Top 10 Podcast Editing Tips for Studio-Quality Sound
Introduction
Podcasting has exploded in the UK over the past few years — with more than 19 million regular listeners and hundreds of new shows launching every month. Whether you’re an individual with a passion project, a brand looking to build authority, or a creative professional exploring new formats, starting a podcast is one of the most accessible ways to grow an audience.
But before you hit record, there’s a lot to think about — from tech and format, to distribution and promotion. This step-by-step guide walks you through how to start a podcast in the UK, with tips tailored for beginners who want to sound professional from day one.
Step 1: Define Your Concept
Great podcasts start with a clear idea. Before you even think about gear, ask:
Who is this podcast for? (target listener)
What’s the topic or niche?
What makes your show different?
Is it educational, entertaining, or both?
Will it be solo, co-hosted, or interview-style?
Clarity at this stage makes branding, structure, and promotion much easier later on.
UK Tip:
If you're aiming for a British audience, think about local angles — current events, region-specific issues, or UK-based guests. This can help you stand out on platforms like BBC Sounds, Spotify UK, or Apple Podcasts GB charts.
Step 2: Choose a Format and Structure
Decide how your podcast will be shaped episode to episode. Common formats include:
Solo commentary or storytelling
Interviews with guests
Co-hosted conversations
Narrative series (fiction or documentary-style)
Structure matters, too. Will episodes be 20 minutes or 60? Do you want theme music and segment intros? Will there be ads, or is it ad-free?
Aim for consistency — listeners return when they know what to expect.
Step 3: Set Up Your Recording Environment
Recording in your kitchen or living room may sound fine at first — until you hear echo, fridge hum, or traffic noise in the background. To avoid poor audio quality, prioritise a quiet, controlled space.
Recommended Setup:
Microphone – e.g. Shure SM7B (for rich vocal tone), or a quality USB mic like the Rode NT-USB+
Audio interface – Focusrite Scarlett or similar (if using an XLR mic)
Headphones – Closed-back models like Audio-Technica M50x
Pop filter & mic stand – For clean delivery and reduced plosives
Recording software (DAW) – Free: Audacity; Pro: Adobe Audition, Logic Pro, or Pro Tools
Don’t want to deal with tech?
Studios like Kore Sounds offer professional podcast recording facilities, with studio engineers, soundproofed booths, and high-end gear — so you can just focus on the conversation.
Step 4: Record and Edit Your First Episode
Recording your first episode is exciting — but resist the urge to wing it. Prepare a rough outline, know your intro and outro, and keep an eye on pacing.
Editing Tips:
Trim out long pauses or filler
Clean up audio using EQ and compression
Normalise volume levels for consistent playback
Add intro/outro music and transitions
If editing isn’t your thing, many podcast production studios offer editing-only services, so you can record at home but still get a polished final product.
Step 5: Choose a Hosting Platform
Once your first episode is ready, you’ll need to upload it somewhere that generates your podcast’s RSS feed — this feed tells platforms like Spotify and Apple where to find your episodes.
Popular UK-friendly hosts include:
Buzzsprout – Great for beginners
Captivate.fm – UK-based and podcaster-friendly
Anchor (by Spotify) – Free and easy to use
Podbean – Simple analytics and monetisation options
Make sure your host distributes to all major platforms: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, and YouTube (if applicable).
Step 6: Create Branding and Episode Titles
Your podcast needs a name, cover art, and description that reflects your content and appeals to your audience.
Branding Tips:
Keep your name clear and memorable
Avoid puns or names that are hard to search
Use a bold, legible logo at 3000x3000 pixels
Write an SEO-friendly description with keywords
Example:
A UK-based podcast about mental health and creativity, featuring conversations with artists, musicians, and therapists.
Step 7: Launch With a Bang
Don’t just upload one episode and hope people find it. Launch with at least 2–3 episodes, and create a mini marketing push:
Post across all social channels
Email friends, clients, or collaborators
Submit to podcast directories and charts
Ask early listeners to leave reviews
The first 7–10 days are crucial for generating momentum — especially if you want to land in the “New & Noteworthy” charts on Apple Podcasts (UK).
Step 8: Promote and Grow Your Show
Podcast growth takes time, but consistency wins. Promote each episode through:
Short video or audiogram clips
Quote graphics and pull quotes
Email newsletters
Guest cross-promotion
Being a guest on other UK-based shows
You can also work with a studio or marketer to explore paid ads, SEO for episode titles, or building your own website for better discoverability.
Final Tips for UK Podcast Creators
Consider registering with the UK Podcast Directory
Use British English and cultural references if targeting UK listeners
Stay consistent with your release schedule
Record a bank of content to stay ahead of production
Use your voice to build trust — podcasting is about connection, not perfection