From Editor to Creative Partner - Redefining Roles in the Age of Automation

Episode 67 - From Editor to Creative Partner - Redefining Roles in the Age of Automation

The Evolving Role of Podcast Editors and Support Teams in the Age of AI

Podcasting is undergoing a profound transformation as artificial intelligence rapidly automates many technical aspects of production. Tasks that once took hours—such as noise reduction, audio leveling, and filler word removal—can now be accomplished in seconds with AI-powered tools like Descript, Adobe Podcast Enhance, and Auphonic

These advancements have made high-quality editing accessible to more creators, reduced reliance on traditional hourly editing services, and even introduced AI-generated voiceovers and automated guest-matching platforms.

Yet, this shift raises an urgent question for podcast editors and support teams: Where do humans fit in a landscape where so much of the technical work is being automated?

What AI Can—and Can’t—Do

AI excels at:

• Automating repetitive, technical editing tasks (e.g., removing ums, silences, leveling audio)
• Producing studio-quality sound from imperfect recordings
• Generating transcripts, show notes, and even social media content from raw audio

However, AI falls short in areas that require:

• Deep understanding of narrative flow and storytelling nuance.
• Emotional intelligence, coaching, and motivation.
• Building genuine human connection and fostering community.
• Providing personalized feedback, encouragement, and creative collaboration

As one industry analysis notes, “Listeners value human experience. Lived experience is what allows you to share personal stories, anecdotes and other things that create a powerful and relatable connection between you and your audience. Experience is something that AI categorically can’t have”

The Future Role of Editors and Support Teams

1. Human-Centered Coaching and Creative Direction

• Editors and support teams can act as creative partners, helping hosts shape their story, refine their message, and develop their unique voice—something AI cannot replicate
• Providing coaching, motivation, and constructive feedback to help podcasters grow in confidence and skill

2. Community Building and Relationship Management

• Supporting podcasters in building engaged communities around their shows, facilitating listener interaction, and nurturing a sense of belonging
• Offering guidance on audience engagement strategies, live events, and collaborations.

3. Quality Assurance and Brand Consistency

• Ensuring episodes meet a consistent standard of quality and align with the podcaster’s brand identity—tasks that require subjective judgment and a nuanced understanding of the show’s goals.

4. Handling Complex and Sensitive Content

• Editing for tone, context, and sensitivity in episodes that address nuanced or controversial topics, where human judgment is essential.

5. Innovation and Customization

• Developing new show formats, experimenting with storytelling techniques, and pushing creative boundaries beyond the capabilities of preset AI templates.

What Podcasters Need from Support Teams Now

As AI democratizes access to technical editing, podcasters increasingly seek support teams who can:

• Serve as trusted creative collaborators and sounding boards.
• Offer tailored coaching, encouragement, and mindset support—especially for new creators.
• Help with strategic planning, guest curation, and audience development.
• Provide a human touch in an increasingly automated world.

Where Editors Go From Here

Podcast editors and support teams should lean into the uniquely human skills that AI cannot replicate:

• Develop expertise in coaching, creative