Podcasting Guide

Repeatable elements make editing easier.

The following elements of your podcast structure can be recorded just once, and used repeatedly throughout all your episodes. You can also use the same music in every episode which also cuts down on your editing time after the first episode is created!

• Intro (e.g. "Welcome to the Podcast about Podcasts, where we teach you about Podcasts in a Podcast...")
• Midroll promoting social media-- with the exception of if you have ad placements; these may periodically change
• Outro (e.g. "This has been another episode of the Podcast about Podcasts. We post new episodes every Friday, so see you next week!")

Take out fine details like "um" and other noises.

• These will often look like bearskin rugs on the recording in your editing software.
• Generally speaking, you should always do a background noise reduction in your recording as well, just in case any ambient noise snuck in!

Remember, if you're bored, your audience will be bored! Always listen to your recording before posting to be sure it is engaging, free from odd audio hiccups, or any other imperfections.

Set up an appointment with a specialist in the Toaster Innovation Hub.

• Schedule online here!

Looking for sample files for editing practice? We've recorded some for you!

• Download sample files here!

Looking for music or sound effects?

• Check out StoryBlocks! (Access this link while on campus Wi-Fi or University computer.)

Still have questions? Contact us at breakerspace@umn.edu.

• Recommended software: Audacity
• It's also recommended that you download and install the FFMpeg plugin for Audacity to allow you to import MP4 video files and M4A audio files.
• Alternatives: Adobe Audition and GarageBand are available on iMacs in Walter, Wilson, Magrath and Health Sciences Libraries.
• Basics of using Audacity (and other tutorials)