What inspires and sustains someone working behind the scenes in podcast production?
This conversation uncovers the struggles and joys of producing creative podcasts with purpose.
“The team that I’m working with needs to be cool and needs to be on the same vibe as me, you know? It’s just not worth it to me, at this point, to be forcing myself into a box to work on a certain team.” ~ Alexandra DiPalma (3:31)
Episode
This conversation explores the personal and professional challenges of working in podcast production. Topics include maintaining inspiration despite the workload, the importance of selecting projects that align with personal values, and the satisfaction of empowering underrepresented voices in the podcasting industry. Insights are shared about prioritizing teamwork and avoiding projects that lack alignment with one’s instincts or mission.
The discussion also touches on collaboration, emphasizing the value of working with peers at similar levels of experience. Alex reflects on how her perspective has shifted over the years, balancing passion with pragmatism, and remaining open to meaningful projects that may not offer immediate financial rewards. The metaphor of an upward spiral is used to illustrate growth and self-awareness, reinforcing themes of connection and the power of thoughtful framing.
Takeaways
Working behind the scenes — Challenges and rewards of producing podcasts as a creative process are explored.
Selecting the right projects — Importance of aligning with a project’s mission and trusting instincts to avoid pitfalls.
Empowering underrepresented voices — Focus on including diverse perspectives both on mic and in production roles.
Collaboration as a strategy — Value of working with peers at similar career stages for mutual growth.
Balancing passion and pragmatism — Navigating personal inspiration while maintaining professional sustainability.
Resources
Domino Sound — A podcast production company focused on amplifying underrepresented voices.
Food for Thought — A podcast hosted by queer, multiracial writers, produced by Domino Sound.
Zen Habits — Blog by Leo Babauta, referenced for the metaphor of the upward spiral of self-awareness.
Tim Ferriss Blog — Mentioned as the source of the “superpower” framing technique in the conversation.
(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)