Behind the Mic: Jody Avirgan’s Journey Through Summer and Winter Albums in Podcasting

Podcasting has become an accessible medium for creators worldwide, allowing anyone to share their voice. With a variety of hardware and software options available, aspiring podcasters can set up their studios in countless ways, from professional NPR setups to simple USB rigs. In this article, we explore the insights of Jody Avirgan, co-host of the podcast “Summer Album / Winter Album,” as he shares his unique podcasting setup and experiences.

Meet Jody Avirgan: Podcasting Enthusiast

Jody Avirgan, known for his work with Radiotopia, TED, FiveThirtyEight, and ESPN, co-hosts a podcast that debates the seasonal categorization of classic albums with Craig Finn, the lead singer of The Hold Steady. Avirgan’s expertise in podcasting shines through as he discusses his preferred recording setup.

Creating the Ideal Podcasting Environment

Avirgan transformed his basement into a cozy recording studio, which he describes as:

• Located in a basement studio apartment with a kitchen setup.
• Soundproofed with curtains and soft furnishings.
• Equipped with an Electro-Voice RE27N/D microphone, a high-quality studio mic.

He humorously notes that he acquired this mic while working on ESPN’s “30 for 30” and has since kept it despite the transition to his home studio.

Portable Recording Solutions

When on the go, Avirgan opts for an AT2020-USB+ microphone, which allows him to record audio directly into his computer, often from unconventional locations like hotel closets.

Essential Podcasting Equipment

To control audio levels, he uses a FocusRite Scarlett 2i2 interface. Avirgan emphasizes the importance of local backup recordings, which he saves to Dropbox using Hindenburg software. His choice of headphones deviates from the norm; instead of the widely used Sony MDR-7506, he prefers Rode NTH-100 headphones for their comfort and durability.

Editing and Visual Setup

In the evolving landscape of podcasting, Avirgan has embraced video content. He primarily uses Descript for audio and video editing, praising its versatility and user-friendly features. He has leveraged this tool to create engaging social media content, including a weekly series on New Yorker covers.

Personal Touches in Visual Presentation

For his video recordings, Avirgan utilizes his MacBook camera, often enhancing his background with:

• Books to showcase his reading habits.
• A signed photo of basketball legend George Mikan.
• Decorative fake plants from Ikea for a touch of greenery.

Learning from Fellow Podcasters

Avirgan is part of a community of talented podcasters. He joins others like Anna Rubanova, Rose Rimler, and David Rees, who have shared their workflows and insights into the podcasting process.

For those looking to dive into podcasting, understanding the setups and experiences of seasoned podcasters like Jody Avirgan can be invaluable. Whether you’re a hobbyist or aiming for a professional level, the right equipment and environment can significantly enhance your podcasting journey.

Explore more about podcasting tips and tricks on our dedicated podcasting page.