Professionalizing a Podcast on a Budget
In December 2024, we took on the production of the Way To The Top podcast, created by Juanjo Artero—a space dedicated to marketing and entrepreneurship leaders. Juanjo launched this project on YouTube in June 2023 with the aim of sharing valuable conversations with people who are transforming their industries.
When Juanjo approached us, he was looking to raise the quality of the podcast and professionalize its presentation. To do this, we conducted a comprehensive review of the existing content and designed a strategy for improvement—visually, narratively, and in terms of production. Since then, we’ve worked together to bring the podcast into a new, more solid, coherent, and visually appealing stage.
Let’s break it down:
A BEFORE AND AFTER IN VISUAL QUALITY
New equipment, enhanced cinematography
One of the first changes we made was to the equipment used for filming the podcast. We stopped using the original setup, which combined low-quality cameras and lenses, and switched to more professional tripods and Canon DSLR cameras. We also improved the audio setup with a combination of lavalier mics and in-studio microphones. This gave us two separate audio sources as a backup in case of technical issues.
Together with the production team at Grupo Imagen, we also reviewed and improved the lighting setup of the available recording booths at the TV channel’s studio.
Podcast Professionalization: Script, Direction, and Distribution
Script Improvements
One of our first steps was improving the script structure to ensure the content remained both relevant and entertaining. We set time limits for each speaker and redesigned the flow to promote more agile and dynamic participation.
Tone was also key: we aimed for a more relaxed and conversational style that helped guests feel comfortable, show their human side, and share valuable experiences. We even used artificial intelligence tools to analyze and adjust the language, making it more relatable for both guests and the audience.
Direction Enhancements
Multicamera direction was another critical upgrade. We introduced a more dynamic editing style, switching camera angles approximately every five seconds, which keeps viewers visually and cognitively engaged. This approach not only enhances aesthetics but also increases viewer retention.
Visual and Audio Stimulation
To capture the attention of an audience constantly exposed to stimuli and with decreasing attention spans, we created a faster-paced production rhythm. We integrated motion graphics and sound effects timed with visual cues, adding energy and reinforcing the message.
Post-production Upgrades
We developed custom motion graphics to refresh the podcast’s visual identity. This included a new, more polished and professional intro that aligned with the brand’s evolution and positioning.
Final Result
A podcast with improved cinematography, better-structured content, dynamic direction, and a stimulating audiovisual experience.
Reduced Production Time
To streamline the process, we implemented a live direction setup during recording. Using a video switcher, we generate the final cut in real time, leaving the footage almost ready for editing. Thanks to this workflow, we deliver edited episodes in under 48 hours.
Deliverables
Once the final edit is approved by the client, we deliver a full content package for publishing and promotion:
- Audio version for platforms like Spotify, Sonoro Podcast, and Amazon Music.
- Reels: We extract between 3 and 10 clips per episode (30–90 seconds each), with dynamic cuts and visual/audio enhancements for TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts. This increases reach and redirects traffic to the main YouTube channel.
- Thumbnail design for each piece:
- YouTube podcast cover
- Presentation image for Spotify
- Custom thumbnails for social media reels
At ModeMedia, we help turn your content into a professional, dynamic, and truly impactful experience. Contact us and let’s give your project the quality it deserves.