**Do I need to record video to make clips?**

Question

Accepted Answer

Video clips outperform audio-only clips by 3–5x on most platforms. If you can't record video, use audiogram-style clips (waveform animation + captions over a static background). They're better than nothing, but invest in even basic video recording when you can.

**How many clips should I make per episode?**

Start with 3–5 per episode. As you learn what works, you can increase to 8–12. Quality matters more than quantity — one clip that performs well is worth more than ten that don't.

**Should I clip old episodes or just new ones?**

Both. Your back catalog is an untapped content library. Start with your most downloaded episodes — the topics that already resonate with your audience will likely perform well as clips too.

**How long before I see results?**

Most podcasters see meaningful traction after 30–60 days of consistent posting (3+ clips/week). Individual clips can go viral sooner, but sustainable growth comes from consistency.

**Won't clips cannibalize my full episode listens?**

No. Research consistently shows that clip exposure increases full episode consumption. Clips are trailers, not substitutes. Viewers who watch a compelling 45-second clip are more likely to listen to the full episode, not less.

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## Related Guides

- [How to Clip a Podcast for Social Media](/blog/how-to-clip-podcast-for-social-media)
- [How to Repurpose Podcast Episodes into Short-Form Video](/blog/repurpose-podcast-short-form-video-guide)
- [10 Best Podcast Clipping Tools in 2026](/blog/best-podcast-clipping-tools-2026)
- [Hook-First Editing: How to Open Clips That Stop the Scroll](/blog/hook-first-editing-guide-2026)
- [Ideal Video Clip Length for Social Media](/blog/ideal-video-clip-length-social-media)