-specific directories: “Denver’s Best Podcasts” (Denverite), “Colorado Podcast Network,” or “The Denver Post’s Culture Section.”
• Attend local events: Denver Startup Week, Denver Arts Week, or the Colorado Podcast Festival. Bring business cards or a QR code.
• Join the Denver Podcasters Meetup group on Meetup.com. Network, share tips, and collaborate.

Consider creating a simple website using WordPress or Carrd. Include your episodes, bio, show notes, and a contact form. Add a blog section with articles related to your podcast topic — this boosts SEO and drives traffic.

Step 10: Stay Consistent and Scale

Consistency is more important than perfection. Release episodes weekly or biweekly — whatever you can sustain. Missing episodes kills momentum.

As you grow, consider:

• Adding a transcription service (like Descript or Otter.ai) for accessibility and SEO.
• Creating video versions for YouTube and Instagram Reels.
• Applying for grants or sponsorships from Colorado-based organizations.
• Hosting live podcast recordings at venues like The Gothic Theatre, The Bluebird Theater, or local libraries.

Ask listeners for feedback. Use QR codes on your show notes to link to a quick Google Form. Ask: “What topic should we cover next?” This builds community and gives you content ideas.

Best Practices

1. Prioritize Audio Quality Over Fancy Equipment

Many successful Denver podcasts started with a $50 USB mic and a quiet bedroom. Focus on clean, clear audio. Eliminate background noise — turn off fans, AC units, and windows. Record during quiet hours (early morning or late evening).

2. Optimize for Search

Use keywords in your episode titles and descriptions: “Denver hiking trails,” “Colorado craft beer,” “Denver mental health resources.” These help people find you when they search on Apple or Google.

3. Write Detailed Show Notes

Show notes are your SEO powerhouse. Include timestamps, guest bios, links to resources, and keywords. For example: “In this episode, we speak with Sarah Lin, founder of Denver’s first zero-waste grocery, about how she reduced plastic use by 90% in her RiNo store.”

4. Engage with Your Audience

Reply to every comment, DM, or email. Ask listeners to leave reviews on Apple Podcasts. A 5-star review with a mention of “Denver” helps your ranking in local searches.

5. Respect Local Culture and Communities

Denver has a deep history of Indigenous, Latino, and LGBTQ+ communities. If your podcast touches on these topics, collaborate with local voices, do your research, and avoid appropriation. Authenticity builds trust.

6. Protect Your Intellectual Property

Copyright your podcast name and logo. In the U.S., you can register with the U.S. Copyright Office. You don’t need a lawyer — the process is straightforward and costs $45.

7. Backup Your Files

Always save raw audio and edited files to two locations: your computer and an external hard drive. Cloud backups (Google Drive, Dropbox) are essential. Losing an episode is devastating.

8. Measure What Matters

Track downloads per episode, listener retention (how long people listen), and geographic data. Don’t obsess over total numbers — focus on growth over time. A podcast with 500 loyal listeners in Denver is more valuable than 5,000 passive listeners nationwide.

9. Collaborate, Don’t Compete

Denver’s podcasting scene is collaborative. Invite other local podcasters to be guests. Cross-promote. Host a joint live event. The community grows when everyone rises.

10. Take Care of Yourself

Podcasting is a marathon. Burnout is real. Schedule breaks. Outsource editing if you can afford it. Celebrate small wins — your 10th episode, your first 100 downloads, a shoutout from a local influencer.

Tools and Resources

Recording & Editing

• Audacity – Free, open-source audio editor
• Adobe Audition – Professional-grade editing suite
• Riverside.fm – High-quality remote recording with separate tracks
• Descript – Edit audio by editing text (great for beginners)
• Cleanfeed – Studio-quality remote interviews

Hosting & Distribution

• Buzzsprout – Best for beginners
• Transistor – Best for teams and brands
• Anchor – Free, Spotify-owned
• Podbean – Strong monetization tools

Music & Sound Effects

• Free Music Archive – Royalty-free tracks
• Epidemic Sound – Premium library ($15/month)
• AudioJungle – One-time purchase music
• SoundBible – Free sound effects

Design & Branding

• Canva – Free podcast cover art templates
• Looka – AI-powered logo design
• 99designs – Hire a professional designer

Marketing & Growth

• Mailchimp – Free email list builder
• ConvertKit – Better for podcasters
• Chartable – Analytics and ad network
• Podchaser – Submit your show, get listed, earn reviews

Denver-Specific Resources

• Denver Public Library Media Studios – Free recording space for residents
• Denver Podcasters Meetup – Monthly networking events
• Colorado Media Project – Grants and training for local storytellers
• Denver Film Society – Offers audio storytelling workshops
• University of Denver’s Media & Journalism Program – Open to community members for workshops

Learning & Inspiration

• The Podcast Host Academy – Online courses
• Podcast Movement – Annual conference (held in Denver in 2023)
• “Serial” by Sarah Koenig – Masterclass in narrative storytelling
• “My Favorite Murder” – Example of community-driven podcast growth
• “The Daily” by The New York Times – Model for consistent, high-quality journalism

Real Examples

1. “The Mile High Mindset”

Hosted by two Denver-based life coaches, this podcast explores mental health, productivity, and resilience through the lens of living at high altitude — both physically and emotionally. With over 50,000 downloads per month, it features local therapists, yoga instructors, and veterans. Their success? Consistency (weekly episodes), deep local ties, and relatable storytelling.

2. “Denver’s Hidden History”

A narrative-style podcast hosted by a local historian, each episode uncovers forgotten stories from Denver’s past — from the 1880s Chinese Exclusion Act to the original streetcar routes. It’s produced with ambient soundscapes of Union Station and the Platte River. The show won the 2022 Colorado History Award and is now used in Denver Public Schools.

3. “Brew & Bites”

A food and craft beer podcast that takes listeners on tours of Denver’s top breweries. Each episode features interviews with brewers, tasting notes, and behind-the-scenes tours of taprooms. The host partners with local breweries for cross-promotion — a brilliant strategy that drives both podcast and business growth.

4. “Urban Roots Denver”

A sustainability podcast focused on urban farming, composting, and green living in the city. Hosted by a former suburbanite who moved to a tiny home in Montclair, the show features interviews with community gardeners, rooftop beekeepers, and zero-waste entrepreneurs. It’s a prime example of niche targeting with passionate local appeal.

5. “The Colorado Conversation”

A co-hosted show featuring a journalist and a retired teacher discussing politics, education, and culture in Colorado. They record live at local libraries and encourage audience questions via voicemail. Their monthly live shows sell out — proof that community-driven content thrives in Denver.

FAQs

Do I need to live in Denver to start a podcast about Denver?

No, but you should have a strong connection to the city — whether through lived experience, deep research, or community involvement. Listeners can tell when someone is an outsider trying to exploit local culture. Authenticity matters.

How much does it cost to start a podcast in Denver?

You can start for under $100 with a USB mic and free software. A professional setup with editing help and music might cost $500–$1,500 in the first year. Many Denver residents use free library resources to reduce costs.

Can I record my podcast in a coffee shop?

It’s possible, but not recommended. Background noise, chatter, and espresso machines ruin audio quality. If you must record on the go, use a directional mic and noise-canceling software like Krisp or Adobe Audition’s noise reduction.

How often should I release new episodes?

Weekly is ideal for growth. Biweekly works if you’re juggling a job or family. Monthly is too slow unless you’re producing high-end narrative content. Consistency beats frequency.

How do I get sponsors for my Denver podcast?

First, build an audience of 500–1,000 downloads per episode. Then reach out to local businesses: coffee shops, bookstores, yoga studios, or eco-brands. Offer them a 30-second ad read in exchange for a donation or product. Many Denver businesses love supporting local media.

Can I make money from my podcast?

Yes. Through sponsorships, listener donations (via Patreon or Buy Me a Coffee), merchandise, live events, or affiliate marketing. Don’t expect income in the first 6 months. Focus on value first, revenue later.

Do I need a website for my podcast?

You don’t need one to launch, but you should have one within 30 days. It gives you control over your content, improves SEO, and allows you to collect emails. Use Carrd or WordPress — both are easy and affordable.

What’s the best time to release a podcast episode in Denver?

Wednesday mornings at 6 AM MT. That’s when most listeners check their podcasts before work. Avoid weekends — people are out hiking or skiing.

Can I use copyrighted music in my podcast?

No. Even if you’re not making money, using popular songs without permission can get your podcast removed from directories. Use royalty-free music or commission original tracks from local musicians.

How do I get my podcast on Apple Podcasts?

Submit your RSS feed (from your hosting platform) to Apple Podcasts Connect. It takes 2–7 days to approve. Make sure your title, description, and cover art meet Apple’s guidelines.

Conclusion

Starting a podcast in Denver is more than a creative endeavor — it’s an act of community building. In a city where neighbors gather for rooftop gatherings, where local breweries host open mics, and where the mountains remind us to slow down and listen, your voice has a place. You don’t need a big budget or fancy studio. You need clarity, courage, and consistency.

The tools are accessible. The audience is waiting. The stories of Denver — its people, its struggles, its triumphs — are rich and untold. Whether you’re documenting the evolution of the city’s food scene, amplifying underrepresented voices, or simply sharing your journey as a new resident, your podcast can become a vital thread in Denver’s cultural fabric.

Start small. Record one episode. Share it with a friend. Ask for feedback. Keep going. Every great podcast began with a single, imperfect recording. Your Denver story is worth telling. Press record — and let the mountains echo your voice.