Let's Talk About The Podcast Professionals Association (PPA)

There are professional associations that we recognize right away. Groups like the National Association of Realtors, U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and the American Meat Institute. But there are lesser-known industry groups you may not have heard of: American Christmas Tree Association, American Pie Council (I'd like to attend their conventions), International Solid Waste Association (Hard Pass), and even the American Association of Political Consultants (Swamp!).

The podcasting industry, as it has grown and matured, needs an industry group. You may not know this, but it does have one.

Let me introduce you to the Podcast Professionals Association (PPA).

Here is Jenn Trepeck, co-founder of the PPA: "There is no industry organization whose primary purpose is to serve Podcast Service Professionals. The PPA, the industry's only non-profit 501c6 trade association, is committed to setting and maintaining the standard of what it means to be a successful podcast service professional who serves podcasters. The PPA believes collaboration is the key to success in the podcasting industry.

PPA co-founder Traci DeForge adds: "We’ve collected specific feedback around the following fundamental needs for this association as a way to:"
*Support qualified freelancers and independent contractors to scale and grow their businesses
*Provide a resource directory based on an established vetting hiring criteria,
*Develop future thought leadership in the industry
*Streamline industry standards
*Eliminate the feeling of working in a vacuum and be a “go-to” resource for business development tools, best hiring practices, and more
*Unite podcast service professionals for extended collaboration and connection

How is the PPA different from other organizations, like The Podcast Academy, for example?

Jenn Trepeck answers that question: "The existing organizations focus on the Podcaster, most specifically, podcast hosts and indie podcast creators. The Podcast Professionals Association is dedicated to supporting Podcast Service Professionals as a way to advance their careers, expand their professional network, and provide resources and data to stay updated with the latest industry trends."

There are also organizations that focused on serving the business of podcasting. Their partners are those who primarily work for larger companies investing in podcasting to serve their brands. While these organizations can benefit podcast service professionals, their primary focus is not designed to support their personal or business development.

The goal of the Podcast Professionals Association is to work alongside organizations such as the Podcast Academy, Sounds Profitable, and other groups such as BIPOC, and She Podcasts to elevate the industry as a whole. 

Let's talk about the co-founders of the PPA.

Jenn Trepeck graduated from the University of Michigan Ross School of Business. In 2007, she created and developed her own health and wellness enterprise, Better My Life Now LLC. She is a certified TLS coach and NutraMetrix consultant who helps others to become happy and healthy.

Jenn says: "I founded Better Life Now LLC while working full-time in hedge funds. In 2019, I took my practice from side-hustle to full-time self-employment and launched my podcast, Salad With a Side of Fries.


In 2024, Salad With a Side of Fries won the Ear Worthy Podcast Award for Best Health & Wellness podcast. In 2025, Jenn is about to celebrate her 300th show!

Jenn notes: "On the show, we offer science-based tips and tricks for how to achieve wellness and weight loss for real life – because who wants a life without fries or dessert?!"

Traci DeForge, an international podcast expert, recently provided valuable insights for businesses on ABC TV. Her tips include conducting a brand audit, economizing marketing budgets through content creation, and utilizing platforms where the target audience spends most of their time.

She is the founder of Produce Your Podcast where they excel at developing profitable podcasts that fuel business growth by boosting visibility, sales, and leads.

She is the creator of PodHive, an online community for business growth-focused podcasters, The Podcast Management Academy, and Co-Founder of The Podcast Professionals Association, the industry's only Nonprofit 501(c)(6) trade organization for podcast service professionals.

From early-stage startups to her work with Fortune 500 companies including Google, Hilton, Weight Watchers International, Microsoft and British Airways, Traci’s expertise identifies successful business development opportunities for innovative growth.

She is the host of The Growth Accelerator Podcast and Journey to There. She's a member of the Rolling Stone Culture Council.

Traci has won the National Indie Excellence Award for Self-Publishing, the ADDY award for client packaging design and branding development, and another two other ADDY awards for radio broadcasting commercial production. 

The PPA lives on the edge by including a statement of inclusion at a time when the Executive branch of the U.S. government is expunging that word and concept from its vocabulary. However, PPA believes that the podcasting community as a whole prospers when we work together. The PPA's credo includes: "We support all podcast professionals and reject discrimination based on age, race, disability, ethnicity, religion, or sexual orientation and expression."

Further, the PPA recognizes and embraces our similarities and differences, encourages opportunities to learn from our members, and cultivates inclusive communication and multicultural skills for the betterment of the PPA community.

Let's talk about PPA membership. Membership is available in the U.S. and Canada. The organization looks forward to expanding to more international locations in the future. The membership is for an individual. You can have more than one member working for the same company, but each person needs their own individual membership. The PPA has company memberships available if there are four or more team members.

The total membership fee is $250. There is a non-refundable Application Fee of $25 and a refundable membership fee of $225.

Currently, membership is for those with at least two years of experience in the industry, and their role derives at least 50 percent of their income from the podcast industry.

Jenn notes: "While we all know time and money aren’t everything, we encourage podcast professionals to apply and share their experience whether it be in terms of years of experience, number of shows, number of episodes, and more."

Podcast Service Professionals include but are not limited to experienced podcast producers, audio engineers, marketing specialists, podcast managers, coaches, and consultants. Podcast Production Agencies, Hosting Platforms, Guest Booking Agencies, and other firms whose mission and values are dedicated to supporting podcast service professionals to advance their careers, expand their professional network, and stay updated with the latest industry trends.

Typical members include:
- Agency owners
- Editors
- Audio engineers
- Operations managers
- Podcast managers
- Guest booking agencies/managers

Traci says: "At the Podcast Professionals Association, we understand the unique goals and challenges that come with working in the podcast industry. You’ll connect with like-minded professionals who share your passion and are dedicated to your success. Together, we'll foster an environment that empowers you to reach new heights in your podcast career.

"We are committed to helping you grow your skills, exceed industry standards, and push the boundaries of the industry. As a member, you'll find community, education and inspiration—all tailored to the needs of podcast professionals."

Members, like Doug Downs of Stories And Strategies and creator/host of the podcast Stories and Strategies for Public Relations and Marketing, have enjoyed the camaraderie with other podcast professionals and the learning sessions.

Finally, Ear Worthy is a proud member of the PPA. We believe that it is an essential organization for independent podcasters and podcast service professionals.

We joined to become immersed in a supportive community of podcast professionals eager to share their knowledge, experiences, and insights. Discover new techniques, strategies, and creative approaches that will inspire you to deliver exceptional work in the industry.

The PPA also helps to protect your rights. Benefit from expert advice on contracts, licensing, intellectual property, and legal matters, ensuring that your creative contributions are safeguarded throughout your career.

Connect with fellow professionals who understand the intricacies of the podcast industry. Network, collaborate, and build lasting relationships with industry experts, creators, and innovators. Expand your professional circle and tap into a supportive network that can open doors and propel your career forward.

Finally, stay ahead of the curve with the PPA's comprehensive range of educational resources, workshops, and webinars designed specifically for podcast professionals. Learn from industry leaders, gain insights into emerging trends, and acquire new skills that will enhance your expertise and set you apart from the competition.

For example, the PPA just held a Wisdom Forum Members Only Event, which is a 75-minute water cooler/drop-in type chat is a place for you to bring ideas, challenges, and questions to colleagues. 

For independent podcasters and freelance podcast professionals, joining the PPA makes sense. You'll meet like-minded people with similar challenges who can help you, and you can assist them. It's win-win. 

Podnews is the PPAs media partner.

Check out the Podcast Professionals Association (PPA). There are copious benefits, and, most importantly, you don't have to wear a name badge!