Pilot your podcast idea first on "Podcast Captain" before going all-in!

Got a great podcast idea but not sure if it’ll fly? 

Let "Podcast Captain" help you find out! 

We help you professionally produce a pilot episode, launch it to a real audience and gather audience feedback and market interest.

Whether you’re new to podcasting or a seasoned host with a fresh idea, Podcast Captain will help you validate your podcast concept before you take the next steps towards producing the show on a bigger scale. 

​

Ready to Pilot Your Podcast? 

Submit your email address below to get the application details.

We will never spam you.  Your details are safe with us.

What This Podcast Project is About

Podcast Captain is designed to help podcasters test the waters before diving into full production. We collaborate with you to produce a high-quality pilot episode, distribute it to your target audience, and gather crucial feedback. 

By measuring engagement and listener interest, you'll know whether your concept is ready for a larger investment or needs some fine-tuning. It’s all about making smart, data-driven decisions for your podcast’s future.

​

What you'll be getting on Podcast Captain:

• A fully-produced pilot episode
• Our Podcast Conceptualisation Framework via a stragetic planning seesion
• Remote Podcast Recording and Editing Expertise and Services
• Podcast Intro Design
• Podcast Launch, Distribution and Marketing Workflow

1. What sort of podcasts would qualify?

- We are currently accepting non-fiction podcasts. This could be in the form of interviews, conversational shows, journalistic narratives, or expert discussions. We are not accepting audio drama or fictional podcasts at this time. If your podcast aims to provide value through real-life stories, education, or engaging discussions, you’re in the right place!

​

2. Who can qualify?

- We welcome independent podcasters and businesses or brands looking to explore podcasting as a form of content marketing. Whether you're an individual with a fresh idea or a company aiming to create brand awareness through a podcast, you’re eligible to pitch your concept to Podcast Captain.

​

3. Who owns the copyright to the produced pilot?

-You will retain copyright ownership of the underlying work and concept of your pilot podcast. However, Podcast Captain will hold mechanical rights to publish, reproduce, or feature the pilot episode (or segments of it) on our website and associated platforms as part of our project. This means that while the idea remains yours, we may use the episode for promotional and portfolio purposes.

​

4. What are your selection criteria for the pilot episode?

We evaluate pilot pitches based on several key factors:

• Originality and Uniqueness: Does the podcast have a fresh angle or perspective?
• Target Audience: Is there a clear understanding of who the podcast is for and why it will resonate with them?
• Format: How well does the structure (e.g., interviews, conversations, storytelling) align with the podcast’s goals?
• Feasibility: Can the concept be produced within the pilot’s scope and budget?
• Potential Impact: Is the topic timely, engaging, and likely to attract and hold audience attention?

​

5. How long is the pilot episode?

The pilot episode will be capped at 25 minutes in length. This timeframe allows for enough content to showcase your podcast’s concept, format, and value while maintaining listener engagement. It also helps provide a good measure of audience interest during the validation phase.

​

6. How much does it cost to participate in Podcast Captain?

- Application is free! For our founding participants, if your podcast idea is selected for production, there is an investment of just USD 197. This ensures you're committed to testing and validating your idea. Considering the package includes a strategic session to develop the podcast concept, script refinement, podcast intro design, recording, editing, and distribution, this is an exceptional value—services that typically cost far more. It’s the perfect opportunity to professionally produce your podcast pilot at a fraction of the usual cost.

​

7. What is the timeline for producing and launching the pilot?

- The production timeline typically ranges from 4 to 6 weeks, depending on the complexity of your podcast concept and the availability of our resources. For Season 1 of Podcast Captain, once the pilot episode is produced, it will be launched together as a batch with 8 - 10 other pilot episodes for feedback and validation.

​

8. What happens after the pilot episode is launched?

- After the pilot is released, we will gather feedback and key metrics (e.g., listener engagement, downloads, and reviews) to help you assess the viability of your podcast idea. Based on the results, you’ll be better equipped to decide if you want to proceed with a full series.

​

9. Can I apply if I don’t have podcasting experience?

- Absolutely! We encourage podcasters of all experience levels to apply. Whether you’re a seasoned podcaster or just starting out with a fresh idea, Podcast Captain is designed to help validate your concept and guide you through the pilot process.

​

10. What if my pilot isn’t selected?

- If your podcast idea is not selected for production, you’ll still receive feedback and suggestions on how to improve or refine your concept. We encourage resubmissions after making adjustments based on our team’s insights.

​

11. What platforms will the pilot episode be published on?

- The pilot episode will be published on popular podcast platforms such as Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts, as well as on the Podcast Captain website. You’ll also receive promotional support to help drive traffic to your episode.

FAQ