Podcast agreement template

This a podcast agreement template sample that you can use free of charge. You can copy and paste it into Microsoft Word or Google Docs and edit as you like.

Podcast Agreement

This Podcast Agreement (the "Contract") is entered into on _________________________ [Date] by and between:

Podcast Host/Producer: _________________________ [Host or Production Company Name] located at _________________________ [Producer Address] (the "Producer").
Guest/Collaborator/Sponsor: _________________________ [Name] located at _________________________ [Address] (the "Participant").

1. Scope of Services

The Producer agrees to collaborate with the Participant for the creation, recording, and/or distribution of a podcast episode or series as described below:

1. Project Description

The podcast episode(s) will be recorded at _________________________ [Studio or Location] on _________________________ [Date(s)] and will cover the following topics or themes:
_________________________ [Describe episode topics or content focus].

2. Services Included

The Producer shall provide the following services:

_________________________ [Podcast recording and editing]
_________________________ [Sound mixing and mastering]
_________________________ [Publishing and distribution to streaming platforms]
_________________________ [Promotion and marketing of the episode]
_________________________ [Coordination with guests or sponsors]
_________________________ [Other related services as agreed upon by both parties]

3. Participant Responsibilities

The Participant agrees to:

Appear for recording on the agreed date and time.
Provide accurate and truthful information during the recording.
Refrain from using defamatory, discriminatory, or unlawful language.
Obtain any necessary permissions for materials shared or referenced in the episode.

2. Terms of Contract

This Contract shall commence on _________________________ [Start Date] and shall remain in effect until all podcast episodes or services are completed, unless terminated earlier as provided herein.
The Producer retains the right to edit and publish the recorded material at their discretion, provided the edits do not misrepresent the Participant’s statements or intentions.

3. Payment Terms

The Participant/Client agrees to pay the Producer a total sum of $_________________________ [Amount] for the podcast production services.
Payment shall be made via _________________________ [Payment Method] within _________________________ [Number] days of invoice receipt.
If applicable, royalties, sponsorship revenue, or advertising splits shall be distributed according to the following arrangement:
_________________________ [Describe revenue split or profit-sharing terms].
Late payments shall incur a fee of _________________________ [Late Fee Amount] for each week overdue.

4. Intellectual Property Rights

The Producer retains ownership of the final podcast recordings, including all edits, sound design, and promotional materials.
The Participant grants the Producer a perpetual, worldwide, royalty-free license to use their name, likeness, and voice as part of the podcast and related marketing materials.
Any use of the podcast content by the Participant outside this agreement requires written permission from the Producer.

5. Termination

Either party may terminate this Contract by providing written notice at least _________________________ [Number] days prior to the intended termination date.
If terminated early, the Producer shall be compensated for all completed work up to the termination date.
Any unfulfilled obligations or unpaid fees shall remain due upon termination.

6. Confidentiality

Both parties agree to keep confidential any sensitive or proprietary information disclosed during the production process, including unpublished recordings, financial details, and creative materials.

7. Indemnification

Each party agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the other from any claims, damages, or liabilities arising from their participation, statements, or materials provided for the podcast.

8. Governing Law and Jurisdiction

This Contract shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of _________________________ [Your State or Country]. Any disputes arising from or related to this Contract shall be resolved exclusively in the courts of _________________________ [Your State or County].

9. Entire Agreement

This Contract constitutes the entire understanding between the parties and supersedes all prior discussions, representations, or agreements, whether written or oral.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Contract as of the date first above written.

Producer
Signature: _________________________ [Signature]
Name and title: _________________________ [Name and Title]
Date: _________________________ [Date]

Participant/Client
Signature: _________________________ [Signature]
Name and title: _________________________ [Name]
Date: _________________________ [Date]

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What's a Podcast Agreement?

A podcast agreement is a legal contract between two or more parties involved in the production, hosting, or distribution of a podcast. This agreement outlines the terms, responsibilities, ownership rights, and compensation details to ensure a clear understanding among all contributors. Whether it’s between co-hosts, producers, or sponsors, a podcast agreement helps prevent disputes and protects everyone’s creative and financial interests. In this article, we’ll explore what a podcast agreement is, why it matters, and what key elements it should include.

1. Definition and Scope

A podcast agreement defines the purpose and scope of the collaboration, specifying what type of podcast is being produced, who is involved, and what roles each party will play. It may include details about recording, editing, distribution, sponsorship, or marketing responsibilities. Clearly defining these terms ensures that everyone knows what is expected from them throughout the production process.

2. Parties Involved

The contract identifies all parties participating in the project—typically the producer, host(s), guest(s), or sponsor(s). It includes their full legal names, contact details, and the capacity in which they are involved. For example, a co-host might be responsible for content creation, while a producer handles editing and distribution.

3. Terms and Conditions

A podcast agreement sets out the general terms and conditions of the collaboration. This section usually covers payment arrangements, scheduling, content ownership, usage rights, and termination policies. It can also define what happens if one party fails to meet their obligations, ensuring there’s a clear mechanism for resolving potential disputes.

4. Duration and Renewal

The agreement should specify how long the collaboration will last—whether it’s for a single season, a specific number of episodes, or an ongoing project. It may also include renewal or extension clauses, allowing the parties to continue working together under agreed terms once the initial period ends.

5. Intellectual Property Rights

Ownership of intellectual property is a crucial part of any podcast agreement. The contract should state who owns the recordings, scripts, logos, and other creative assets. It can also include licensing provisions that allow one or more parties to use the podcast content for promotional or commercial purposes, as long as proper attribution is given.

6. Payment and Revenue Sharing

Podcast agreements often outline how income will be distributed among the parties. This includes sponsorship deals, advertising revenue, royalties, or subscription-based earnings. Payment terms should be clearly defined—covering when and how participants will be compensated—to avoid misunderstandings down the line.

7. Confidentiality and Non-Disclosure

Confidentiality clauses protect sensitive information shared during production, such as business strategies, unreleased episodes, or sponsor details. These provisions ensure that no party discloses or misuses information that could harm the podcast or its reputation.

8. Legal Compliance

Podcast agreements should comply with applicable copyright, advertising, and broadcasting laws. For example, when music or sound effects are used, the agreement may specify who is responsible for obtaining the necessary licenses. It also helps ensure that the content does not infringe on third-party rights or violate any platform regulations.

Conclusion

Podcast agreements are essential for maintaining professional relationships and safeguarding creative work in the fast-growing podcast industry. By clearly outlining the roles, rights, and expectations of each party, these contracts help prevent misunderstandings and protect everyone involved. Whether you’re a host, producer, or sponsor, having a well-drafted podcast agreement ensures that your collaboration runs smoothly and your creative contributions are properly recognized and protected.