Podcasting is like hosting a radio show, except anyone in the world can tune in, there are no FCC rules about yelling “pineapple pizza is an abomination,” and your co-host is probably your cat, who contributes nothing but purring noises.
Podcasting: Before AI
Ah, the early days of podcasting – when starting a podcast felt like preparing for a lunar mission with duct tape, a microphone from the 2002 Karaoke Revolution, and sheer determination.
Back then, every podcaster’s motto was, “We’ll fix it in post!” – which was a bold lie because you were the one stuck fixing it in post at 3 a.m. with zero audio editing skills.
First, let’s talk about recording.
You’d sit huddled in a closet (because apparently clothes = soundproofing?) with a mic that cost $20 on eBay and a laptop fan that sounded like a jet engine taking off.
Every episode was a symphony of background noises: barking dogs, honking cars, and your neighbor deciding right now was the perfect time to vacuum.
“Oh, great, now I have to re-record the part where I passionately defend pineapple on pizza. Thanks, Karen!”
Then came editing, which was a soul-crushing time sink.
You’d spend hours cutting out awkward silences, random “uhhhhs,” and the moment your co-host knocked over their coffee.
“Okay, let’s replay this intro for the 47th time. Why do we sound like two robots trying to have a conversation about feelings?”
And let’s not forget publishing.
You’d upload your podcast to a hosting platform, write a description that somehow had to be witty, SEO-friendly, and under 150 characters, and then blast it out to the world – only to realize you spelled your guest’s name wrong in the title.
“Welcome to Episode 27 with our special guest, John… Smiht? Oh no. Oh NO.”
Of course, there was the promotion phase, where you’d beg your friends to listen (“Hey, Mom, did you check out my new episode yet?”), spam every social media platform, and pray to the algorithm gods for mercy.
If you got 12 downloads in a week, you’d celebrate like you’d just won an Oscar.
Podcasting back then was messy, exhausting, and often felt like yelling into the void. But hey, at least you had a hobby that made you sound cool at parties.
“Yeah, I have a podcast. No big deal.”
Podcasting: After AI
Now, podcasting has entered the AI era, where even the most chaotic podcaster can sound like a pro.
AI tools handle everything from editing to promotion, leaving you with more time to focus on what really matters: arguing with your co-host about whether Die Hard is a Christmas movie (it is).
Let’s start with recording.
AI tools like Descript or Zencastr ensure crisp, clear audio – even if your recording setup is still a closet and a dream.
They’ll automatically remove background noise, level out your audio, and make it sound like you recorded in a professional studio.
Goodbye, jet-engine laptop fan; hello, radio-worthy voice.
For editing, AI is a game-changer.
Tools like Adobe Podcast or Descript let you edit audio like a Word document. Want to cut out every “um” and “uh”? Just highlight and delete.
Need to fix the part where you accidentally called your guest “Steve” instead of “Sam”? AI can clone your voice and correct it for you.
Yes, your bot self sounds exactly like you – creepy, but also amazing.
Now let’s talk about content creation.
AI tools like ChatGPT or Jasper can help you brainstorm episode topics, write show notes, and even create catchy titles.
“Episode 42: Why Pineapple Pizza is the Hill We’ll Die On.” Boom. Instant clickbait.
For transcription, tools like Otter.ai or Rev turn your episodes into searchable text in minutes.
This is perfect for creating blog posts, social media snippets, or just giving your listeners the option to read your podcast instead of listening (because some people are weird like that).
Promotion?
AI’s got your back. Tools like Headliner or Audiogram create shareable audiograms – those snazzy videos with waveforms and captions – to post on social media.
And AI-powered scheduling tools like Buffer or Later make sure your episodes hit the algorithm at the perfect time.
And analytics?
AI tools like Chartable or Podtrac give you detailed insights into your audience.
You’ll know who’s listening, where they’re from, and even which parts of your episodes they skip.
(Spoiler: It’s probably the part where you rant about pineapple pizza for 15 minutes.)
With AI, podcasting isn’t just easier – it’s way more fun. You can focus on creating great content, while the bots handle the boring stuff.
How to Teach Yourself About AI-Enhanced Podcasting
Ready to take your podcast to the next level? Here’s how to get started with AI tools that’ll make you sound like a broadcasting legend.
Start with recording. Use Descript or Zencastr to capture crystal-clear audio with minimal effort.
Next, streamline editing. Tools like Adobe Podcast or Descript make editing painless (and even fun).
Create content faster. Use ChatGPT or Jasper to brainstorm topics, write scripts, and craft show notes.
Promote like a pro. Tools like Headliner or Audiogram turn your episodes into social media gold.
Track your success with Chartable or Podtrac. You’ll get insights to fine-tune your strategy.
Your 5 Step AI Knowledge Quest Action Plan
- Record with Quality: Use Zencastr or Descript to ensure professional-grade audio.
- Edit Like a Pro: Let Adobe Podcast or Descript handle the heavy lifting.
- Generate Episode Ideas: Brainstorm with ChatGPT or Jasper for endless creative inspiration.
- Promote Effectively: Share audiograms with Headliner or Audiogram and schedule posts with Buffer.
- Analyze Your Audience: Use Chartable or Podtrac to understand listener behavior.
5 Creative AI Podcasting Tips
- Create a Killer Intro: Use AI voiceovers or music generators like Voicemod or AIVA to design a unique intro that hooks your listeners.
- Add Sound Effects: Use AI audio tools like Boom Library to sprinkle in effects for comedic timing or dramatic flair. (Dramatic thunderclap when someone says, “pineapple pizza.”)
- Repurpose Content: Turn podcast episodes into blog posts or newsletters with transcription tools like ai.
- Engage Your Audience: Use AI survey tools like Typeform to gather listener feedback and tailor episodes to their interests.
- Experiment with AI Co-Hosts: Let an AI assistant like ChatGPT chime in with fun facts or quirky commentary during your episodes. (“Actually, Die Hard is a Christmas movie.”)
Go To AI Support for Various Functions
