Podcast Episode Checklist
Updated October 2026
A repeatable checklist keeps every episode sounding like the show. Work through the recording, the cleanup, the edit, the loudness and the upload in order.
The short version
- Before recording: the room, the mics, the levels and a room-tone sample.
- After recording: clean each voice, then level the speakers.
- Edit by the words, cut the distractions and check every join.
- Before upload: measure the loudness, check the true peak and listen on a phone.
Before recording
Check the room, the mics and the distance. Record a few seconds of room tone. Set the level on the loudest speaker, not the quietest.
After recording
Save the originals. Clean each voice on its own, then level the speakers together. The podcaster routine explains the order.
Edit
Edit by the words, cut the ums and the long pauses, and check each join. Keep the natural breaths.
Before upload
Measure the loudness and check the true peak. Listen on a phone speaker and headphones. Upload the file you checked. The quality check guide has the detail.
Run the checklist in one pass
Tunedzy cleans, levels, edits by words and exports the episode at a loudness target, with the true peak checked.
Free tools for this
Frequently asked questions
How long does the checklist take?
It depends on the episode. A routine makes it faster each time.
What is the most skipped step?
Listening on a phone speaker before upload.
Should the checklist change for each show?
The steps stay. The targets may change with the platform.
Keep going
How to Check Audio Quality Before You Publish
How to Make a Podcast Sound Professional on a BudgetVoice Cleanup for PodcastersAll guides and comparisons · Tunedzy Go on your phone · Pricing