Starting a podcast on Apple for free is a multi-step process. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started.

1. **Planning Your Podcast**: Before you start recording, you need to plan your podcast. This includes deciding on a topic, format, and target audience. You should also plan your episodes in advance.

2. **Recording Your Podcast**: You can use any recording device or software to record your podcast. If you're just starting out, your smartphone or computer microphone may be sufficient. For editing, there are several free software options available like Audacity or GarageBand.

3. **Editing Your Podcast**: After recording your podcast, you'll need to edit it. This involves removing any mistakes, adding music or sound effects, and ensuring the audio levels are consistent.

4. **Hosting Your Podcast**: Before you can submit your podcast to Apple, you need to host it online. There are several free podcast hosting platforms available like Anchor.fm, Buzzsprout, or Podbean. These platforms will provide you with an RSS feed for your podcast, which you'll need to submit to Apple.

5. **Submitting Your Podcast to Apple**: Once your podcast is hosted and you have an RSS feed, you can submit it to Apple Podcasts. To do this, you need to go to the Apple Podcasts Connect website, sign in with your Apple ID, and then click on the "+" button to add a new show. You'll then need to enter your RSS feed and other information about your podcast.

6. **Promoting Your Podcast**: After your podcast is live on Apple Podcasts, you'll need to promote it. This could involve sharing it on social media, asking listeners to leave reviews, or collaborating with other podcasters.

Remember, creating a successful podcast takes time and effort, but with patience and consistency, you can build an audience and make your podcast a success. Good luck!