Best Podcast Interview Software

Podcasting has exploded in popularity over the past decade, evolving from a niche hobby into a mainstream medium for storytelling, education, and entertainment. With millions of active podcasts worldwide, creators are constantly seeking tools to improve production quality, streamline workflows, and deliver engaging content to their audiences. One critical aspect of podcasting—especially for interview-based shows—is selecting the right software to record, edit, and manage conversations with guests. In 2025, the landscape of podcast interview software is more robust than ever, offering a mix of user-friendly platforms, advanced features, and seamless integrations.

What is the Best Podcast Interview Software?

Here is my top picks for the best podcast interview software to record long distance podcast this year.

Riverside.fm
Zencastr
SquadCast
Cleanfeed
Zoom
StreamYard

I will start with my favourite picks for the best podcast interview software to record long-distance podcasts this year.

1. Riverside.fm

Riverside.fm has emerged as a gold standard for remote podcast recording, trusted by creators like Guy Raz and Hala Taha. It’s designed specifically for podcasters and video content creators, emphasizing high-quality audio and video capture.

Key Features:

Records up to 48kHz uncompressed WAV audio locally on each participant’s device.
Separate audio and video tracks for each speaker, making editing a breeze.
Browser-based interface—no software downloads required for guests.
Live streaming capabilities to platforms like YouTube and Twitch.
Built-in AI tools for transcription and clip generation.
Mobile app for recording on the go.

Pros:

Exceptional sound quality, even with inconsistent internet.
User-friendly for both hosts and guests.
Robust post-production features, including automatic audio enhancement.
Supports 4K video, a bonus for video podcasters.

Cons:

Pricing starts at $19/month (Standard plan), which may feel steep for hobbyists.
Advanced features like AI transcription require higher-tier plans ($29/month and up).

Best For: Professional podcasters or those planning to scale their show with video content.

Pricing: Free trial available; paid plans range from $19 to $69/month.

2. Zencastr

Zencastr has long been a favorite among podcasters for its simplicity and reliability. In 2025, it continues to refine its offerings, adding video recording and enhanced editing tools to its audio-first foundation.

Key Features:

Local WAV recording at 16-bit 48kHz.
Cloud backup ensures you never lose a session.
Video recording with up to 1080p resolution.
Built-in VoIP (Voice over IP) for seamless communication.
Post-production tools like soundboard integration and automatic leveling.
Scheduling and guest invite system.

Pros:

Free tier includes unlimited recording (audio-only) with a 2-guest limit.
Intuitive dashboard for managing episodes and guests.
Affordable paid plans starting at $20/month.
Regular updates based on user feedback.

Cons:

Video features are still catching up to competitors like Riverside.
Occasional sync issues reported with multi-guest recordings.

Best For: Budget-conscious podcasters who prioritize audio quality and ease of use.

Pricing: Free plan available; paid plans start at $20/month (Creator) and $45/month (Professional).

3. SquadCast

Acquired by Descript in 2021, SquadCast integrates seamlessly with Descript’s powerful editing suite while standing strong as a standalone recording platform. It’s built for remote interviews with a focus on quality and collaboration.

Key Features:

Local recording in 48kHz WAV format.
Progressive upload technology saves files as you record.
Integration with Descript for transcription and editing.
Browser-based with no guest downloads required.
Green Room feature for pre-interview chats and tech checks.

Pros:

Reliable audio capture with minimal latency.
Descript integration simplifies editing and repurposing content.
Clean, modern interface.
Excellent customer support.

Cons:

Limited advanced features compared to Riverside or Zencastr.
Pricing ($20/month for Studio plan) lacks a free tier.

Best For: Podcasters who already use Descript or want a straightforward, high-quality solution.

Pricing: Starts at $10/month (Indie plan); Studio plan at $20/month; Team plan at $50/month.

4. Cleanfeed

Cleanfeed takes a minimalist approach, focusing on studio-quality audio without the bells and whistles of video or extensive editing tools. It’s a favorite among audio purists and radio professionals.

Key Features:

High-quality, low-latency audio via browser-based platform.
Multi-track recording for each participant.
No software installation needed.
Supports external microphones and mixers.
Free tier with unlimited recording time.

Pros:

Crystal-clear audio with no compression.
Completely free for basic use.
Lightweight and fast, even on slower connections.
Ideal for technical setups with professional gear.

Cons:

No video recording option.
Lacks built-in editing or guest management tools.
Pro features (like multi-track) require a $22/month subscription.

Best For: Audio-focused podcasters on a budget or those with advanced hardware.

Pricing: Free plan; Pro plan at $22/month; Studio plan at $40/month.

5. Zoom (with Podcasting Enhancements)

While Zoom became a household name for video conferencing, its utility for podcasting has grown with features tailored for remote interviews. It’s not purpose-built for podcasts, but it’s a versatile contender.

Key Features:

Local recording option for audio and video.
Separate audio files per participant (with paid plans).
Familiar interface for guests.
Integration with third-party tools like OBS or DAWs.
Cloud storage for recordings.

Pros:

Widely recognized, reducing guest learning curve.
Affordable at $14.99/month for Pro plan.
Reliable for group interviews.
Video and audio flexibility.

Cons:

Audio quality (typically MP3) lags behind dedicated podcast tools.
Requires manual setup for optimal recording.
Not designed specifically for podcast workflows.

Best For: Casual podcasters or those already using Zoom for other purposes.

Pricing: Free tier (40-minute limit); Pro plan at $14.99/month; Business plan at $19.99/month.

6. StreamYard

StreamYard is a live streaming platform that doubles as a podcast recording tool, especially for creators who want to engage audiences in real time. It’s gained traction for its versatility in 2025.

Key Features:

Browser-based recording and streaming.
Multi-platform streaming (YouTube, Facebook, etc.).
Local recording option (up to 48kHz audio).
Customizable layouts and branding.
Guest invites via simple links.

Pros:

Excellent for live podcasting with audience interaction.
Easy to use for hosts and guests.
Flexible video and audio output.
Free tier includes basic features.

Cons:

Audio quality isn’t as pristine as Riverside or Zencastr.
Local recording requires a paid plan ($25/month).
Focus on live streaming may overwhelm audio-only podcasters.

Best For: Podcasters who want to go live or create video-first content.

Pricing: Free plan; Basic plan at $25/month; Professional plan at $49/month.

Conclusion

The best podcast interview software in 2025 boils down to your goals, budget, and audience. Riverside.fm leads for professional-grade quality, Zencastr offers unbeatable value, and Cleanfeed keeps it simple and free. SquadCast ties into editing workflows, Zoom provides familiarity, and StreamYard caters to live creators. Each tool has its strengths, so test a few (most offer free trials) to find your perfect fit. With the right software, your next interview could be your best yet—captivating listeners and elevating your podcast to new heights.