Why Editing is Key in Podcasting

Many podcasters agree editing is one of the least appealing aspects of podcasting. Recording is often deemed the “fun” part. Many liken it to just getting together with a few friends, talking about a topic you like over a cup of coffee or some bottles of beer.

Editing on the other hand is the exact opposite. This is especially true if you’re a podcasting newbie and still trying to find your way around. For many, editing is not only time-consuming, it is also considered boring at best—like washing the dishes or cleaning up after night of partying.

That being said, many podcasters choose to forego this key component believing it is optional. If anything, nothing can be farther from the truth. Even if you want your show to appear “raw” and spontaneous, editing is one aspect you just can’t skip. Not convinced? Here’s why:

It can help ensure your audio quality is exceptional.

Check out iTunes and figure out what 50 of the highest ranked podcasts have in common. If you check the show outs, you’ll discover that even if they tackle different topics, they have one common denominator: their audio quality is exceptional. That means the volume levels are just right and there are no distracting or annoying background noises.

While content is undoubtedly important, sound quality actually precedes it by at least a notch. Come to think of it, no matter how interesting, superb, or mind-blowing your content may be, it would be useless if your audio is crappy and listeners can’t even figure out what you’re talking about.

If you’re just starting out, making a favourable first impression understandably ranks high on your list. Having a problematic and inferior audio will obviously not help you win avid listeners. The good news? While editing is a key component in podcasting, it’s not something you necessarily have to take on.

If you lack the editing skills and prowess or if you can’t find time to edit your shows, you’d be happy to know there are countless experts who can take on the job for you. Our team for instance can take care of all your editing needs so you can focus on other aspects of the show you’re good at.

It can help ensure you deliver more beneficial and powerful content.

Regardless if you’ll do all the talking or if you’re interviewing people, the tendency to stray from the topic you’re supposed to talk about will always be there. That being said, editing has never been so crucial.

The longer you veer from the topic you’re supposed to tackle, the more frustrated your listeners can get since they’re not getting the value they expect from the discussions. While this can seem harmless, you have to keep in mind that frustrated listeners can often translate to followers you might not be able to win over again.

It can help you transform your show to a piece of art.

While not true for all, some podcasts (i.e. audio dramas to single voice narrations) can benefit from certain additions like cinematic music (to emphasise feelings) or archival segments.

While optional, those additions have the power to transform your show from a mere audio program to form of art. “RadioLab” and “This American Life” are just two of the award-winning podcasts that has used various editing techniques to elevate their shows to true art forms.

Need help editing your podcast? Get in touch with us!