If you are starting a podcast in 2025, great audio is not optional. Listeners today expect clear, crisp, distraction free audio even from new creators.
The good news is that you do not need a studio or expensive skills to record and edit like a pro. You only need simple gear, smart setup, and the right workflow.
This guide walks you through everything step by step so you can record with confidence and polish your episode like a professional editor.
Start With the Right Recording Setup
The quality of your raw recording affects everything that happens in editing. If the input sounds good, cleanup becomes easy.
Choose a Beginner Friendly Microphone
USB microphones are perfect for new podcasters.
Top picks for 2025:
• Shure MV7 USB
• Audio Technica ATR2100x USB
• Rode NT USB Mini
Each delivers professional clarity without confusing settings.
Record in a Quiet, Soft Room
Hard walls create echo. Use soft surfaces instead.
• Record near curtains or a closet
• Place pillows behind the mic
• Avoid empty echoey rooms
Small changes improve sound instantly.
Use Simple Software for Recording
You do not need a complicated DAW. These options are ideal for beginners:
Riverside
Best for interviews and remote guests. It records locally on each device so even an unstable internet does not affect quality.
Descript
Perfect for solo episodes. Lets you edit your audio like a document which makes cleanup simple.
Audacity
Free, basic, and reliable.
Techniques to Sound Like a Pro While Recording
These little habits separate beginners from professionals.
Speak close to the microphone
About one hand width away.
Use a pop filter
Prevents harsh p sounds.
Maintain consistent distance
Do not move your head too much while talking.
Do a 10 second test recording
Check volume, clarity, background noise.
Record each speaker on separate tracks
This makes editing much easier.
The Beginner Friendly Editing Workflow for 2025
You do not need advanced audio engineering skills. Just follow this simple process.
1. Clean Up the Background Noise
Use tools inside Descript or Audacity to reduce hum, air noise, and room echo.
2. Remove Mistakes and Long Pauses
Cut filler words, false starts, and sections where you lost your train of thought.
3. Balance Volume Levels
Make sure all voices sound even.
Descript and most editors have automatic leveling features.
4. Add Music and Intro
Choose royalty free tracks. Adjust the volume so the music never competes with your voice.
5. Add Light EQ
EQ helps voices sound warm instead of flat.
Boost low mids slightly and cut harsh highs if needed. Keep it simple.
6. Export in the Right Format
Export as MP3 at 96 to 128 kbps.
This is the standard for podcast hosting platforms.
Advanced Tips for a More Polished Sound
These techniques instantly elevate your episode.
Use compression lightly
Helps keep your voice consistent in volume.
De-ess sharp S sounds
This removes the sharp hiss.
Normalize your audio
Brings everything to a professional loudness level.
Listen through headphones before finalizing
Headphones reveal issues speakers cannot catch.
Build Your Concept Before You Record
High quality editing cannot fix a weak podcast structure. Before recording your first episode, make sure your concept, message, and format are clear.
Read this guide first:
How to Start a Podcast: A Strategic Guide for Founders, Experts and Advocates
Why Working With a Podcast Agency Makes the Process Easier
Recording and editing can feel overwhelming for beginners. A podcast agency like Command Your Brand helps you:
- plan your episodes
• refine your message
• improve your delivery
• produce cleaner audio
• create a professional sounding final product
Most importantly, you get to focus on your expertise instead of tech.
If you want to launch a podcast that sounds polished, feels authoritative, and builds your brand from day one, Command Your Brand can help you create, plan, and optimize your show for real growth.
Book a strategy call today and get expert guidance for your podcast.
