Starting a podcast can feel overwhelming, especially if you're not familiar with audio editing or production. Between recording, editing, and polishing your content, the process can seem complicated. But with the rise of AI tools, creating a professional podcast has never been easier.
NotebookLM simplifies the process by generating structured discussions from your documents. It quickly converts your content into a conversation, by using AI voices, giving you an audio file that sounds just like a podcast. However, while NotebookLM provides a great starting point, it lacks customization options like script editing, voice selection, and adding other media, like music and sound effects. This is where Wondercraft comes in, allowing you to refine, edit, and fully personalize your podcast.
So, how do you start on your first podcast?
Step 1: creating a podcast with NotebookLM
What is NotebookLM?
NotebookLM is an AI tool designed to help users turn text-based content into audio discussions. You upload your PDFs, Google Docs, or web pages and it generates a conversation between two speakers, using AI. This means you can quickly transform research, blog posts, or reports into engaging discussions without needing to record anything yourself.
How to generate a podcast in NotebookLM
1. Go to NotebookLM
Visit NotebookLM and sign in with your Google account.
2. Upload your content
Add PDFs, Google Docs, or paste a URL. The tool will analyze the material to extract key points.
3. Generate an Audio Overview
Click on “Audio Overview” to create a two-speaker discussion summarizing your content.
4. Download the audio
Once the AI generates the conversation, download the MP3 file for further editing (as you can’t do that on NotebookLM).
How to get that perfect NotebookLM podcast?
To get the best results, consider:
- Providing well-structured content: the clearer and more concise your source material, the better the AI will summarize it.
- Testing different document types: try uploading different types of content to see how NotebookLM processes them.
- Checking the accuracy: listen carefully to the generated audio and make note of any necessary adjustments for editing later.
Limitations of NotebookLM
While NotebookLM is useful, it has some limitations:
- No editing control: you cannot modify the script once the AI generates it.
- Limited customization: you’re restricted to the default AI voices and format.
- No background music or effects: the audio is plain and lacks a professional touch.
If you want to make your podcast match your brand, improve flow, or add music and sound effects, you’ll need an editing tool like Wondercraft.
Step 2: editing your NotebookLM podcast
Why use Wondercraft?
Wondercraft is a powerful AI content studio that provides full control over your audio. Instead of being locked into an AI-generated conversation, Wondercraft allows you to:
- Edit and refine the script to improve clarity and flow.
- Change AI voices or use your own to make it more personal.
- Add music and sound effects to improve the listening experience.
- Adjust pacing and tone to make it sound more natural and engaging.
- Ensure brand consistency by adding intros, outros, and transitions.
How to edit a NotebookLM podcast in Wondercraft
1. Sign up for Wondercraft
Visit Wondercraft and create a free account.
2. Import your NotebookLM podcast
Upload the MP3 file from NotebookLM.
3. Separate and edit tracks
Wondercraft will automatically detect and separate speakers for easier editing.
Things you can now do:
- Modify the script to improve engagement and accuracy.
- Swap out AI voices or clone your own voice for personalization.
- Adjust pacing, tone, and emphasis to match your desired style.
4. Add music and sound effects
Choose from a built-in library or upload your own background music.
5. Export and publish
Once you’re happy with the end result, export the final version as an MP3 or WAV file and you’re ready to upload it!
Some editing tips for Wondercraft
Use a custom AI voice
If you want a personal touch, clone your own voice. You can also search any of our voices and adapt their accent or make them say things exactly as you imagined with Parrot Mode.
Add branded intros and outros
Keep your podcast consistent and professional with signature opening and closing segments. You can just upload your assets
Layer background music
You can layer music and sound effects to improve your audio, just make sure it won’t overpower the dialogue.
Use the Timeline Editor
This helps you easily merge different elements like dialogue, music, and effects
What can I create with NotebookLM & Wondercraft?
- Quick content repurposing: turn existing blog posts or research papers into digestible audio content.
- Educational podcasts: create structured discussions around academic materials or corporate training content.
- Marketing & thought leadership: share insights and trends in a conversational format to engage your audience.
- Branded storytelling: bring company narratives to life with well-produced, professional audio.
You ready to start creating? If your goal is to create quick, AI-generated summaries for your own consumption, NotebookLM will do. But if you want a fully polished, audience-ready podcast, Wondercraft is essential.
So why wait? Start by generating a podcast in NotebookLM, then edit it in Wondercraft to create something truly unique.