Before my internship began, I expected to focus solely on producing podcasts for the foundation. And while Podcasting remains the core of my work, I quickly discovered how many elements, from research and scripting to lighting, filming, and post-production, must come together to create a successful episode. I’m currently learning about lighting and honing my video editing skills in addition to podcast workflows because our team decided to include a video component in our projects.
First Impressions
The office reminds me more of a collaborative workplace than a corporate space. There are only a few interns, so it’s quiet enough to focus but casual enough to brainstorm out loud. Basically a comfortable studio that makes it easier to focus and test ideas.
Visiting the podcast studio
We took a tour of SWELL Podcast Studio early in the week. In terms of the look and feel we were pursuing, this location needed a lot of work, but technically it was fine. When we saw Hi Hello Recording Studio two days later, we were immediately struck by its vibrant LEDs, pre-wired cameras and mixers, and ample space for filming video segments without having to move furniture. We intend to get this studio’s three-month block.
Work done
At the beginning of our internship experience we were given the task of making a podcasting plan for the next year. Over the week I dove into audience research, acquiring data on youth’s generation podcast habits, drafted three versions of budget that lists everything from specific microphones to Adobe/Logic Pro subscriptions needed, sketched a three-month content calendar featuring weekly Phoenix Youthcast episodes, bi-weekly interviews, and a steady stream of 30-second “Phoenix Shorts” for TikTok and Reels, outlined a draft for a promotion video for the June 17 Daryl Davis event – and finally wrapped all of that into a presentation.
Reflection
It surprised me how quickly the duties expanded from “podcasting intern” to “multimedia producer,” but I think this is what makes the internship worthwhile and will provide me with much-needed experience. It was fast-paced, but that variety is certainly what makes the internship already feel valuable: each new assignment gives me a tangible skill I can develop, and the momentum keeps me engaged.
Interesting to read about these studios, then see that you are also pricing equipment. Do the studios not provide some equipment? Or is that for another part of the project?
Thank you for the question! Initially we planned to record some of the material right in the office, which meant we’d need to purchase mics, an interface, and basic lighting equipment. Later, when we explored external studios, we found that SWELL studio includes all the core gear (cameras, mixers, mics), but its visual setup still needed some work. Because of that we created multiple budget plans and ultimately chose Hi Hello studio.