Podcastle for Nonprofits: AI Podcast Recording, Editing, and Hosting Platform
Your nonprofit has stories worth sharing, but launching a podcast feels like too many moving parts. Podcastle (now Async) combines browser-based remote recording, one-click AI audio enhancement, built-in hosting, and 1,000+ text-to-speech voices in a single platform, so your team can go from raw recording to published episode without juggling multiple tools or hiring an audio engineer.
Note: Podcastle rebranded to Async in early 2025. The platform is now at async.com. All features, pricing, and accounts carried over unchanged.
What It Does
Starting a podcast requires solving three separate problems: recording (which needs good equipment and a quiet environment), editing (which requires audio skills and software), and hosting (which means paying for a platform and figuring out RSS distribution). Most small nonprofits end up with a patchwork of tools for each step, or they give up before publishing a single episode. Podcastle addresses all three in one browser-based platform designed for users with no audio production background.
The platform lets up to 10 participants join a recording session remotely from a browser or mobile app, with each person's audio captured locally on their device for studio-quality results regardless of internet speed. After recording, AI-powered Magic Dust cleans up the audio automatically, removing background noise, balancing levels, and smoothing vocal quality in a single click. Text-based editing lets you edit audio the same way you edit a Word document: delete a word in the transcript and the corresponding audio disappears. Built-in hosting with RSS generation means you can submit directly to Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other directories from within the platform.
Beyond core podcast production, Podcastle includes 1,000+ AI text-to-speech voices across 100+ languages for narrated content, a voice cloning feature called Revoice that lets you fix recording mistakes by typing corrected text, and short-form video clip creation for social media. For nonprofits that want to tell their story through audio without a dedicated media team, this combination reduces both the technical barrier and the ongoing production burden considerably.
Best For
Organization Size
Small to mid-sized nonprofits with 2-100 staff members. Especially valuable for organizations where one or two people handle all communications and cannot afford a separate audio engineer, podcast host subscription, or dedicated recording studio.
Use Cases
- Advocacy or cause-awareness podcast series
- Donor and beneficiary story interviews
- Staff or volunteer training audio modules
- Multilingual community outreach content
- Remote panel discussions and event recordings
Ideal Roles
- Communications Coordinators
- Marketing or content staff
- Executive Directors who self-produce content
- Program staff creating training materials
Key Features for Nonprofits
Magic Dust: One-Click Audio Enhancement
Magic Dust automatically applies noise reduction, equalization, and vocal smoothing to recordings in a single click. Board room audio, home-office recordings, and field interviews all benefit from the same simple process. No EQ curves, no compression settings, no audio engineering knowledge required.
1,000+ Text-to-Speech Voices in 100+ Languages
Generate narrated content by typing a script and choosing from over 1,000 AI voices across 100+ languages. Create multilingual training modules, update outdated narration without re-recording, or produce audio content for communities your staff cannot directly serve through live recording.
Remote Recording for Up to 10 Participants
Each remote participant records locally on their own device, not over the internet. This eliminates the choppy, compressed audio quality common in Zoom recordings. Geographically distributed teams, partner organizations, and remote guests can all participate in a high-quality recording session from their own location.
Built-in Hosting and Distribution
Podcastle's Hosting Hub generates an RSS feed for your podcast and handles distribution to Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other directories. Every new episode you publish automatically appears on all platforms. This eliminates the need for a separate hosting service and simplifies the distribution workflow for non-technical staff.
Text-Based Editing
Edit audio by editing the auto-generated transcript. Deleting a word or sentence in the transcript removes the corresponding audio automatically. This approach makes audio editing accessible to staff who write well but have no audio production background, reducing the time required to clean up a recorded interview significantly.
Revoice: Voice Cloning for Corrections
Clone your voice from a short sample, then type corrected text to fix recording mistakes without re-recording. Available on the Pro plan, Revoice is useful for narrated training content where a staff member recorded a script but made errors that would otherwise require a full re-recording session. Supports 15+ languages.
How Podcastle Uses AI
What's Actually AI-Powered
Magic Dust Audio Enhancement
AI-powered signal processing analyzes each recording and applies noise reduction, equalization, and vocal smoothing automatically. Rather than applying fixed settings, Magic Dust adapts to the specific acoustic characteristics of the recording, meaning a studio microphone and a laptop webcam recording are both enhanced appropriately for their source quality. The AI identifies background noise signatures distinct from vocal content and suppresses them without affecting the voice.
Text-to-Speech and Revoice Voice Cloning
The TTS engine uses generative AI models to synthesize natural-sounding speech from text across 1,000+ voices and 100+ languages. Revoice takes a short audio sample of a real person's voice and uses neural voice synthesis to create a personal voice model. Typing text then generates audio in that person's voice. The voice cloning model captures vocal timbre, rhythm, and speech patterns from the sample rather than simply matching pitch, resulting in more natural output than older voice synthesis approaches.
Filler Word Removal and Silence Detection
AI transcription identifies filler words ("um," "uh," "like," "you know") and overly long silences in the transcript. Unlike audio-waveform-only approaches, Podcastle's transcript-based detection can identify both non-verbal filler sounds and verbal filler phrases, since it understands the content of what was said. Detected fillers are flagged for review before removal.
Eye Contact Correction for Video
AI computer vision detects gaze direction in video recordings and subtly adjusts the subject's eye position to appear as if they are looking directly into the camera. This is relevant for nonprofits recording video podcast episodes or donor thank-you messages where looking at your notes or monitor during recording would otherwise create a disengaged impression for viewers.
What's NOT AI (But Still Useful)
- •Remote recording infrastructure (local track capture) is advanced engineering but not AI.
- •RSS generation and podcast hosting are standard content distribution infrastructure.
- •Basic multi-track audio mixing and manual editing tools are standard DAW features.
AI Transparency and Limitations
- Magic Dust is not suitable for music:The AI audio enhancement is optimized for voice recordings. Using it on recordings that include music or sound effects may distort the non-vocal elements. Apply Magic Dust only to voice-only tracks.
- Voice cloning requires responsible use:Revoice is designed for cloning your own voice to fix your own recordings. Using the feature to clone another person's voice without their explicit consent is a misuse of the tool and potentially a legal liability. Ensure your team understands appropriate use before enabling this feature.
- Transcription accuracy varies by accent:Auto-transcription works well for standard American English and common world languages but may produce more errors with regional accents, technical vocabulary, or less common languages. Review transcripts before using them as the basis for editing or accessibility captioning.
- Free tier limits are genuine constraints:The 3-hour lifetime video limit and 1-hour lifetime transcription limit on the free plan will be exhausted quickly during evaluation. Plan to upgrade within the first few recording sessions if the tool meets your needs.
Real-World Nonprofit Use Case
Imagine an environmental advocacy nonprofit that wants to launch a monthly podcast featuring conversations with community members, scientists, and policymakers about local environmental issues. The communications coordinator has no audio engineering background, and the organization cannot afford a separate recording studio, audio editor, or podcast hosting service.
Using Podcastle, the coordinator invites each guest to join a browser-based recording session from their own location. Each guest's audio records locally, producing clean studio-quality tracks even when participants are on rural internet connections. After the session, the coordinator applies Magic Dust to all tracks in one click, uses transcript-based editing to remove tangents and filler phrases by deleting text in the transcript, and publishes directly to Apple Podcasts and Spotify through Podcastle's built-in hosting.
When the organization needs to produce Spanish-language versions of training content for community outreach, the program team uses Podcastle's text-to-speech voices to generate narration from their Spanish-translated scripts, covering communities that the English-speaking staff cannot directly record with. The entire podcast operation runs on the Essentials plan at $11.99/month billed annually, replacing what would otherwise require a hosting service, a separate audio editor, and a freelance audio engineer.
Quick Win: Record and Publish Your First Episode This Week
- 1.Sign up for the 7-day free trial at async.com. No credit card required on the free tier.
- 2.Create a recording studio and invite one guest via browser link. Record a 15-20 minute interview about your organization's mission or a recent program outcome.
- 3.Apply Magic Dust, remove a few filler sections using the transcript editor, and export the audio.
- 4.Set up Hosting Hub, submit your RSS feed to Spotify for Podcasters (free), and publish. You now have a live podcast episode with a distribution channel.
Pricing
| Plan | Monthly | Annual | Key Limits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Free | $0 | $0 | 3 hrs lifetime video, 1 hr lifetime transcription, 2GB storage |
| Essentials | $14.99/mo | $11.99/mo | 8 hrs/mo video, 10 hrs/mo transcription, Magic Dust, WAV export, 20GB |
| Pro | $24.99/mo | $19.99/mo | 20 hrs/mo video, 25 hrs/mo transcription, Revoice, filler word removal, 4K video, 120GB |
| Teams | Custom | Custom | Unlimited studios, 100 hrs/mo transcription, 1TB storage, dedicated account manager |
Annual billing saves approximately 20% on paid plans. All paid plans include a 7-day free trial. The Essentials plan at $11.99/month (annual) covers up to 8 hours of video recording and 10 hours of transcription per month, sufficient for a weekly 30-45 minute podcast episode. The Pro plan adds voice cloning (Revoice), filler word removal, and 4K video export.
Pricing is subject to change. Verify current pricing directly with Async (async.com) before purchasing.
Nonprofit Pricing and Discounts
Podcastle (Async) confirms nonprofit discounts are available. The platform explicitly states "yes, we offer discounts for nonprofits at Async Creator." The specific discount percentage is not publicly disclosed and is determined on a case-by-case basis.
How to Apply for a Nonprofit Discount
- 1.Email [email protected] with a subject line like "Nonprofit Discount Request."
- 2.Include your organization's name, your role, a brief description of how you plan to use the platform, and proof of nonprofit status (501(c)(3) determination letter or equivalent documentation for non-US organizations).
- 3.An education discount is also available through the same email address with a valid student ID or institutional email, if relevant for university or school-affiliated nonprofit programs.
Even without a discount, the Essentials plan at $11.99/month (annual billing) replaces both a podcast hosting service (typically $12-20/month) and basic audio editing software, making it cost-competitive for nonprofits that currently pay for both separately.
Learning Curve
Time to First Published Episode
Most users can record, edit, and publish their first episode within a single afternoon. The browser-based interface requires no software installation, and the workflow from recording to publishing is guided within the platform.
Text-Based Editing Advantage
The transcript-based editing approach means anyone who can edit a document can edit audio. Staff who are comfortable in Google Docs will find the editing workflow familiar, eliminating the traditional audio editor learning curve.
What Takes More Time
Setting up podcast hosting, submitting RSS feeds to directories, and configuring Teams-level features takes more time. Voice cloning (Revoice) and advanced video editing are Pro features with an additional learning curve. Mobile app recording for field content requires familiarization.
Realistic Timelines
No coding required for any features outside the developer Voice API tier. Reliable internet required for the browser-based platform.
Integration and Compatibility
Distribution Integrations
- Apple Podcasts (via RSS)
- Spotify for Podcasters (via RSS)
- Google Podcasts and any RSS-compatible platform
- Direct embed player for websites
Export Formats
- MP3 audio (all plans)
- WAV lossless (Essentials and above)
- Video up to 4K (Pro plan)
- Short-form social clips
Platform Availability
- Web browser (Chrome and Edge recommended)
- iOS mobile app
- Android mobile app
- SOC-2 and GDPR compliant
NOT Included
- No native CRM integrations (Salesforce, Bloomerang)
- No Zapier or Make integration
- No royalty-free music library
- No TechSoup listing for additional discounts
Accessibility Consideration for Nonprofits
Podcastle generates auto-transcriptions that can serve as episode transcripts for accessibility, but accuracy should be reviewed before publishing as an official transcript. Podcast transcripts improve access for deaf and hard-of-hearing audiences and are good practice for ADA compliance when the podcast content relates to public services. Review and lightly edit transcripts before posting them alongside episodes on your website. For organizations needing higher transcription accuracy, pairing Podcastle with Rev for transcript review is an option.
Honest Pros and Cons for Nonprofits
Pros
- All-in-one workflow: Recording, editing, hosting, and distribution in a single platform eliminates the patchwork of separate tools that most beginner podcasters deal with, reducing both cost and workflow complexity.
- Confirmed nonprofit discount: The platform explicitly offers nonprofit pricing. Contact [email protected] with proof of status to access it.
- No software installation: Browser-based access means no IT deployment, no operating system compatibility issues, and access from any device your team uses.
- Beginner-friendly editing: Text-based editing makes audio production accessible to communications staff who write well but have no audio engineering background.
- Multilingual TTS voices: 1,000+ voices in 100+ languages enable multilingual content creation without hiring voice talent, serving communities in their preferred language.
- SOC-2 and GDPR compliant: Security certifications matter for nonprofits handling donor conversations, client stories, or sensitive program content in recordings.
Cons
- Free tier limits are very restrictive: 3 hours of lifetime video and 1 hour of lifetime transcription will be exhausted in the first evaluation session. Budget for at least the Essentials plan if the tool meets your needs after the trial.
- Discount amount undisclosed: The nonprofit discount is confirmed but the percentage is not published. You must contact the team to learn what you would actually pay.
- Browser dependent: Requires reliable internet and a modern browser (Chrome or Edge recommended). Not suitable for low-bandwidth environments or offline editing workflows.
- No CRM or automation integrations: Podcastle does not connect with Salesforce, Bloomerang, Zapier, or other nonprofit tools, limiting automated workflow possibilities.
- Rebrand uncertainty: Transitioning from Podcastle to Async introduces some brand recognition uncertainty and raises questions about the product's long-term direction. The platform is actively developed, but the pivot toward enterprise and developer use cases may shift product priorities over time.
Alternatives to Consider
Descript
$8/mo Nonprofit PricingDescript's transcript-based editor is Podcastle's closest competitor and arguably more powerful for video-heavy content. Nonprofit pricing of $8/user/month is explicit and well-documented, versus Podcastle's undisclosed nonprofit discount. Descript does not include podcast hosting, so you need a separate hosting service, but it offers superior video editing, screen recording, and more robust filler word detection. Choose Descript if video content and a confirmed nonprofit discount are priorities; choose Podcastle if built-in podcast hosting and a simpler all-in-one experience matter more.
Riverside
Studio-Quality RecordingRiverside is the gold standard for remote recording quality, capturing 4K video and uncompressed audio locally per participant. If recording quality is your top priority (for interviews you intend to repurpose into video content or share with media), Riverside's output is best in class. Like Descript, it does not include hosting. The editing features are less beginner-friendly than Podcastle. Best for organizations where production quality matters more than simplicity or all-in-one convenience.
Resound
Filler Removal SpecialistResound is a specialist filler sound removal tool with proprietary ML models trained on 200,000+ real podcast recordings. At $15/month for the Creator plan, it is more affordable than Podcastle's Essentials tier for organizations that only need editing (no recording or hosting). Resound does not include recording, hosting, TTS voices, or video features. Best for nonprofits that already have a recording and hosting solution and only need faster audio cleanup.
Why choose Podcastle over these alternatives: If your nonprofit is starting a podcast from scratch and wants the fewest possible tools to manage, Podcastle's combination of recording, editing, hosting, and TTS in one platform is the most self-contained option. If you already have hosting and recording solutions, Descript or Resound may offer better value for the editing-specific portion of the workflow.
Getting Started with Podcastle
Sign up for a free account at async.com
Go to async.com and create a free account. No credit card required. You'll have access to the free tier and can start a recording immediately. If you plan to request a nonprofit discount, email [email protected] at the same time with your proof of nonprofit status.
Record your first episode with a browser-based session
Create a new Recording Studio in the dashboard, invite your guest via the link (they join from their browser, no account needed), and hit record. Both parties record locally. After the session ends, Podcastle automatically processes and uploads the separate tracks.
Apply Magic Dust and edit using the transcript
Click Magic Dust to enhance audio quality automatically. Then switch to the transcript view and delete sentences, filler words, or sections you want to remove. Review the audio around any edited section to confirm the cut sounds natural before exporting.
Set up Hosting Hub and publish to podcast directories
Navigate to the Hosting Hub, create your podcast profile (title, description, cover art), and copy your RSS feed link. Submit the RSS feed to Spotify for Podcasters and Apple Podcasts Connect. Both accept free RSS submissions. Once submitted, all future episodes published in Podcastle will automatically appear on both platforms.
Need Help Launching Your Nonprofit Podcast?
Setting up a sustainable podcast workflow, from recording through editing and distribution, takes planning. One Hundred Nights helps nonprofits design production systems that your team can maintain consistently without burning out your communications staff.
Get Implementation HelpFrequently Asked Questions
Is Podcastle free for nonprofits?
Podcastle (now Async) has a free tier, but the 3-hour lifetime video limit and 1-hour lifetime transcription limit mean it runs out quickly for an active podcast. A nonprofit discount is confirmed: email [email protected] with proof of 501(c)(3) status. The Essentials plan at $11.99/month (annual) is the recommended starting point for regular podcast production.
Does Podcastle include podcast hosting?
Yes. Podcastle's Hosting Hub generates an RSS feed and handles distribution to Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other directories. Once you submit your RSS feed to a platform, every episode you publish in Podcastle automatically appears there. This eliminates the need for a separate hosting service.
What is Magic Dust and how does it work?
Magic Dust is a one-click AI audio enhancement that applies noise reduction, equalization, and vocal smoothing automatically. It adapts to the specific characteristics of each recording, making home-office and field recordings sound significantly more professional without any manual audio adjustment. It is not suitable for recordings that include music.
Can Podcastle record remote interviews with multiple people?
Yes. Podcastle supports remote multi-track recording for up to 10 participants simultaneously. Each participant records locally on their device, so recording quality is not affected by internet connection dropouts during the session. Guests can join via browser or mobile app without creating an account.
What is Revoice (voice cloning) and when would a nonprofit use it?
Revoice, available on the Pro plan, clones your voice from a short audio sample and lets you type text that Podcastle reads back in your voice. Nonprofits use it to fix recording mistakes without re-recording, create narrated training modules from written scripts, or update outdated audio content efficiently. Voice cloning should only be used on your own voice with appropriate consent practices in place.
Podcastle vs. Descript: which is better for nonprofits?
Podcastle is better if you want built-in podcast hosting, an all-in-one beginner-friendly experience, and 1,000+ TTS voices. Descript is better if you want confirmed $8/user/month nonprofit pricing, more robust video editing, filler word detection, and screen recording. For nonprofits starting a podcast from scratch, Podcastle reduces the number of tools needed. For organizations already committed to video content, Descript offers more capability.
What happened to Podcastle? Is it still available?
Podcastle rebranded to Async in early 2025, reflecting expanded scope beyond podcasting to include video, enterprise content, and a Voice API for developers. The platform is now at async.com. All existing accounts, projects, pricing, and features carried over unchanged. The tool is fully operational and actively developed.