What Does a Podcast Producer Do (And Do You Need One)?
Podcasting has exploded into the mainstream, but behind many successful shows is a key figure you don’t often hear about: the podcast producer. Whether you’re launching your first episode or scaling an established show, understanding the role of a producer can help you level up your podcast without burning out.
This post breaks down what podcast producers actually do, how to know if you need one, what they cost, and how to find or become one yourself.
What Is a Podcast Producer, Really?
A podcast producer wears many hats. At their core, they’re responsible for the end-to-end management and production of a podcast. This includes:
- Planning each episode (topics, format, structure)
- Coordinating guests and managing recording logistics
- Editing or overseeing audio post-production
- Publishing the episode with optimized titles, show notes, and metadata
- Promoting episodes and tracking performance analytics
In many ways, they’re the show’s project manager and creative director rolled into one. Depending on the team, a producer may also assist with monetization strategies, audience development, and cross-promotion.
They are not just audio editors—though editing is often part of their job. They’re there to make sure the show runs smoothly, sounds great, and connects with the intended audience.
Do You Need a Podcast Producer?
If you’re asking this, you’re likely already wearing too many hats. Here are signs it might be time to bring in help:
- You’re missing deadlines or falling behind on episodes
- Audio quality is inconsistent or underwhelming
- You spend more time editing than recording
- You have big growth goals but limited time
A podcast producer helps reduce friction so you can focus on what you do best: hosting and content creation.
That said, if you’re still experimenting or on a tight budget, you might not need a full-time producer. There are hybrid models, like hiring someone just for editing or using a VA with some podcasting experience.
What to Look for in a Podcast Producer
Hiring a producer isn’t just about finding someone who can cut audio. Look for:
- Strong storytelling and editing chops
- Organizational skills (managing schedules, files, deadlines)
- Familiarity with podcast platforms and production tools
- Clear communication—especially if working remotely
- Marketing know-how, especially if you want help growing your audience
Ask for samples or past shows they’ve worked on. If you’re hiring a freelancer, check for testimonials and reviews.
How Much Does a Podcast Producer Cost?
Pricing varies widely depending on experience and services:
- Freelancers: $200–$1,000+ per month for basic post-production
- Agencies: $1,000–$5,000+ per month for full-service production
- In-house: $40,000–$90,000+/year for salaried roles
You can often hire producers per episode, per project, or on a retainer. Be clear about what’s included (editing, show notes, scheduling, promotion, etc.).
Tools Podcast Producers Use
Producers rely on a stack of tools to stay efficient:
- Audio Editing: Descript, Adobe Audition, Hindenburg, Reaper
- Recording Platforms: Riverside.fm, SquadCast, Zoom
- Planning & Management: Notion, Trello, Airtable, Google Drive
- Distribution: Libsyn, Buzzsprout, Podbean, Spotify for Podcasters
- Analytics: Chartable, Podtrac, Spotify Wrapped
These tools help streamline everything from booking to editing to launch.
Want to Become a Podcast Producer?
If you’re drawn to both creativity and logistics, podcast production could be a great fit. Here’s how to get started:
- Learn the tools (Descript, Riverside, etc.)
- Study podcasts you love—pay attention to flow, structure, editing
- Offer to help on a friend’s podcast for experience
- Build a portfolio (even if it’s your own show)
- Explore freelance platforms (Upwork, Fiverr, Podcast Production FB groups)
- Consider a course: LinkedIn Learning, Podcast Engineering School, or Skillshare
The industry’s still growing, and producers with technical skill and taste are in high demand.
Real-World Example: How a Producer Transformed a Show
A solo entrepreneur had been recording her podcast for over a year but struggled with inconsistent posting and low listener engagement. After hiring a freelance producer, episodes became more polished, guests were better prepared, and her downloads tripled within three months.
Sometimes, what you need isn’t more time—it’s better support.
Final Thoughts
A podcast producer can be the difference between a show that fades out after a few episodes and one that builds a loyal audience over years. Whether you’re looking to hire, become one, or just understand what they do, knowing the value of podcast producers is the first step to producing something you’re proud of.