How to Summarize YouTube Videos and Podcasts (Step-by-Step)

The Problem with Video Content

A 60-minute podcast contains maybe 5-10 minutes of truly valuable insights. But you have to watch the whole thing to find them.

Here's how to extract those insights in under 2 minutes.

Method 1: YouTube Transcripts (Free)

Step 1: Get the Transcript

1. Open any YouTube video

2. Click the three dots (...) below the video

3. Click "Show transcript"

4. Click the three dots in the transcript panel

5. Click "Toggle timestamps" to remove them

6. Select all and copy

Step 2: Summarize

1. Paste the transcript into 5tldr

2. Choose your mode:

- Deep Dive for educational content

- Gist for quick takeaways

- Social to share highlights

Pro Tips

For long videos (1+ hour), summarize in chunks

Use Deep Dive mode to get a structured outline

The AI will identify the key topics and insights

Method 2: Podcast Transcripts

Option A: If the Podcast Has a Transcript

Many podcasts now publish transcripts:

1. Check the show notes or podcast website

2. Copy the transcript

3. Summarize with 5tldr

Option B: Generate Your Own Transcript

Use free tools like:

Riverside.fm (free tier available)

Otter.ai (free tier: 300 min/month)

YouTube (upload as unlisted video, get auto-transcript)

Then summarize the transcript.

Method 3: Webinar Recordings

For recorded webinars or Zoom calls:

1. Download the recording

2. Use Otter.ai or similar to transcribe

3. Summarize the transcript

Real Example: Summarizing a 2-Hour Podcast

Let's say you want to summarize a Lex Fridman podcast (typically 2-3 hours).

Traditional approach: 2-3 hours of listening

Smart approach:

1. Get YouTube transcript: 2 minutes

2. Paste into 5tldr: 10 seconds

3. Read Deep Dive summary: 3 minutes

4. Total: 5 minutes

You've just saved 2+ hours.

What You'll Get

A good summary of video content includes:

Main topics covered: The key themes discussed

Key insights: The most valuable takeaways

Quotes: Notable statements worth remembering

Action items: What you can apply

Best Practices

For Educational Content

Use Deep Dive mode

Look for the methodology and frameworks

Note any recommended resources

For Interviews

Use Gist mode for quick highlights

Focus on the guest's unique insights

Ignore the small talk and setup

For News/Updates

Use Gist mode

Focus on what's new and actionable

Skip the background context you already know

Start Summarizing Video Content

Next time you see a 60-minute video in your queue, try this approach instead.

Summarize your first transcript - it takes 10 seconds.