Microphone: Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB ($99) or Blue Yeti Nano ($99) — both USB, plug-and-play, significant step up from phone mic - Pop filter: $10–$20 - Editing: Audacity (free) or Descript ($12/month, includes transcription and AI noise removal) - Hosting: Transistor, Podbean, or Buzzsprout — $1