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Last Updated · October 16, 2025

How to Start Podcast Editing: Essential Guide for Beginners

podcast editing guide for beginner cover image

We have all been listening to podcasts because they're trending. In fact, many of us have wanted to start our own podcast on an interesting podcast topic, but were always afraid that it would not sound equally good. The editing is important to turn your raw recording into proper episodes, and using the right podcast editing software can make a huge difference. However, not everyone knows the right podcast editing techniques. It is important as it helps create a better listening experience for your audience. So, with this article, we are sharing the right software, equipment, and a step-by-step guide to editing a podcast!

Part 1: Basic Podcast Equipment and Editing Software

What You Need

If you are just starting a new podcast, you need some must-have equipment unless you are going for AI podcast editing. Some of them include:

  • Computer or Laptop: A reliable computer with enough processing power for editing.
  • Headphones: Closed-back headphones are best for accurate audio monitoring.
  • Microphones: A USB or XLR mic can greatly improve sound quality.
  • Camera: If you're planning a video podcast, invest in a high-quality camera.

Best Camera for Video Podcast  - OBSBOT Tail 2 Live Production Camera

A podcast is not like a regular audio track because the audience wants to connect with their hosts to see their reactions, expressions, and real-time emotions. This visual connection deepens engagement and builds trust. For this reason, the audio recording software isn't enough to edit podcast audio, and you need a good camera like OBSBOT Tail 2, which captures crisp 4K footage and perfectly frames the podcaster and the guest both. In simpler words, it helps you create a professional video podcast without needing extra assistants. 

Key features:

  • Intelligent AI Tracking 2.0 with Auto-Framing: As a podcast beginner, you might not have a camera operator, and that's okay. The Tail 2 automatically follows your movements, keeping you perfectly framed while you talk or gesture naturally. You can stand, move, or shift positions without losing focus or cropping.
  • Cinematic 4K@60fps or 1080p@120fps Recording: You can capture every expression and reaction in ultra-clear detail. With crisp 4K resolution and smooth 120fps slow motion, the Tail 2 ensures your podcast video looks cinematic even under basic lighting setups, so beginners don't have to worry about professional studio gear.
  • Smart Gesture Control: During a podcast, stopping mid-conversation to adjust your camera can ruin the flow. With Tail 2's gesture controls, you can start/stop recording, zoom in/out, or change focus without touching the camera.
  • Steady 3-Axis Gimbal Stabilization: Even if your podcast setup isn't fully fixed, the built-in gimbal ensures steady, shake-free footage. This helps beginners achieve clean and stable visuals without purchasing extra equipment.

Editing Software

Now that you know about the camera, we are sharing the five top tools for high-quality podcast editing.

1. Audacity

Audacity is the world's most popular free and open-source audio editing and recording software. It's trusted by millions of creators for everything from podcasts to music production. The latest version, Audacity 3.7.5, introduces improved AI-powered plugins for noise suppression, music separation, and transcription. With its easy-to-use multi-track editor, broad format support, and growing community, this podcast video editor remains the go-to choice for beginners and pros alike.

2. Alitu

Alitu is an all-in-one podcast editing and publishing platform. It is designed to simplify every stage of the production process. From recording and cleanup to final publishing, it automates the technical tasks so creators can focus on storytelling. With AI-powered tools for audio enhancement, built-in transcription, and one-click publishing to platforms like Spotify and Apple Podcasts, Alitu helps you produce professional episodes up to three times faster.

3. GarageBand

GarageBand is Apple's free, all-in-one music and podcast editing software. It turns your device into a complete recording studio. It features an extensive sound library with loops, virtual instruments, and built-in lessons for guitar and piano. GarageBand offers professional-quality audio tools like visual EQ, compression, and mixing. These features are available in an intuitive interface perfect for both beginners and creative professionals.

4. Hindenburg PRO 

Hindenburg PRO is a professional podcast editing and storytelling platform created specifically for spoken-word creators. It is designed for journalists, podcasters, and audio storytellers. It simplifies recording, transcribing, and editing through a clean and intuitive interface. Its "edit-by-transcript" feature lets users edit audio like a text document. At the same time, built-in auto-levels, EQ, and loudness standards ensure polished results ready for radio or podcast publication.

5. Adobe Audition

Adobe Audition is a professional-grade podcast editing and audio production software. It is built for precision, restoration, and studio-quality mixing. It offers advanced multitrack, waveform, and spectral editing tools for creating, repairing, and enhancing audio. From removing background noise to mastering full episodes, Audition provides a seamless workflow with Adobe Premiere Pro and other Creative Cloud apps. This makes it the top choice for professional editors and content creators who demand good sound and automatic podcast editing.

Part 2: Step-by-Step Podcast Editing Process for Beginners

For this walkthrough, we'll use Audacity. It is one of the most popular free tools for podcast editing.

Step 1: Import and Organize Your Audio Files

Import your recorded audio tracks into Audacity by opening the File menu. Click on the Open button.

import your audio file

Step 2: Clean Up the Audio

Use Audacity's Noise Removal tool, located in the Effects menu, to remove background hum or microphone hiss.

noise removal and repair

You can also try other effects from here, such as fading, pitch, tempo, and more, as you can see in the list.

Step 3: Edit for Flow and Clarity

  • Cut out filler words ("um," "uh," "you know") and mistakes.
  • Rearrange sections to improve storytelling.
  • Use crossfades to make transitions smooth.

edit for flow and clarity

Tips: Listen through once as a "story editor" to check flow and pacing.

Step 4: Balance and Enhance the Sound

  • Adjust track volumes so everyone sounds consistent.
  • Apply compression to even out loud and quiet parts. For this purpose, click on the Volume and Compression button, and then click on Compressor.

apply compression to even out loud and quiet parts

Use EQ to enhance vocal warmth or clarity. For this purpose, you've to click on EQ and Filters, and then click on Graphic EQ.

use eq to enhance vocal warmth or clarity

Tips: Avoid over-editing and aim for a natural, balanced sound.

Step 5: Add Music, Intros, and Outros

  • Import your intro/outro music and background sound effects.
  • Keep music levels lower than voices.
  • Use fade-in/out for seamless transitions. For this purpose, you've to choose the Fading button and click on the Fade In and Fade Out buttons.

use fade in/out for seamless transitions

Tips: Try royalty-free music from platforms like Epidemic Sound or Pixabay.

Step 6: Export and Save Your Episode

Export in MP3 format (128–192 kbps) for podcast platforms. You've to click on the Export as Audio button.

export your podcast editing in mp3 format

  • Normalize your audio for consistent loudness.
  • Add metadata (title, description, artwork). Then, just click on the OK button, and it will be saved in your chosen location.

add metadata

Tips: Save a project file separately for future edits.

Part 3: Tips to Improve Your Podcast Editing

  1. Keep It Simple and Natural: Don't over-edit. Leave real pauses and emotions.
  2. Use Noise Reduction Wisely: Overdoing it can make voices sound robotic.
  3. Balance Audio Levels: Make sure every speaker is at a similar volume.
  4. Cut the Filler Words: Remove unnecessary speech for a smoother listen.
  5. Add Music and Transitions: Build your podcast's unique identity.
  6. Test Your Audio Before Publishing: Always listen to your final export on different devices.

Part 4: FAQs About Podcast Editing

1. What is podcast editing?

Podcast editing is the process of cleaning, enhancing, and arranging audio recordings to create a polished, professional-sounding episode.

2. How much do podcast editors get paid?

Rates vary. This is because the freelance editors typically earn between $30–$100 per hour, depending on experience and project complexity.

3. What is the best software for editing a podcast?

For beginners, Audacity and GarageBand are great choices. For professionals, Adobe Audition or Hindenburg Journalist offer advanced features.

4. Can ChatGPT edit a podcast?

ChatGPT can't directly edit audio, but it can help you write scripts, plan editing steps, and recommend tools and techniques.

5. Is it hard to edit a podcast?

Not at all! With practice and the right software, podcast editing becomes intuitive and even fun.

Conclusion

Mastering podcast editing is one of the most rewarding parts of podcasting because it turns raw recordings into a polished, professional show that listeners love. Once you learn the basics of cleaning audio, balancing levels, and adding transitions, it becomes a creative and enjoyable process. The right software and patience can turn even a simple recording into something engaging and memorable. Remember, good editing isn't about perfection but clarity, flow, and storytelling. With consistent effort, your podcast will sound more professional, attract loyal listeners, and reflect the passion you put into every episode.