Found: Objects with Meaning // Wallpaper magazine and Vodafone Smart Tech launch a podcast

For anyone who appreciates aesthetics, Wallpaper* Magazine has long been an authority for design. For decades, it has lead the way in a number of disciplines from design and art, to transport and technology. Founded as a print magazine in 1996, it has evolved into a multi-channel media brand. But one form of media it hasn’t dipped its toe into, until now, is podcasting.

Found: Objects With Meaning is a new podcast collaboration between Wallpaper* Magazine and Vodafone Smart Tech. The 6-part series explores the creative and emotional force of the objects we have – as well as the ones that we’ve lost.⁠⁠

We asked the host, Professor Jonathan Bell, to tell us a bit more about it.

Who are you and what’s your podcast about?

I’m Jonathan Bell, the Transport & Technology Editor at Wallpaper* Magazine, and I host Found: Objects With Meaning. Our podcast is about the emotional power of objects, finding, losing and collecting.

I’ve spoken to some leading creative minds about the ups and downs of owning and losing objects. For example, in the first episode I spoke to musician Nile Rodgers, who is a self-described hoarder. We talked about his collections of cars, guitars and art – which led onto a discussion about an impressive portrait that was seemingly lost before being found again by chance.

What was the first podcast you ever listened to?

It was probably Adam Buxton’s podcast. Or Griefcast. I was pretty late at getting into podcasts, I must confess…

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

Collectively, we thought it was a good opportunity for the magazine to have more of an actual voice. We spend a lot of time promoting design; but the process and thoughts behind the industry are increasingly important as well.  Wallpaper* has always been at the forefront of the global creative community, and we wanted to expand that into podcast media.

Which podcasts do you take inspiration from?

I’m quite a traditionalist in that I like conversations that go back and forth. They should be quite distinct from a regular interview.

Who’s your dream guest for the podcast?

There are many. Ultimately I think we’d like to reflect all the disciplines we write about, so having some architects would be good.

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

Try and avoid questions that turn into query-less rambles.

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

It’s a new podcast, so I’d say start at the beginning and see where it takes you.

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

There’s a huge amount of content available at wallpaper.com. It is a fantastic resource. You can listen to Found: Objects With Meaning on Acast, Spotify, Apple Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.