podcast episode planning template pdf

Podcast Production Planning and Editorial Workflow

Document Control

• Document ID: SOP-POD-001
• Version: 1.0.0
• Effective Date: [Date]
• Review Cycle: Annual

1. Purpose & Scope

This Standard Operating Procedure establishes the systematic framework for pre-production, script development, and logistical coordination for [Podcast Name]. This document applies to all episodes produced by the [Department/Team Name] team to ensure editorial consistency and operational efficiency.

2. Prerequisites

• Access: Shared workspace (e.g., [Notion/Google Drive/Asana])
• Communication: [Slack/Microsoft Teams] channel for production updates
• Tools: Audio recording software ([Software Name]), scheduling tool ([Calendly/etc]), and this planning document.
• Materials: Guest briefing document, approved research brief, and [Company Name] style guide.

3. Roles & Responsibilities (RACI)

4. Step-by-Step Procedure

Phase 1: Conceptualization & Research

• Define the episode objective: [__________]
• Identify target audience segment: [__________]
• Confirm guest availability via [__________]
• Draft research brief and key talking points: [__________]

Phase 2: Editorial Development

• Finalize episode title: [__________]
• Draft show notes and intro/outro copy: [__________]
• Review legal/compliance requirements: [__________]
• Distribute final script/outline to Host: [__________]

Phase 3: Technical Logistics

• Confirm recording environment/studio booking: [__________]
• Verify guest technical requirements (mic, internet, environment): [__________]
• Perform audio/video connectivity test: [__________]
• Prepare recording assets (intro music, ad spots, sound bites): [__________]

Phase 4: Execution & Handoff

• Record episode; ensure backup local recording is active: [__________]
• Upload raw files to [Storage Location]: [__________]
• Log timecodes for potential edits/highlights: [__________]
• Notify Editor of file readiness: [__________]

5. Quality Assurance, Pro-Tips, and Pitfalls

• Quality Assurance: All episodes must undergo a "Technical Audit" (levels, noise floor) and an "Editorial Audit" (pacing, fact-checking) before final export.
• Pro-Tip: Always record a 30-second "room tone" at the start of every session to assist the editor in noise reduction.
• Common Pitfall: Failing to verify the guest's internet connection speed often leads to corrupted remote recordings. Always test throughput 24 hours prior.

6. FAQs

Q: How far in advance should the research brief be completed? A: The research brief must be finalized at least [Number] business days prior to the scheduled recording to allow for host review.

Q: What is the standard protocol if a guest cancels last minute? A: Immediately pivot to the "Evergreen Content" queue defined in the [Internal Wiki Link] to maintain the production cadence.