David Swanson

Available to hire

I’m an award-winning podcast producer and editor with 15 years of experience in public radio, branded audio and digital content.

About

I’m an award-winning podcast producer and editor with 15 years of experience in public radio, branded audio and digital content. I’ve supported and led the development of documentary-style series from pitch through post-production, bringing a strong foundation in structuring narratives, guest chase, script writing, field and studio recording, and story editing. With experience in both independent journalism and commercial storytelling, I thrive in fast-paced environments and love crafting both educational and emotionally resonant narratives.

  • Joined September 2025

Industry experience

  • Media & Entertainment
  • Professional Services
  • Education

Projects · 6

Ray Perman has been diagnosed with a rare form of terminal cancer. Having legally obtained the medication required, Ray is now deciding if he’ll end his own life, or let his cancer overcome him. It’s an extremely difficult position to be in, but Ray is determined to go on as long as he can and contribute as much as he can in the time he has left.

This story was produced by David Swanson and Dominic Girard with sound design by Shawn Cole and aired on CBC.

Tell Me What Happened is a multiple award-winning podcast chronicling true and inspiring stories about people stepping up to help save a stranger in a moment of crisis. This podcast was featured on the front page of Apple US, Canada, UK and Australia.

  • Podcast Editor
  • Podcast Producer

Choiceology with host Katy Milkman explores the lessons of behavioural economics using real stories to expose the psychological traps that impact people’s decisions.

  • Podcast Editor
  • Podcast Producer

Relate from Zendesk is a podcast about how we connect, how we work together, and how we understand one another.

  • Podcast Editor
  • Podcast Producer

In 2016, a 28-year-old Canadian man named Robert Gagno won the world pinball championship. Robert has autism so taking part in the sport has been a way for him to build independence.

This radio documentary aired internationally on BBC’s Outlook in March 2017.

  • Podcast Editor
  • Podcast Producer
  • Writer

Work experience· 8 roles

Show & Audience Development Strategist · Podcast MonkeyJun 2025 – Present · 1 yr 6 mos

I help brands launch podcasts from strategy to pilot, blending creative consulting with hands-on production. Spearheaded client workshops to define podcast goals, brand voice, audience profiles, and success metrics.

Senior Showrunner and Business Strategist · Pilgrim ContentOct 2024 – May 2025 · 8 mos

I led production and client communication as the showrunner for several podcast series, managing projects from concept through final delivery. I guided clients—often new to podcasting—through the creative process, from audience strategy and story development to technical setup and distribution. My work spanned editorial, audio, video, and written content, often within integrated campaigns. I collaborated closely with hosts, talent, and freelancers, developed editorial calendars and story arcs, and helped shape each show’s unique voice. Additionally, I provided narrative coaching through “Story Doctor” workshops and supported both studio and remote recording sessions to ensure top-tier audio quality.

Freelance Documentary Producer · BBC RadioJan 2019 – Sep 2025 · 6 yrs 9 mos

Produced multiple radio documentaries for the BBC broadcast globally. Conducted in-depth interviews and captured immersive field recordings to enrich narratives. Designed the sonic landscape of each episode with careful music and sound effects. Wrote detailed scripts tailored for BBC hosts, aligning voice and structure with editorial standards.

Podcast Producer & Sound Designer · Interesting Vancouver Speaker SeriesJan 2017 – Sep 2025 · 8 yrs 9 mos
Senior Showrunner & Podcast Producer · Pacific ContentOct 2016 – Jun 2024 · 7 yrs 9 mos
Associate Producer · CBC RadioMar 2016 – Sep 2016 · 7 mos
Program Director · CJSF 90.1 FM, Burnaby BCJan 2016 – Sep 2025 · 9 yrs 9 mos
Campaigns, Outreach & Production Coordinator · Vancouver Co-op Radio, 100.5 FMApr 2012 – Sep 2012 · 6 mos

Education

BA - Joint Major in Business & Communication (Marketing) · Simon Fraser University2030 – 2025
Certificate - Media & Radio Broadcasting · British Columbia Institute of Technology2030 – 2025

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