Podcast Production Intern

The Amazon Conservation Team (ACT) is a nonprofit organization founded in 1996. The mission of ACT is to partner with indigenous and other local communities to protect tropical forest and strengthen traditional culture. ACT has presence in Brazil, Colombia and the Guianas.

Specifically, ACT seeks to steadily increase the number of local communities in the Amazon who are able to monitor, sustainably manage and protect their traditional forestlands and significantly increase the area of Amazonian rainforest with improved protection. ACT’s strategic approach to conservation, focusing on sustainable land management and protection, secure and sustainable livelihoods, and strengthening community governance and culture, supports our vision for the Amazon and provides a clear, unified and long-term direction for how our organization operates.

About Plants of the Gods: The Plants of the Gods podcast explores the cultural, medicinal, and ecological significance of plants and fungi around the world. Each episode blends anthropology, botany, history, and conservation science to highlight how different societies have used these species for healing, ritual, and traditional knowledge. To date, the podcast has surpassed 6.9 million downloads and is preparing for its upcoming eighth season. Each season includes 10 episodes that are released bi-weekly.

The podcast intern will support the external communications manager in helping to produce and promote the podcast. They will have the opportunity to work closely with the podcast host, Dr. Mark J. Plotkin, who is the author of several books on the Amazon rainforest and is a highly regarded public speaker in the conservation space. Additionally, the intern will support the staff in integrating the podcast into the Amazon Conservation Team's overall external communications plan and help the podcast reach new audiences.

Internship Responsibilities

• Produce engaging social media promos (Instagram, BlueSky, Facebook)
• Edit short video of podcast interviews for web and social
• Pitch guest and show ideas
• Assist with booking and studio coordination
• Upload the podcast across platforms
• Write blogs based on podcast content
• Respond to listener comments and feedback
• Monitor podcast analytics

What You'll Gain

• Hands-on experience in podcast production and nonprofit communications
• Mentorship and skill development in digital media
• Insight into how nonprofits use storytelling to support their mission
• A portfolio-ready experience and potential references

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements

• Pursuing an associate’s or bachelor’s program in journalism, public relations or communications. Those studying outside those fields still encouraged to apply. (Must be a student or recent graduate in Spring 2026)
• Experience using Canva or other design platform
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Curious about the world, with a deep respect for Indigenous cultures
• Motivated self-starter
• Attention to detail

Preferred Qualifications

• Podcast, radio or video experience
• Journalism or communications experience
• Fluency in Spanish, Portuguese or Dutch
• Interest in the tropical plants of South America

Location: Falls Church, VA

Internship Dates: February 1, 2026 to May 31, 2026

Time Commitment: 15-20 hours/week

Reports to: Communications Manager

Application Procedures: Please submit a resume & cover letter to [email protected]. In your cover letter, explain what experience you hope to gain from the internship and the unique skills you could bring to the role. Use "Podcast Production Intern" in the subject line.