Zoom is quite the dynamic tool. Not only is it a video meeting powerhouse, but it can also be the perfect interview tool for podcasting, especially if you’re working on a budget.

Max Branstetter of MaxPodcasting.com and host of the Wild Business Growth podcast, uses Zoom for all of his remote recordings. He also recommends the tool to his clients who are creating their own podcasts with Max’s help.

“Because everyone is so familiar with Zoom these days, especially over the last couple years, I always start with Zoom,” he says. “It’s also the best free option.”

With Max’s help, I’m laying out a few quick tips to make sure you’re getting the best possible quality during those Zoom interviews.

Plug into ethernet

To ensure the best and smoothest sound quality, you’ll want to be plugged into ethernet connection. No matter how strong your WiFi is, it’s not quite the same as being hardwired in. If it’s possible, plug the device you’re using into your router/moden using an ethernet cable.

If that isn’t an option, a powerline adapter like this one is a great solution. This is the one I’ve used for almost two years now, and I’ve never had a connection drop.

Check your audio settings

There are a few settings within Zoom that you’ll want to double check before you click “record.” We’ll start with “original sound.” In your Zoom settings, go to the audio tab and look under the “Music and Professional Audio” section. Check the box next to “Show in-meeting option to enable ‘Original Sound’.”

This option is recommended when recording higher quality audio for things like podcasts. It removes some of the automatic noise suppression and filtering that Zoom uses during regular calls and meetings.

I like to check off the echo cancellation box as well. If you and your guests are all wearing headphones, echos shouldn’t be an issue. But if someone doesn’t have access to headphones, this option should be checked to ensure there are no echos picked up in the recording.

To make sure Original Sound is on during meetings, look in the top left corner after the meeting has been opened.

Make sure that box says “On.”

Use Headphones

As mentioned above, headphones eliminate the chance for echos, and they also just bring up the general sound quality.

Headphones with built-in mics are a bonus, which most have these days. Apple ear buds or AirPods are good options.

I use a combination of headphones and a Blue Yeti USB mic. But there are many affordable mic options on Amazon if you’re looking to upgrade your mic, too.

For more tips and more in-depth info on how to set up a Zoom recording, check out Max’s article over on MaxPodcasting.

We also did a full interview together for the K-Stream podcast on how to level up your podcast game. Check it out. Max knows what he’s talking about!

Max Branstetter, host of the Wild Business Growth podcast and founder of MaxPodcasting, joined me on the latest episode of K-Stream to talk…well…podcasting. 

Max has produced more than 150 episodes of Wild Business Growth, and now helps other aspiring podcasters produce and promote their shows. He focuses on what he calls the 3 Ps: Podcast planning, podcast production, and podcast promotion.

“Consistency and having quality is really key,” says Max. “Also, making sure that the guest has the best experience possible. If the guest has the best experience possible, and you’re having fun as a host, that’s going to funnel through to the listener and the listener will pick up on that.”

We talked about:

  • Why business owners should create podcasts
  • How podcasting helps entrepreneurs
  • Tips to make your podcast stand out
  • Being consistent with your release date
  • What tech to use…hint: Zoom can do great things
  • How blogs/website helps in having your podcast show up in search
  • How awesome the networking part of podcasting is

Many dad jokes were also inserted throughout the show. Max will readily admit he loves a good dad joke. He also dishes a little on some of his dream guests to have on his show.

Full video interview available on YouTube.