The Two Extremes of Editing Philosophy in Podcast Production

There are many ways to edit a podcast episode and many techniques, too.

Regarding general editing philosophies there are basically two extremes and then, of course, everything in between.

One extreme: The audio is NOT edited at all. It’s left to sound exactly the same as it was recorded — raw, unedited, untouched — which usually means lots of umms, lipsmacks, long pauses, flubs, noises, etc. Some podcasters like this philosophy because it takes zero work and they want their audio to be “real” or “authentic.” To me this philosophy can work if the host and guest(s) have good energy and keep the show moving along at a good pace, but, if not, the episode will drag way too much and be painful for listeners to endure.

The other extreme: Heavily edited to remove every single umm, lipsmack, flub, noise, repeated statements, etc. – and also removing every natural pause and authentically timed moments – oh, and removing every single breath that the host and guest takes. Some podcasters like this philosophy because their audio doesn’t contain a wasted second and the pacing is quicker. To me the final product of this philosophy sounds too inhuman and unnatural.

What’s your editing philosophy?

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