Regardless of your opinion on AI (artificial intelligence), there are undeniable benefits to the speed and efficiency of workflows for creatives – including podcast creators and producers. AI tools can support every stage of the podcast production process, from strategy to final touches. But not all tools are up to par. In this article, we share some of our favorite AI tools for podcast production, some of which we occasionally use internally.
According to our recent report on video podcasting with The Davey Awards, up to 25% of podcast producers are already using AI tools in their production and editing.
While AI is not a replacement for original ideas, it can support skill gaps in your team. Not a bad thing when you’re working to a tight deadline. AI can also help podcasters plan, strategize and plan their podcast production timeline, allowing users to focus on creative ideation and execution.
In short, AI tools for podcast production could be game-changers for small teams, solo podcasters, and beginners. There is no “perfect” way to produce a podcast. Experimenting with AI is a personal choice that must align with your process. Just because it feels like everyone else is using AI tools doesn’t mean you need to.
In addition to our ideas for AI tools to help with audio-first podcast production, we have gathered some suggestions for tools to support video podcast production. Video is a growing area catching some podcasters off-guard with its sudden ubiquity across platforms like Spotify and YouTube. Not to worry. If video is something you’d like to explore, these AI tools for podcast production can help you wrap your head around this industry development.
If you’d like some expert support with your podcast production efforts, schedule a free consultation with our team.
But First, How Has AI Changed Podcast Production?
AI tools have introduced plenty of new methodologies to the podcast production process. Some of them are novelties, while others are genuinely useful. Some even solve problems we’ve been grappling with for years. For example, we can now use ChatGPT to optimize our podcast transcripts and pull out key quotes, saving hours of time.
Don’t forget to read our summary of our favorite AI tools for podcast marketing, a guide that helps you use cutting-edge software to maximize your podcast growth. It includes our suggestions for transcript generation, alongside speedy tools to help with content repurposing.
Some podcasters are taking AI to the next level by employing generated voices to host podcasts and read scripts. AI voice platforms like Wondercraft make it easy to create podcast ads and generate voice overs at scale. If your goal is quantity, with a small sacrifice for quality and originality, this type of software could have a huge impact on your output.
Are There Disadvantages to Using AI Tools for Podcast Production?
You don’t know what you don’t know. While AI can generate fantastic responses to your questions, they will only work if you know what to ask. We always recommend podcast production beginners consult with professionals or do their own research before starting a new project.
The Podglomerate’s blog covers numerous production-related topics, helping newcomers orient themselves in a process that may seem simple on the surface (record episode and publish it) but in reality contains dozens of steps.
Podcast Scheduling
Between flexible work schedules and time zone differences, finding time to record podcast episodes weighs heavily on teams. While a platform like Calendly speeds up the process by offering asynchronous scheduling and Zoom integration, it must be manually updated with availability unless a calendar slot has already been blocked out. There are a couple of ways you can use AI to improve your scheduling process. For example, some calendars offer smart rescheduling options, moving your tasks around to accommodate last minute changes.
Another option is to use ChatGPT or other large language models to create static recording schedules and other materials to help book podcast guests. The schedules generated in ChatGPT won’t automatically change if a guest cancels, but continuous input will help you plan a timetable that includes different variables, such as time zone differences.
An example of a ChatGPT prompt for podcast scheduling:
“I host and produce a podcast about [topic] and I am looking for some engaging guests to explore ideas such as [subtopics]. I have some guests confirmed already and would like suggestions for other interview guests for my niche [genre]. Below, I’ve listed the names of confirmed guests and their availability, as well as their time zones. I record on Mondays between 9am and 5pm. Can you create a schedule that includes ideal times for these interviews, as well as some suggestions for guest outreach and episode topics that they would be most suitable for. Finally, write me a guest pitch template to send via email and LinkedIn DM.”
AI Tools for Podcast Scheduling
- Motion – A trending “executive assistant” that combines AI scheduling with calendar prioritization. Motion not only finds time slots but helps batch and organize podcast-related tasks. It’s great for creators balancing multiple podcasts or projects, but it needs a lot of training to work fully independently. It also doesn’t read the content of your emails, so you will need to input information to make it function.
- Clockwise – If you’re trying to avoid chaos in your calendar, Clockwise might be a great option. It uses AI to optimize meeting times based on everyone’s availability—perfect for producers, editors, and hosts. Clockwise is useful for larger production teams or podcast companies.
- Doodle – Try this scheduling platform next time you’re trying to coordinate 4+ schedules at once. You can offer multiple slots and your interviewees can select the times that suit them. Doodle is especially helpful for group recordings and panels, as it integrates with Zoom and Microsoft Teams.
Podcast Recording
You may think that the recording process doesn’t need any AI input. While tools in this area are limited, there are some great transcription and recording AI tools that should be on your radar for your next interview.
AI Tools for Podcast Recording
- Riverside.fm – This platform offers AI-enhanced local recordings in 4K video and studio-quality audio. Riverside now includes a tool called Magic Editor, which uses AI to highlight speakers and remove filler words. Riverside works well for interview podcasts and remote guest recording.
- Descript – Known for editing, Descript also includes AI-powered screen and audio recording. Descript transcribes as you go, letting you edit your audio like a Word document. A platform like Descript is a must-have for creators who want recording, editing, and publishing in one tool.
- Otter.ai – Think of Otter as a secret weapon for the unprepared podcaster. Why? When activated, it records a transcript of your Zoom call, as well as action points and next steps. While it doesn’t record audio (make sure you’ve set your video call app to record), Otter will help you keep track of topics and organize your talking points when returning to haphazard Zoom recordings.
Podcast Production and Editing
The production process can be bare bones or complex – it depends on your skills, resources and goals. For every podcaster who runs a quick “Magic Audio” tool on Riverside.fm and hits publish, there is a meticulous producer who works with reverb, clipping, layering, and other effects to create the highest audio quality possible.
Production and editing are where your creativity can take flight. Add music, layer effects, and work with audio techniques to elevate your unique story.
If you’re short on time or new to podcasting, AI tools for podcast production can troubleshoot and correct recording mistakes in just a few minutes. Make sure to re-listen to your episode after using an AI tool, as removing “ums” and pauses can disrupt the flow of a speaking voice and make the episode sound unnatural.
AI Tools for Podcast Production and Editing
- Adobe Podcast (formerly Project Shasta) – This tool uses AI to clean up low-quality recordings and add studio-like enhancements with one click. Adobe Podcast includes a transcript-based editor, similar to Descript. It’s great for DIY podcasters who want pro-level sound without the studio.
- Auphonic – A long-time favorite in the podcasting world, Auphonic uses AI to auto-level audio, reduce noise, and even generate metadata. If you need support with batch processing episodes with consistent sound quality, try Auphonic.
- Podcastle.ai – Offers everything from recording to AI voice cloning and automatic revoice edits. Recently added features like text-to-speech narration. This is best for podcasters who want to experiment with synthetic voices or multilingual episodes.
- Cleanvoice AI – Removes filler words, stutters, mouth sounds, and other audio distractions automatically. Upload your audio and let the AI clean it. It’s great for podcasters focused on tight, professional-quality audio.
Video Podcast Production
Video podcasting has become popular, thanks to the dominance of platforms like YouTube. Our award-winning show Podcast Perspectives has its own YouTube channel for a few important reasons, including SEO purposes and accessing a wider audience. While you don’t need a video podcast, many shows are opting for a hybrid approach. A hybrid podcast format means using video or audiograms for marketing purposes across social media.
There are dozens of options out. When choosing an AI tools for podcast production to support a video podcast, remember to consider what platforms you’ll be sharing your content on. Many tools overlap with general video production, while others are focused on content repurposing. We’ve singled out a few tools that represent a spectrum of uses, including repurposing and adding subtitles.
AI Tools for Video Podcast Production
- Opus Clip – Uses AI to chop long-form video podcasts into short, viral clips. Auto-detects the most engaging moments and formats them for social. It’s a great platform for podcasters who want to repurpose their episodes into social content.
- Veed.io – This platform is an all-in-one video editor that uses AI for subtitles, translations, and scene detection. Includes templates built for video podcasters and works well for beginners looking to drag-and-drop their files.
- Pictory – This platform converts long audio/video content into short highlight reels using AI. Great for branded storytelling, repackaging webinars as podcasts, and B2B shows or narrative-driven video podcasts.
- Riverside.fm – Records high-quality remote video podcasts with AI transcription for speedy editing. Riverside also generates clips for sharing across social media.
Have questions? Interested in working with The Podglomerate to help grow your audience and improve your podcast marketing strategy? Email us to learn more about our services.