A typical step-by-step workflow for a podcast production might look like this:

Voice Recording

1. Choose the right recording space:
   • Select a small, quiet room away from external noises
   • Use sound-absorbing materials like curtains, carpets, or acoustic panels and vocal booth
2. Set up your equipment:
   • Use a good quality USB or XLR microphone
   • Add a pop filter or windscreen (if possible)
   • Position the microphone at mouth level, 6-8 inches away
3. Prepare for recording:
   • Warm up your voice
   • Turn off notifications on devices
4. Configure your recording software:
   • Set recording quality to WAV, 24-bit, 48 kHz
   • Create separate tracks for each speaker if applicable
5. Set proper levels:
   • Adjust input gain so peaks are around -12 to -6 dB
   • Avoid recording too hot (peaking into the red)
6. Create a noise profile:
   • Record 4-5 seconds of silence at the beginning to be used then later for noise profiling
7. Use proper microphone technique:
   • Maintain consistent distance from the mic
   • Speak at a slight angle to reduce plosives (pop filter will already help in this)
   • Use the proximity effect for warmth if desired
8. Monitor your recording:
   • Wear headphones to hear yourself in real-time (if applicable)
   • Listen for any unwanted noises or audio issues
9. Maintain consistency:
   • Try to keep the same tone, volume, and energy throughout
10. Take notes:
    • Mark any mistakes or sections that may need editing

Editing

1. Noise reduction (only in case there is a constant noise like an air conditioner or a fan throughout the whole file)
2. Trim and clean up the audio (remove unwanted noises, silences, etc.)
3. Separate speakers to be on individual tracks (if applicable)
4. Normalise to a target peak level (e.g., -3 dB or -6 dB)
5. Apply EQ
6. Apply compression (if needed)