When thinking about upgrading your podcasting workflow, you probably immediately think of actual podcasting tools: microphones, recorder/mixer/interface combos, podcast hosting, podcasting software, cameras, lighting, and such. But that's not what I'm going to share with you! In fact, none of these are explicitly podcasting tools (with one on the fence). And not a single one of these is yet another AI tool!
I'd love to tell you about PodChapters, which helped me go from using 5 tools for about 30 minutes per episode down to just 1 tool taking only about 30 seconds! It transcribes and chapters your podcast, boosting engagement and even helping you profit through chapters. Try PodChapters free on your next episode!
(Some of the following recommendation use affiliate links and I will earn only if you purchase through my links. But I recommend things I truly believe in, regardless of earnings.)
1. Computer mouse and keyboard
These are the two things you're constantly touching throughout your entire podcasting workflow: preparation, production, publishing, and promotion.
I recommend looking for three key qualities for your upgrade: quiet, comfortable, and customizable.
I use a Logitech MX Master 3S for Mac. What I love about it is the customizable buttons, the smooth scroll wheel that can either free-spinning or clicking, and a horizontal scroll wheel that's perfect for scrolling audio and video timelines. I can customize any button to perform specific actions specific to different apps, like silencing audio sections in my editor or quickly exporting files.
Here's something that might sound crazy: I actually use two mice. In my right hand, I have the Logitech mouse. Then to the left of my keyboard, I have an Apple trackpad for multifinger gestures like swiping between macOS spaces, smooth scrolling, pinching to zoom, and more. This dual setup has been a game-changer for my productivity!
2. Control interface
This is how I categorize items like an Elgato Stream Deck. I have the Stream Deck Mini, which is a 3×5 button interface where each button has a little screen that I can customize with text, icons, or colors.
Each button can trigger a keyboard shortcut, an integrated feature, display live data, and even start a full automation. I have a button that instantly opens three different applications and specific folders I need for creating episode images. Another button shows my current CPU usage so I know when to adjust my fan speed during recording sessions. The buttons can change based on which application I'm in, and they can even toggle between different states. And you can create multiple pages and profiles of buttons!
The Stream Deck comes in multiple sizes, even some with knobs and sliders. You can even now buy a keyboard from Corsair that has a Stream Deck built in! It's the GALLEON 100 SD.
You don't even need the hardware anymore—Elgato offers a virtual Stream Deck for your computer or tablet. But having physical buttons means I can reach over and press them without looking, which is invaluable when I need to maintain eye contact with a guest or the camera.
While these devices are often associated with live streaming (hence “Stream Deck”), they're incredibly powerful for any podcasting workflow. They save time, reduce frustration, and literally put automation at your fingertips. I actually use mine almost every day for automating accounting tasks!
3. Automation/shortcut tools
And speaking of automation, consider tools to automate repetitive tasks and make workflows more intelligent. I use several:
- TextExpander
- Keyboard Maestro (macOS) or AutoHotKey (Windows)
- Apple Shortcuts
- Raycast
I recently set up an Apple shortcut that lets me right-click on an episode folder and choose “archive,” which automatically moves it to my archive drive. Before, I had to open two Finder windows and navigate through multiple folders. Now it's one click!
With Keyboard Maestro, I've created about a dozen automations for just my accounting software, all mapped to buttons on my Stream Deck, of course! These automations can simulate mouse movements, click specific buttons, copy multiple fields, and paste them in different locations, all without my having to remember complicated keyboard shortcuts.
TextExpander has been part of my workflow for nearly two decades. I can type “.tap” and it expands to https://theaudacitytopodcast.com/, with a prompt letting me add a path after the domain. So “.tap” + “textexpander” becomes the full URL: https://heaudacitytopodcast.com/textexpander. You can create email templates, social media posts, live streaming announcements—anything you type repeatedly. TextExpander can even run JavaScript!
Raycast has been another new addition to my workflow, replacing Cmd-Tab for macOS Spotlight. With Raycast, I can quickly access or trigger all kinds of features from my keyboard: joining my next Zoom meeting, checking domain availability, pasting the perfect animated GIF, and much more!
4. Smart home accessories
Many indie podcasters work from home, so smart home automation can significantly improve your podcasting workflow.
I use a smart thermostat to turn off my HVAC system before recording so there's no background noise. I have smart light bulbs for special lighting effects or to be simply triggered when I need them, and smart switches to control my studio lights and other equipment.
I've set up an automation with my smart speaker so that when I say, “switch to podcast mode,” it automatically:
- Turns off all normal room lights
- Turns on my studio LED light panels
- Activates my RGB LED background glowing behind my acoustic panels
- Turns off my HVAC system so I get silence
- Changes the color of a background light
When I say “turn on the office,” everything reverses, switching back to normal mode (overriding the normal behavior for a command like that).
Some podcasters use a smart light bulb outside their recording space as a “recording” indicator. When it's red, everyone knows to stay quiet and keep pets and kids away.
5. Furniture
Think specifically about your desk, chair, and storage.
Your desk needs to support all your gear. I have an old big desk built for CRT monitors, which makes it very deep. That turned out to be perfect for having a cohost sit across from me (after I rearranged my room). I added a monitor arm so I can move the screen out of the way and maintain eye contact during recordings.
Your chair should be, in order of priority: comfortable, supportive, and quiet. Look for fabric or mesh materials and no hard plastic touching you and no leather that makes awkward squeaking sounds. Make sure it has good lumbar support and adjustable armrests.
For storage, think about both visible and invisible storage. What do you want visible in your video background for meetings, streaming, or any other videos you might record? What needs to be easily accessible? What needs to be put away?
6. Cable management
Lastly, don't forget all the “ties that bind!” Use zip ties, cable tracks, rails, or even staples to keep your cables organized and looking clean. Consider investing in shorter or longer cables depending on your needs, and look at angled connectors (like 90-degree XLR connectors) that can save space.
Important: Keep your power cables away from your analog audio cables. High-voltage power cables could cause interference in your recordings that sounds like constant mice squeaking in the background.
A cleaner space is a less distracting space. When your cables are managed well, it's easier to focus on your work, and if you do any video, your space looks much more professional.
Find me at Podfest!
I'm speaking on Podcasting 2.0 at Podfest 2026 and I would love for you to join my session! I would also like to hear from you what unexpected upgrades you've found for your own podcasting workflow! Catch me at Podfest to record your answer, or send your feedback now!
If you love The Audacity to Podcast and value the podcasting inspiration and education I provide, would you please consider giving back what it's worth to you?
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Disclosure
This post may contain links to products or services with which I have an affiliate relationship. I may receive compensation from your actions through such links. However, I don't let that corrupt my perspective and I don't recommend only affiliates.
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