open-notebook/docs/podcast.md

Podcast Generator

Open Notebook's Podcast Generator creates professional, multi-speaker podcasts from your research content. With our Episode Profile system, you can generate high-quality podcasts in just 3 clicks - no complex configuration required.

🎯 More Flexible: Unlike Google Notebook LM's fixed 2-host format, Open Notebook supports 1-4 speakers with complete customization of personalities, voices, and conversation styles.

🎬 3-Click Podcast Generation

Step 1: Choose Episode Profile

Select from pre-configured podcast styles:

• Tech Discussion: 2 technical experts discussing complex topics
• Solo Expert: Single expert explaining concepts in an accessible way
• Business Analysis: Business-focused panel discussion
• Interview Style: Host interviewing a subject matter expert

Or configure your own.

Step 2: Name Your Episode

Give your podcast a descriptive name that reflects the content.

Step 3: Generate

Click "Generate Podcast" and continue using Open Notebook while your podcast processes in the background (2-3 minutes).

🎙️ Episode Profiles vs Traditional Setup

Before (15+ Fields):

• Manual speaker role configuration
• Complex conversation style settings
• Detailed voice and personality setup
• Dialogue structure customization
• Provider and model selection

Now (Episode Profiles):

• Pre-configured professional templates
• Optimized speaker combinations
• Battle-tested conversation flows
• One-click generation with optional customization

🔄 Background Processing

Non-Blocking Experience

• Podcasts generate in the background
• Continue your research while processing
• Simple status tracking without complexity
• Desktop notifications when complete

Job Status Tracking

Monitor your podcast generation:

• Pending: Job queued for processing
• Running: Currently generating (outline → transcript → audio)
• Completed: Ready to listen and download
• Failed: Error details for troubleshooting

🎨 Customization Options

Speaker Configurations

• Solo Format: Single expert with rich personality
• Dual Speakers: Two complementary perspectives
• Panel Discussion: 3-4 speakers with diverse viewpoints
• Interview Style: Host + guest dynamic

Voice & Personality

Each speaker profile includes:

• Voice Selection: Choose from multiple TTS providers
• Personality Traits: Optimized speaking styles
• Backstory: Rich character development
• Role Definition: Clear expert positioning

Content Adaptation

• Automatic Briefing: Context-aware content adaptation
• Segment Structure: Optimized for engagement
• Conversation Flow: Natural dialogue patterns
• Fact Integration: Seamless research incorporation

🛠️ Advanced Features

Multi-Provider Support

Choose your preferred AI and TTS providers:

• Language Models: OpenAI, Anthropic, Google, Groq, Ollama
• Text-to-Speech: OpenAI, Google TTS, ElevenLabs
• Local Processing: Full Ollama support for privacy

Custom Episode Profiles

Create your own profiles by combining:

• Speaker configurations (1-4 speakers)
• AI model preferences
• Default briefing templates
• Segment count and structure

Episode Management

• Library View: All episodes organized by notebook
• Audio Player: Integrated playback with controls
• Download Options: Export MP3 for offline listening
• Metadata: Generation details and settings used

📱 Mobile & Accessibility

Audio-First Design

Perfect for:

• Commuting and travel
• Exercise and walking
• Multitasking scenarios
• Visual accessibility needs

Quality Features

• Professional Audio: High-quality TTS with natural speech
• Consistent Pacing: Optimized for comprehension
• Clear Diction: Enhanced pronunciation and clarity
• Background Processing: No interruption to workflow

🔧 Technical Architecture

Background Worker System

• Async Processing: Non-blocking podcast generation
• Queue Management: Reliable job processing
• Error Recovery: Automatic retry and detailed logging
• Scalable Design: Foundation for future features

Integration Points

• Content Pipeline: Seamless notebook content integration
• Search Integration: Generate podcasts from search results
• Transformation System: Part of larger content processing workflow
• API Access: Full programmatic control via REST API

🎧 Sample Podcasts

Listen to examples of what Open Notebook can create:

Generated using custom Episode Profile with ElevenLabs voices and interview format

🚀 Getting Started

1. Setup: Ensure you have API keys configured for your preferred providers
2. Initialize: Click "Initialize Default Profiles" on first use
3. Select Content: Choose notebook with research content
4. Generate: Pick profile → name episode → generate
5. Listen: Audio appears in episode list when complete

⚡ Pro Tips

Content Optimization

• Rich Source Material: More content = better podcast discussions
• Clear Topics: Focused content creates more engaging conversations
• Mixed Media: Combine text, links, and documents for depth

Profile Selection

• Tech Content: Use "Tech Discussion" for technical deep-dives
• Business Content: Use "Business Analysis" for strategic discussions
• Educational: Use "Solo Expert" for clear explanations
• General: Use "Interview Style" for broad topic exploration

Workflow Integration

• Research → Generate: Create podcasts during active research
• Review Sessions: Generate summaries of completed research
• Learning Path: Create series with consistent Episode Profiles
• Sharing: Export episodes for team knowledge sharing

---

The Podcast Generator establishes Open Notebook as a superior alternative to Google Notebook LM with unmatched flexibility, quality, and user control.