Hi Reader,

Here's something that drives me crazy. People quit podcasting before they even start because they get intimidated by editing software choices.

So let me break down what I've found since 2012 for podcasting specifically, testing every option that comes out.

Editing software is just like a diet or workout program. The best one is the one you'll stick with because it's doable.

I'm going to walk you through the nuances most people miss when choosing their editing software, plus some scenarios where combining tools makes sense.

Descript: The Text-Based Game Changer

This is text-based editing, which feels like magic when you first try it.

They're always upgrading their features, and yes, it's become slightly higher learning curve than it used to be. But it's still nowhere near Premiere or Final Cut territory.

One thing to know: It's cloud-based, so your internet connection matters for smooth performance.

Highly recommend learning this at some point.

Descript was an OG of text based editing before Adobe and Riverside started to offer some of the same features. They still can’t do it all like Descript can though. I do think Descript is in its own lane and worth coupling with another software for intermediate users.

Riverside: My Top Pick for Beginners

This one is my most recommended for beginners that don't want the hassle.

You're probably already using this for recording your show anyway. That's their main feature. (You could use Zoom too, but if you use this as your editor, just record here.)

The AI features allow you to get show notes, clips, and the full version edited without much work on your part.

They have a pretty advanced editor now which they didn't in the early days. You can import stuff back in. So let's say I recorded on Zoom and want to use this to edit that guest appearance, or make some clips—I can do basic things which are helpful.

The layout and automatic speaker switching is very crisp. As long you record it right, this cuts several steps and clicks that would be needed in Premiere or most other software.

The caveat: You have to be okay with trading off customizability for convenience. Although for simpler use cases, you may not even notice.

Premiere Pro: What We Still Use (And Why)

This is what me and my team continue to use, and there's many reasons for this.

It is complicated to learn up front and is intimidating for most people.

But if you are shooting in log or have multiple camera angles or need to color grade—you will end up needing a more robust software like this or Final Cut or Davinci.

There's so many presets available which you can get over time, but it's still quite a learning curve for most people.

If you use multiple Adobe products and have their Suite, it makes sense to keep using Premiere.

And it's habit honestly. You become so efficient over time and can do things that would take others a whole new software in just a few seconds.

But it's becoming more normal for me to use this in conjunction with another software like Descript. I do my sound and color in Premiere, but polish in Descript for example.

Final Cut: The Apple Alternative

This is Apple's editing software and used to be way more popular than Adobe's option back in the day.

It had a period of being crappy for a while. Now I'd say it's really becoming a considerable alternative to Premiere.

The reason most people like Final Cut is that you can pay up front for it. And you own it forever. Even as you get new laptops and what not.

It can have its limitations in terms of features, but if you have used iMovie, this will feel like a more robust iMovie. And slightly less overwhelming than Premiere.

What About All The New Software?

They're constantly changing and have some limitations.

Still a good idea to try and learn this stuff to see what's worth incorporating. But you still want a primary software you can rely on.

Pick the one that doesn't make you want to quit before you start. Your podcast needs to exist before it can be perfect.

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In your corner,

Misbah Haque

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P.S. If you’re ready to build your own table with podcasting, grab my book Pod Mahal on Amazon here.

Or if you need a hand with starting your show, book a free podcast strategy call with me here.