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INTERVIEWS Archives | POD BIBLE https://podbiblemag.com/category/interviews/ THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO PODCASTS Fri, 06 Jun 2025 14:18:03 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 Premiere Podcast Studios https://podbiblemag.com/premiere-podcast-studios/ Fri, 06 Jun 2025 10:50:16 +0000 https://podbiblemag.com/?p=75615 We spoke to Premiere Podcast Studios about their studio space in Shoreditch… What inspired you to start Premiere Podcast Studios, and what sets it apart from other podcast studios? The Podcast Studio in London, actually sits on the site of my previous music studios, which itself had a great history as Andrew Weatherall’s Scrutton Street Studios in Shoreditch. The space had long been known for its music production, and taking over the site in 2016 I continued that legacy with another fantastic few years as an electronic music studio. However, at the start of Covid the lease ended and the landlord refurbished the whole building, which meant the music studios were no more at this stage. Fast forward through lockdown, […]

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We spoke to Premiere Podcast Studios about their studio space in Shoreditch…

What inspired you to start Premiere Podcast Studios, and what sets it apart from other podcast studios?

The Podcast Studio in London, actually sits on the site of my previous music studios, which itself had a great history as Andrew Weatherall’s Scrutton Street Studios in Shoreditch. The space had long been known for its music production, and taking over the site in 2016 I continued that legacy with another fantastic few years as an electronic music studio. However, at the start of Covid the lease ended and the landlord refurbished the whole building, which meant the music studios were no more at this stage. Fast forward through lockdown, and I saw the opportunity to rebuild – this time as a podcast recording studio, keeping that creative energy alive but evolving it into a new proposition.

What really sets us apart is the attention to service. We support clients from arrival to recording to final edit, with in-house engineers and a full studio team on hand throughout the session. It’s a complete experience, not just a hire space and we pride ourselves on the personal touch. This enables hosts and their guests to fully concentrate on their performance and subject matter.

Premiere Studios Logo

If you are hosting multiple sessions on one day we can handle meet and greet and staging of the interviewees to make sure the experience between recordings is seamless. Many clients bring a whole team of producers and brand managers. We have a production area specifically for this, with a live feed from the studio which also has a talkback facility for producers and hosts in the room. There are also a host of on-site facilities most of which are provided free of charge. We also offer wheelchair access.

Lastly, its location, location, location. Our proximity to London transport hubs means you can attract a wider (sometimes global) pool of guests with minimal travel hassle:

  • 5 Minutes walk from Old Street, Liverpool St & Moorgate which boast direct connections to Stansted & Heathrow and airports through the Elizabeth Line and Overground rail.
Premiere Podcast Studios_Desk_2 Person
Can you walk us through the facilities and services your studio offers to podcasters?

We offer multiple set-ups with various fireside options plus 2–4 people in a cross-desk format. We also have a production area with live feed and seating working area for producers and brand managers to utilise without disrupting the recordings.

We only offer engineer-managed sessions, we are not a self-service studio. The prices often advertised by our competitors frequently have a lower “from” price, we try to avoid too many “add-ons” with our pricing to keep things transparent.

Our core services: as would be expected with any podcast studio, cover multi-cam recording in HD – 4k, with live editing options, recording, mixing and mastering of Audiobooks and audio productions such as digital radio shows, plus the full gamut of podcast editing options including trailers and thumbnail creation and social cuts.

The studio itself was custom built with external sound isolation in mind using the traditional room-within-a-room design. Built with extra high-grade materials such as Fermacell boards (instead of plasterboard) and higher density 100kg/m3 rockwool layers rather than standard RW3 which has a rating of 60kg/m3. All designed to give the best possible recording environment for customers.

Premiere Podcast Studios_Production Suite

The wider building space has modern facilities with a large reception area for hosts and guests to meet and prepare for their recordings, a large kitchen area and private meeting rooms for hire should clients want privacy or hair and makeup services, it can all be provided to assist. Ultimately, if you’re looking to rent a podcast studio in London, it should have amenities to cater for all types of guests. We also have wheelchair accessibility.

Something which also sets us apart is our ability to provide Digital expertise through my agency Fused Seven. Over the last 14 years I have worked with a lot of businesses in a range of sectors driving Digital Awareness, Global SEO strategies and ROI-focussed customer acquisition activity. This expertise is utilised for clients who are looking to scale their podcast, especially in an algorithm-driven social media world, where, depending on your sector or podcast niche, finding your right audience can require a more precise strategic approach than just blanket coverage through social advertising.

Finally, the behemoth AI. There’s so much ongoing noise around AI tools and its usage, it’s impossible to ignore the use cases for it across our business and the client’s final product. However, the quality of AI output is much more advanced within the creative sphere, than pre- / post-production. We take a very considered approach to AI deployment, utilising it where appropriate to add value to the production and recording process (like Riverside remote recordings), but we also offer hybrid solutions, utilising AI to offer cost benefit whilst keeping the human element needed for premium quality control.

Premiere Podcast Studios_Fireside_Dark Red Chairs

What are some of the biggest challenges podcasters face when recording, and how does your studio help overcome them?

There are 4 main areas:

  1. Recording
  2. Hands on Support
  3. Attention to Detail
  4. Vision / Quality of Final Product

In regard to the recording process, it’s the environment, and being able to control the macro factors that might affect the recording. We’re always running back up feeds which means we’ve never (yet) encountered any lost recordings (which is never a good look). We do everything we can to mitigate technology failures. They obviously can happen, and the purpose of having engineers monitoring for issues as soon as they happen is the peace of mind using a studio setting provides.

Hands-on support is something some studios lack and clients are left to figure it out themselves. We only work on a managed session basis, we stay with you throughout, making sure every detail is handled so you can focus entirely on the conversation.

Premiere Podcast Studios_Facilities_Kitchen Area

Where possible, laser focussed attention to detail will enable you to put the best version of your production out into the world. Measure twice, cut once if you like. You don’t want to be watching back footage and realise there is incorrect framing or some visual / audible noise affecting the quality. Of course, if relaxed and loose is the nature of the podcast, then it’s less of an issue but, s#*t can always go wrong regardless.

Lastly, it’s just about striving for quality regardless of your aesthetic / brand. Having a clear idea of how a professional podcast should look and flow are factors that we as a studio will work with the hosts to achieve the desired final product. That guidance helps hosts stay in the zone while we handle everything behind the scenes.

Premiere Podcast Studios_Main Reception

Have you worked on any standout podcasts that you’re particularly proud of?

Some of the guests and hosts that come through the door are definitely surreal moments.

We recently hosted a 2-day recording with Maisie Williams (of Game of Thrones fame) through Cup and Nuzzle productions for the Famously… Winona Podcast.

We’ve also hosted a range of high-profile guests from Riz Ahmed to Rob Delaney, and recently recorded a number of episodes for HRH Queen Camilla’s – The Queens Reading Room. These are just a few of the names people might be aware of.

Premiere Podcast Studios_Fireside_Leather Chairs

What advice would you give to someone starting their first podcast in a professional studio?

Preparation is everything. Make sure you have done your research and understand that you’re investing in your choices, just like you would a new car or something high value. If you’re serious about the podcast and are in it for the long run, then it pays to take things seriously from the get-go and evolve from there.

Using a studio such as ours allows you to focus on your performance, making sure the message you’re getting across with your podcast is the stand-out, instead of worrying about technical issues or scrambling for support and trying to fix problems in post-production, especially when recording with an elusive guest, you may only get one chance with them!

Premiere Podcast Studios_Fireside_Green Chairs_New

How do you see the podcasting industry evolving, and what role do professional studios like yours play in that growth?

I feel there’s already been an interesting divergence, the growth in B2B podcasting is really interesting, it presents a real opportunity across the board. It’s easy to look at the higher profile entertainment podcasts and assume the medium of podcasting is all about that. Increasingly that’s just not the case. Really niching down (from a B2B perspective) drives highly targeted and engaged audiences which can deliver valuable return on investment for businesses. At Premiere we not only have the production expertise but we also have the strategic experience from a media perspective to be able to facilitate the amplification of the product.

What’s next for Premiere Podcast Studios – any exciting plans or expansions on the horizon?

More locations and a broader range of set-ups. We’ve got a huge proof of concept project in the pipeline but, unfortunately, I can’t say any more at this stage!

How can Pod Bible readers find out more about the studio?

Find out more on our website, email us at bookings@premierepodcaststudios.com or give us a call on +44 7916 250090.

 

This article was produced as part of a paid advertising package. To enquire about advertising with Pod Bible email info@podbiblemag.com.

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Thermodynamics Meets Audio Entertainment: Inside the Cool Air, Hot Takes Podcast https://podbiblemag.com/thermodynamics-meets-audio-entertainment-inside-the-cool-air-hot-takes-podcast/ Thu, 05 Jun 2025 15:05:40 +0000 https://podbiblemag.com/?p=75655 From middle school to microphones, Trane Technologies’ Charlie and Dan share the roots of their show and why the HVAC conversation deserves a human touch… Cool Air, Hot Takes isn’t your average HVAC industry podcast, and that’s exactly the point. It’s a passion project built on decades of experience and a friendship that goes back just as long. In a space often dominated by dry delivery and jargon-heavy dialogue, this HVAC-focused show (that’s Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning, for those of us unfamiliar with the term) stands out by doing something deceptively simple: making expert insights genuinely enjoyable to listen to. Hosted by Trane Technologies veterans Charlie Jelen and Dan Gentry, the show brings over 30 years of combined experience […]

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From middle school to microphones, Trane Technologies’ Charlie and Dan share the roots of their show and why the HVAC conversation deserves a human touch…

Cool Air, Hot Takes isn’t your average HVAC industry podcast, and that’s exactly the point. It’s a passion project built on decades of experience and a friendship that goes back just as long.

In a space often dominated by dry delivery and jargon-heavy dialogue, this HVAC-focused show (that’s Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning, for those of us unfamiliar with the term) stands out by doing something deceptively simple: making expert insights genuinely enjoyable to listen to.

Hosted by Trane Technologies veterans Charlie Jelen and Dan Gentry, the show brings over 30 years of combined experience to audiences with a laid-back, often witty (and laugh-out-loud funny) tone that makes even the most technical topics feel relatable.

The result? A show that informs without lecturing, entertains without losing substance, and manages to strike the rare balance between being deeply niche and widely appealing.

In this interview, the duo opens up about their decades-long friendship, the spark behind Cool Air, Hot Takes, and what keeps them inspired. So, whether you’re in the field or just HVAC-curious, Cool Air, Hot Takes keeps things cool, literally and figuratively.

Listen to Cool Air, Hot Takes >>

You both have incredible chemistry on the mic. Can you share the story behind your friendship and how it enhances your podcasting dynamic?

Dan Gentry: It’s kind of a long story, but we go back a long way, to like middle school times. We played football together. We’ve snowboarded together, we’ve run in the same and crossed friend groups for all that long time.”

We’ve got kids, they’re the same ages, they’re all friends, we do family trips and hang out a bunch.

Charlie Jelen: I think what comes through on the show is just that we’re friends and it’s easy. This is what we talk about when we’re not in front of a microphone.

Dan and Charlie as kids

Dan and Charlie as kids

With over 30 years of combined experience in the HVAC industry, what inspired you both to start a podcast? What were you hoping to bring to the industry through Cool Air, Hot Takes?

Charlie Jelen: It started at a bar, and our wives not being impressed with our conversations on dates. We were hanging out and I don’t know who said we should start a podcast, [but] we took it very seriously.

Dan Gentry: We would do road trips, we would just have hours behind the wheel and we’d talk about this kind of stuff. It’s like, “we should record these conversations!”

I think the interesting and the fun thing is showing the audience how huge, vast, wide, and diverse the whole HVAC built environment is. I mean with the few interviews we’ve done so far, there’s such different topics and we get people saying that the interviews are interesting.

Charlie Jelen: I think trying to keep our community up to speed on what’s going on, it gets really easy to get siloed into the work that you’re doing, especially in technical fields. So having a 30 minute podcast that covers the headlines from recent updates and then interviews with people that are outside your specific occupation, and seeing how these different sectors interact, but doing it in a way that’s enjoyable that people can actually listen to, without it feeling like it’s a deep education.

You often mix in stories from your own experiences in the industry. What’s been one of the most memorable (or funny) moments you’ve encountered on the job that you’re willing to share with our readers?

Charlie Jelen: I was presenting to a group of 200-plus people and shortly after I started presenting, a dude in the front row was giving me some hand signals and I had no idea what he was trying to gesture towards. So I continued the presentation.

Afterwards he came up to me and he said, “ah, dude, your fly’s been down the entire presentation.” That’s what he was trying to gesture towards me. So now I absolutely have a pre-presentation ritual of checking.

Dan Gentry: … the barn door.

Charlie Jelen: Check the barn door.

… and what about the show? What has been most memorable so far?

Charlie Jelen: The first guest that we had on, his name was Jon Horne. He’s Managing Director at the Idea Fund. He came on and his hot take was that the HVAC industry has largely been undisrupted for hundreds of years. The hot take was the HVAC industry will change more in the next five to 10 years than it has in the past 100.

Four interviews later, we had Jean-Simon on; founder of BrainBox AI. His hot take was that in the next five to 10 years the HVAC industry will become a data business instead of a product business.

Jon didn’t have the answers. He’s looking at it from a macro perspective, seeing that this industry is ripe for disruption and then one of the potential things that could disrupt it. Then, somebody that founded a company around it was saying that same timeframe – the industry is going to change into a data business. So I thought that was just like this crossroads of industries, that was very memorable for me.

What has been one of the most surprising things you’ve learned from your guests or from each other while recording the podcast?

Charlie Jelen: Tanks. Dan loves tanks.

Dan Gentry: You know, my biggest surprise is that your wife doesn’t like pop-in culture.

Charlie Jelen: Oh, that surprises you?

Dan Gentry: I didn’t know that. I figured she’d be a pop-in gal. I was like, “wow”. I was very surprised.

Charlie Jelen: After that episode aired, I came home and she was like, “it’s not that I don’t like people coming over – it’s the popping in unannounced.”

Dan Gentry: I mean, that was the biggest thing I learned.

[Editor’s note – you can listen to RefrigeRANTS: The Good, The Bad, and the Banned to hear the full story]

… Lol. Okay, so what about your guests?

Dan Gentry: I’m really fascinated generally by most of our interviews. ‘Cause it’s interesting. I’m not involved in those fields, those specialties, those things that our guests have been in. I’ve heard of some of this stuff, but I think those interviews are, for me, they’re generally interesting ’cause it’s very adjacent and relevant to what we do.

I’m learning with the guest or with the audience as well.

What’s next for Cool Air, Hot Takes? Are there any future episodes or exciting topics on the horizon that listeners should look out for?

Dan Gentry: My short answer is yes, stay subscribed and find out.

Charlie Jelen: More cool air, more hot takes!

I would say, we’ve gotten a lot of good feedback on the format and the types of guests we’re having. So we’re going to continue that into season two. We’re going to do some deep technical areas. We’re going to go macro trend and then we’re going to dig down into some details as well.

Dan Gentry: and get a service tech in too.

Charlie Jelen: Oh yeah, yeah, yeah.

Dan Gentry: What do service techs do? What do they struggle with? What do you know? What do they see?

Charlie Jelen: Yeah!

Dan Gentry: I think that I’m excited about that.

Charlie Jelen: Yeah, that’s going to be good.

Dan Gentry: But still subscribe.

Season Two of Cool Air, Hot Takes is out 26th June 2025.

…You heard Dan, As Cool Air, Hot Takes gears up for its second season this June, there’s never been a better time to tune in. Whether you’re an HVAC veteran or simply curious about the industry’s next big shifts, Charlie and Dan deliver expert insights with the ease of old friends chatting over a cold beer.

Subscribe now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favourite platform.

Cool Air, Hot Takes explores the big questions and emerging trends in HVAC, from AI and energy efficiency to refrigerants, compressor tech, and nuclear-powered data centers, blending real-world stories with expert insights for engineers, contractors, and industry pros.

Trane Commercial, part of Trane Technologies, is a leading provider of innovative climate control solutions and energy services tailored for commercial environments.

Cool Air Hot Takes cover art

Listen to Cool Air, Hot Takes on Apple PodcastsSpotify, and other popular podcast apps >>

This article was provided by Lower Street as part of a paid advertising package. To enquire about advertising with Pod Bible email info@podbiblemag.com

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Exclusive interview with Hardcore Listing hosts Chris & Stu https://podbiblemag.com/interview-with-hardcore-listing/ Fri, 28 Mar 2025 15:25:04 +0000 https://podbiblemag.com/?p=75584 We caught up with Essex lads Chris and Stu, the dynamic duo behind the Hardcore Listing podcast, to talk about their journey, the incredible guests, the laughs along the way, and the huge milestone of hitting 500 episodes. Congratulations on reaching 500 episodes! How does it feel to hit this milestone? Chris: It’s absolutely mental! When we started, we never thought we’d get to 50, let alone 500! We just loved chatting nonsense and making lists, and here we are, still going strong. Stu: Yeah, it’s surreal. We started this as a bit of fun, but the support we’ve had from listeners has been incredible. We owe it all to the amazing community that’s grown around the show. For those […]

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We caught up with Essex lads Chris and Stu, the dynamic duo behind the Hardcore Listing podcast, to talk about their journey, the incredible guests, the laughs along the way, and the huge milestone of hitting 500 episodes.

Congratulations on reaching 500 episodes! How does it feel to hit this milestone?

Chris: It’s absolutely mental! When we started, we never thought we’d get to 50, let alone 500! We just loved chatting nonsense and making lists, and here we are, still going strong.

Stu: Yeah, it’s surreal. We started this as a bit of fun, but the support we’ve had from listeners has been incredible. We owe it all to the amazing community that’s grown around the show.

Hardcore Listing hosts Stu and Chris

Hardcore Listing hosts Stu and Chris

For those who might not be familiar, tell us how Hardcore Listing came to be.

Stu: Chris and I always had these ridiculous, in-depth discussions about random topics, and we thought, why not make a show out of it? We love a good list, and before we knew it, Hardcore Listing was born.

Chris: The idea was simple: each episode, a guest brings a top five list on any subject they fancy, and we dive into it. It’s led to some of the funniest, weirdest, and most insightful chats we’ve ever had.

Hardcore Listing hosts with guests

Speaking of guests, you’ve had some cracking ones. Any standout moments?

Chris: Too many to mention! We’ve had everyone from comedians to musicians, actors, and even our mates. The best part is, you never know where an episode will go. One minute you’re discussing top five crisps, the next it’s the most life-changing moments.

Stu: A definite highlight was Brett Goldstein talking about his top five weird moments doing stand-up – absolute gold! And then having the lads from Dirty Sanchez in our studio to chat about their top five hellraising moments… well, let’s just say that was absolute chaos in the best possible way!

The show is known for its mix of humour and genuine conversation. How do you strike that balance?

Chris: I think it’s just who we are. We love to take the piss, but we also love a deep chat. The guests set the tone – sometimes it’s pure comedy, sometimes it’s really personal. That’s what makes it work.

Stu: Yeah, we never force anything. We just let the conversations flow naturally. If it’s funny, great. If it’s heartfelt, that’s great too. The most important thing is that it’s real.

After 500 episodes, what keeps you motivated?

Stu: The listeners, 100%. The messages we get from people saying the show has helped them through tough times or just given them a laugh – that’s what keeps us going.

Chris: And the fact that we’re still having fun. If it ever stopped being fun, we’d call it a day. But right now, we’re still loving every minute.

Hardcore Listing hosts Stu and Chris

What’s next for Hardcore Listing?

Stu: More of the same madness! We’ve got some brilliant guests lined up, more live shows, and we’re always thinking about new ways to shake things up.

Chris: And who knows? Maybe another 500 episodes! We’ll see how long our livers hold out.

Thanks for chatting with us! Here’s to the next 500!

Chris & Stu: Cheers! And massive thanks to everyone who’s supported us along the way. We couldn’t do it without you!

 

Hardcore Listing cover art

Listen to Hardcore Listing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other popular podcast apps >>

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This Album…with William Hann https://podbiblemag.com/this-albumwith-william-hann/ Wed, 19 Mar 2025 09:30:06 +0000 https://podbiblemag.com/?p=75570 This Album…with William Hann is a weekly music podcast where host William Hann takes a deep dive into his guest’s album of choice. We spoke to William to find out more… What inspired you to create This Album Podcast, and how did the concept come together? It came together quickly! I appeared on two music podcasts within the space of 2 weeks (22 Grand Pod and the Oasis Podcast) and it confirmed something I always secretly suspected…. “I’d be quite good at this and I could add some value here….” Within 24 hours of saying to myself that I’m going to do it, I had the concept, the artwork, the first few guests booked, microphones purchased, and theme music written. […]

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This Album…with William Hann is a weekly music podcast where host William Hann takes a deep dive into his guest’s album of choice. We spoke to William to find out more…

What inspired you to create This Album Podcast, and how did the concept come together?

It came together quickly! I appeared on two music podcasts within the space of 2 weeks (22 Grand Pod and the Oasis Podcast) and it confirmed something I always secretly suspected…. “I’d be quite good at this and I could add some value here….”

Within 24 hours of saying to myself that I’m going to do it, I had the concept, the artwork, the first few guests booked, microphones purchased, and theme music written.

It took a further 48 hours for my mates to stop laughing and taking the piss out of me though!

In my day job, I’ve always worked in proactive sales, so I’ve developed the skill set of being a good communicator and listener (…or so I’d like to think!) inevitable that I’d be getting into podcasting really…

This Album host, William Hann

This Album… host, William Hann

Your show invites guests to talk about albums that are special to them – what makes an album worthy of discussion in your eyes?

What I really love is the personal attachments that people have to an album. So where most podcasts can be quite clinical or scientific in discussing music, I’m more interested in how badly my guests were dressed when they discovered an album, who broke their heart, all the mad memories they made while listening to the album. That kind of thing.

But I guess if an album was recorded or released in a unique way, that’s always going to be of interest.

The first episode I recorded (yet to be released that episode though) was on Another Side of Bob Dylan and that album was recorded within 4 hours! I didn’t know you could just do that! So straight away you have a conversation topic.

Has there been an album choice that completely surprised you or changed the way you think about a particular artist?

Almost every episode!

It’s really proven that if you listen to an album and give it a few goes with an open heart and mind, the reward is significant! There must be a life lesson in that somewhere….

The album I’ve covered that’s furthest away from what I normally listen to is 100 Gecs second album, 10,000 Gecs. I’m not sure if you’ve listened to much Hyper pop… but bloody hell! It is a lot!

And yet, by my third listen of the album, I started connecting with it and finding joy in it and respecting them a lot more as artists.

Having said that, I’ve got an upcoming episode on Soundgarden. I’m really trying man… but I’m not connecting with that at all yet! Let’s see if a couple more listens changes that.

Who has been your dream guest so far, and is there anyone you’d love to have on the show in the future?

Stu Whiffen, of course!

Also, getting to spend an hour chatting to Russell from Bloc Party was a dream come true for a little indie boy like me.

But Matt Crosby from Radio X was the perfect guest. I’ve been listening to his Radio X show with Ed Gamble for 5 years and his episode was the exact amount of in-depth album discussion and silliness I’d always hoped the show would have. PLENTY of silliness on that one.

It was also the funniest I’ve ever been! I thought I’d shrivel next to a proper comedian, but man, I was on fire that day! Podcast gold!

Russell Lissack and William Hann

William Hann (right) in conversation with Russell Lissack (left), Bloc Party lead guitarist, on episode 7

Music can be deeply personal – have there been any particularly emotional or memorable moments on the podcast?

I’ve been lucky that all my guests so far have been very vulnerable and open.

I guess the episode with Matt Crosby had a real unexpected gear change when he revealed that the silliest song on the album we were discussing had hidden depth about “radical acceptance” and the difficulties that come with being a trans person in Trump’s America.

I thought Frog On the Floor by 100 Gecs was just a silly song about a frog coming to a party!

As a host, how do you approach guiding conversations to balance personal anecdotes with music analysis?

The podcast is very conversational and I think making sure that it’s entertaining and funny is of far higher importance than accurately describing the brand of hi hat the drummer used.

But I always have a small scripted section which I spend quite a lot of time preparing. That allows me to get the analytical bit out of the way, then start asking the important questions like “which member of Interpol still wore a full suit to soundcheck despite it being the hottest day ever recorded in London.” (It was guitarist Daniel Kessler)

But really, I love a deviation and the guest’s album of choice is just a vehicle for us to share anecdotes and chat shit.

What’s next for This Album Podcast? Any exciting plans or changes coming up?

I was recently asked to host a series of Q and A’s on stage at The M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool, that was absolutely class! I think I did a really good job of it and I’d love to do more on stage interviews at festivals this summer.

I’ll definitely be announcing a live show in London soon too.

But what I really want is the podcast to just continue being of a real high quality and I reckon it’s only going to get better as time goes on.

I don’t know what the next 12 months will bring, but I promise it won’t be boring.

This Album podcast cover art

Listen to This Album…with William Hann on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other popular podcast apps >>

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Streamline Studios: Record & Edit. All at once. https://podbiblemag.com/streamline-studios-record-edit-all-at-once/ Thu, 13 Mar 2025 12:30:27 +0000 https://podbiblemag.com/?p=75542 We spoke to Streamline Studios about their studio space in Deptford, London, and what sets them apart from other podcast studio spaces… 1. What inspired you to create Streamline Studios, and how does it address the biggest challenges podcasters face? The idea for Streamline Studios came from my own experience as a podcaster. When I launched my first show, I quickly realised how overwhelming the process was, finding a studio, setting up equipment, editing the footage, and then figuring out how to actually publish it. I kept seeing people with amazing podcast ideas never even get started because they were stuck asking: Which studio do I choose? How do I edit each episode? How do I get it on Spotify? […]

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We spoke to Streamline Studios about their studio space in Deptford, London, and what sets them apart from other podcast studio spaces…

1. What inspired you to create Streamline Studios, and how does it address the biggest challenges podcasters face?

The idea for Streamline Studios came from my own experience as a podcaster. When I launched my first show, I quickly realised how overwhelming the process was, finding a studio, setting up equipment, editing the footage, and then figuring out how to actually publish it.

I kept seeing people with amazing podcast ideas never even get started because they were stuck asking:

  • Which studio do I choose?
  • How do I edit each episode?
  • How do I get it on Spotify?

The process was fragmented, complicated, and expensive especially when you have to hire a separate editor. Streamline Studios was built to eliminate those barriers.

We provide a fully all-in-one podcast experience, you walk in, record, and leave with a fully edited episode in hand. No stress, no delays, no hidden extras. Podcasting, streamlined.

Streamline Studios neon sign

2. Can you walk us through the process for a podcaster using the studio – how does it work from start to finish?

The process is designed to be fast, simple, and seamless:

1. Walk In & Get Set Up

  • Arrive at the studio and choose your set style & backdrop
  • Everything is pre-set – mics, cameras, and lighting ready to go
  • Our engineer gets you prepped and comfortable

2. Record Your Podcast

  • Hit record and focus on the conversation
  • Our engineer edits in real time as you speak
  • Multiple camera angles + crystal-clear audio

3. Leave With a Fully Edited Episode

  • No waiting for post-production
  • Files exported instantly to your USB or hard drive
  • Ready to upload and publish

No extra costs for editing, no sending files back and forth. It’s all done before you even leave the studio.

You can also have the raw files if you want them of course – they are yours to have! However we are more than confident that the live edit is going to blow your socks off.

An image of a desk with a computer and someone's hand reaching out to the mouse as they edit

3. What makes Streamline Studios different from other podcasting spaces in London?

Most podcast studios just rent you the space, you get the mics, cameras, and a nice setup, but you’re left to figure out everything else on your own.

The edit is the biggest headache. Other studios offer this as an additional extra or an add on, but these can quickly add up.

With Streamline Studios, you’re not just renting a studio – you’re getting a full production service built into the price (and with speed!).

  • Live, real-time editing – Your podcast is fully edited as you record, so you don’t have to wait for post-production saving you time (potentially days or weeks).
  • Instant file delivery – You walk out with your finished episodes, ready to publish
  • Flexible setups – Choose between multiple set designs and backdrops to match your brand
  • No hidden extras – The live edit is included, as standard

We take the stress, confusion, and delays out of podcasting, so all you have to do is show up and talk.

Two chairs slightly angled towards each other, the background is an exposed brick wall and on either side of the chairs there are red curtains hanging as the backdrop

4. How does the real-time editing process work, and what are the benefits of this approach for creators?

Instead of editing after the session, we do it as you record. Our on-site professional podcast producer follows the conversation in real-time, cutting between camera angles and managing the audio as you speak.

The benefits of real-time editing:

  • Saves time – Your episode is finished the moment you stop recording
  • Saves money – No need to pay for post-production editing (which can be very pricey as we found out first-hand running our own podcast)
  • Better flow – You can focus on talking, not editing
  • Instant delivery – Files are exported before you even leave the studio

No more waiting weeks for an editor. No more back-and-forth revisions. No extra editing bills. It’s all done live.

Cameras on tripods positioned to record a podcast episode

5. What kind of equipment and technology have you invested in to ensure high-quality recordings?

At Streamline Studios, we’ve invested in top-tier audio and video equipment to ensure every podcast recorded here is broadcast-quality from the moment you hit record.

Audio:

Rode PodMic microphones – Crystal-clear sound with studio-grade clarity

Roland professional headphones – Precision monitoring for flawless audio

Visual:

Panasonic Lumix S5 cameras paired with Lumix lenses – High-definition, cinematic-quality visuals

Multi-camera setup – Professionally shot, dynamic angles for an engaging video podcast

Best-in-class lighting rig – Perfectly balanced lighting for a premium visual aesthetic

Purposefully Designed Studio Space:

Everything in Streamline Studios has been designed from the ground up to create the ultimate podcast & content creation environment:

  • Flexible set designs & backdrops – Switch between brick wall, black curtain, red curtain, or green screen
  • A selection of traditional table format or relaxed sofa vibe
  • 12-metre soundproof curtain – Separates the recording space from the work/chill area

Chill/work area – Ideal for teams, featuring:

  • TV & lounge area for relaxation or creative brainstorming
  • Functioning kitchenette – Free soft drinks & beers for all clients
  • PlayStation – Fire up COD or FIFA while waiting for a session

This isn’t just a studio. It’s a fully immersive content creation space. We’ve thought of everything to make podcasting as seamless, professional, and enjoyable as possible.

If you’re looking for the coolest and most complete podcast studio in London, Streamline Studios is where it’s at.

A close up of a camera, through the lens you can see the podcast backdrop

6. Who is Streamline Studios designed for – are there specific types of podcasters or content creators who would benefit most?

Streamline Studios is designed for ANYONE who wants to create high-quality podcasts without the hassle.

New Podcasters – If you’ve been putting off starting your podcast because the process seems overwhelming, we make it easy.

Experienced Podcasters – If you’re tired of messing with tech, struggling with and sick of paying for edits, or waiting for turnaround times, we speed up your workflow.

YouTubers & Creators – Our multi-camera setup makes it perfect for video podcasts that can be repurposed for Instagram Reels, TikTok, and YouTube.

Brands & Businesses – Professional podcasts, without needing an in-house production team.

Anyone who wants high-quality, studio-produced content, without the learning curve or extra costs, will love Streamline Studios.

Two microphones set up on opposite sides pf a wooden table.

7. Now that the studio is open, what’s next for Streamline Studios, and do you have any future plans for expansion or new features?

We’ve already had an amazing response since opening our first studio in Deptford, London, and we’re just getting started.

Expansion Plans:

We’ve secured investment to launch more locations across London (and discussions have begun for the first site to open in Ibiza, Spain).

The goal is to make Streamline Studios a go-to for podcasters everywhere.

New Features Coming Soon:

Full-service publishing – In the future, we want podcasters to record, edit, AND publish directly through us; this is something we are in the process of offering.

More set designs & customisation – We’re adding even more backdrop & setup options to suit different podcast styles.

Our goal is to remove every barrier to podcasting, so that ANYONE with an idea can walk in and instantly create high-quality content.

Find out more about Streamline Studios now by heading to their website, or take a look at their accounts on Instagram, Twitter/X, and TikTok.

Streamline Studios logo

 

This article was produced as part of a paid advertising package. To enquire about advertising with Pod Bible email info@podbiblemag.com.

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The Hole Truth: How misinformation became mainstream https://podbiblemag.com/the-hole-truth-how-misinformation-became-mainstream/ Tue, 11 Mar 2025 09:30:10 +0000 https://podbiblemag.com/?p=75533 We spoke to Marnie Duke about her documentary series The Hole Truth, which launched in January, to find out what inspired her to make the show, and what challenges she faced when covering a subject that is still evolving… Who are you and what’s your podcast about? My name’s Marnie and I’m a trainee podcast producer at Transmission Roundhouse. We’re a socially engaged podcast platform located in London’s iconic Roundhouse venue, championing the voices of underrepresented young creatives. The Hole Truth is a three-part documentary series about how the US fell for conspiracy theories. Through the lens of personal stories, it explores how misinformation has trickled down from the nation’s highest offices, through local politics, to a nationwide network of […]

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We spoke to Marnie Duke about her documentary series The Hole Truth, which launched in January, to find out what inspired her to make the show, and what challenges she faced when covering a subject that is still evolving…

Who are you and what’s your podcast about?

My name’s Marnie and I’m a trainee podcast producer at Transmission Roundhouse. We’re a socially engaged podcast platform located in London’s iconic Roundhouse venue, championing the voices of underrepresented young creatives.

The Hole Truth is a three-part documentary series about how the US fell for conspiracy theories. Through the lens of personal stories, it explores how misinformation has trickled down from the nation’s highest offices, through local politics, to a nationwide network of Americans living in different realities.

Marnie Duke

What made you decide to create this podcast?

In the lead up to the US Election, I was gripped by the battle for facts, decency, and democracy that played out on our social media feeds. Online campaigns were steeped in conspiracy; politics dominated by disinformation, and truth seemed to become a rarity.

I wanted to find out more about how misinformation became mainstream and the term “conspiracy theorist” became a badge of honour. I decided to start talking to real people whose lives had been affected by “falling down the rabbit hole”.

Your podcast launched on 6th January 2025, the fourth anniversary of the January 6 United States capitol attack, and on 20th January, after taking office for his second term, President Trump granted clemency to all January 6 rioters – can you tell us what impact that had on the podcast – did you have to make last-minute changes?

Yes. Earlier in the series, I explore how the story of January 6 was rewritten – how the rioters were made into martyrs and utilised by Trump for political gain. In granting them clemency, he cemented this narrative and it felt important to respond.

In episode three I speak to Pam Hemphill, AKA the former “MAGA granny” who was one of the only people to reject Trump’s pardon. It’s a sad story about the power of misinformation but also of her redemption and ability to escape the “rabbit hole”. I hope it can offer a glimmer of hope in these dark times.

Snapshot of Riverside recording session - image of Marnie and a man

What do you hope listeners will gain from listening to The Hole Truth?

I hope the podcast offers an alternative point of view. I’m not trying to judge the eccentricity of conspiracies but instead understand how they gain a foothold in your mind.

If you could go back to just before you recorded the first episode of your podcast and give yourself one piece of advice, what would it be?

Don’t try and predict where the conversation is going. Let it happen and see where it takes you.

What was the first podcast you ever listened to?

This American Life!

Why did you decide to start podcasting in the first place?

Before podcasting I worked in live radio. I loved it but found the fast pace frustrating at times. I wanted to delve deeper into stories, be more investigative, and find a slower approach to news.

Which podcasts do you take inspiration from?

I’m always interested in stories about online mistruths, those who peddle them and those who believe them. I listened to a lot of Marianna Spring’s Why Do You Hate Me? USA while making this.

What are your plans moving forward? Will you do a second series of The Hole Truth? Or do you have any other podcast ideas in mind? (If there’s any you can share!)

I’m working on a new project about the criminal justice system… more details to come!

Where can the Pod Bible readers find out more about you?

https://marnieduke.wixsite.com/marnie-duke-portfo-1

The Hole Truth cover art

Listen to The Hole Truth on Apple PodcastsSpotify, and other popular podcast apps >>

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Cultivating Resilience: Shining a light on the mental health crisis in agriculture https://podbiblemag.com/cultivating-resilience-shining-a-light-on-the-mental-health-crisis-in-agriculture/ Thu, 06 Mar 2025 12:00:37 +0000 https://podbiblemag.com/?p=75528 Farming has always been a profession of resilience – dealing with unpredictable weather, financial pressures, and the isolation of rural life. But what often goes unspoken is the mental and emotional toll these challenges take on farmers and agricultural workers. That’s where Cultivating Resilience comes in. Co-hosted by Hans Hageman, a longtime advocate for justice, mental health, and community leadership, the podcast shines a light on the mental health crisis in agriculture. With a background that spans law, education, and social entrepreneurship, Hans has spent his career helping people navigate systemic barriers and build stronger, more sustainable futures. Now, through Cultivating Resilience, he’s turning his focus to the people who keep our food systems running, ensuring they have the support […]

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Farming has always been a profession of resilience – dealing with unpredictable weather, financial pressures, and the isolation of rural life. But what often goes unspoken is the mental and emotional toll these challenges take on farmers and agricultural workers. That’s where Cultivating Resilience comes in.

Co-hosted by Hans Hageman, a longtime advocate for justice, mental health, and community leadership, the podcast shines a light on the mental health crisis in agriculture. With a background that spans law, education, and social entrepreneurship, Hans has spent his career helping people navigate systemic barriers and build stronger, more sustainable futures. Now, through Cultivating Resilience, he’s turning his focus to the people who keep our food systems running, ensuring they have the support and resources they need to thrive.

In this interview, Hans shares what inspired him to launch the podcast, the unique struggles farmers face, and why open conversations about mental health are essential for the future of agriculture.

Cultivating Resilience co-host Hans Hageman

Cultivating Resilience co-host Hans Hageman

What inspired you to start the Cultivating Resilience podcast, and how did your own journey influence its creation?

The Cultivating Resilience podcast emerged from my commitment to addressing the mental health challenges prevalent among US farmers. My background in social entrepreneurship and community development, particularly in underserved areas, highlighted the critical need for mental health support in agricultural communities. This realisation propelled me to co-create a platform where farmers could openly discuss their experiences and access essential resources.

My journey has been deeply intertwined with community empowerment and resilience-building. Working in various capacities, from founding educational institutions in East Harlem and India to leading community centres and civil rights programs in the Mississippi Delta, I’ve consistently encountered the profound impact of mental health on individuals and communities. Recognising similar challenges within the farming sector, I was inspired to co-host Cultivating Resilience to provide a space for farmers to share their stories and find support.

Why is it important to bring attention to the mental health challenges that farmers in the US face, and what do you hope listeners take away from the podcast?

Farmers face unique stressors, including financial pressures, rural isolation, and the unpredictability of weather and markets. These factors contribute to elevated stress levels and mental health issues within the agricultural community. By bringing attention to these challenges, the podcast aims to destigmatise mental health discussions and encourage farmers to seek help, fostering a culture where mental well-being is prioritised.

What is your favourite episode from the podcast so far and why?

I learned so much from every episode, but I think my favourite was the one I recorded with TemuAsyr Bey Martin. He discussed combining grassroots activism and federal lobbying, and brought a lot of energy and hope to the discussion.

In what ways do you hope this podcast can spark change or offer support within the farming community?

Through the podcast, we aim to normalise discussions around mental health in the farming community. By sharing real-life experiences and resources, we hope to empower farmers to seek support and implement strategies that enhance their well-being.

Can you discuss the importance of building community among farmers and how the podcast contributes to that sense of connection?

The podcast contributes to building a sense of community among farmers by creating a shared space where they can connect over common experiences, fostering solidarity and mutual support.

How do you see the podcast evolving in the future to further address the challenges faced by farmers and rural communities?

Looking ahead, we envision the podcast evolving to address emerging challenges faced by farmers and rural communities, such as climate change impacts and technological advancements in agriculture. By staying attuned to these issues, we can continue to provide relevant content that supports our audience.

What message do you hope to send to listeners who might not be part of the farming community but tune in to learn and empathise?

To listeners outside the farming community, we hope to convey the interconnectedness of agriculture and society. Understanding the challenges farmers face fosters empathy and highlights the importance of supporting those who sustain our food systems.

As someone whose career has focused on nurturing resilience and creativity, what does the concept of resilience mean to you, especially in the context of this podcast?

Resilience, to me, means the capacity to adapt and thrive amidst adversity. In the context of this podcast, it reflects the strength of farmers who navigate numerous challenges daily and underscores the importance of providing them with tools and support to maintain their mental health.

By addressing these aspects, the Cultivating Resilience podcast aims to be a beacon of support and a catalyst for positive change within the farming community.

Cultivating Resilience cover image

Listen to Cultivating Resilience on Apple PodcastsSpotify, and other popular podcast apps >>

This article was produced as part of a paid advertising package. To enquire about advertising with Pod Bible email info@podbiblemag.com

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Made For Us: Championing inclusive innovation https://podbiblemag.com/made-for-us-championing-inclusive-innovation/ Wed, 05 Mar 2025 10:50:37 +0000 https://podbiblemag.com/?p=75522 Made For Us is a weekly podcast for those curious about how to design for inclusivity. The show won the bronze award for Most Inspirational Podcast at the 2024 Signal Awards and is now on its second season. We spoke to producer and host Tosin Sulaiman to find out more… What inspired you to start Made For Us, and what message do you hope to share with your audience? Made For Us explores design and innovation from the perspective of people who may not fit the mould of the “average” consumer. The premise is that we all experience products differently depending on our gender, age, ability, race, whether we’re left or right-handed, etc. and I wanted to shine a light […]

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Made For Us is a weekly podcast for those curious about how to design for inclusivity. The show won the bronze award for Most Inspirational Podcast at the 2024 Signal Awards and is now on its second season. We spoke to producer and host Tosin Sulaiman to find out more…

What inspired you to start Made For Us, and what message do you hope to share with your audience?

Made For Us explores design and innovation from the perspective of people who may not fit the mould of the “average” consumer. The premise is that we all experience products differently depending on our gender, age, ability, race, whether we’re left or right-handed, etc. and I wanted to shine a light on the entrepreneurs and designers who are intentionally creating products that can be used by a wider spectrum of people.

The initial inspiration was my own personal experience of encountering products that weren’t designed with people like me in mind (for example, finding “nude” tights used to be a challenge if you’re darker skinned like me). But as I researched the topic, I realised that I wasn’t alone and this feeling of exclusion is a common one.

Ultimately, I wanted the podcast to focus on people solving the problem and on the impact they’d had on users. I also wanted to create something that would leave my audience feeling hopeful. It’s easy to feel powerless when we read about big problems in the world that have been with us for a long time. But this is an area where there’s tangible progress and I wanted to celebrate that, while acknowledging the challenges that remain.

How do you choose your guests, and what qualities make someone a great fit for your podcast?

The guests on Made For Us are really diverse. I’d say one thing that connects them is that they’re often challenging the status quo in their industry, and sometimes they’re outsiders. For example, I interviewed a makeup artist who created a line of accessible makeup tools after a Parkinson’s diagnosis, a Canadian entrepreneur who designed a bicycle helmet for Sikh kids who wear the patka and a male plus size model. I’ve also interviewed a few authors. As well as having an impact in their domain, I look for people who are great communicators and have a clear and unique point of view.

What has been the most impactful or surprising conversation you’ve had on the show so far?

This is really tough as I’ve enjoyed all my conversations and each one has left me with a new insight or a story that’s stayed with me. If I had to choose one from Season 2, it would be the first episode with the TV presenter Lucy Edwards who talks about how she coped with losing her sight at the age of 17 and how she’s now helping brands design more accessible products, Barbie dolls being one example.

How has hosting this podcast changed your perspective on the topics you discuss?

It’s made me realise that inclusive design is a huge topic. There’s so much to learn and so many angles to explore. Obviously, this is a good thing as it means I won’t run out of ideas for the podcast anytime soon!

What challenges have you faced in growing Made For Us, and how have you overcome them?

Building an audience is hard and takes time, especially with a topic that many people consider niche. As someone once said to me, design is already a niche topic even without the inclusivity angle! But what I try to do is make the subject relatable and I think once people listen to an episode or two they realise that the themes are actually universal.

I was lucky to have won the Bronze medal at the 2024 Signal Awards and that has helped with visibility. Made For Us was also shortlisted for the International Women’s Podcast Awards so it was a really exciting first year for the podcast and I now need to build on that momentum.

Are there any future topics or guests you’re especially excited about?

One of the major themes this season is AI. Given the podcast’s focus, I wanted to explore how well-designed AI can really improve lives, but also look at the potential harm and bias that can arise when diverse needs aren’t considered. So we’ll be tackling a lot of big questions, but always with real-life stories at the forefront.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to start their own podcast and build a meaningful community?

The first thing is to acknowledge that growth will take time and only do it if you’re comfortable with not seeing an immediate payoff. I wrote a LinkedIn post recently about some research from PodMatch looking at what it takes to be in the top 5% of indie podcasters. Apparently, you need to stick with it for about two years and release 100 episodes. But most podcasters quit much earlier. With that knowledge, hopefully you won’t be one of them!

The second piece of advice is don’t just launch and see what happens. Think about your marketing plan from the beginning. I attended a workshop last year by Golda Arthur, host of Overlooked, who said it best: “You’re not competing with another podcast for attention. You’re competing with TikTok. Have a marketing plan for how you’re going to take eyeballs away from TikTok.”

Finally, it would be amazing if every podcaster starting out thought about making their podcast accessible from the start. That means, for example, creating transcripts for each episode and including alt text and captions on social posts. It’s great to see a lot of podcasters already doing this and it really is worth the extra effort to make sure many more people can enjoy your content.

If  you want to find out more about Made For Us you can take a look at the Instagram and LinkedIn accounts for the podcast and also sign up to the newsletter. Tosin Sulaiman can be found on LinkedIn.

Made For Us podcast cover art

Listen to Made For Us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other popular podcast apps >>

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Sacrifice, Devotion, Power…and Ballet https://podbiblemag.com/sacrifice-devotion-powerand-ballet/ Mon, 03 Mar 2025 12:15:03 +0000 https://podbiblemag.com/?p=75515 Dancing with Shadows is the newest season of Legacy from Stak, taking an exclusive peak behind the curtain of the greatest dance company in history: New York City Ballet. In the heart of New York, there lies a portal to another world. The iconic Lincoln Center is home to one of the world’s most prestigious dance companies – the New York City Ballet. Cut to the other side of the world. In her family home in Galway, Ireland, journalist Nicky Anderson sits beside her mother, reminiscing about her younger years – twirling around in a frilly tutu, her five-year-old feet carrying only one dream: to be a ballerina. For Nicky, a childhood love for ballet has become a lifelong fascination. […]

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Dancing with Shadows is the newest season of Legacy from Stak, taking an exclusive peak behind the curtain of the greatest dance company in history: New York City Ballet.

In the heart of New York, there lies a portal to another world. The iconic Lincoln Center is home to one of the world’s most prestigious dance companies – the New York City Ballet.

Cut to the other side of the world. In her family home in Galway, Ireland, journalist Nicky Anderson sits beside her mother, reminiscing about her younger years – twirling around in a frilly tutu, her five-year-old feet carrying only one dream: to be a ballerina.

For Nicky, a childhood love for ballet has become a lifelong fascination. But behind the beauty of the New York City Ballet lies a more complicated truth…

Dancing with Shadows, investigates the complicated history and culture of the New York City Ballet from behind the curtain. Throughout its 76-year history, the company has faced allegations of misuse of power, a major lawsuit, and an investigation into sexual, physical, and verbal assault by a former Ballet Master in Chief – scandals that have cast long shadows over its legacy.

This seven-part series is an insider account featuring firsthand stories from some of the most celebrated American dancers of all time, including Allegra Kent, Edward Villella, and an exclusive interview with former principal dancer, Chase Finlay. Their testimonies unveil what it truly takes to perform at the highest level – both on and off the stage.

We caught up with journalist and producer of the series Nicky Anderson, to get a deeper look into the making of the podcast and the incredible story behind it.

Nicky Anderson

Nicky Anderson – journalist and producer of Dancing with Shadows

Hi Nicky! So firstly, what inspired you to explore this story of the New York City Ballet?

Having danced from a young age, I was always fascinated by how ballet companies operated and what life inside them was like. As I grew older and read more about New York City Ballet, I realised that many people’s experiences were vastly different from what I had imagined as a child. This contrast deepened my curiosity and made me want to explore this remarkable and complex institution further.

And why do you believe this story is particularly relevant today?

Unfortunately, we’re in a time where the misuse of power is always relevant. Ballet, too, remains deeply underreported. As athletes performing an art form, dancers exist in a space where coverage often blurs the lines, leaving many of their stories untold.

Can you share a favourite moment from the podcast-making process?

I think my favourite moment was meeting the legendary dancers Allegra Kent and Edward Villella – listening to them reminisce about each other while surrounded by photos of their younger selves. It was truly special.

As a longtime ballet lover, this podcast is deeply personal to you. How has working on this project shaped your perspective on ballet, and what changes or developments do you hope to see in its future?

After writing the final episode of this podcast, I returned to my first ballet class in seven years. It brought back so many memories and deepened my appreciation for the art form. More importantly, it reinforced how these conversations can drive meaningful change in the industry.

As a journalist, having the opportunity to share something I love with a wider audience – while holding power to account and pushing for progress – has been the journey of a lifetime.

Stak asked New York City Ballet for the right to reply, detailing the allegations that have arisen throughout the documentary. The response can be found here.

Subscribe to Legacy for new episodes dropping every Tuesday. Listen wherever you get your podcasts – and don’t forget to leave a review!

Dancing With Shadows cover art

This article was produced as part of a paid advertising package. To enquire about advertising with Pod Bible email info@podbiblemag.com

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Joy First: Reclaiming happiness in a hustle-obsessed world https://podbiblemag.com/joy-first-reclaiming-happiness-in-a-hustle-obsessed-world/ Thu, 20 Feb 2025 14:35:13 +0000 https://podbiblemag.com/?p=75482 We spoke to J.Nichole Smith about her podcast Joy First, a fortnightly podcast about discovering how and why to put joy first in a world that rewards hustle over happiness… Who are you and what’s your podcast about? My name is J.Nichole Smith, but you can call me Nic. I’m an author, artist, brand architect, and colour + design psychology expert. The Joy First podcast is for founders, workaholics, perfectionists, and parents who would love to experience more joy in their home and work lives, but feel like they never seem to have time. Many of our cultures programme us to believe that joy is “extra” and must be earned. In the podcast I make the case for why joy […]

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We spoke to J.Nichole Smith about her podcast Joy First, a fortnightly podcast about discovering how and why to put joy first in a world that rewards hustle over happiness…

Who are you and what’s your podcast about?

My name is J.Nichole Smith, but you can call me Nic. I’m an author, artist, brand architect, and colour + design psychology expert. The Joy First podcast is for founders, workaholics, perfectionists, and parents who would love to experience more joy in their home and work lives, but feel like they never seem to have time. Many of our cultures programme us to believe that joy is “extra” and must be earned. In the podcast I make the case for why joy is a birthright and an essential part of our well-being, as well as provide simple, actionable ways to find, choose, and share more joy each day… without it being just another thing added to the never-ending “to-do” list.

J.Nichole Smith

How did the idea for Joy First come about?

At work: Over the past 20 years as a brand architect I’ve specialized in building luxury and “happy” brands that centre “the good life”, so I’ve become an expert using joy and desire to sell (instead of the feelings of fear and unworthiness that most businesses use to drive purchase). It’s important to me that any project I work on is “joy first” – leaving people feeling better about themselves, not worse.

In life: I started my business in my early twenties and burnt out before I was 25. I had to navigate some really huge obstacles early-on, and so by 30 I had really internalized the importance of putting happiness over hustle. I mean, what’s the point of having a successful business if it ruins your health and relationships? I’ve supported hundreds if not thousands of entrepreneurs to do the same: ride the wild rollercoaster of running your own business by embracing the fear and learning to put joy first in life and work.

J.Nichole Smith

Applied Colour Psychology is mentioned a lot in the podcast – could you give our readers a brief explanation of what this is please?

In my work and life I’ve had two intertwined obsessions: as humans what is it that really makes us happy? For brands, what’s the straightest-line to making our impact more predictable?

I studied positive psychology, poured through all the self-help protocols, and personality profiles and completed a Masters in Marketing at one of London’s top business schools in search of answers. It wasn’t until I discovered Applied Colour Psychology that I had a huge breakthrough in both. Applied Colour Psychology is the crossover between Colour Physics (how colour works), Colour Psychology (how colour impacts us as humans), and Jungian Personality Analysis. The most basic colours can be divided into one of 4 groups, and so can all people. Research shows each group of people has a strong preference for each group of colour – and not only that – but these colours tend to be the most flattering for them aesthetically as well. Wild right?

It’s similar to the idea of having a “season” of colour that looks best on you, but importantly this analysis is based more on personality than skin tone… for me it’s so much more about carving out the space for more authentic self-expression, colour harmony, and joy – than it is about getting your exact shade of lipstick “right”. Want to find your “type” and colour group? Pop over and take the quiz on our website.

Can you remember which podcast was the first you ever listened to?

I believe the first ever podcast I listened to was Desert Island Discs. I’ve been obsessed for well over a decade (in fact we even had a Desert Island Discs themed wedding! I even was lucky enough to get Kristy Young to record an intro for the CD of ‘Desert Island Tracks’ that was our wedding favour for guests – it was a surprise for my husband – he didn’t know until we played it for him at our reception – super geeky cool!)

Which podcasts do you take inspiration from?

I love sensory-rich, investigative podcasts like Serial – I’m looking forward to expanding into higher production and richer storytelling like this as we grow. I also love shows where the hosts’ voice is totally enveloping – there was a show called Wellpreneur, which became Alchemy & Action that I just adored because I could listen to the host, Amanda Cook, for hours and hours (to be fair that’s probably why I got into Desert Island Discs – Kirsty Young’s voice is like velvet!)

Recently I’ve really got into the Autistic Culture podcast – I love a co-host show and I love how instead of focusing on the medical side of Autism, the hosts are sharing the shared culture of “Autistica” – it’s fascinating! The Martha Stewart episode totally sucked me in.

Who’s your dream guest for the podcast?

Right now, my dream guest would be Michelle Obama. I’d love to have a deep conversation with her about the joy crisis we’re facing now – and how to hold onto hope and focus on joy and impact in our little circles of influence when the world feels dark and out of control.

J.Nichole Smith

Which episode would you say is the perfect introduction to your podcast?

Maybe it’s boring, but the ‘why does joy matter’ episode (S1, E1) is the perfect place to start with Joy First – the first season takes a whirlwind tour through my favourite entry into joy first living and working: colour. How to understand your personality type and begin the journey of using your colours as tools for being more intentional about the way you want to be, be seen, and “do life”.

What are your plans for the podcast moving forward?

Season 2, coming up in March, is all about “joy first ways of working” – and we’ve got loads of interviews with mostly female founders, sharing what “joy first” work looks like at this stage of life and business. What they had to embrace, learn, let go of, and build in order to define and create lives and businesses that are successful and joyful.

Where can the Pod Bible readers find out more about you?

You can find us at joyfirstworld.com (podcast is here) find me on instagram @jnicholesmith or LinkedIn.

Joy First podcast cover art

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Off The Beat & Track with Stu Whiffen https://podbiblemag.com/off-the-beat-track-with-stu-whiffen/ Mon, 17 Feb 2025 11:50:26 +0000 https://podbiblemag.com/?p=75466 We sat down with Stu Whiffen, Pod Bible co-founder and man of many podcasts, to talk about his music podcast Off The Beat & Track, his journey in podcasting, the inspiration behind the show, and what keeps listeners coming back for more… Stu, thanks for joining us! Can you tell us how Off The Beat & Track came to be? Absolutely! I’ve always been passionate about music and the impact it has on our lives. As a musician and DJ, I’ve had so many amazing conversations about how music shapes people’s experiences. I wanted to create a space where artists, actors, and creatives could share their personal journeys through music. That’s how Off The Beat & Track was born. What […]

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We sat down with Stu Whiffen, Pod Bible co-founder and man of many podcasts, to talk about his music podcast Off The Beat & Track, his journey in podcasting, the inspiration behind the show, and what keeps listeners coming back for more…

Stu, thanks for joining us! Can you tell us how Off The Beat & Track came to be?

Absolutely! I’ve always been passionate about music and the impact it has on our lives. As a musician and DJ, I’ve had so many amazing conversations about how music shapes people’s experiences. I wanted to create a space where artists, actors, and creatives could share their personal journeys through music. That’s how Off The Beat & Track was born.

Stu with guests 2

Stu Whiffen with Julian Marley (ep.42), Clara Amfo (ep.100), and Rob Da Bank (ep.43)

What makes your podcast stand out from other music-focused shows?

I think it’s the personal element. Rather than just discussing an artist’s latest project, we dive deep into the tracks that have shaped their lives. Music is a powerful storyteller, and each guest brings a unique perspective. It’s intimate, nostalgic, and often full of surprises.

You’ve had some incredible guests. Any standout moments?

Oh, there have been so many! Having people like Fatboy Slim and Foo Fighters’ Chris Shiflett on the show was a real pinch-me moment. But what I love is that every guest, no matter how famous, brings something special. Hearing their personal music memories – whether it’s the first record they bought or a song that reminds them of a major life event – makes for some really moving conversations.

How do you keep your listeners engaged episode after episode?

Consistency is key, but so is variety. I mix up the guests, from music legends to rising stars, actors, and comedians. The format of discussing life through music keeps it fresh, and I make sure the conversations are relaxed and natural. Listeners feel like they’re eavesdropping on an intimate chat between friends, which keeps them coming back.

Stu Whiffen with Kate Thornton (ep.55) and James Buckley (ep.28)

What advice would you give to aspiring podcasters?

Just start! Don’t overthink it. If you’re passionate about your topic, that enthusiasm will shine through. Invest in decent audio quality, be consistent, and most importantly, be authentic. The best podcasts feel like genuine conversations, not scripted interviews.

What’s next for Off The Beat & Track?

There’s so much in the pipeline! More incredible guests, some live event recordings, and I’m even exploring the idea of a book based on the podcast. I just want to keep sharing amazing stories through music and growing the community of listeners who love these conversations as much as I do.

That sounds exciting! Thanks for chatting with us, Stu.

Thanks for having me! And to all the Pod Bible readers – keep listening and keep discovering amazing music

Off The Beat & Track cover art

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How to Be Superhuman returns for season 3! https://podbiblemag.com/how-to-be-superhuman-returns-for-season-3/ Thu, 06 Feb 2025 14:11:46 +0000 https://podbiblemag.com/?p=75445 How to Be Superhuman returns for its third season today, Thursday 6th February. We spoke to host Rob Pope to find out what we can expect from the upcoming season… Who are you and what’s your podcast about? My name is Rob Pope, although a lot of people know me as “that Forrest Gump guy”, after I ran over 25,000 kilometres, over 422 days recreating the run Tom Hanks made famous in the movie…On the way I picked up a lot of great stories and also lessons that I’m now able to pass on to anyone who wants to listen. My podcast How to Be Superhuman in collaboration with Red Bull is a platform for adventure and endurance athletes from […]

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How to Be Superhuman returns for its third season today, Thursday 6th February. We spoke to host Rob Pope to find out what we can expect from the upcoming season…

Who are you and what’s your podcast about?

My name is Rob Pope, although a lot of people know me as “that Forrest Gump guy”, after I ran over 25,000 kilometres, over 422 days recreating the run Tom Hanks made famous in the movie…On the way I picked up a lot of great stories and also lessons that I’m now able to pass on to anyone who wants to listen. My podcast How to Be Superhuman in collaboration with Red Bull is a platform for adventure and endurance athletes from a hugely diverse set of backgrounds to bring their incredible stories to a global audience, whether they’re looking for inspiration or just to be entertained and “wowed”. It’s got a unique and immersive storytelling format that brings you straight into the heart of absolutely mind-boggling adventures. Trust me – listen to these stories and you can’t fail to be amazed. You never know, we might just show a few people the key to the door to becoming Superhuman – we’ve all got magic in us somewhere.

Rob Pope

Rob Pope, host of How to Be Superhuman

How did the idea for How to Be Superhuman come about?

Red Bull have always been at the forefront of adventure, and podcasts lend themselves so well to the headspace of people off doing wild things, so it was a natural progression from the incredible video content they’re famed for.

What was the first podcast you ever listened to?

I feel like I’ve been listening to podcasts for so long, they just kind of filtered into my orbit. Coming from Liverpool, I often found myself listening to Andy Grant’s amazing LEG IT podcast which tells the story of people from a real variety of backgrounds and the Blood Red pod from the Liverpool Echo, so probably one of those.

Ryan Sandes

Ryan Sandes – trail runner

Which podcasts do you take inspiration from?

There’s so many great ones out there, I usually go down a wormhole of whoever is interviewing me next, or ones that have recently featured a Superhuman guest. I do like the variety of guests you get on Chris Williamson and Rich Roll’s podcasts and have recently got into Happy Hour too. Chris has had me on, so I’ve got those two to tick off!

Who’s your dream guest for the podcast?

We’ve had a lot of them on already, you lucky lot! As a runner, I’d love to chat to Courtney Dauwalter – she’s a force of nature and seems a heap of fun. Climbing terrifies me and inspires me in equal measure so I’d love to rope up with Janja Garnbret or Alex Honnold and with Red Bull being synonymous with motorsport, Sam Sunderland or Max Verstappen would be brilliant, though they’d have hugely different stories. Maybe most of all though – Felix Baumgartner. Jumping to earth from SPACE? Check. Wait…actually? Yes. That’ll do for me.

Do you have a favourite episode of the podcast, or one you are proudest of?

I guess the first one I ever recorded, as a complete novice, was an adventure in itself. I interviewed Mollie Hughes, the British mountaineer who became the youngest woman to climb both sides of Everest and it was wonderful to follow up this year with Cathy O’Dowd, the first woman ever to achieve the feat. Interviewing Mark Beaumont was a real privilege as his was the first ever adventure book I read – his story about riding around the world in 80 days is so impressive. Phileas Fogg with quads for days…

Cathy O’Dowd

Cathy O’Dowd – the first woman to reach the summit of Mount Everest from both the south and north sides

Which episode would you say is the perfect introduction to your podcast?

Dougie Lampkin’s story about wheelieing around the TT course of the Isle of Man. I was a bit sceptical initially as though I knew of Dougie and how amazing he was, it seemed more like a novelty than a superhuman feat. The thing is – this episode taught me two things: “Superhuman” comes in many forms and that this podcast series has a ton of surprises in store for the audience. If you want to hold fire till the opening of series 3 – Abdullah Zeinab, the Australian endurance cyclist and adventurer is a perfect start. His story is WILD.

As you look back on your podcasting journey, what challenges have you faced, and how have you overcome them to keep the show growing?

When I started, I had no idea on how everything worked, but the incredible crews at Samizdat and Red Bull have been phenomenal, and while I’ve always been a great storyteller in a social situation, I’m pretty confident in saying now that I’m keeping my head above water in the more refined air of broadcasting. We have tried to keep our guests varied, unearthing stories from now, but also deeper back. There is a deep seam of adventure gold that we will continue to mine in the coming years to keep you all on the edge of your seat.

Rob Pope

Can you tell us more about what to expect from the new series of How to Be Superhuman?

Well the guest list is stellar, from my area of expertise, we have two incredible ultrarunners, Tara Dower and Ryan Sandes, one of the greatest climbers in the world, Jesse Dutton, who just happens to be blind, as well as Brette Harrington, whose story is as emotionally charged as it is impressive. We’ve got Martin Strel – the Big River man – possibly the greatest endurance swimmer in the world and is brilliantly bonkers. Andrew Cotton, the mega wave surfer whose comeback from adversity rivals that of another of my favourite guests from series one, the triathlete Tim Don – make sure you check that out, as well as the series two slot with Lael Wilcox – before you check out her latest globe spanning feat on season three. We have death defying (literally) kayaker Nouria Newman. You want high – we go as high as we can probably get as Tom de Dorlodot paraglides around the biggest peaks in the world. He could have waved at Cathy! However, we start the series with the insane feats of Abdullah Zeinab and his descent into madness in the Namibian desert. Just listening will make you thirsty, before we get a lot more “chill” at the South Pole with “Polar” Preet Chandi! Like I said, if you can’t get inspired by that lot, you must have done something beyond compare – maybe we could get you on the show – get in touch!

Where can the Pod Bible readers find out more about you?

There’s a great article on the Red Bull site that you can check out.

If anyone wants to say hi, or chat more about adventure, they can message me on my website – www.goingthedistancerun.com or follow me on social media at @runroblarun. I reply to all messages myself – I may present the greatest adventure pod on the planet, but I’m still who I’ve always been and love chatting to people with big ideas and bigger smiles.

How To be Superhuman cover art

Listen to How to Be Superhuman on Apple PodcastsSpotify, and other popular podcast apps >>

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Explore the fascinating world of maps with What’s Your Map? https://podbiblemag.com/explore-the-fascinating-world-of-maps-with-whats-your-map/ Wed, 29 Jan 2025 09:30:19 +0000 https://podbiblemag.com/?p=75437 Have You Heard? is where the Pod Bible team meet the people behind the podcasts you may not have heard of yet. What’s Your Map? is a fortnightly podcast all about the world of maps and the stories behind them. We spoke to Oculi Mundi, the online collection of maps which publishes What’s Your Map?, to find out more about making of the podcast – including what to expect from series two, which launches today, 29th January! Who are you and what’s your podcast about? Oculi-Mundi.com – the Eyes of the World – is the online home of a collection of early, mostly European, maps and related material. The objects in the collection range from the 13th to the 19th […]

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Have You Heard? is where the Pod Bible team meet the people behind the podcasts you may not have heard of yet. What’s Your Map? is a fortnightly podcast all about the world of maps and the stories behind them. We spoke to Oculi Mundi, the online collection of maps which publishes What’s Your Map?, to find out more about making of the podcast – including what to expect from series two, which launches today, 29th January!

Who are you and what’s your podcast about?

Oculi-Mundi.com – the Eyes of the World – is the online home of a collection of early, mostly European, maps and related material. The objects in the collection range from the 13th to the 19th centuries and are world maps, celestial maps, atlases, globes, manuscripts, and books.

Our podcast is What’s Your Map? In it, the well-known historian and author Jerry Brotton meets people from around the world and from all sorts of fields, who love maps. They each bring Jerry a map to discuss that is particularly influential for them.

Jerry Brotton

Jerry Brotton, host of What’s Your Map?

How did the idea for What’s Your Map? come about?

We have always admired Jerry’s work, and very happily got to know him through the map ecosystem. He asked if we had ever thought of doing a map podcast; we had not, but it sounded like a brilliant idea! And we always love an adventure.

At Oculi Mundi, we are very intent on sharing the joy of maps and all the ideas and stories around them. Doing a podcast with Jerry is such an exciting way of building on that.

What’s the first podcast you ever listened to?

Talk Art.

Why did you decide to start podcasting in the first place?

We couldn’t find any other podcast that actually talked to people about the maps they love, and their personal stories; all we could find were educational podcasts. Those are great – but in our view, maps are all about people: people who make maps, who use them, who get inspired by them. Maps are incredibly complex, contextual objects: there are so many stories to tell from them and about them.

We thought it would be fascinating and great fun to meet people and their maps – past and present. At Oculi Mundi we are a collection, not experts per se; and having someone as knowledgeable, experienced, and engaging as Jerry to host was a no-brainer. The podcast also allows us to present and explore maps that are beyond our specific collecting remit.

Which podcasts do you take inspiration from?

Jerry has done a number of podcasts and radio programmes before. He made a series called Blood and Bronze for BBC Sounds on the Italian Renaissance artist Benvenuto Cellini, and listens to Waldy and Bendy’s Adventures in Art. Our producers, Whistledown Studio, are also very experienced. They produce shows like Our Broken Planet and The Reunion on BBC Radio 4.

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learnt so far as a podcaster?

Have a great producer! And be prepared as far in advance as possible.

We put all the maps being discussed during What’s Your Map? online at Oculi Mundi, so that listeners can zoom in and follow along; so we make a full webpage for each guest. It also contains information on key themes or life experiences discussed by Jerry and the guest. It is important for us to take time to listen to the podcast episodes and think about what to feature online – what kinds of rabbit holes there are – and to ask questions. We also like to make sure that we have all the permissions in place to use digital images of maps that are outside the collection, as well as other images and content.

Blaeu’s World Map

Blaeu’s World Map, showing the Copernican solar system, 1662. Credit: Oculi-Mundi.com

What can you tell us about series two of the podcast?

Series 2 is going to be great fun – we are very lucky and honoured to have an eclectic, wonderful mix of guests, talking about a terrific group of maps. Our first guest is Google Earth’s Ed Parsons; then we meet the journalist and writer Sathnam Sanghera, NASA scientist Dr Heidi Hamel, cartographic historian Matthew Edney, National Geographic photographer and documentary maker Michael Yamashita, and Margo Ngawa Neale, an expert and curator of Indigenous Australian cultures. Series 2 will launch on 29th January on all major platforms – and as always, the maps will be available at Oculi-Mundi.com/podcast.

Who’s your dream guest for the podcast?

We have many dream guests! Among them would be cellist Yoyo Ma (who did a beautiful Silk Road project) and someone from the world of aviation. It would also be wonderful to speak with the artist Yinke Shonibare, and to find a specialist in mapping the flow of languages – or maybe the human brain. Other artists we would love to speak with are William Kentridge and Grayson Perry, who use maps in their work.

Which episode would you say is the perfect introduction to your podcast?

From Series 1, the second episode featuring explorer Dwayne Fields. It shows how deep and how human the context of maps can be, and what maps don’t say as much as what they show. Dwayne is incredibly inspiring, with his polar expeditions re-writing history.

Do you have a favourite episode of the podcast, or one you are proudest of?

A favourite episode from Series 1 is the last one, with Jane Anson. Jane is a wine expert living in Bordeaux. Not only is she very engaging and knowledgeable about wine, but she demonstrates the fascinating history, uses, and sources of mapmaking in an industry and a region that are not obvious when you think about cartography.

Where can the Pod Bible readers find out more about you?

All the episode webpages and maps, along with information about Jerry and What’s Your Map? can be found at www.Oculi-Mundi.com/podcast.

WYM Cover Art

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In Pieces: Hana Walker-Brown’s reflection on burnout https://podbiblemag.com/in-pieces-hana-walker-browns-reflection-on-burnout/ Fri, 17 Jan 2025 09:10:44 +0000 https://podbiblemag.com/?p=75413 In 2023, Hana Walker-Brown was signed off work with severe burnout. In order to make sense of her experience, and to reconnect with her creativity, she set out to craft a one-off audio documentary about the psychological impact of burnout and the complex path of recovery. The documentary became a piece of work titled “In Pieces”, produced under Reduced Listening, which aired on BBC Radio 4’s Illuminated on Sunday 12th January, and is now available as an episode of the Illuminated podcast. The Illuminated series showcases unique and unexpected one-off audio documentaries featuring innovative sound design and captivating storytelling to shine a light on hidden worlds. We spoke to Hana to find out more about “In Pieces”, the challenges of […]

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In 2023, Hana Walker-Brown was signed off work with severe burnout. In order to make sense of her experience, and to reconnect with her creativity, she set out to craft a one-off audio documentary about the psychological impact of burnout and the complex path of recovery.

The documentary became a piece of work titled “In Pieces”, produced under Reduced Listening, which aired on BBC Radio 4’s Illuminated on Sunday 12th January, and is now available as an episode of the Illuminated podcast. The Illuminated series showcases unique and unexpected one-off audio documentaries featuring innovative sound design and captivating storytelling to shine a light on hidden worlds.

We spoke to Hana to find out more about “In Pieces”, the challenges of creating this work, as well as her use of sound design in telling her story…

Could you tell us a bit about yourself and your Illuminated episode, ‘In Pieces’?

I’m Hana… I guess the topline is that i’m a purpose driven, multi-award-winning storyteller, sound artist, and speaker. I’ve spent over a decade developing ideas and concepts, establishing (and fucking with) formats and finding brave and beautiful ways to tell stories for multiple mediums across radio and podcasting, documentary film, narrative non-fiction, and events. Lead by an insatiable curiosity, my work centres on helping us understand ourselves and each other, to take the big world stuff and make it human and include everyone in the conversation. Underpinning all of my work across all mediums has always been the drive to tell stories that empower. “In Pieces” does that in a very intimate and tender way. It’s a sound rich one-off documentary and one-off podcast about what it means to put yourself back together when everything has fallen apart.

Hana Walker-Brown

Hana Walker-Brown – Photograph: Liz Seabrook

“In Pieces” is a very personal piece of work, what made you decide to turn your experience with burnout into this one-off documentary? What challenges did you face when creating it?

The intention was to try and alchemise the pain and trauma of the psychological impact of burnout into something useful, beautiful, and ultimately human and to do that, bravely confront the shame that so often tells us to hide so that other people who might feel this way could feel seen and heard and hopefully cultivate the courage to speak out. Stories are often how we create shape from the mess, how we make sense of the world, and often how we survive it. Giving us the power to hold what feels unholdable. I think burnout is still very misunderstood – certainly its severity on a psychological level and how intensely shameful it feels. Shame and stigma are so isolating but I think whenever we share our stories we encourage others to do the same.

The response so far has been utterly overwhelming – the amount of people that have reached out and said, “I thought I was the only person that felt like this,” which meant they had convinced themselves they were somehow failing. I think that’s such a defining factor in whether you feel deserving of help or not. But we all deserve help and support, we really can’t do it all by ourselves. I think it’s increasingly important in the times that we’re living in for us to find ways to show up for each other in any way we can and that was a huge motivator for me in making this. To provide a kind of peer support, the commissioner at the BBC called it “public service journalism” which feels right to me.

I think there are always challenges when you’re making anything creative and putting it out in the world – that’s an insanely vulnerable thing to do but when it’s about you it’s like a piece of your soul has been cut out and put on display (it’s giving Voldemort’s horcruxes for the millennials amongst us) but making this was an essential part of my recovery too – it feels like an exorcism, in a good way. An act of creative sublimination. It’s nice to be out the other side!

Credit to my incredibly kind exec Anishka Sharma at Reduced Listening here too – her guidance and grace were hugely important in getting it over the line.

It’s a masterful production and your sound design plays a large role in the storytelling; can you tell us about your decision to use sound in this way?

This is interesting on two levels because the real kicker with the burnout, the cruel twist I suppose but also the thing that made me finally accept something might be up, was that I lost the ability to edit and sound design. It was as if that part of my brain had been scrubbed out or like my entire software system had been changed into a foreign language I didn’t understand. Initially, I put that down to not sleeping but it all unravelled because of that and then I was signed off. I know now after extensive conversations with psychotherapists for the podcast, and privately, that this was my brains way of getting me to finally pay attention to what was happening because I was ignoring everything else. Clever, huh?! But more importantly, I think that sometimes when we go through these big psychological experiences we often don’t have the words to describe what’s happening but I have always known how to express myself in sound – it’s strange, maybe it’s my neurodivergence, maybe it’s the musician part of me, maybe it’s a bit wanky – probably a combination of all of those things – but I just know how to translate feeling into sound intuitively so it was important in not just telling the story but also in me figuring it all out myself. I have quite a distinct sonic signature that runs through all of my work and I usually build soundscapes before I do anything else. That was certainly the case here, I had all of these moments of sound, these little explorations of emotion literally in pieces, that I then started to weave together.

You mention CALM (the Campaign Against Living Miserably) in your podcast episode, are there any other organizations you would recommend for people who suspect they may have burnout?

I think a medical professional – be it GP or therapist – is always an essential port of call if someone is struggling although access to both can be limited for some people. One thing that I realised through this experience is that there are so many free helplines in this country which means there are so many people who are on the other end of the phone whose sole purpose is to help you, to listen to you. So even if you think there is no one you can turn to (friends/family etc.) there is! I think there’s something powerful in being listened to – in saying our struggles out loud too – but really listened to and held without judgement by someone who can validate what you’re feeling and help you find gentle ways to take steps to move forward.

Samaritans: 24/7 emotional support at 116 123

Shout: 24/7 confidential support at 85258

Rethink Mental Illness: Advice and information on therapy and medication at 0300 5000 927

Mind infoline: Information on mental health problems and where to get help at 0300 123 3393

CALM Helpline and webchat: Open 5pm to midnight, 365 days a year at 0800 58 58 58

Hub of Hope, a national database that connects you with local mental health services

An interview like this isn’t comprehensive enough to delve into the complicated journey of recovering from burnout, but is there any advice you feel you could offer someone who is burnt out, or feels they are approaching burnout, as a first step along the path to recovery?

I’m not an expert and certainly not a psychotherapist but from my experience I would say the most important thing you can do is to be very honest about what’s happening, to acknowledge how you’re feeling and tell somebody that can support you and then to borrow the words of my friend Gabby, “to be aggressively kind to yourself.” That was something I didn’t do in the beginning out of fear and shame and well, you can hear how that worked out initially in the podcast!

Some readers will know you from your work with Broccoli Productions, especially the “Anthems” collections and We Were Always Here as well as Audible’s The Beautiful Brain which became your debut book “A Delicate Game”, but could you tell us more about your route into podcasting? What attracted you to podcasting in the first place?

It wasn’t a deliberate route to be honest, it was just a very natural evolution from working in radio and sound design. I wanted to tell compelling stories in sound, and it didn’t really matter to me how that was labelled – radio/feature/podcast – just that I could do it. I did an MA in Radio at Goldsmiths where I now teach and was working for Falling Tree Productions and Radio Wolfgang for a while and then freelancing around until I was headhunted by Audible to come on as an executive producer, and later Broccoli Productions. The industry looks very different now and the barriers to entry are much higher and harder to break down, especially with the loss of places like Broccoli whose whole mission was really to advocate for and platform those who were being left behind. I think it can go from hopeful to hopeless real quick but we all have a responsibility to ensure that we’re doing whatever we can to leave the doors that we have unlocked opened for others. I think it’s also important to be creative in how we adapt and evolve. I work in many different mediums, but I still find sound the most powerful – how you can take someone out of their everyday and into other worlds just through their ears! I think it’s rare and precious to establish that kind of intimacy in the world we live in, especially with strangers, to provide solace, comfort, and connection in ways other mediums simply can’t.

Hana Walker-Brown Hamstead Heath

Hana Walker-Brown – getting back to nature at Hamstead Heath – Photograph: Liz Seabrook

What was the first podcast you ever listened to?

It was Serial! It had just launched, and I was working for Falling Tree Productions at the time and Alan (Hall) and I were flying to Chicago for the Third Coast Audio Festival. I listened to it the whole flight, I was first struck by the theme tune – I thought that was iconic – how it had such a defined identity just from the music alone but more vividly I remember being at the festival and this very visceral collective feeling that everything had changed now, that this was a new era. I don’t personally listen to true crime, I find the fetishisation of dead women and the ethics of consent in this genre very, very murky but I think Serial was and remains the most defining moment for audio journalism/podcasting not least because it was finally being regarded on a global scale.

Which podcasts do you take inspiration from?

The late, forever great, Short Cuts. It was an incredibly generous space for creativity and adventurous audio and a pleasure to hear how producers (new and experienced) from around the world were interpreting sound storytelling, meeting, and responding to the world while often finding their own voice within it. That’s a gift – to be allowed into those worlds and be invited to just get lost for a while. Thirteen years is a hell of a run for a show and even though it’s lost its home on the BBC, I know that the spirit of all of that will long continue in whatever Eleanor (McDowall – series creator) and the team tends to next.

Which one podcast episode that you have worked on means the most to you?

It was an episode of Anthems Home by Anton Ferrie. During the pandemic we knew a lot of people were out of work and totally isolated, so we (Broccoli) launched Anthems Home inviting people from all over the world to pitch to us and participate in Anthems in a way we hadn’t done with the previous series we’d made. It also felt like a good way to document that utterly mad moment in time where we were all just at home. I remember getting this email from a student in Glasgow who was living with his Grannie on a council estate at the time, and it just absolutely floored me. Anton’s writing was so eloquent and emotive and authentic, just a naturally gifted storyteller. I couldn’t believe he’d never done anything like it before so we gave him a commission and it remains to this day my favourite Anthems episode. It really struck a chord with so many people and it made the Bello 100 Best Podcast Episodes list that year.

What’s one podcast you’re really enjoying right now?

Miss Me with Miquita Oliver and Lily Allen. As a woman, it really feels like the collective breath we’ve all been holding. Protect them at all costs! Also, the theme music slaps.

Can you tell us anything about your plans for 2025? Do you have any other podcast series or one-offs in the pipeline?

I’m constantly exploring how I can use storytelling as a force for good, not just in the work I create but through the talks I give and the workshops I teach most notably in young adult prisons, using creative tools to help participants regain confidence and agency. I’m leading on two brilliant projects within Women’s Prisons for the Prison Radio Association – that include co-facilitating workshops with the formidable Lady Unchained. Some of the work that’s coming out of the projects, especially from the women themselves is incredible although everything we make will only be heard within prison. I’m also writing another book. I guess in the way The Beautiful Brain podcast evolved into my debut book “A Delicate Game”, “In Pieces”, or certainly the themes of it, will be expanded upon and explored in my second although that’s as much as I can say right now! For anything else… watch this space…

Where can the Pod Bible readers find out more about you?

I’m only (and sporadically) on Instagram now and my website.

In Pieces cover image

Listen to “In Pieces” on Apple PodcastsSpotify, and other popular podcast apps >>

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On the Journey with SJK: Exploring the power of inner energy https://podbiblemag.com/on-the-journey-with-sjk-exploring-the-power-of-inner-energy/ Mon, 06 Jan 2025 13:15:56 +0000 https://podbiblemag.com/?p=75402 For many people the new year is a time of introspection, so this interview comes at the perfect time for anyone looking to make changes in their life! We spoke to Sneha Jain Kirloskar from On the Journey with SJK about the first season of her show, what listeners can learn from it, and her aims for the future of the podcast… Who are you and what’s your podcast about? My name is Sneha Jain Kirloskar (SJK) and I am also the Founder & Trustee of an educational non-profit in India. I have also worked in my own energy metre company seeing its initiation, expansion, and strategic sale. In spite of having worked in social entrepreneurship and the energy business, […]

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For many people the new year is a time of introspection, so this interview comes at the perfect time for anyone looking to make changes in their life! We spoke to Sneha Jain Kirloskar from On the Journey with SJK about the first season of her show, what listeners can learn from it, and her aims for the future of the podcast…

Who are you and what’s your podcast about?

My name is Sneha Jain Kirloskar (SJK) and I am also the Founder & Trustee of an educational non-profit in India. I have also worked in my own energy metre company seeing its initiation, expansion, and strategic sale. In spite of having worked in social entrepreneurship and the energy business, my secret obsession, which is now out in the open, is “human energy”. I believe we have immense power within and this internal energy needs to be tapped into, as it shapes the way everything pans out in our lives.

I did my undergraduate in Economics & Finance from Leonard N. Stern School of Business, NYU & completed a Masters in Energy Policy from the University of Sussex, UK. I play the piano and write inspirational and empowering songs on human potential and energy. I recently released two singles called “Universe Within” and “Misaligning My Destiny” under ‘Lyrics by SJK’. I live in London with my husband and love being in the countryside.

My podcast, On the Journey with SJK, is an on-the go spiritual self-help podcast which deep dives, in a simplified manner, into how individual thoughts, words and actions are creative forces that shape our lives & outcomes. Whether you’re aiming for personal growth, seeking to improve your business or relationships, looking to overcome challenges in your life, or just hoping to create a better version of yourself, this podcast is for you. On the Journey is a compilation of different spiritual modalities, mixing it up with metaphysics thinking, the Law of Attraction and teachings from various spiritual gurus and manifestation experts.

Sneha Jain Kirloskar headshot

Sneha Jain Kirloskar

Why did you decide to start On the Journey with SJK?

For years, I’ve pondered over life – is everything just a random event or are we shaping our lives and destinies? How powerful are we as creators? I studied a lot of Nichiren Buddhist principles, heard from some of the biggest life coaches and had certain experiences in my own life which led me to realise the power that we carry within. I started making my notes from different sources and I wanted to share that with the world, which is why I decided to make a podcast. I think being able to focus on spirituality is a big luxury and everyone may not have the time to get into it so deeply. Nevertheless, getting some basic principles right is important for us humans. Through On The Journey with SJK I want to provide my listeners with different techniques and tools that can help us shift our lives in meaningful and practical ways, and harness the energy source within.

What do you hope listeners will gain from listening to your podcast?

I want my listeners to gain practical tools they can use to improve their daily lives. Often people are overwhelmed by their circumstances and the thought of solving big problems can be intimidating. We often brush some of our bigger challenges under the carpet because we don’t feel like we have the tools to deal with the issue at hand. Through my podcast, I want to equip my listeners with some practical techniques and tools that helped me sort many situations in life. I want my listeners to really harness the power that they have within, and realise that often this energy comes not from some big change overnight, but from small incremental steady changes in thoughts, words and actions, that can be life-changing!

SJK with children

What sets your podcast apart from others in the same niche?

My podcast is a compilation from modern day and ancient spiritual philosophies (Hinduism and Nichiren Buddhism), spiritual gurus, life coaches, and manifestation experts. Over the years, I’ve studied different spiritual schools of thoughts and made notes of myself. My podcast is a way of sharing everything that I’ve learned, through reading and personal life lessons and experiences. It’s a compilation of different modalities but I’ve tried to create a podcast that can appeal to people of all ages, nationalities, cultures, and professions. By virtue of running a business and a social foundation, as well as having passions such as music and spirituality in my life, I believe I can connect with listeners from all kinds of backgrounds. Growing up in a big family in India, having studied in New York and Italy, and now living in London, I’ve interacted with so many personality types, which has enriched my understanding of people.

What was the first podcast you ever listened to?

To be honest, I was someone who always listened to speakers on YouTube such as Joe Dispenza, Louise Hay, Sister Shivani, Tony Robbins etc., but the first podcast I heard was Mel Robbins, I think.

Which podcasts do you take inspiration from?

Feel Better, Live More with Dr Rangan Chatterjee, Buddhability, etc.

As you look back on creating season one of On the Journey with SJK, what challenges have you faced, and how have you overcome them to keep the show growing?

This is my first season & to be honest, there was no big challenge because I felt that the content had been created by me for a very long time – it was just sitting in my notebooks and emails. But I guess compiling it all together in a way that would appeal to people at different stages of their lives was something that had to be kept in mind. I want to create content that people really benefit from, can relate to, and actually apply in their lives.

SJK with children 2

Which one podcast episode of your own means the most to you?

They are all very special to me. But in Episode 4 of my first season, I make the listeners do an easy exercise examining all aspects of their lives. This really puts life into perspective and gives us a tool to see where we operate with respect to everything. It is from this place of awareness, that we can actually start making positive changes.

Which one podcast episode (not of your own) has had the biggest impact/influence on you?

BK Sister Shivani’s episode on “How to Reprogram your Subconscious Mind”. She talks about how we consciously need to choose the thoughts that we record in our minds, and how that influences our energy and vibration.

What are your plans for the podcast moving forward?

I would now like to invite on my show, thought-leaders from different parts of the world to speak on spirituality, energy, manifestation, power of the mind, neuroscience etc.

I want On the Journey with SJK to be the go-to platform when someone wants a burst of positive energy and is looking for answers or practical tips on how to improve their lives.

Where can the Pod Bible readers find out more about you/the podcast?

I share a lot of positive quotes on Instagram so I would love to be followed on that. I also encourage my listeners to reach out to me by email and am happy to have a discussion with them if they are facing any kind of challenges or blocks and want a new way to think through things. In addition, I write inspirational lyrics on life and destiny and I’d like my listeners to hear my songs for a burst of positive energy!

Links

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onthejourneywithsjk/

Website: www.onthejourneywithsjk.com

Email: info@onthejourneywithsjk.com

Songs:
Misaligning My Destiny: 

https://music.apple.com/gb/album/misaligning-my-destiny/1771502830?i=1771502978

Universe Within:

https://music.apple.com/gb/album/universe-within/1767222410?i=1767222419

 

On the Journey cover image

Listen to On the Journey with SJK on Apple PodcastsSpotify, and other popular podcast apps >>

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