You don't need an expensive DAW for podcasting. Free options handle recording and basic editing. Paid tools add features like multitrack, noise reduction, and publishing.
Free, cross-platform, and fully capable for podcast recording and editing. Huge community with tutorials.
Built into every Mac. Surprisingly powerful with multitrack, effects, and easy export.
Not just for music — the EQ, compression, and loudness tools create broadcast-quality podcast audio.