Day 38 - Podcast Recording – Mr. Willingham's Classes

Day 38 - Podcast Recording

Monday, March 9th, 2026

Today's Objectives

I can set up a microphone and recording software to record a podcast.
I can record a podcast using appropriate techniques.

Warmup: Review Your Script

Reread your entire script. If your script has large chunks of text (paragraphs), break those up into smaller lines. This will make it easier to read when you record your podcast.

Confirm the following before we begin recording:

Your sound effect annotations are included in your script (e.g., [Insert Applause Sound Effect Here]).
Your intro music track is ready in Soundtrap.

Checkpoint: Warmup

My script is broken into short, readable lines.
My sound effects are labeled in my script.
My intro music is ready in Soundtrap.

Work Session: Record the Script

We will first review the setup procedures.

Microphone connected to audio interface with XLR cable.
Gain knob turned up to an appropriate level (not too quiet, not too loud).
Microphone positioned correctly (6 inches from mouth).
Soundtrap project opened with a new track created for recording.
Volume calibration completed in Soundtrap.

Recording Tips

Record your script one section at a time. Do not try to record the entire episode in one take.
If you make a mistake, continue recording, be silent for 3 seconds, then re-read the line. Do not stop the recording. We will cut out the mistake when we edit tomorrow. 3 seconds of silence will give us a clear marker to find the mistake later.
Speak clearly and at a steady pace. Avoid rushing through your lines.
Stay close to the microphone and try not to move around while recording.

When You Finish Recording

If you finish recording before the end of class, listen back to your recording. Re-record any sections that sound unclear, too quiet, or rushed. Your goal is to have a clean recording ready for editing tomorrow.

Checkpoint: Work Session

I have recorded my entire script.
I have listened back and re-recorded any sections that need improvement.

Closing: Next Steps

Here is the plan for the rest of the week:

Tomorrow (Tuesday): Edit your podcast. This includes cutting out mistakes, adding your intro music, and adding sound effects.
Wednesday: Publish your episode and share it with the class.