What do you do when there is a problem with a guest episode? Today I’m sharing how to handle re-recording with your guest, or even needing to scrap an episode entirely. I’m giving tips on navigating a variety of podcast problems so that you will be able to handle each one with confidence.
Today’s episode is brought to you by Riverside FM:
Today’s episode is brought to you by Riverside FM, the virtual recording studio I rely on for creating studio quality content—both in audio and video. Riverside has become my go-to tool for recording solo episodes, interviews, Mic Check Society trainings, and even taking my calls!
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Clocking In with Haylee Gaffin is produced by Gaffin Creative, a podcast production company for creative entrepreneurs. Learn more about our services at Gaffincreative.com, plus you’ll also find resources, show notes, and more for the Clocking In Podcast.
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How to Handle Podcast Episodes You Don’t Like: When to Rerecord, Edit, or Scrap
In this episode of the Clocking In Podcast, I’m diving into one of the most challenging decisions we face as podcasters: what to do when an episode doesn’t meet our expectations. Whether it’s due to technical glitches or content that doesn’t quite hit the mark, I’ll be sharing my insights on when it’s appropriate to ask guests to rerecord, when we can salvage an episode through post-production, and how to gracefully handle the tough decision to scrap an episode entirely.
Common Reasons to Rerecord an Episode
When it comes to podcast production, not every episode goes as planned. There are several common reasons why you might consider asking a guest to rerecord. Technical issues are often the most straightforward reason; problems like poor audio quality, glitches, or echo can ruin an episode, making a rerecord necessary. Content clarity is another critical factor—sometimes a guest might not fully answer your questions, or the conversation might veer off track, leaving the content muddled. Additionally, if either you or your guest isn’t in the right headspace, it can lead to a mismatched energy that affects the overall vibe of the episode.
When to Opt for Post-Production Edits Instead
However, not every issue requires starting from scratch. There are situations where post-production edits can effectively resolve the problem. For example, if a guest suggests something you strongly disagree with, you can choose to edit out that portion while keeping the rest of the episode intact. Similarly, if a guest endorses a person, platform, or tool that doesn’t align with your brand, or if they use language that doesn’t fit your podcast’s tone, these can be addressed in editing.
Knowing When to Scrap an Episode
Of course, there are times when an episode simply can’t be salvaged. If the guest’s core values don’t align with yours, or if the content doesn’t add value to your audience, it may be best to scrap the episode. The same applies if the guest’s behavior made you uncomfortable or if there was a significant disconnect during the interview.
How to Approach Your Guest
Approaching a guest about these issues can be delicate. If you need to make edits, it’s important to be transparent about why specific changes are necessary. Most guests will appreciate your honesty and respect your decision. If you need to request a rerecord, explain clearly why the initial recording isn’t suitable for airing and offer to set up a new session. And in cases where you’ve decided to scrap the episode, honesty is still the best policy. Politely explain that the episode doesn’t align with your podcast’s goals and why you’ve decided not to air it.
I encourage you to reflect on your own experiences with difficult podcast episodes. Have you ever had to deal with an episode that didn’t go as planned? Share your story and how you handled it on social media using the hashtag #ClockingInPodcast.
Still, stressed about how to approach your guest for a rerecording? Check out my Email Templates for Asking Your Podcast Guest to Rerecord. These templates are designed to help you craft the perfect message with confidence and ease. Get the templates here and make those tough conversations a little bit easier.
Mentioned In Today’s Episode:
Episode 054: Podcast Pitches and Guest Communication
Email Templates for Asking Your Podcast Guest to Re-record
https://creators.riverside.fm/ClockingIn – use the code GAFFIN15 for 15% off
Time-stamps:
Reasons that you may want to re-record (3:42)
Fix the problem in post-production (9:38)
Scraping an episode (16:36)
How to handle the situation with the guest (18:21)
Your podcast represents you and your brand (24:10)
Email templates for re-recording and feedback (26:13)
