Starting a podcast requires some essential tools and software. For equipment, you’ll need a good-quality microphone, headphones, and a computer for recording and editing. Popular microphones for podcasting include USB and XLR options, with USB being more beginner-friendly. In terms of software, you can use audio editing software like Adobe Audition, Audacity (free), or GarageBand (for Mac users) to edit your podcast episodes. You’ll also need a podcast hosting platform to store and distribute your episodes to podcast directories like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. It’s worth noting that while you can start with basic equipment and free software, investing in better-quality gear and professional editing tools can significantly enhance the production value of your podcast over time.