Descript: A Podcast Editing Tool That Functions Like a Word Doc

If you want to produce great podcast episodes, you’ll need to know how to effectively record, edit, and mix your audio.

Since it can be so challenging to do this on your own, it’s a good idea to make use of easy to use tools that can get the job done at a high level, such as Descript.

Since Descript is so new, very few people understand how powerful it is, and how it can improve their podcast editing workflow

To make things easier for you, I’ve written a guide that breaks down everything you need to know about using Descript for podcast production. Keep reading if you want to learn more!

What Is Descript?

Descript is a cutting-edge audio editing application that has been specifically designed to meet the needs of podcast editors and content creators.

What makes it unique?

It functions like a word document. When an audio file is uploaded into a session, Descript automatically transcribes it. To make edits to the audio you simply edit the transcript. This edits corresponding audio. It’s incredibly easy to delete, or rearrange sections of audio.

The software also provides advanced audio editing and mixing capabilities, including the ability to adjust levels, reduce background noise, add eq, compression, and limiting.

In addition, Descript integrates seamlessly with other popular Digital Audio Workstations. This is why it’s an ideal choice for podcast editors who need to produce high-quality audio content quickly and efficiently.

Who Descript Is For?

Whether you’re a new podcast editor who is looking to learn some basic editing and mixing techniques, or an experienced podcast producer, there’s likely several aspects of Descript that you can incorporate into your workflow.

It’s possible for newbies to create polished, high-quality audio content because Descript is so easy to use. Anyone whose used Microsoft Word, or a Google Doc will quickly understand Descript’s functionality.

For more seasoned podcasters and podcast editors, Descript offers advanced audio editing and mixing capabilities.

You can fine-tune audio frequencies, remove unwanted background noise, and mix to podcast loudness standards.

If you’re looking to promote your podcast on social media, Descript is great for cutting clips and snippets together. It’s easy to create sharable audiograms which will help you reach a wider audience, and allow you to promote your content in new ways.

*As a Descript Affiliate I may earn a commission if you sign up for their service through my links.*

How Do You Use Descript?

Using Descript is straightforward and easy. This is why it’s a great choice for both beginners and experienced podcasters. You can either record audio directly into Descript from within the software, or upload pre-recorded audio files.

To record with Descript, simply click on the “Record” button. The software will then automatically start capturing your audio.

Uploading pre-recorded audio files is just as simple. All you need to do is drag and drop the file into the software.

Descript will automatically begin transcribing it, and then separate speakers by name. After this, you’ll be ready to start editing, adding in music, SFX, and mixing it all together with some killer audio production tools.

Descript supports a wide range of audio file formats, but for podcasting we recommend using Wav or MP3 files.

How Descript Is Different Than Other Audio Editing Software

It’s different because it edits audio by editing text. It functions like a word document.

Users can write scripts, highlight sections and leave notes for their teams, search for verbal crutches and automatically cut them, auto level clips, add one click audio processing, quickly shorten or extend gaps between words, and much much more.

This is all saved within Descript’s cloud and updated in real time. There’s no need to worry about forgetting to save something.

Recording with Descript

It’s easy to record right into Descript. Simply select the record icon at the top of your session. A drop down menu will appear. Now, click on audio or video. Yes, you can also record video.

Finally, select your microphone from the drop down menu. If you have a microphone plugged in, make sure it’s selected and that you’re not recording into your computers built-in microphone.

Now the magic happens. Descript will automatically transcribe your voice as your record.

Pretty rad!

You can literally record your podcast right into Descript, the audio quality is that good. Or, you can use the recording feature to do some re-tracking, or record a few pick-up lines, and insert them into your session.

Editing with Descript

Editing in Descript is a straightforward process. It makes creating and launching a podcast easier than ever.

Text Transcript

Descript generates a text transcript of your audio recording. You can use this transcript to edit your podcast. When you make changes to the text, the software will automatically update the audio to match.

Posting the transcripts of your podcast episodes can help your shows SEO. Here’s some more info on why you should transcribe your podcasts.

Non-destructive Editing

Descript uses non-destructive editing, which means that you can make as many changes as you like without affecting the original recording.

This gives you the freedom to experiment and make changes to your podcast without worrying about losing your original audio.

Adding Music In Descript

Many first-time users of Descript don’t realize how easy it is to add music to their podcasts. It’s even possible to shift where the music starts and ends in relation to your shows dialogue.

Descript also makes it easy to adjust the volume of your music. You can use the built-in volume slider to control the volume of the music.

Additionally, you can use the built-in fade-in and fade-out sliders to control the length and intensity of the fade.

When you’re adding music to your podcast, make sure that you’ve properly licensed it. You could get into legal trouble if you do not do this.

Descript Is Also Great For Video Editing

While Descript is widely recognized for its audio editing capabilities, it is equally powerful when it comes to video editing.

With features tailored to streamline video production, Descript has become an all-in-one tool for content creators who want to create polished, professional video content.

Key Video Features in Descript

Multitrack Screen Recording
Descript allows you to simultaneously record your screen, webcam, and microphone on separate tracks. This feature is ideal for creating tutorials, presentations, or video podcasts that require high-quality visuals and audio.
Storyboard Functionality
Plan and visualize your video projects using Descript’s Storyboard feature. You can easily arrange video clips, audio, and text on a timeline to see the flow of your content and make adjustments with drag-and-drop simplicity.
AI-Powered Green Screen
Descript’s green screen technology lets you remove or replace video backgrounds effortlessly. Whether you want a clean backdrop or something more dynamic, this feature enhances your video’s visual appeal.
Text-Based Video Editing
Descript’s revolutionary text-based editing works seamlessly with video files. Simply edit the transcript to cut, rearrange, or fine-tune your video clips. This feature eliminates the steep learning curve associated with traditional video editing software.
Automatic Subtitles
With Descript, adding subtitles to your videos is automatic. This feature transcribes your audio and syncs it with the video, making your content more accessible to a broader audience.
Export Options
Descript supports exporting video files directly or sharing them to platforms like YouTube. It also integrates with editing tools like Final Cut Pro or Adobe Premiere if you need to do additional fine-tuning.

Why Descript is Perfect for Video Podcasters

Descript simplifies the process of creating video podcasts by combining video and audio editing into one platform. Its intuitive design makes it easy to produce engaging video content, even for beginners.

Experienced creators will appreciate its advanced features, such as multicam editing and green screen, which allow for professional-grade results.

Use Cases for Video Features in Descript:

Video Podcasts: Record and edit high-quality episodes with ease.
Tutorials and Demos: Create professional, clear instructional videos.
Social Media Content: Quickly edit and caption short-form videos for platforms like Instagram and TikTok.
Marketing Videos: Enhance branding with polished, engaging content.

Additional Audio Features in Descript

Auto-Leveling
Automatically adjusts the volume levels of your audio tracks to ensure consistent loudness throughout your podcast. This feature saves time and ensures a professional sound without manual adjustments.
Regenerate: AI-Powered Script Refinement
Descript’s Regenerate is a powerful AI tool that enhances your scripts and content effortlessly. Whether you need to rephrase a line, improve clarity, or brainstorm alternative ideas, Regenerate simplifies the process. With just a click, it analyzes your text and suggests polished, professional alternatives, ensuring your message is engaging and on-point.
Filler Word Detection and Removal
Descript has improved its filler word detection capabilities, making it even easier to identify and remove common filler words like “um,” “uh,” and “like.” This feature helps create a cleaner, more polished final product.
Underlord: Descript’s AI Assistant
Descript’s Underlord is an AI tool designed to make editing faster and more intuitive. It automates repetitive tasks like removing filler words, improving audio quality, and managing video backgrounds. Key features include “Edit for Clarity,” which eliminates unnecessary words for a cleaner script, and “Studio Sound,” which enhances audio recordings by reducing noise.
Improved Collaboration Tools
Descript has added new collaboration features, allowing multiple users to work on the same project simultaneously. You can leave comments, assign tasks, and track changes in real-time, making it easier for teams to collaborate on podcast production.
Cloud Syncing
Descript’s cloud syncing ensures that your projects are always up-to-date across all devices. This feature allows you to start editing on one device and continue on another without missing a beat.
Sharing Finalized Audio Files
Descript makes sharing your edited podcast episodes simple and straightforward:
- Export to MP3 or WAV: Easily export your audio in high-quality MP3 or WAV formats with customizable settings to control file size and quality.
- Share Directly on Social Media: Descript integrates with platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, making it simple to upload and share your podcast episodes.
- Export Timelines: Export your editing timelines to tools like Adobe Audition, Premiere Pro, Pro Tools, or Final Cut for additional editing and finalizing.

Descript Pricing

Do you want to try Descript out? If so, understand that Descript has a free plan. This plan will allow you to transcribe one hour of audio per month and export one watermark-free video.

Descript also has a plan that costs $12 a month. With this plan, you can transcribe up to 10 hours of audio per month and export an unlimited number of watermark-free videos.

With the Pro plan, you can transcribe up to thirty hours of video per month. You will also have unlimited use of their Sound Studio, AI Green Screen, and Stock Library features. This plan costs $24 a month.

Lastly, there’s a Business plan with even more features. It’s $40 a month.

Why Use Descript for Podcast Editing?

Descript isn’t just an editing tool; it’s a complete production solution that combines simplicity with powerful features.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned creator, Descript streamlines the process of recording, editing, and sharing your podcast, saving you time while ensuring professional-quality results.

From its groundbreaking text-based editing to advanced audio and video capabilities, Descript empowers you to create content that stands out.

With features like automatic transcriptions, AI enhancements, and seamless collaboration, it’s clear that Descript is built for creators who want efficiency without compromising quality. If you’re serious about podcasting, Descript is a must-have in your toolkit.