Recommended setups
Start with a working plan.
Three ways to get from recording to publishing. Each tool has a job. Choose the setup closest to your show, then swap tools and pricing options in My stack.
Free solo audio
Record, edit, and publish a solo show with no software subscription.
$0/mo
Starting software estimate, USD. Paid subscriptions use annual billing.
Record and edit
AudacityCapture your voice, cut mistakes, and export an episode from one desktop editor.
Host and publish
Spotify for CreatorsHost the audio and enable an RSS feed for submission to other podcast apps.
Fits: A first season, a hobby show, or an audio podcast with a simple edit.
Before you choose: Bring your own computer, microphone, and headphones. You handle editing and submit the audio RSS feed to other listening apps. A free host does not make distribution automatic.
Weekly audio with a paid host
A flexible editor and paid hosting for one regularly published audio show.
$15/mo+ $60 once
Starting software estimate, USD. Paid subscriptions use annual billing.
Record and edit
ReaperBuild a reusable multitrack session with your voice, music, and transitions.
Host and publish
BuzzsproutUse the included podcast website initially and keep a separate website subscription optional.
Fits: A solo or locally recorded show whose producer wants control over the edit and a dedicated podcast host.
Before you choose: The hosting estimate uses annual billing. REAPER's $60 discounted license has eligibility conditions; a commercial license costs $225. Its 60-day evaluation is a trial. Check upload allowances against your episode length before buying.
Remote video interviews
Record remote guests, make a first edit, and publish an audio feed without buying a second editor.
$24/mo
Starting software estimate, USD. Paid subscriptions use annual billing.
Record guests and edit
RiversideStart with its recording and editing tools before adding a separate editor or clipping subscription.
Publish the audio feed
Spotify for CreatorsKeep audio hosting free while you establish your video workflow. Revisit this choice if bundled Riverside hosting meets all your distribution needs.
Fits: An interview show that needs separate participant recordings and a video version.
Before you choose: The Riverside estimate uses annual billing. Check separate-track download hours and export limits. Publish the audio feed through Spotify and upload your YouTube video separately. Confirm Apple video support in your account before promising video everywhere.
These are editorial recommendations based on published product information checked September 5, 2026. Estimates exclude hardware, taxes, usage charges, and optional extras. They are not checkout quotes or reports of a hands-on test.
Read how to choose between these workflows or open your saved stack.