Are you giving your podcast a polished edit? In today’s episode, I’m sharing why podcast editing matters for your listener experience. Plus, I’m diving into all of the little details that the Gaffin Creative team looks for to potentially edit out of our clients’ episodes.
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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The Four Categories of Podcast Edits That Matter Most
1. Filler Words and Awkward Pauses
Let’s be real—everyone uses filler words like um, uh, like, and you know. And while they’re natural, too many can make you sound unsure or unprepared.
We don’t cut every filler word. Sometimes leaving one in helps the flow feel more human. But when they stack up or interrupt the rhythm, they have to go. Same with long silences that make the listener wonder if something’s broken.
Pro tip: Don’t rely solely on AI to clean these up—always listen back to ensure edits don’t sound choppy or unnatural.
2. Mouth Sounds and Breath Noises
From tongue clicks to deep inhales and dry-mouth smacks (yes, it’s a thing), these are sounds most listeners don’t want to hear.
They’re especially common when people are nervous, dehydrated, or recording without warming up. These sounds can be subtle, but once you notice them, you can’t un-hear them.
Hydrate, warm up your voice, and get familiar with how your mic picks up these sounds.
3. Technical and Environmental Issues
There’s nothing worse than realizing you recorded an entire episode using your laptop mic instead of your fancy external one.
Other issues include:
- Mic bumps
- Echoes from not wearing headphones
- Background hums (like a fridge or fan)
- Mismatched audio levels between guests
While many of these can be cleaned up in post, the best fix is prevention. Always double-check your settings and environment before you hit record.
4. Language and Delivery
Even experienced hosts sometimes speak too fast, mispronounce words, or repeat themselves while trying to make a point.
We’ll often hear: “I need to say that again,” or “Haylee, can you cut that last part?”
These are signals to clean things up so the final version sounds polished and intentional.
If you stumble or speak too quickly, pause, take a breath, and start over. That makes editing so much easier—and the final product so much better.
How to Minimize Editing With Better Recording Habits
If you’re DIYing your edits or just want a smoother process, here’s how you can reduce your post-production workload:
Mind Your Setup
- Always wear headphones (seriously, this one’s huge).
- Choose the right input mic—don’t let your computer default to the wrong one.
- Record separate audio tracks for guests if your platform allows it (Riverside is my favorite).
Choose the Right Environment
- Silence notifications
- Avoid clacky keyboards and creaky chairs
- Use a floor mic stand if you tend to knock your desk
Practice Your Delivery
- Slow down and speak with clarity
- Reframe or repeat sentences instead of powering through a mistake
- Be mindful of your transitions and avoid filler-based phrases like “so,” “and now,” “okay”
Prioritize Your Voice
- Hydrate before recording
- Warm up your voice to prevent strain
- Record at a time when you feel focused and energetic
Editing = Trust + Authority
Clean audio builds credibility. Your podcast is an extension of your brand—and when it sounds polished, people assume your business is polished too.
But again: we’re not aiming for perfection. We’re aiming for clarity.
Editing isn’t about hiding your human-ness. It’s about letting your voice shine without distractions getting in the way. A strong edit says, “I respect your time and attention.”
And that’s what builds long-term loyalty.
Editing Is an Act of Respect
If you’re overwhelmed by editing or unsure where to start, know this: you don’t have to do it all. Even a light edit can make a big difference in how your message lands.
Want help creating a distraction-free experience for your listeners?
Work With Us: Visit GaffinCreative.com to see how our production team can support your show and bring your voice forward—clearly and confidently.
Find it Quickly:
Filler words (2:26)
Mouth and breath sounds (4:36)
Technical issues (7:15)
Language and delivery issues (9:23)
Environmental noises (10:49)
Conversation mishaps (11:23)
Why editing matters for your listener experience (12:30)
How to record as polished as possible (15:34)
Connect with Haylee:
Mic Check Society: gaffincreative.com/mcs
Instagram: instagram.com/hayleegaffin
