How to start a video podcast on a budget

Hi, I’m Jen Moss, Chief Creative Officer and Co-Founder of Jar Audio, a podcast production and marketing agency in Vancouver. We've had the pleasure of collaborating with TELUS STORYHIVE to support training development for their Video Podcast program. Today, I’m excited to share 7 budget-friendly tips to help you launch your own video podcast. Keep reading to discover how you can get started!

So, you’re dreaming of launching a video podcast, but your bank account is giving you the side-eye and the endless advice online feels like trying to drink from a firehose. We’ve been there. The good news? You don’t need fancy gear, Hollywood budgets or a crew of experts to get started.

As our video lead, Tiphany Kane, likes to remind us:

“Don’t wait until you have it all figured out. Start with what you’ve got, where you are. Your podcast will grow as you do—but you can’t grow until you start.”

Analysis paralysis is real. Too many great ideas never make it past the starting line because we’re stuck chasing perfection. But here’s the thing: You don’t need perfection—you need momentum. So let’s cut through the noise and dive right in.

Starting a video podcast on a budget isn’t just possible—it’s doable right now. The secret is being resourceful and making smart choices with what you’ve already got. Let’s break it down.

1. Use What’s Already in Your Pocket

If you’ve got a smartphone, congratulations—you’ve already got a high-quality camera. Today’s phones are shockingly good at capturing crisp, clear video. Just slap it on a tripod (or prop it up with books, no judgment) and you’re set to shoot.

For editing, you can skip the expensive software. Start with free tools like iMovie, DaVinci Resolve or HitFilm Express. If you need a slick, user-friendly editor, Descript is a steal at $12/month—it handles audio, video, subtitles and more with ease. 

Thinking about recording remotely? Riverside.fm has a free plan that gives you solid video quality. You can level up later, but for now—just hit record.

2. Master the Art of Budget-Friendly Lighting and Sound

You don’t need studio lights to look good on camera. Natural light is your best friend. Set up near a window or use lamps from around the house to keep your face well-lit.

Audio matters just as much as video (if not more). A simple lav mic or shotgun mic plugged into your phone can work wonders. Got no mic? No problem—record in a soft, quiet space, like a closet full of clothes, to reduce echo. Apps like Ferrite or Dolby On can help you tweak sound levels for free.

And here’s a pro tip: Put your phone in airplane mode to avoid unwanted interruptions. 

3. Create a Controlled (but Simple) Recording Space

Your recording environment doesn’t have to be fancy. Find a quiet corner in your home with minimal background noise. Got echoes? Throw a rug down. Drape some blankets or pillows around to dampen the sound.

Keep your visuals simple too. A solid-colored background (even a sheet or curtain) can instantly elevate the look of your video. Bonus points if you avoid weird shadows or backlighting—let’s keep it clean and bright, people!

4. Think Narratively—Even on a Budget

Good storytelling trumps production value every time. A few well-placed segments or themes can make your podcast binge-worthy. Consider adding:

• Fun recurring questions (e.g., “What’s one piece of advice you wish you’d ignored?”)

• Mini story arcs that develop across episodes

• Unexpected plot twists to keep your audience engaged

Even without fancy gear, your creativity is the real hook.

5. Distribute for Free and Build a Buzz

YouTube isn’t just a video platform—it’s a discovery engine. Plus, it’s free to use, with the potential to monetize later. Spotify for Podcasters is also free and will distribute your audio episodes with minimal fuss. Need eye-catching graphics? Canva has free templates that will make your thumbnails pop.

6. Collaborate to Expand Your Reach

Guests can help you grow your audience without spending a dime. Start with people you know—experts, creatives or just interesting folks with great stories. Your guests will promote their episodes, giving your podcast free exposure.

Use Zoom or Riverside.fm for remote interviews. Make sure your guests have promo assets (episode blurbs, graphics and more) to share right before the episode goes live—it’s free marketing gold.

7. Market Smarter, Not Harder

Forget expensive ad campaigns. Get scrappy with social media. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram are perfect for sharing teaser clips and behind-the-scenes moments. Don’t just post—engage. Respond to comments, join conversations and tap into communities where your content fits naturally. If you have friends with podcasts, hit them up for an episode swap or host-read promo. Then you can do the same for them because a rising tide floats all boats!

Watch parties, shout-outs and word-of-mouth buzz are still some of the best ways to grow your audience. Keep it personal—people connect with authenticity.

Ready to Get Started?

At the end of the day, the most important thing is to hit “record”. You don’t need everything to be perfect—you just need to start. So, what’s your podcast going to be about?

The mic (or phone) is waiting.

TELUS STORYHIVE’s Video Podcast program is now open for applications. Get $12,000 in production funding, training, a community of support and distribution on TELUS Optik TV, Stream+ and STORYHIVE’s YouTube channel. Bring your local stories to life and apply by December 12 at STORYHIVE.com/apply. No experience is required!