Keep It or Cut It: The Podcast Editing Dilemma

Imagine you’ve gone through all the hassle of getting your podcast guests to sign those release forms. You’re feeling pretty smug about it, right? Fast forward a few months or even years, and suddenly your guest, who apparently has turned into a drama queen, is begging you to take the interview down. What do you do? It’s a wild ride as we dive deep into this conundrum that every podcaster dreads. Sure, you’ve got the legal high ground, but is it worth throwing your relationship with that guest under the bus?Takeaways: Even if guests signed a release form, they might still ask you to take down the interview later. Taking down an interview might save a relationship, and relationships matter in podcasting. Sometimes people change their minds, and it's easier to take the interview down than deal with drama. Being a jerk about a signed release could ruin future networking opportunities for you. The biggest benefit of interviews is the relationships, not just audience growth. It's often better to maintain good vibes than to get into a legal tug-of-war over content. Companies mentioned in this episode: School of Podcasting Katie Brinkley Jay Acunzo Mentioned in this episode:We Make Good Shows Better - Your Audience Will Thank YouPodcastHotSeat.com is the ultimate coaching experience for podcasters who want actionable feedback to take their show to the next level. Whether you want to refine your content, improve audience engagement, or enhance your production quality, the Podcast Hot Seat provides expert insights and a supportive environment to help you grow. Join the hot seat and watch your podcast thrive!Podcas Hot SeatThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

Heading to your first podcast event? Get ready for a whirlwind of excitement and awkward encounters! First things first, business cards are your best friends. But not just any cards—make sure it’s got your website on it, preferably not a link tree that screams 'I don’t have my life together.' A QR code on your card is like having a secret weapon—people love scanning stuff, and it’s a great way to direct them to your show without you having to say a word. Dress comfortably, too! Trust me, you’ll be on your feet and walk A LOT. And while you’re at it, throw in some breath mints and chapstick because, guess what? You’ll be chatting up a storm, and no one wants to be the person with chapped lips or dragon breath. Pro tip: hydrate like you’re preparing for a marathon and pack some granola bars; you might just forget to eat amidst all the networking madness. Finally, don’t be shy! Approach people, strike up conversations, and remember—everyone’s probably as nervous as you are. Just fake it till you make it, and before you know it, you’ll be the life of the podcasting party!Takeaways: First things first, don’t forget your business cards or a QR code to impress people. Comfortable shoes are a must because you’ll be on your feet all day long. Drink water and pack snacks; you don’t want to starve while networking, trust me. Follow up with people after the event; don’t let those connections fade away. Dress in layers because conference rooms can go from sauna to freezer in seconds. Fake your way through the small talk; just ask others what brings them to the event. MentionedSwitchy - Link tracker/QR Code maker / link in bio CreatorSchool of PodcastingMentioned in this episode:Ready to start your podcast the right way? Join the School of Podcasting and get step-by-step courses covering everything from planning and equipment to editing, audience growth, and monetization. Plus, you'll get expert UNLIMITED coaching and a supportive community to guide you every step of the way. Start your podcast with confidence—join today! 👉 SchoolofPodcasting.comSchool of PodcastingThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

Podcast Movement is just around the corner, and if you’re anything like me, you’re probably freaking out a little. I mean, who doesn’t love the thrill of trying to network while simultaneously figuring out how to use your recording gear? This episode is a deep dive into the chaos of recording on the go. I’ve had my fair share of gear fails, and trust me, they’re the stuff of legend. From microphones that promise the world but leave you questioning your sanity to recorders so tiny you need a microscope to see the screen, I’ve experienced it all. And spoiler alert: it’s not glamorous.I’m also sharing my latest find, the Hollyland Lark M2S combo. This little piece of magic fits in your pocket and makes recording on the fly a breeze. It’s perfect for those unexpected moments when you bump into someone you want to interview. And let’s be real, we all know how important it is to keep things short and sweet at events. Long interviews? Nah, thanks. People are there to network, not to sit through a podcast marathon. I’ll give you the ins and outs of how to snag quick audio bits that won’t annoy your new friends at the conference.Finally, I’ll stress the importance of practicing like it’s your job. I’ve been that person fumbling with buttons and praying the mic is on. Not a good look, right? So, as we gear up for Podcast Movement, let’s make sure we’re ready to roll when the moment strikes. You’ll leave this episode armed with the knowledge to make the most of every recording opportunity that comes your way. Let’s do this!Takeaways: Practice, practice, practice! You never know when you'll need to record something awesome. If you're heading to events, keep your interviews short, they're all about networking, not long chats. Investing in portable gear like the Hollyland Lark M2S can save you from recording disasters. Don't be that person fumbling with equipment! Be ready to hit record at a moment's notice. Avoid giant echo chambers when recording on the road; find a cozy spot instead. Remember, everyone at conferences wants to mingle, so respect their time and keep it chill. Mentioned In This EpisodeHollyland Lark M2s Wireless Lavalier SetSchool of PodcastingPodcast MovementMentioned in this episode:Podcast Hot Seat: We Make Good Podcasts GreatYou are too close to your content. I've missed typos and more. Your content may have some VERY low-hanging fruit. One way to grow your audience is to KEEP people from leaving. Your Audience will thank you! Order now, and get a free month at the School of Podcasting (including unlimited consulting).Podcas Hot SeatThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

Deciding what to keep and what to cut in podcast editing can seem hard, but with a little insight it becomes easy. So fear not, because we dig into this conundrum with all the sarcasm and irony you can handle. First, we chat about the importance of knowing your audience. Seriously, if your guest starts rambling off nonsensical answers that have nothing to do with the question, it’s a clear sign that something’s gotta give. It's simple: keep the stuff that brings value, even if it’s wrapped in a bizarre package.Next, we tackle the classic blunder of hosts repeating the answers. Like, thanks for the recap, but I think we caught that the first time, champ. I mean, how many times do we need to hear that answer? It's not rocket science. And let’s not even get started on the audio quality – if it sounds like your guest is speaking from inside a fishbowl, it’s time for some serious editing magic. We share tips on using fancy plugins to fix that audio mess because, let’s face it, nobody wants to crank their volume just to hear someone mumble.Finally, we wrap it all up by emphasizing that editing isn’t just about cutting the fluff; it’s about enhancing your show’s quality. Keep it engaging, make the listening experience enjoyable, and don’t be afraid to reach out to your audience for feedback. Because at the end of the day, if your podcast is boring, your listeners will hit that delete button faster than you can say ‘editing nightmare’!Takeaways: Knowing your audience is step one to figuring out what to keep or cut. If your guest gives a weird answer like 'pepperoni' instead of a story, just cut it. Keep things snappy; nobody wants to listen to a podcast that's longer than it needs to be. Cut out the parts where guests repeat answers over and over; we heard them the first time! Audio quality matters; make sure people can actually understand what’s being said. Eliminate excessive background noise or uneven volume levels to keep listeners engaged. Mentioned In This EpisodeSchool of PodcastingTidy Cal Scheduling ToolDXRevive from AccentizeThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

The burning question on every wannabe podcaster's mind: do I really need a podcast coach? Spoiler alert: no, you don’t *have* to have one, and you could just jump in, flail around, and figure things out for yourself. But let’s be real for a sec. Imagine setting off on a cross-country road trip without a GPS. Sure, you could just guess which way is west, but wouldn’t it be easier to have a reliable map guiding you? That’s what a coach can do for your podcasting journey. They help you dodge the potholes of bad equipment choices, terrible hosting services, and the dreaded burnout that comes from setting completely unrealistic goals. If you want to avoid looking like a podcasting rookie who doesn’t know the difference between a media host and a media hoax, a coach can be your best friend. Even legends like Oprah and Michael Phelps have coaches. So, if you want to level up your podcast game and not just play in the kiddie pool, maybe consider getting a coach. But hey, if you want to go it alone, just know you’ll be doing a lot of guessing along the way.Takeaways: You only need a coach if you want to avoid mistakes. Hiring a coach can save you from buying the wrong gear and using the wrong platforms. Just like GPS helps you avoid traffic, a podcast coach can guide you through common pitfalls. Even big names like Oprah and Bill Gates have coaches, so maybe there's something to it after all! A good coach helps refine your goals and keeps you accountable, which is pretty darn useful. Without a coach, you might just be wandering around like a lost puppy in the podcasting world. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

Jumping into the world of YouTube isn’t just about pointing a camera and chatting away. Sure, that sounds like a walk in the park, but it’s actually more like a hike up a mountain with a backpack full of gear. You’ll need a decent camera, lighting that doesn’t make you look like a ghost, and let’s not forget the audio – because, believe me, if your audio is garbage, you might as well be not start video. Everyone’s quick to say, ‘Oh, it’s easy!’ But if you want to grow your channel, it’s not just about slapping some content together; it’s about your thumbnail, your title, and that all-important first 30 seconds that keeps viewers from bolting faster than a cat from a cucumber. If you're not doing that for your audio it is more work.And don’t even get me started on the thumbnails! You think you can just throw any old picture up there and call it a day? Nope! It’s got to be eye-catching, intriguing, and maybe a tad clickbaity to get those lazy viewers to stop scrolling and actually watch. You know, the kind of thumbnail that screams, ‘Click me! I’m more interesting than your ex’s new partner!’ So, while you’re busy filming your masterpiece, make sure you’re also crafting a title that promises something juicy. After all, that title is like a promise to your listeners and if you don’t deliver, guess what? They’re not coming back.A Video StrategyTo really make your mark on YouTube, it’s about strategy, baby! Think of it as a game of chess where every move counts. You need to plan your title, thumbnail, and hook like your channel depends on it – because it does! And if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the thought of it all, don’t worry; even the pros use tools like Vidiq to help them navigate the chaotic waters of YouTube. So, buckle up, get that gear ready, and remember: it’s not just about talking into a camera; it’s about crafting an experience that your audience will want to dive into headfirst. Happy filming!Takeaways: YouTube can be a blast if you have the time and budget, but it's a lot of work! People think recording video is just talking into a camera, but oh boy, it's way more complex! To really grow on YouTube, you gotta focus on the title, thumbnail, and first 30 seconds, not just the content. Don't underestimate how much effort goes into making a good thumbnail; it can make or break your video! Audio is king, but in video, the thumbnail and title are your best friends, so don't ignore them! MentionedSchool of PodcastingVid IQ (aff)Mentioned in this episode:Is Your Podcast Not Growing?Struggling to grow your podcast beyond friends and family? You're not alone. I've been there too. That's why I created "10 Proven Strategies to Grow Your Podcast Audience" - a free guide packed with actionable techniques that have helped countless podcasters expand their reach and build loyal listener communities. Stop guessing what works. These are battle-tested methods used by top podcasters who speak to engaged audiences every week. Head to schoolofpodcasting.com/10tips now and download the free guide because your podcast deserves to be heard.10 TipsThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

Launching a podcast without a domain? Yeah, that’s a big no-no. It’s like trying to adopt a puppy and then saying, “Hey, where’s the leash?” In this episode, we tackle the absolute must-have of podcasting—your own domain name. You want people to find your adorable little show, right? So, let’s make sure they have a place to go when they ask, “Where’s your podcast?” We dish out the wisdom on why having your own website is the best way to keep your podcast from going missing. Grab your notepad because we’re about to dive into some seriously practical tips!Links referenced in this episode:Namecheap - Buy a domainCoolerwebsites - Another place to buy a domainpodcastconsultant.comschoolofpodcasting.comschoolofpodcasting.com/checklistschoolofpodcasting.com/startTakeaways: Launching a podcast without a domain is like having a puppy with no leash—totally chaotic. Your website is your podcast's home base; don't send people to a third-party link. Buying a domain is cheap insurance against losing your brand to someone else—trust me. If your friends ask for your podcast and you say you don't have a domain, well, good luck with that. Always set up easy-to-remember links for your podcast, or risk sounding like a total noob. Domains are only $20 a year, which is less than that fancy coffee you keep buying. Mentioned in this episode:Your Voice is Your LegacyYou have lived things that need to be heard. You can help other people, and I'm here to help. Don't let your story die within you, release your legacy today and start your podcast. I've helped hundreds (thousands?) of podcasters and I can help you. It's time to do it.School of PodcastingThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

So, you’ve taken a long break from your podcast—like a “I forgot how to talk to a mic” kind of break—and now you’re wondering how to get back in the game. Well, I’m here to explain on how to restart without losing your marbles or your listeners. First off, if you ditched your show for a while, don’t sweat it! Just let your audience know you’re back and ready to rock. No need for a dramatic apology; they might not even remember why you vanished. Seriously, just dive back in, figure out what you want to change, and remember—it’s all about having fun while you’re at it! So, grab your mic, dust off the cobwebs, and let’s get this party started again!Takeaways: Taking a break from your podcast might seem like a good idea, but it often leads to losing your audience to better shows. When returning to your podcast, remember, no one wants to hear a long apology; just get to the good stuff! If your podcast went on hiatus for years, you might need to reevaluate why it didn't work and how to do better this time. It's perfectly fine to come back to podcasting just for fun, and you don't have to monetize everything! When you're ready to return, just jump right back in—your audience will be thrilled you've come back! Don't stress about starting over; focus on how to make your podcast better than before! Mentioned in this episode:We Make Good Shows Better - Your Audience Will Thank YouPodcastHotSeat.com is the ultimate coaching experience for podcasters who want actionable feedback to take their show to the next level. Whether you want to refine your content, improve audience engagement, or enhance your production quality, the Podcast Hot Seat provides expert insights and a supportive environment to help you grow. Join the hot seat and watch your podcast thrive!Podcas Hot SeatThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

Turning 50 is a big deal, especially for a classic like Jaws, and boy, does it have a lot to teach us about podcasting. Picture this: a film that was barely held together by duct tape and creativity, yet it became a cultural phenomenon. The behind-the-scenes drama? A mechanical shark that was more trouble than it was worth and a filming schedule that doubled in time. But instead of throwing in the towel, Steven Spielberg and crew got creative. They used suspense, killer music, and a whole lot of storytelling to keep audiences on the edge of their seats. So, what’s the takeaway for us podcasters? Just like the Jaws team had to adapt, we can make magic with what we've got, even if our gear isn't top-notch. We don’t need the fanciest mics or perfect lighting to tell our stories — sometimes, limitations spark the most creativity. So grab that old mic, hit record, and let’s make something awesome!Takeaways: Sometimes, not having everything you need can spark more creativity than you think. Jaws was a mess behind the scenes but turned into a classic anyway, so chill! If Spielberg can make a shark out of a broken toy, you can too! Starting small with what you have can lead to amazing skills and growth. Your podcast journey doesn’t need fancy gear; it needs your unique voice. Creativity often thrives in the chaos of not having everything perfectly lined up. Mentionedschoolofpodcasting.com/joinJaws at 50 TrailerThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

So, you’re stuck reading a script for your podcast and it feels as exciting as watching paint dry, huh? Well, let's shake things up! The key here is to stop sounding like a robot and start talking like a human. We’re getting into how to ditch that crutch of a script and get comfortable just chatting it up. You’ll learn to write like you talk—because, spoiler alert, we don’t actually talk like we write. Trust me, it’s all about knowing your material and letting your personality shine through. So grab a seat and let’s figure out how to make your podcast sound less like a school recital and more like a fun convo with your best buddy!Mentioned In This EpisodeWalton Goggins on the Best Acting Advice He’s Ever Received VideoSchool of PodcastingTakeaways: Stop being a robot! Ditch the script and just chat like a normal human being. Writing a script is cool, but remember: we don't talk like we write, so loosen up! Practice makes perfect, even if it feels like torture at first. Just keep talking! Scripts can become crutches, so toss them aside and embrace the chaos of conversation! Make your podcast sound like a chat over coffee, not a corporate presentation. Be real! Editing is your best friend; don't stress about getting it perfect on the first try! Mentioned in this episode:Your Voice is Your LegacyYou have lived things that need to be heard. You can help other people, and I'm here to help. Don't let your story die within you, release your legacy today and start your podcast. I've helped hundreds (thousands?) of podcasters and I can help you. It's time to do it.School of PodcastingThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy