Is editing necessary for interviews?

Editing plays a crucial role in interviews, though its necessity can vary depending on the approach and goals of the interviewer.

Patrick O'Shaughnessy, host of the Invest Like the Best, highlights that the best editing happens before and during the conversation. He notes that most of his episodes are lightly edited because his preparation allows him to maintain momentum during the interview. He feels that any need for heavy editing often stems from insufficient preparation on his part 1.

Hrishikesh Hirway, host of the Good Life Project, emphasizes the creative and emotional aspects of editing. He edits his show to highlight moments where guests feel most human, enabling listeners to connect deeply with their stories. This approach helps in presenting the guests as relatable and grounded, despite their achievements 2.

Alex Blumberg, co-founder of Gimlet Media, underscores the importance of rigorous editing for creating compelling content. He describes a multi-step process involving drafting, reviewing, and rewriting, essential for ensuring the final product engages listeners effectively. Blumberg believes that thorough editing can significantly boost listener engagement and maintain quality 3.

Overall, while some interviews might benefit from minimal editing due to excellent preparation, others require extensive editing to ensure clarity, flow, and engagement.