> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.podigee.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.podigee.com/documentation/start-here/ai-agents/transfer-media-encode-and-publish/start-stop-and-monitor-encoding.md).

# Start, stop, and monitor encoding

Start an episode production, monitor encoding, or stop eligible in-progress work.

Use the production ID to control and inspect media encoding.

## Before you start

* Keep the production ID and confirm its episode.
* Check encoding allowance for the podcast.
* Decide whether the episode should publish automatically after encoding.

## Start encoding

1. Preview `start_production` with the production ID and `dry_run: true`.
2. Set `publish_episode` to `true` only when the episode should publish after encoding.
3. Review the production and the publish choice.
4. Confirm the exact preview.
5. Poll `get_production` with the production ID.
6. Stop polling when the production is encoded or reports failure.

## Stop encoding

1. Read the production and confirm that encoding is in progress.
2. Preview `stop_production` with the production ID.
3. Confirm the exact stop request.
4. Read the production again and verify the resulting state.

## Expected result

The production encodes successfully, optionally publishes after encoding, or stops at a supported boundary.

## If encoding fails

Preserve the production ID and status. Confirm encoding allowance and media validity. Do not create a second production from the same upload. Follow the returned recovery path or contact Support.

## Next step

[Publish an episode that already has media](/documentation/start-here/ai-agents/transfer-media-encode-and-publish/publish-an-episode-that-already-has-media.md).


---

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