Podcast Producer Job: How to Become a Podcast Producer

A podcast producer is one of the primary production team members on a podcast. They are responsible for overseeing all production aspects for episodes of a podcast series—from direction to writing scripts and booking guests to tracking podcast metrics like downloads. They also lend support to the podcast host and the other team members throughout the production process.

Though a college degree is not necessary for independent podcasting, larger, news-related entities may require a bachelor’s degree in journalism or a related field.

A podcast producer does many of the most significant jobs in the production of a podcast, such as:

• Audio production: Many podcast producers handle all of the technical aspects of podcast production. A podcast producer job requires many hats, from director to audio engineer. They are also involved in post-production, including audio editing, distribution of the completed episodes, and tracking analytics for other team members and podcast sponsors.
• Research and book guests: A podcast producer is responsible for researching, booking, and scheduling guests to appear on podcast episodes. They may also prepare the guest to appear on the show by writing pre-interview questions and guiding them through the talking points of the interview.
• Production management: Production management is one of the more diverse and all-encompassing roles of a podcast producer. They are responsible for all aspects of podcast production, from making a production schedule, brainstorming with the host and other producers about podcast content, and promoting the show through various platforms. Learn how to promote a podcast.
• Oversee production team: If the podcast producer isn’t handling all of the production and post-production requirements, they must oversee the production team. Depending on the size and scope of the podcast, this team may include an executive producer, associate producer, audio engineer, video producer, and content producer. The podcast producer is the project manager for the podcast, ensuring that every team member works efficiently to complete their work for the series or episode.

Here is a breakdown of the skills and experience you’ll need to become a podcast producer:

• Produce independent content. Podcast producer jobs are highly in demand. While you scan job postings for new jobs in the podcasting world, you should gain first-hand experience in all of a podcast producer’s responsibilities. Start your own podcast, or connect with other first-time podcasters and volunteer your services. You’ll gain valuable experience while building a solid portfolio.
• Learn how to use audio-editing software. A podcast producer must know how to operate the various kinds of audio production or video production equipment required to record, mix, and edit a podcast. A few years of experience working with recording equipment—such as audio interfaces, microphones, and soundboards—and honing your audio editing skills with a digital audio workstation (DAW) will give you the advantage you’ll need when you apply for new podcast jobs.
• Hone your communication skills. The technical side of podcasting is just one part of a podcast producer’s job description. They also need to communicate and collaborate effectively with the show’s host and production team to produce high-quality content. Honing your communication skills is a necessity for any podcast producer job.
• Get experience working with talent. Your communication skills will come in handy when working with talent that may appear on your podcast. However, booking guests also requires strong research skills so you can find people with expertise that applies to your podcast and write pre-interview questions. Experience with elements of production management, like scheduling, is also a valuable asset.
• Compile a portfolio or reel. A reel of great audio production is crucial when applying for any podcast producer job. However, it’s important that your portfolio or reel also reflects your ability to generate compelling content—stories that draw in listeners each week. Developing and crafting episodes is as vital a skill as the technical aspects of podcast producing.

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