DIY Podcast vs. Outsourcing: Which Is Right For You?
Launching a podcast is exciting - but one of the first big questions you’ll face is whether to produce it yourself or outsource to a professional podcast production agency.
Both approaches have their pros and cons, depending on your budget, time, and goals. As an agency specialising in podcast production, we’ve worked with brands, businesses, and creators who’ve tried both routes.
We break down the options to help you make a decision that’s right for you and your project.
Producing Your Own Podcast: The Pros
1. Total Flexibility
When you go DIY, you set your own schedule. No need to coordinate with a production team - you can record whenever it suits you and your team.
2. Unlimited Takes
Not happy with your delivery? Just go again. You can re-record sections until they sound exactly how you want.
3. Record Anywhere You Like
Home office, co-working space, hotel room — with the right equipment, your podcast studio can go wherever you do.
4. Opportunity to Learn a New Skill
Producing your own show means you’ll pick up valuable skills in audio recording, editing, and sound design. It’s a great opportunity to expand your creative toolkit.
Producing Your Own Podcast: The Cons
1. Higher Up-Front Costs
Good-quality microphones, headphones, and editing software can be expensive - especially if you’re just starting out.
2. Steeper Learning Curve
Audio editing tools take time to master. You’ll need to invest hours into tutorials before achieving a professional finish.
3. Lower Sound Quality (At Least at First)
Even with decent gear, getting that polished, balanced sound can be tricky without experience. Background noise and uneven levels can make your podcast feel less professional.
4. It Takes Longer
Recording, editing, mastering, and publishing - it all adds up. DIY podcasting can quickly become a full-time commitment - tricky when you’re already balancing so many other tasks.
Outsourcing Your Podcast Production: The Pros
1. Professional Sound and Editing
Working with a podcast production agency means your episodes will sound clear, consistent, and high-quality - no background hum, no uneven audio, just professional sound.
2. Focus on Content, Not Tech
You can concentrate on what really matters: your message, your guests, and your storytelling. We can take care of the setup, recording, and editing so you don’t have to.
3. Expert Guidance
An experienced producer can help with everything from microphone technique to show structure, helping your podcast reach its full potential.
Outsourcing Your Podcast Production: The Cons
1. Contracts and Commitments
Some agencies require long-term contracts or minimum episode packages, which can limit flexibility if you’re just starting out.
2. Location Limitations
If your production agency only works from a studio, you’ll need to travel for each session. This isn’t ideal if you prefer to record in your own space.
3. Less Technical Involvement
Outsourcing means you won’t learn as much about the production process; this could be a downside if you are keen to develop those skills yourself.
Our Take: Professional Quality Without the Strings Attached
At Fat Panda, we believe in keeping podcasting simple and stress-free.
That’s why we don’t tie you into a contract - you can work with us as often or as little as you like.
Even better, we’re fully mobile, so we can bring our professional recording setup to you - whether that’s your office, event venue, or home studio.
If you’re looking for professional-quality podcast production with complete flexibility, outsourcing doesn’t have to mean losing control - it means focusing on what you do best: creating great conversations and meaningful content.
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Let’s Get Your Podcast out into the world!
Podcasts give universities a powerful voice to share stories, showcase expertise, and connect with audiences worldwide.
You’ve heard that everyone’s doing it, but where do you even begin? That’s where we come in. We’ll help you go from idea to a polished podcast that you’ll be proud to share - without the overwhelm.
Send us an enquiry, and we'll be happy to discuss our packages or offer you a customised quote that aligns with your specific business needs.