Why Podcasts Are a Secret Weapon for Animators
Whether you’re sketching, commuting, or taking a break from your drawing tablet, podcasts are a powerful way to stay inspired and keep learning. They let you hear directly from working animators, directors, writers, and educators—and many of them share the real stuff: their challenges, creative process, and hard-won advice.
You don’t need a classroom to get better at animation. Sometimes, you just need to press play.
1. The Bancroft Brothers Animation Podcast
Hosted by former Disney animators Tom and Tony Bancroft, this podcast is a goldmine of industry insight. They talk shop with animators, producers, and storytellers from both 2D and 3D backgrounds.
- Great for: Anyone interested in the animation industry, Disney history, or character design
- Vibe: Fun, thoughtful, and packed with career advice
2. Animation Industry Podcast
Hosted by animator Terry Ibele, this podcast focuses on personal journeys in animation. You’ll hear how animators broke into the field, dealt with rejection, and built their careers step by step.
- Great for: Students, aspiring pros, and indie animators
- Vibe: Honest, encouraging, and full of relatable stories
3. Drawn: The Story of Animation
A limited series created by HowStuffWorks in partnership with Cartoon Network, this podcast explores the evolution of animation—from pencil tests to CGI—and includes interviews with show creators, voice actors, animators, and industry insiders.
- Great for: Curious minds who want to understand the bigger picture
- Vibe: Educational, polished, and immersive
4. Animation Happy Hour
Hosted by three DreamWorks and Blue Sky animators, this podcast has a relaxed, behind-the-scenes vibe. They talk about animation careers, industry trends, and balancing work with life.
- Great for: Students and early-career animators
- Vibe: Laid-back and insightful—like hanging out with your animation friends
5. School of Motion Podcast
While not just about character animation, this podcast dives deep into motion design, storytelling, freelancing, and creative growth. You’ll hear from big names across the industry, and it often overlaps with animation principles.
- Great for: Motion designers, hybrid creatives, and freelancers
- Vibe: Smart, creative, and business-savvy
Want more tools to stay motivated and keep improving?
Master Animation Faster with Bloop Courses
Learn the Art of Animation— Step by Step
Final Thoughts
If you’re an aspiring animator, podcasts are a low-pressure, high-impact way to stay connected to your creative goals.
You’ll hear about the ups, the downs, and everything in between—and sometimes, that’s exactly what you need to keep going.
Hit play, keep drawing, and stay inspired.