Topic: Podcast Editing

A critique of John Horowitz's complex audio recording setup describes it as a "Rube Goldberg machine" due to his insistence on separate tracks and specialized post-editing. The discussion dismisses his "hair on fire" approach to current shipping and container shortages.

The hosts reflect on the 13-year history of the program, referencing episode 10 where the concept of "participation broadcasting" was first introduced. This model relies on listeners, acting as producers, to handle tasks like creating super-cuts and editing segments. The hosts joke about using this model to avoid traditional work while acknowledging it actually creates more complex moving parts for the production.

Adam Curry discusses his past conflict regarding the Wikipedia entry for podcasting, where he was accused by Rogers Cadenhead of editing the page to inflate his own importance. Curry explains he was unaware of the unwritten rule against editing one's own entry. The hosts critique Wikipedia's reliability and its use as a PR tool for figures like Noam Chomsky.

The hosts discuss their technical workflows for editing audio clips, comparing the use of open-source software like Audacity with professional tools like Hindenburg Journalist Pro. They describe the process of "cleaning up" clips by removing long pauses and applause to maintain the show's pace. One host reflects on his 40-year history in media, starting with physical razor blades and tape.

Joe Biden's official podcast has been criticized for poor audio quality and awkward editing cuts. In one segment, Biden appeared to struggle with a sentence regarding the democratic process and the coronavirus crisis, resulting in a confusing final edit.

The hosts work through a specific request for a "clip story" involving a sequence of audio drops, including a Ben Shapiro laugh and other show-specific jingles. They discuss the narrative structure of audio clips used for "de-douching" donors.

Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak introduce a special "Best Of" edition of the show, noting it is likely the final compilation produced by long-time contributor Ramsey Cain. Cain has moved on to a new job, ending a run of approximately six to ten produced clip shows. The hosts discuss the rarity of taking time off, noting they only do so a few times a year, and invite listeners to provide feedback on the "Best Of" format.

A brief technical error occurs during the podcast where a clip is played incorrectly or cut off prematurely. The hosts acknowledge the "epic fail" in the transition between topics.

The hosts discuss the 10th anniversary of the show and their "live-to-tape" production philosophy. They emphasize minimizing post-production to maintain authenticity and speed of release. The role of "Eric the Shill" in managing the back office and the use of listener-generated artwork are acknowledged.

The hosts discuss a humorous and awkward transition between a Domino's Pizza commercial and a gynecological health ad. This leads to a technical discussion on audio editing, where the hosts share tips on using transition words like "and" to seamlessly cut long lectures or interviews.

The hosts describe their technical process for gathering and editing news clips, involving DVR recordings and digital transfers the morning of the show. They request that producers and listeners avoid sending the same "gem" clips to both hosts simultaneously to maintain the element of surprise during the broadcast. This coordination is intended to streamline the deconstruction process for the Sunday and Thursday episodes.

Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak open episode 886 of the No Agenda show from Austin and Silicon Valley. The hosts debate the best method for creating a clean version of the podcast for radio syndication. Curry suggests using listener-submitted time codes for questionable content, while Dvorak argues for hiring a professional editor to ensure accuracy.

The hosts discuss the challenges of self-editing and maintaining an entertaining show length, typically aiming for three hours. The segment concludes with a humorous vintage clip from the Joe Bob Briggs show regarding "fallen nature" and acne.

The hosts analyze the resurgence of podcasting and the entry of mainstream media outlets like NPR into the space. They criticize the "formulaic" nature of traditional radio, where segments are timed to the second. They argue that the internet has liberated content creators from strict word counts and time slots, though they acknowledge the need for self-editing to prevent "eyes glazing over."

A proposal is made to launch "DNA" (Daily No Agenda), a one-hour weekday morning broadcast. To facilitate this, a professional editor will be hired to handle the technical workload. The new show would be broadcast from a converted home gym, now dubbed the "Crackpot Command Center." Concerns are raised about potentially confusing the content of the daily show with the main twice-weekly podcast.

John C. Dvorak and Adam Curry discuss their "straight up" recording philosophy, which avoids overproduction and jingles. They explain that edits only occur when a Skype connection fails, at which point they "punch back in" to maintain the flow of the conversation. Curry reflects on his time at MTV, expressing a long-standing dislike for producers who insist on unnecessary "safety" takes during filming.

Adam Curry admits to a rare edit in the previous episode due to a personal phone call from his wife. He also mentions receiving a message from Irina Slutsky, who reported receiving her second marriage proposal following an appearance on Cranky Geeks.