5.4 | Final Export & Delivery: Packaging Your Podcast
The final stage of any production is “Delivery.” This isn’t just about finishing the edit; it’s about exporting the correct file types and creating the visual branding (key art) that makes your podcast look professional on platforms like Spotify or YouTube.
1. Local Editing: The “Offline” Workflow
Before you can edit in Premiere Pro or DaVinci Resolve, you cannot work directly off the cloud. Working off a web browser causes lag and crashes.
- Download your Assets: Go to your Google Drive folder from Lesson 5.4.
- Keep a Local Copy: Right-click your files and select Download, or if using Google Drive Desktop, right-click and select “Available Offline” or “Keep on this device.”
- Edit: Bring these local files into your timeline.
2. Master Export Settings
Once your edit is complete, you must export two “Master” versions: one for video platforms and one for audio-only platforms.
| Format | Codec/Type | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Video | H.264 (.mp4) | YouTube, Social Media, Portfolio |
| Audio | WAV (.wav) | Spotify, Apple Podcasts (High Quality) |
3. Creating the Visual Brand (Key Art)
A podcast needs “thumb-stopping” visuals. You must create two specific pieces of artwork using Photoshop or Canva.
The Album Artwork
- Dimensions: 2400 x 2400 px (Square)
- Format: PNG
- Content: Must include the Podcast Title and high-contrast imagery.
The YouTube Thumbnail
- Dimensions: 1920 x 1080 px (Widescreen)
- Format: PNG
- Content: Needs to be readable at a small size; use bold text and expressive faces.
4. Final Submission & Accountability
This is a group project, but accountability is individual. 1. Update your Folder: Add your exported .mp4, .wav, and both .png art files to your shared Google Drive folder.
- Every Member Submits: Even if one person did the final export, every group member must copy the link and submit it to the LMS assignment.
- No Link = No Grade: If you do not submit the link under your own LMS account, the system will mark you as “Missing.”
5. Delivery Checklist
Verify these items are in your folder before the deadline:
- Video Master:
Podcast_Final_H264.mp4 - Audio Master:
Podcast_Final_HighQual.wav - Square Art:
Album_Art_2400.png - Thumbnail:
YouTube_Thumb_1080.png - Access: Is the link still set to “Anyone with the link can view”?
🚀 Take It to the Next Level
Curious about why we use specific dimensions for artwork? Major streaming platforms have strict “Spec Sheets” that creators must follow to be featured.
Spotify for Podcasters: Artwork Requirements
Review these professional standards to see how your design stacks up against the top-ranking podcasts in the world!