Friday Newsflow: The Invisible Labor of Podcasting
There’s a lot that goes into producing a podcast—far more than most people ever see.
And for many of us, especially indie creators and community-centered podcasters, that labor is often invisible.
We write, edit, schedule, promote, follow up with guests, brainstorm season arcs, post on socials, update links, track downloads, troubleshoot tech, manage inboxes... and do it all with heart and purpose.
All of that? That’s work.
And it deserves to be acknowledged.
What’s Happening
This week’s theme is inspired by a truth we all know but rarely name: Podcasting is labor. And most of it goes unpaid, unseen, and underappreciated.
Especially when you’re a Black or brown woman in this space, there’s added pressure to show up polished and professional—even when you’re tired, under-resourced, or just trying to stay afloat.
The creative burnout is real. And the mental load? Heavy.
Why It Matters
So many people quit podcasting not because they don’t love it, but because it becomes unsustainable.
When the labor isn’t acknowledged—or worse, when folks assume it’s “just a hobby”—it creates a culture where only well-funded or highly resourced creators get to thrive.
This is why communities like WOC Podcasters exist.
Because we need spaces where we can speak openly about the realities of this work—and get the tools, care, and support to keep going.
💬 Podcasting isn’t effortless.
💡 And it’s time we stopped pretending like it should be.
💜 What you’re doing matters—even when no one sees the backend.
Your Move
This week, take a moment to:
✅ Write down all the behind-the-scenes tasks you’ve done for your show this month—then give yourself some credit
✅ Check in with a podcasting friend and ask, “How are you really doing?”
✅ Say no to one thing that isn’t essential—because your energy is not infinite
✅ Celebrate any step forward, even if it’s just showing up to the mic
And if you’re a listener—send a message or leave a review for a podcast you love. Let them know you see the work.
Bottom Line
Podcasting is work.
Emotional work. Creative work. Strategic work.
And for many of us, it’s unpaid labor fueled by passion and purpose.
You don’t have to do more. You just need to be seen for what you’re already doing.
💬 What’s one behind-the-scenes task you do that people probably don’t realize is part of podcasting?
Where’s the Episode Round-Up?
Normally, this is where we highlight new episodes from our podcast network—but I’m currently traveling in Ghana and unable to update links in real time.
Still, I encourage you to browse the Atabey & Co. podcast network, catch up on a show you’ve missed, and share something that resonated.
Even while I’m away, the mission stays the same: amplify Black and brown women podcasters, always.
Help Us Grow WOC Voices in Podcasting
While I’m away, I’m also reflecting on how we grow and sustain this space.
Right now, less than 3% of our Substack audience are paid subscribers. But even a small shift would mean a lot:
🟣 At 5% paid, we could offer free memberships to Black and brown women who can’t afford to join the community
🟣 At 10%, we could fund monthly workshops, templates, and resources for indie creators
🟣 At 20%, we could offer microgrants, bring on contributors, and expand the directory
Our Podcast Growth Sprint, which kicked off Monday, is now fully underway. Paid subscribers receive exclusive access to all Sprint materials, including prompts, visibility tools, and curated guidance to help you grow your show—without the overwhelm.
If this work has supported you, inspired you, or reminded you that you're not alone in your podcasting journey, consider becoming a paid subscriber.
$5/month or $50/year. Subscribe here.
Network and Learn at these Upcoming Events
*The Anti-Burnout Growth Strategy: Podcast Smarter, Not Harder - April 30th at 4pm ET
This workshop is designed to help you increase audience reach and engagement while working less. We’ll dive into sustainable podcasting strategies, automation techniques, and ways to repurpose content effectively so you can free up time without sacrificing quality or growth. {This is a WOC Podcasters Member event. Join WOC Podcasters to attend this event and many more!}
Podcasting Made Simple Live by PodMatch - April 17th at 11:30am ET: A virtual podcasting community event focused on helping podcast guests and hosts level up so they can impact more listeners and reach their goals. [Free]
Business and Podcasting Networking Event For Female Entrepreneurs - April 22 at 11am CT: Join us for a powerful networking and discussion around all things business and podcasting. After this free-flow FAQ session, you’ll walk away with: Your burning podcasting questions answered; New female entrepreneurs to add to your network; Renewed energy about your next step. [Free]
The 5 levers that will skyrocket your podcast in 2025 - April 22nd at 11:30am ET: Join Ausha for an exclusive live session where they unveil the 5 must-have channels to effectively acquire new listeners and take your podcast to the next level. They’ll guide you through the key strategies for maximizing the impact of your promotional efforts. [Free]
The Black Effect Podcast Festival 2025 - April 26th at 10am ET in Atlanta, GA: The Black Effect Podcast Festival is back on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at Pullman Yards in ATL. Get ready for a day of culture, community, and conversation!
Launch, Host & Grow: The Masterclass That Turns Your Podcast Into a Lead-Generating Machine - April 28th at 11am CT: A step-by-step on-demand training to help service-based entrepreneurs launch a podcast, host virtual events, and grow an audience that actually buys. [Free]
What Audio Producers *Really* Need to Know About Video Podcasting - May 1st at 2pm ET: If you’re curious about venturing into the world of video podcasting, then join us for a can’t miss panel discussion featuring real experts from the worlds of YouTube and Spotify. [Free]
Doors are open to join the WOC Podcasters community!
WOC Podcasters is an inclusive podcasting community for Women of Color podcasters, audio creators, and professionals to connect, learn, and share resources. From esteemed podcasting leaders to aspiring podcasters looking to get started, this community will help you find the resources to prosper along your creative journey. Join with a 30-day free trial here.
Want to Submit Your Content to The Podcaster’s Digest?
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The burnout is real, the emotional labour is constant, and yet many of us stay the course because the purpose drives us. But purpose shouldn’t mean invisibility. Salute to you and the WOC Podcasters community for naming it, holding space for it, and pushing for sustainability in a space that too often romanticises the hustle. I’ll be sharing this, and I’ll definitely be writing down all the tasks I’ve done lately. Time to give myself some credit.