Chapter 14. One‐Take Wonders

In This Practice

  • Improvising your way to a one‐take recording

  • Tricks for doing it in one shot

  • Advantages to one‐take recording

Podcasting is all about the impulsive moments in life, the raw and unedited perspectives of hosts on the world around them. Life is captured in the moment, thoughts are from the heart and soul, and the listenership dives deep into the show host's id — all thanks to a podcast episode recorded in one masterful take.

Sure, easier said than done.

Recording in one take does sound as if you're throwing caution to the wind; and while podcasting is associated with audio productions peppered with stammers, flubs, and moments of brash honesty, is a science behind the spontaneity. Podcasts can be recorded in one take and can sound polished and refined. One‐take recording takes a bit of planning, though, and some forethought before hitting that Record button.

And You're Recording! (Good Luck. You'll Need It.)

Simply sitting in front of a microphone, hitting the bright red button of your DAW (digital audio workstation), and talking is truly an affirmation of self‐confidence. You're stating to yourself and to the world that your message is ready to be heard, and there is no need for show prep, editing, or even session planning. Just your voice and a microphone are all that's needed.

To accomplish this feat for five minutes — recording thoughts in a coherent manner — is something to be proud of, but try it for ten minutes, and it becomes a bit more ...

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