Podcast Host Jobs: Career Info & Role Description

There’d be no podcast without a podcast host. While there is a lot of work that goes on behind the scenes, a host is the true voice carrying the content. A great host can lead the audience through compelling stories, pull out new perspectives from their guests and connect with listeners. Let’s explore what it takes to be a podcast host. 

What is a Podcast Host?

A podcast host is one podcast career that probably needs no introduction, but we want to explore more what this role could entail. 

A host is the voice of a podcast and the personality that listeners connect with. But they also may double as the central figure that guides and directs a podcast. Their role will depend on the larger podcast team and how they’ve organized. 

They work closely with producers to present a story, interview guests in engaging ways and maintain the tone and style of the show. When it comes down to it, the host is an essential part of the podcast’s success. 

What does a Podcast Host do?

Primarily the podcast host is the voice and presenter of a podcast, the one who connects with audiences and conveys the story. Further responsibilities might include:

1. Content Development: A host may help create and structure the podcast's content, often working with the podcast producer to brainstorm topics, write scripts, and prepare interviews.

2. Presentation: The host delivers the content to the audience, ensuring it’s engaging and aligned with the brand's tone. 

3. Create a Community: A great host engages with the audience by addressing listener questions, incorporating feedback, and overall creating a sense of community around the podcast.

In smaller podcast teams, the host may step in to cover other responsibilities like planning, producing, or promoting, but at its core this is the role of presenting.

What Skills Do You Need to Become a Podcast Host?

Being a great podcast host is all about connecting with your audiences and presenting the content of the show in the best way. 

You’ll absolutely want to have great storytelling and interviewing skills. The ability to tell compelling stories and keep listeners engaged is the main role of a podcast host. It helps to learn also how to structure content in a way that flows naturally and keeps the audience interested. If the podcast involves guests, strong interviewing skills are also essential. This includes asking insightful questions, actively listening, and guiding the conversation to extract valuable insights.

To carry the tone, projecting confidence and having a strong on-mic presence can greatly improve a show. This helps in establishing authority and keeping the audience’s attention. 

Podcast hosts will work closely with other team members. It’s important to be collaborative and have good communication skills. You’ll work closely with producers, editors, and other team members to ensure the podcast is well-produced and meets its creative and technical goals.

Clear and engaging communication is key for conveying ideas, moderating discussions, and guiding production. A good host knows how to articulate thoughts effectively both for the listener and their team.

Well in some cases research may be up to a producer or research assistant, a host should always come into a recording prepared. Do thorough research, especially when discussing complex topics with guests. A good host is well-prepared and knowledgeable about the subject matter.

Though it isn’t essential it can be beneficial to have a basic understanding of audio equipment and editing can be helpful, especially for independent podcasters who might handle multiple aspects of production.

Where to Find a Job as a Podcast Host

The best way to find a job as a podcast host could be to start your own show. This can help you hone in on your hosting skills and experiment, as well as learn more technical skills.

Often podcast hosts will start with their own successful show, then be invited to join a team on other shows. 

However, it doesn’t hurt to keep an eye out and see if anyone is seeking a new voice for their podcast. 

Here are a few resources we suggest checking out:

Podcast Job Posting Sites: Specific sites for all things podcasting jobs include Podnews Jobs or AIR. You can find freelance opportunities or full-time contract jobs in everything from management to production to promotion. 

Upwork & Fiverr: These are for freelancers and gig work, but often have a few opportunities in podcasting. It’s a great starter spot, but know that the rates and job stability through these opportunities might not be the best. 

The Classic Job Posting Sites: LinkedIn, Indeed, Remote.co, or WeWorkRemotely, are all great spots to have a look for a podcasting career. You can find opportunities remotely or locally, just use the filters and search wisely.

Lastly, you can always keep an eye out on the Lower Street Job page, we’d love to hear from you.