What does a podcast producer do (and do you need one)?

A podcast producer is responsible for the show getting made and getting better: they plan episodes, book and prepare guests, run recording sessions, oversee editing and publishing, and track what works. On a small show the producer often does all of it, including the edit. On a large show they manage a team.

Most of a producer's value is created before anyone hits record: choosing topics, researching guests, writing outlines and interview questions, and making sure the guest knows how to sound good on their end.

During the session the producer watches levels, keeps time and notes moments to cut or clip. Afterwards they edit or brief the editor, approve the final mix, write titles and show notes, and publish and promote the episode.

An editor works on the audio you give them. A producer works on the show. If your episodes are planned and you just need them cleaned up, you need an editor; see what a podcast editor costs. If nobody owns planning, guests and consistency, you need a producer, or a production workflow simple enough that you can be your own producer.

Most independent and small-business shows are self-produced. A fixed format, a guest checklist and a tool that automates the repetitive parts get you most of the way: Hilite generates show notes, clips and lets you schedule episodes, so producing takes an hour or two per episode rather than a day.