Frequently Asked Questions

What to expect when you work with Moonpie Media, from the first conversation to launch. Don't see your question? Ask me directly.

  • Narrative and investigative podcast series with a human angle, branded storytelling podcasts in all formats, thought-provoking interview series, vodcasts, and video companion films and shorts.

  • Both! I’ve made branded series for Atlantic Re:think and independent shows like The Good-Bye. Either way, the approach is the same: find the story and tell it well.

  • Moonpie is led by me, Shannon McGarvey, and I’m hands-on with every project. For each production, I bring in trusted collaborators, such as editors, sound designers, motion graphics artists, and composers, based on what the show needs.

  • Not at all. I’m based in Austin, Texas, and work with creators, institutions, and brands nationwide. Remote recording and collaboration are built into how I work.

PROCESS AND TIMELINE

  • Projects move through five stages: development, where we shape the concept and format; pre-production, where we research, cast, story map, and conduct pre-interviews; production, which involves recording (either remote or in-person); post-production, including scripting, voiceover, editing, sound design, and mix; and delivery, with launch materials like trailers, audiograms, video clips, and episode descriptions.

  • It depends on scope. A conversation-driven season can come together in three months, while an investigative series with records requests and extensive reporting usually takes six months or more. I’ll give you a realistic timeline after our first conversation.

  • Yes. Moonpie began as a video production company in 2014, and I can produce your show for both audio and video, including clips for social media and companion films that take the story further.

  • Yes. I can write trailers, episode descriptions, and show notes, and prepare clips and launch assets. For longer-term audience growth and sponsorship strategy, I can connect you with trusted specialists.

INVESTIGATIVE AND SENSITIVE STORIES

  • Yes. Every claim is checked against primary sources, interviews, and records. For investigative projects, I recommend building legal review into the schedule.

  • Please do. I’m always looking for overlooked stories, especially those involving women, children, people with disabilities, and communities that rarely get heard. Use the contact form and tell me what you know.

BUDGET AND GETTING STARTED

  • Every project is scoped individually, based on the number of episodes, the amount of reporting, and whether you need video. Most fully produced limited series podcasts start at $3-$5K per episode, depending on scope, whereas other formats are variable. Share your budget range when you reach out, and I’ll tell you what’s possible.

  • In most cases, you do. Ownership and rights are spelled out clearly in our agreement before production begins.

WORKING WITH MOONPIE