Golden Valley Studio Takes Podcasts to Next Level

Podcasts are popular and they’re getting bigger every day. A Golden Valley business thinks that popularity should come with a healthy dose of quality.

Ian Levitt founded Studio Americana just over a year ago. His idea was to bring his 20 years of radio experience to podcasts.

His clients cover topics from wedding planning to dentistry, but they share one thing in common – they’re not broadcast professionals. Studio Americana’s role is to take care of the production side of things, so the podcasters can concentrate on their shows.

At around $250 a session, Studio Americana’s services aren’t targeted at hobbyists, but businesses.

“Businesses that are seeing podcasts as a way to expand,” says Levitt. “Whether it’s social media presence, whether it’s brand identity, or being thought leaders in the industry they’re in.”

He “Makes It Sound Pristine”

One of his clients is Josey Stafford, a metro area wedding planner. Her podcasts cover all the details that come up when you’re getting married.

“It’s a really awesome way for me to educate brides and grooms that are hiring me or that are not gonna hire me,” Josey says.

She started her podcasting career in her own basement, but wasn’t happy with the quality of her shows. Then she found Studio Americana.

“Ian makes it super easy because I just talk and tell him when I want to talk, and then he edits all of it and makes it sound pristine.”

Levitt knew he was taking a big risk walking away from a career in radio to start his own business – especially one that requires a lot of expensive equipment up-front. But the risk was worth it. His studio only opened in May of last year, but it’s already showing a profit. Levitt thinks that shows there’s a bright future in professional podcasting, and he’s delighted to be on the leading edge of the industry here in the Midwest.

“It’s just been an exciting time. We’re very happy we opened this.”

Golden Valley