Podcasts are all the rage, and they're poised to become even more popular in 2025. As many as 141 million Americans are projected to listen to podcasts in 2025, according to data from Emarketer. That's up from 135.4 million in 2024.
For those making podcasts, the venture is not without its challenges. "In the beginning, everyone's excited to start their podcast," says Angelique Rewers, CEO and founder of small business consulting firm BoldHaus. "And then they realize what a grind it really is."
That's why for anyone considering picking up a side hustle in 2025, Rewers says, "being a podcast assistant is a huge opportunity" that's growing in demand. Here's what the gig could look like and how to dive in.
From booking guests to editing video
We've got the news you need to know to start your day. Sign up for the First & 4Most morning newsletter — delivered to your inbox daily. Sign up here.
Podcast assistants take on any of the various tasks of producing a podcast.
They could be responsible for researching and booking guests, answering emails, editing audio and posting the finished product, marketing the show across social media and traditional media, writing up show notes, finding brand deals, etc.
Many podcasters are also "starting with video," says Nicaila Okome, host of the "Side Hustle Pro" podcast, about the trend of posting your podcast on YouTube. Hosts now need video editors, too.
Money Report
Depending on the tasks you take on, the gig can also be called podcast producer or, if you're more specialized in your services, podcast editor, podcast marketing strategist, or other titles.
'You can easily go onto Fiverr and Upwork and see what people are charging'
Consider what kind of skills and experience you have, then start researching how best to offer your services.
"You can easily go onto Fiverr and Upwork and see what people are charging," says Okome, "and then develop your packages from there." On Fiverr, professionals often list their rate per project, while on Upwork they often list their rate per hour.
Both sites feature project opportunities, and Okome also recommends going on Facebook groups dedicated to podcasts to see what kinds of job offers people are posting. You can look for openings on sites like LinkedIn, Indeed, ZipRecruiter or Google Jobs as well. Projects differ in length. Some are one-time and less than 30 hours altogether, others are weekly and ongoing.
One podcast producer on Upwork is charging as much as $100 per hour.
Want to up your AI skills and be more productive? Take CNBC's new online course How to Use AI to Be More Successful at Work. Expert instructors will teach you how to get started, practical uses, tips for effective prompt-writing, and mistakes to avoid. Pre-register now and use coupon code EARLYBIRD for an introductory discount of 30% off through February 11, 2025.
Plus, sign up for CNBC Make It's newsletter to get tips and tricks for success at work, with money and in life.