1. Don't get a pricey Blue Yeti mic or other USB mic. Phantom powered studio mics are the way to go. I like the MXL V63M. I run that using a MobilePre Interface. Get a pop filter, too.
2. Invest in good recording software. It'll make editing and cleaning up the sound A LOT easier. My earlier episodes are pretty lo-fi because I used a USB mic and Audacity. Currently I like Adobe Audition but there are other tools.
3. Soundcloud is a pretty good platform and I get lots of organic listens from them. I'm sure there are services which you can use to bundle releases to e.g. Apple Music, Spotify, etc.
4. Nail down a note system that works for you. I usually just have a huge google doc open with tons of notes, info, sources, and quotes. The really important stuff I bold and highlight and then I have little references and riffs relating to that bulleted beneath. Once you get into the rhythm of your show and what points you want to hit, you'll find a groove that works for you.
5. Do not take yourself so seriously. You can be authoritative and knowledgeable, but I've found that podcasts really thrive when they have a casual, conversational vibe