Lochlainn Harte

We live in an age of abundant choices. Need milk? You’ve got a dozen options – whole, skim, 2%, almond, soy, oat… the list goes on. Want to watch a movie? Thousands of titles are at your fingertips on streaming services. And for podcast editors like us? We’re swimming in a sea of plugins, each promising to be the magic bullet for our audio needs. But is this abundance of options truly a blessing? Or can it become a source of frustration and dissatisfaction?  

As a podcast editor with access to Waves Creative Access, you know the feeling. Hundreds of plugins, each with its own unique features and potential applications. Some are surgical tools for precise audio sculpting, while others are versatile Swiss Army knives for a range of tasks. And then there are the experimental ones, those sonic playgrounds where creativity runs wild.

But with this vast array of choices comes a nagging sense of doubt. Am I using the right plugin for the job? Is there another, better option out there that I’m missing? This, my friend, is the paradox of choice in action.

The Paradox Explained

The paradox of choice, a concept popularized by psychologist Barry Schwartz, suggests that while some choice is good, too much can lead to negative consequences. Instead of feeling liberated by our options, we become overwhelmed, anxious, and less satisfied with our decisions. We get bogged down in analysis paralysis, endlessly comparing options and fearing we’ll make the wrong choice. Even when we do make a decision, we’re haunted by the “what ifs” and the fear of missing out (FOMO). This can lead to increased regret and dissatisfaction, as our expectations become inflated by the sheer number of possibilities. Ironically, the freedom to choose can actually make us feel less free, trapped in a cycle of endless comparisons and second-guessing.  

In the context of podcasting, this means that instead of celebrating a well-mixed episode, we might find ourselves nitpicking every detail, wondering if a different compressor or EQ would have yielded a better result. The responsibility for the final product shifts from the tools themselves to the editor, who is left shouldering the burden of choice overload.  

Overcoming the Paradox: Strategies for Podcast Editors

So, how do we escape this plugin-induced paralysis? Here are some practical strategies to overcome the paradox of choice and make more satisfying decisions:

1. Curate Your Collection:

• Create a “Go-To” Toolkit: Identify your most frequently used plugins for common tasks like compression, EQ, de-essing, and reverb. Organize them into a dedicated folder or preset list for easy access. This creates a streamlined selection of trusted tools for everyday use.
• Categorize by Function: Group similar plugins together (e.g., dynamic processors, time-based effects, creative effects). This makes it easier to find what you need without getting lost in the sea of options. Think of it like organizing your spice rack – you wouldn’t want to sift through every jar just to find the cumin!
• Simplify Your Choices: Consider the “choice set complexity” and “decision task difficulty” when selecting plugins. Opt for plugins with intuitive interfaces and clear functionality to avoid unnecessary cognitive overload. Sometimes, a simple, straightforward plugin is all you need to get the job done.  

2. Streamline Your Workflow:

• Develop Presets and Templates: Save your favorite plugin settings as presets for quick recall. Create templates for different podcast segments (e.g., intro, interview, outro) with pre-loaded plugins and settings. This saves time and mental energy, allowing you to focus on the creative aspects of editing.
• Use Plugin Chains: Combine multiple plugins into a single chain for specific tasks like vocal processing or mastering. This reduces the number of individual decisions you need to make and creates a more efficient workflow.
• Automate Where Possible: Use automation to control plugin parameters over time, freeing you from constant manual adjustments. This allows you to create dynamic and nuanced soundscapes without getting bogged down in micro-management.

3. Make “Second-Order Decisions”:

• Establish Routines: Create a set of rules or guidelines for your plugin selection process. For example, you might always start with a specific EQ to shape the overall tone, followed by a go-to compressor for dynamic control. This reduces decision fatigue by providing a framework for your editing approach.  

4. Choice Architecture:

• Organize Your Plugin Library: The way choices are presented can significantly influence our decisions. Take some time to organize your plugin library in a way that makes sense to you. This could involve using folders, color-coding, or creating custom categories. A well-organized library reduces cognitive overload and makes it easier to find the right plugin for the job.  

5. Shift Your Mindset:

• Focus on “Good Enough”: Don’t get caught up in the pursuit of perfection. Often, a plugin that’s “good enough” is perfectly adequate for the task at hand. Remember, the goal is to create a compelling podcast, not to win an award for the most intricately processed audio.  
• Embrace Experimentation: Set aside dedicated time for exploring new plugins and experimenting with different sounds. This allows you to expand your sonic palette without the pressure of making “perfect” choices. Think of it as playtime – a chance to discover new tools and techniques without the weight of expectation.
• Trust Your Instincts: Sometimes, your gut feeling is the best guide. If a plugin sounds good to your ears, go with it! Don’t overthink it – trust your creative intuition.

6. Seek Inspiration, Not Comparison:

• Learn from the Pros: Study how experienced podcast editors use plugins. Pay attention to their workflows and plugin choices, but don’t get bogged down in comparisons. Focus on learning new techniques and approaches, not on replicating someone else’s style.
• Develop Your Own Style: Ultimately, the best plugin choices are the ones that serve your unique creative vision. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you. Your individual style is what will set your podcast apart.

Finding Freedom in Constraint

The paradox of choice is a real challenge for podcast editors in today’s plugin-saturated world. But by curating our collections, streamlining our workflows, and shifting our mindsets, we can overcome this paradox and find freedom in constraint. Remember, it’s not about having the most plugins, but about using the right ones effectively to create compelling and engaging audio experiences.

Take some time to implement these strategies and see how they impact your workflow and creativity. You might be surprised at how much more focused and productive you become when you’re not drowning in a sea of options. And who knows, you might even discover new sonic possibilities you never knew existed!