Batch-process and rename podcast episodes

Batch-processing and renaming podcast episodes can save a ton of time, especially when managing large libraries or preparing files for distribution. Here’s a detailed guide on how to efficiently batch-process and rename your podcast episodes, covering tools, methods, and best practices.

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Why Batch Process and Rename Podcast Episodes?

• Organization: Keep your episodes structured and easy to find.

• Consistency: Ensure all file names follow a clear format for branding and ease of use.

• Automation: Save manual effort and reduce errors.

• Compatibility: Some podcast platforms require specific naming conventions.

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Step 1: Plan Your Naming Convention

Before renaming files, decide on a consistent naming scheme. Common formats include:

• PodcastName_EpisodeNumber_EpisodeTitle.mp3

• PodcastName_YYYYMMDD_EpisodeTitle.mp3

• EpisodeNumber - EpisodeTitle.mp3

Example:
TechTalk_015_ArtificialIntelligence.mp3

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Step 2: Gather Your Files

Collect all episode files into a single folder or location on your computer. This helps streamline the batch processing.

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Step 3: Choose the Right Tool

For Windows:

• Bulk Rename Utility: Powerful and free tool with extensive options.

• PowerShell: Built-in scripting tool for custom batch renaming.

• Advanced Renamer: User-friendly with many customizable patterns.

For Mac:

• Finder’s Batch Rename: Select files > Right-click > Rename.

• Automator: Create custom workflows for renaming and processing.

• NameChanger: Popular third-party app for batch renaming.

Cross-Platform:

• Python scripts: Flexible and customizable for any batch processing.

• Command-line tools: rename in Linux/macOS or PowerShell scripts in Windows.

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Step 4: Batch Processing Audio Files

If you want to process audio files beyond renaming, like normalizing volume, converting formats, or trimming intros/outros, tools like these help:

• Audacity: Supports batch processing via chains (macros).

• FFmpeg: Command-line tool for audio conversion, trimming, and normalization.

• Auphonic: Online service that automates audio leveling and metadata.

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Step 5: Batch Rename Using a Tool (Example with Bulk Rename Utility)

1. Open Bulk Rename Utility and navigate to your folder.

2. Select all files you want to rename.

3. In the “New Names” section, set your pattern:

   • Use numbering options for episode numbers.

   • Use “Remove” or “Replace” to clean up unwanted text.

   • Add prefixes/suffixes like podcast name or date.

4. Preview the changes before applying.

5. Click “Rename” to execute.

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Step 6: Automate with Scripts (Example Using PowerShell)

powershell
CopyEdit
$folder = "C:PodcastEpisodes"
$files = Get-ChildItem $folder -Filter "*.mp3" | Sort-Object CreationTime

$count = 1
foreach ($file in $files) {
    $newName = "TechTalk_{0:D3}_{1}.mp3" -f $count, ($file.BaseName -replace "s","_")
    Rename-Item $file.FullName -NewName $newName
    $count++
}

This script:

• Targets .mp3 files in the folder.

• Sorts them by creation time.

• Renames files with padded episode numbers and underscores instead of spaces.

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Step 7: Add Metadata Tags (Optional)

Renaming helps file organization, but updating ID3 tags improves display on podcast apps.

• Tools like Mp3tag (Windows), Kid3 (cross-platform), or TagScanner allow batch editing of metadata such as Title, Artist (podcast name), Album (series), Episode number, and more.

• Some batch processing software or online tools like Auphonic also update metadata during audio processing.

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Best Practices for Batch Processing and Renaming

• Backup your original files before batch operations.

• Use consistent naming conventions across all episodes.

• Include episode numbers and dates for chronological sorting.

• Avoid special characters that might cause issues on some systems or platforms.

• Preview changes before applying bulk renames.

• Consider updating metadata tags to complement filenames.

• Automate repetitive tasks using scripts or workflows.

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Batch processing and renaming podcast episodes can streamline your workflow and improve your podcast’s professionalism. With the right tools and naming strategy, you can keep your podcast library tidy and ready for distribution with minimal effort.