How to Start as a Podcast Editor
Estimated Start Time: 3–6 Weeks
Overview
✨ A Podcast Editor takes raw audio
recordings, cleans them up, removes mistakes, adds music/intros/outros,
and masters the final episode for publication.
With the explosion of podcasts, there's a high demand for skilled audio
editors who can transform raw recordings into polished,
professional-sounding episodes. This role is perfect for individuals
with a good ear for audio, attention to detail, and proficiency in audio
editing software. You can work with podcasters globally, helping them
deliver high-quality content to their audience, all from your home
studio.
5 Steps to Start Your Podcast Editing Business
-
Step 1: Master Audio Editing Software. Learn
industry-standard Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) like Audacity
(free), Adobe Audition, Reaper, or Logic Pro. Focus on noise
reduction, equalization, compression, and mastering.
-
Step 2: Understand Podcast Production Workflow.
Familiarize yourself with typical podcast elements: intros/outros, ad
breaks, music, sound effects, and loudness standards (LUFS).
-
Step 3: Build a Portfolio. Offer to edit episodes for
friends, family, or small podcasters for free or at a reduced rate.
Create short demo reels showcasing your cleaning, editing, and mixing
skills.
-
Step 4: Set Your Rates & Services. Decide what you'll
offer (e.g., basic editing, full production, show notes). Price per
finished minute, per episode, or as monthly retainer packages.
-
Step 5: Find Clients. Use freelance platforms
(Upwork, Fiverr), podcast-specific job boards (Podcast Jobs), or
network on LinkedIn and in podcasting communities. Reach out to new
podcasters who might need help.
Essential Tools for Podcast Editors
-
DAW Software: Audacity (free), Adobe Audition,
Reaper, Logic Pro (Mac).
-
Headphones: Studio monitoring headphones (e.g.,
Audio-Technica ATH-M20x).
-
Plugins: Izotope RX Elements (for noise reduction),
FabFilter Pro-Q 3 (EQ).
-
Cloud Storage: Google Drive, Dropbox (for file
transfer).
7-Day Starter Plan
Day 1
Download Audacity (free) or a trial of Adobe Audition. Watch a
beginner tutorial on basic audio editing.
Day 2
Find a raw podcast interview online (many podcasters share these for
practice). Import it into your DAW.
Day 3
Practice removing "ums," "ahs," long pauses, and other verbal tics.
Focus on making the conversation flow smoothly.
Day 4
Learn about noise reduction and equalization. Apply basic noise
reduction to your practice audio.
Day 5
Add royalty-free intro/outro music and a short ad break to your
practice episode. Learn about audio mixing.
Day 6
Master your practice episode to industry loudness standards (LUFS).
Export it as a high-quality MP3.
Day 7
Create a short (60-90 second) demo reel showcasing your best editing
work.
Tips for Success
-
Good Ear: Develop a keen sense for audio quality.
-
Attention to Detail: No mistake should go unnoticed.
-
Fast Turnaround: Podcasters often have tight
deadlines.
-
Communicate Clearly: Understand client vision and
expectations.