How to Edit a Podcast Using Free and Paid Software

Editing your podcast is where the magic happens. It’s where you shape raw conversation into a polished, professional listening experience. Whether you’re working with a tight budget or ready to invest in top-tier tools, there’s a solution for you. In this post, we’ll walk through how to edit a podcast using both free and paid software—and help you decide which one fits your needs best.

Why Editing Matters

Even if your content is great, listeners will turn away if your audio is rough. Good editing helps you:

• Remove awkward pauses or filler words
• Improve pacing and flow
• Add music and sound effects
• Reduce background noise and boost clarity
• Now let’s look at the tools that can get you there.
• Free Podcast Editing Software

1. Audacity

Best for: Beginners on a budget

Why we like it:

• Completely free and open-source
• Works on Mac, Windows, and Linux
• Offers multitrack editing, effects, and noise reduction

How to edit with Audacity:

1. Import your recorded audio

2. Use the Selection Tool to cut out silence, “ums,” or mistakes

3. Apply effects like Noise Reduction, Compression, and EQ

4. Add intros/outros or music on separate tracks

5. Export as MP3 for easy publishing

Limitations:
The interface feels a bit dated, and it lacks advanced automation tools—but for basic editing, Audacity delivers.

2. GarageBand (Mac only)

Best for: Mac users wanting an intuitive interface

Why we like it:

• Free on all Apple devices
• Simple drag-and-drop editing
• Built-in loops and sound effects

How to edit with GarageBand:

1. Create a new “Voice” project

2. Drag in your audio clips

3. Use the Editor panel to trim, move, or split clips

4. Add music tracks or stingers

5. Export your podcast in high-quality formats

Limitations:
Less precision than pro tools, and fewer export options than you might want as your show grows.

Paid Podcast Editing Software

3. Hindenburg Journalist

Best for: Podcasters and storytellers who want simplicity + quality

Why we like it:

• Designed specifically for spoken-word editing
• Auto-leveling and voice profiler for better sound
• Clean interface focused on storytelling
• Bonus: It auto-adjusts audio levels for consistent volume—perfect if your guests vary in mic quality.

Pricing: Starts at $99 (one-time payment, with Pro upgrades available)

4. Adobe Audition

Best for: Professionals or those editing multiple shows

Why we like it:

• Industry-standard for audio production
• Advanced tools like spectral editing, multiband compression, and loudness normalization
• Seamlessly integrates with Adobe Premiere for video podcasters

How to edit with Audition:

1. Create a multitrack session

2. Drop in your raw audio, music, and sound effects

3. Use tools like DeNoise, Parametric EQ, and Hard Limiter

4. Automate fades, volume, and effects

5. Export using podcast-friendly settings (like MP3 128kbps CBR)

Pricing: Part of Adobe Creative Cloud—starts at $20.99/month

5. Descript

Best for: Podcasters who want text-based editing

Why we like it:

• Edit your audio like a Word document
• Automatically transcribes your episode
• Powerful tools like Overdub (AI voice cloning), Studio Sound, and screen recording

How it works:

1. Upload your podcast audio

2. Edit the transcript to cut or move audio

3. Add music or filler word removal with a click

4. Publish directly or export to other platforms

Pricing: Free tier available; paid plans start at $15/month

So, What Should You Use?

Final Tips for Editing Your Podcast

• Always record in high quality (44.1 kHz or higher) to give yourself room to edit
• Use headphones to catch background noises and subtle issues
• Keep it natural—don’t over-edit to the point of sounding robotic
• Save often and keep backups of original files

Ready to level up your podcast?
Explore our gear recommendations and editing tools →