The soundproof Staples Connect Podcast Studios, developed in partnership with iHeartRadio, will include professional equipment -- a RODECaster Pro control board, RODE microphones and SHURE headphones -- and space for up to four people. A 60-minute session will cost $60, and a "dedicated in-store specialist" will be on hand to help with any recording issues. Customers will have access to discounted hosting and distribution through Spreaker and cut-rate editing through We Edit Podcasts.

Podcasts are undeniably popular at the moment, and while pretty much anyone can record their own, it requires the right gear to produce a quality product. The Staples Connect Podcast Studios could be an alternative to creating your own DIY podcast setup. Whether the studios can save brick-and-mortar retail is another question.

Update 2/19/2020 6:00PM ET: The company offering discounted hosting and distribution is Spreaker, not Speaker as previously written. The story was also updated to include iHeartRadio, which worked with Staples Connect to develop the studios.