We are launching a new video podcast hosted by Baratunde Thurston that delves into the complex interplay between technology, AI, and society. This series will help us understand our rapidly emerging future while encouraging us to shape it and laugh at the absurdity. Through conversations with a diverse range of guests, practical and playful integration of A.I. tools, and creative/comedic segments, the show aims to demystify AI and make it more relatable, emphasizing its impact on everyday life for a target audience that includes technology professionals and decision makers, creatives, and the broadly curious.

We seek a Showrunner aka Lead Producer to lead the production of 26 episodes over a one-year period, working closely with the host, writer/researcher, production & sales teams, and lead sponsor.

Pre-production starts in June, production in July, and the show fully launches in September.

Responsibilities:

• Project Management & Podcast Production: Oversee all aspects of the video podcast production, from pre-production planning to post-production editing, ensuring each episode is delivered on time and within budget. Will involve coordination of LA-area studios and remote recording.
• Team Coordination: Act as the primary liaison between studio partners, the brand and design team, audio and video editors, and other external partners involved in the production process. Help I.D. and close any gaps.
• Content Oversight: Work closely with the host and writer to develop episode themes, scripts, and ensure all content (audio, video, social clips) aligns with the overall mission of the series and brand.
• Guest Booking & Coordination: Manage communications with guests, scheduling, and on-set coordination to ensure a seamless production experience.
• Quality Control: Monitor the quality of audio and video production, collaborating with studio partners to maintain high production standards.
• Sponsor Deliverables & Ad Integration: Manage the creation and delivery of all assets required by sponsor(s) and advertisers, including host-read ads, ensuring they meet the sponsor’s expectations and contractual obligations.
• Openness to AI Integration: Foster a culture of experimentation by collaborating with the show’s host and AI Specialist to integrate AI creatively and effectively in the production workflow and content creation. We might regret this, but we reserve the right to reverse course!
• Budget Management: Monitor the show’s budget, approve expenditures, and make adjustments to prevent overruns.
• Analytics and Feedback: Evaluate episode performance through audience feedback and analytics, and adjust the show format or content based on these insights.
• Marketing Collaboration: Coordinate with marketing teams to develop and implement promotional strategies, manage the creation of marketing materials, and ensure consistent branding.
• Strategic Vision: Contribute to the long-term strategic planning for the series, with the vision of developing it into a diversified business and enduring brand. This includes exploring potential spin-offs, additional seasons, or related projects.

Qualifications:

• Proven experience as a Showrunner, Producer, or similar leadership role in media production, particularly in podcasting or video podcasting.
• Strong project management skills, capable of managing multiple tasks and projects simultaneously under tight deadlines.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to foster strong relationships with team members, partners, and guests.
• A keen interest in AI and its implications for society and media.
• Creative and experimental mindset, willing to push the boundaries of conventional media production with AI integration.
• Deep understanding of technical aspects of video and audio production.
• Marketing savvy, experienced in coordinating promotional activities for media projects.

Application Process:

Interested candidates should send a human-generated email to

contact leadproducerjob@baratunde.com explaining why you’re a good fit for the

position along with a resume (online CVs and portfolios are encouraged). Please

include references and any applicable links to previous work.