Chiquita Channel Paschal, a podcast producer, joins the host to discuss the role of a producer, navigating challenges, creating a vision, breaking into the industry, and starting in the podcast industry.
A podcast producer is responsible for managing various tasks and utilizing available resources to efficiently produce episodes.
Access and opportunities for aspiring podcast producers are limited, necessitating more inclusive spaces and equitable support for diverse talent.
Deep dives
What does a podcast producer do?
A podcast producer is a creative problem solver responsible for making decisions and navigating restrictions to bring a podcast from conception to completion. They handle tasks like booking guests, managing schedules, and utilizing available resources to ensure the efficient production of episodes. Producers need a wide range of technical and editorial skills to effectively translate an idea into a cohesive podcast package.
Challenges in becoming a podcast producer
One of the biggest challenges in becoming a podcast producer is the issue of access. Breaking into the industry can be difficult without previous narrative experience, and the opportunities for hands-on experience are often limited. Many aspiring producers find themselves in internships or low-paying entry-level positions, making it hard to sustain a career. The need for more inclusive and equitable spaces in podcasting is essential to support and retain diverse talent.
Improving conditions for producers
If given the opportunity to implement changes in the podcast industry, the two top priorities would be: 1) Ensuring fair and paid internships to attract and support talent, eliminating the expectation of working for free; and 2) Providing management training for producers who transition into leadership roles, as being good at one's job doesn't necessarily equate to being an effective manager. Additionally, there should be a shift in content creation to center and authentically represent diverse audiences, challenging conventional narratives and moving away from centering whiteness in podcasting.
The Podcast Producer: by and large, it is the atomic unit of labor in the podcast business, and it’s a role that means and involves many, many things depending on the specific situation. This week: a roundtable discussion with Chiquita Channel Paschal and Emmanuel Dzotsi about what it means to be a producer, the path to becoming a full-time producer these days, and the changes they’d make if they ruled the industry.
This program is made possible in part by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, a private corporation funded by the American people.
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