Podcasting Checklist

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A while ago, when recording an episode for one of my podcasts, I slipped up on a few things that didn’t ruin the conversation or content, but that would have made it a lot more enjoyable to listen to and saved me a lot of editing afterwards.

So, I thought I’d sit down and write out the checklist that I usually keep in my head. It’s (hopefully) a practical list of things for podcasters because I’m sure others have been in the same situation like me, aka “forgetting small details”.

I considered making a separate checklist for guests, but in the end I figured it’s enough for me to have it and simply check in with my guests about the key points. Either via email before the recording or in our chat before. And no, I don’t go through it like an interrogation. That’s just not how I work ;)

A Pre-Talk

I don’t include content preparation in this checklist. A pre-talk, whether written, via email, or a quick (video) call, can even happen right before recording in my opinion.

In this pre-talk, you should let your guest know what they can expect and how you usually run your interview. Tell them how long your episodes typically are or if your format isn’t time-bound at all for example.

It’s also not a bad idea to ask if there are taboo topics or things your guest would prefer not to talk about. This saves awkward pauses during recording, or painful edits later.

Ask whether they’d like to listen to the recording before it goes live, just in case something unintentionally slipped in that makes them uncomfortable. Most people usually say say no anyways, but asking is just nice, isn’t it?

Finally, share the planned publication date.

Your Own Content Prep

Again, I don’t put actual content preparation into the checklist. I focus mostly on the technical stuff here. But of course, doing your homework about your guest is part of being a good host. Especially in interview formats, spending a little time learning about who your guest actually is makes the conversation flow better.

Recording Checklist (For You and Your Guest)

Here’s what I check before and during the recording session:

Mic & Sound

  • Is there a good microphone available?
    • No: What’s the alternative? Usually a headset mic, like the ones that come with an iPhone, sounds way better than most laptop mics. Less room echo, and your guest can wear headphones right away.
    • Yes: Which mic? Make sure your guest knows how to position it. I once didn’t pay attention to this, and my guest spoke into the mic like a stage mic (e.g., Shure SM58), when it was actually meant to be spoken across the side.

Headphones

  • Always use headphones.
    • It doesn’t matter what kind, but not using them risks echo from the guest’s mic picking up your voice. That creates really nasty feedback sounds later which are hard to edit and get rid of.

Room Acoustics

  • Choose a room with as little reverb as possible.
    • Not always doable, sure, but if your guest is mobile and you realise the room sounds like a train station, ask if there’s another space.

Water

  • Have a glass of still water ready.
    • This helps avoid smacking and dry-mouth sounds during the recording.

Noise Control

  • Remind your guest to:
    • Close windows
    • Turn off notifications on all devices
    • Mute their phone
      Basically avoid any distractions or noise before pressing record.

Final Comfort Check

  • Quick check-in:
    • Are they comfortable?
    • Is headphone volume okay?
    • Is your voice clear to them?

Start Recording — Locally Too

  • Once everything’s good, start the local recording and explain it briefly if needed. Even if you’re using software like Riverside, Zoom, or similar, record locally too! It’s your safety net and usually gives you the best sound quality.

That’s it. Hopefully this checklist helps create smooth, fun, and well-sounding episodes. Got additions or experiences that make your workflow even better? Hit me up! I’d love to hear from you! hello@this-website-address