Podcast Producer - LIVING FOR THE CITY (Contract)

Magnet Originals - New Independent Studio Venture

About the Show: LIVING FOR THE CITY is a premium cultural documentary podcast exploring how American cities became musical epicenters. Hosted by award-winning author and MacArthur Genius Award winner Hanif Abdurraqib, each 30-40 minute episode maps the geography, history, and community that birthed iconic sounds—from Seattle's grunge to Detroit's Motown to New Orleans' jazz.

What You'll Do

• Produce 10 field-based episodes across 2-4 cities (Seattle, Detroit, New Orleans, Nashville, The Bronx)
• Film episodes 1-3 in Week 5, episodes 4-6 prep in Weeks 6-7, episodes 4-10 filming in Week 8+
• Scout and secure iconic musical landmarks, venues, and community spaces for filming
• Coordinate archival footage/audio research and clearances (budget management critical)
• Work closely with host Hanif Abdurraqib to execute cinematic documentary storytelling
• Coordinate, book and manage interviews with musicians, historians, and community figures
• Partner with top editor and Chief Creative Officer to oversee parallel editing workflow for multiple episodes
• Work with Chief Creative Officer, Archival Researcher and Motion Graphics Artist to create distinctive visual style that enhances storytelling while minimizing licensing costs
• Produce engaging short-form content showcasing each city's musical heritage
• Enhance existing audience participation and social content strategy
  
  

You're a Great Fit If You

• Understand archival licensing and can source/release compelling historical footage/audio efficiently (essential skillset)
• Have 3-5 years of documentary or field production experience with strong portfolio
• Excel at producing in unpredictable environments across multiple locations
• Have a deep love for music history and cultural storytelling
• Can balance premium production values with budget realities
• Are skilled at securing locations, clearances, and interview subjects on tight timelines
• Can create social-first content that drives discovery and engagement
• Thrive managing complex logistics (travel, crew, equipment, locations) across cities
  
  

Bonus Points:

• Music journalism or documentary background
• Existing relationships with music historians, venue operators, or archival collections
• Experience producing for both audio and video podcast formats
• Familiarity with the cities featured in Season 1
• Color grading and cinematic post-production skills
  
  

Timeline: Weeks 3-10+ (approximately 8+ weeks), starting immediately

Budget Tier: Mid-Level Podcast Producer Rate

Location: Field-based across multiple US cities