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.

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

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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, 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 – 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 – 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.

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.

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

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Who are you and what’s your podcast about?

I am Kate Rowe-Ham and my podcast focuses on empowering women to see the positives of Menopause and to thrive.

Who is the biggest inspiration on your podcasting style?

I love Gabby Logan, Mel Robbins and Diary Of a CEO as I feel they get down into their guests and make their podcast episodes inspiring, informative, and often relatable.

What do you like most about podcasting as a medium?

The connection and collaboration with others.

Kate Rowe-Ham – Photographs: Sophie Mitchell Photography

If you could do a cross-over episode with one other podcast, which podcast would you choose?

It would have to be Diary Of A CEO.

What advice would you give to someone starting a podcast?

Be brave and just start. I was so worried for so long that I procrastinated. Also just ask the guests you want – they may say yes – they may say no BUT never be afraid to ask. Also don’t always assume they will promote you and don’t do it for follows. Do it for relevant content to your audience.

Is there any kind of episode/special you’d like to do but haven’t done yet?

I would really love to do a World Menopause Day LIVE audience episode recording with friends and experts.

Which episode(s) mean the most to you?

I think the one that I do with my family.

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

Visit me on katerh_fitness.

Listen to Owning Your Menopause on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other popular podcast apps >>

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Amy’s passion for dissecting business law issues finds a dynamic platform in the podcast, Bite-Sized Business Law. Through engaging interviews with corporate attorneys, industry experts, and scholars, she brings to light the multifaceted impacts of corporate decisions on society. In this exclusive interview, Amy shares her journey from an avid podcast listener to a compelling host, her motivations behind creating a business law podcast, and the exciting, sometimes controversial, insights her series aims to deliver. Join us as we explore the mind behind Bite-Sized Business Law and gain a glimpse into the future trends that will shape the corporate world.

Can you introduce yourself and give us an overview of your podcast?

Hi, I’m Amy Martella and I am the Executive Director of the Corporate Law Center at Fordham University School of Law. In that role, I develop conferences, events, and symposia that bring together scholars, professionals, policymakers, and students to study, discuss and debate current issues and perennial questions in business and financial law.

I’m also the creator and host of the Bite-Sized Business Law podcast, which tackles compelling business law issues through interviews with corporate attorneys, industry experts, public figures, and business law scholars. My own background includes a wide range of legal experience at small and large law firms, tech start-up companies, and as a law clerk on three different federal courts. I’ve got a J.D. from Fordham Law School and a B.A. from Boston College.

Amy Martella

What was the first podcast you ever listened to, and how did it influence your interest in podcasting?

At the risk of sounding terribly basic, the first podcast I ever listened to was Serial –Adnan Syed. As a young mom with babies and toddlers underfoot, I had no time to sit down anymore, and I found this medium so easy to listen to on the go. From the moment I heard Sarah Koenig’s voice, I was hooked. Podcasts are now a regular part of my day at one point or another.

What motivated you to start a podcast focused on business law?

As the Executive Director of the Corporate Law Center at Fordham Law School, I’m constantly convening events, lectures, roundtables, conferences, and debates to study and discuss business and financial law. Our students, faculty, and alumni really like the work we do, but we knew we could elevate it to an even broader audience via podcasting.

Corporations have a huge impact on society, from the economy to politics to the tech we use to shaping our government’s foreign policy. And you don’t have to be a lawyer or an industry insider to have a vested interest in what’s happening in the business world. But when you open the newspaper or read traditional media, you often get a take that either doesn’t examine the issue deeply enough or is only what the finance industry wants you to know. Our expert guests, including scholars, journalists, corporate lawyers, authors, and business leaders, provide deeper, albeit often controversial, insights that you won’t get from other sources. My goal is to wrestle with ideas and question commonly held assumptions about the way corporations affect our daily lives. I think Bite-Sized Business Law does a solid job of going beyond informing our audience to give them a true understanding of what motivates corporate behavior, moves the markets, and makes the world go ‘round.

Which podcasts do you draw inspiration from, particularly in the legal and business space?

I try not to miss a Daily if it relates to business or politics. What I like about The Daily is how the short length drives home the most important aspects of an issue and the reporting done almost in real-time proximity to the “event” shows me what people’s knee-jerk reactions tend to be. That allows me to formulate deeper questions and challenge initial assumptions about these events. I also love Planet Money and the way it demonstrates that almost any issue is somehow related to our economy. Another, perhaps guilty pleasure, podcast that I listen to is The Prosecutors, which is legal but also true-crime focused. The hosts unabashedly draw on their own professional backgrounds which serves as a good reminder to me: even though I’m interviewing experts, I have my own expertise as a lawyer that I can add to the conversation.

What are you most excited for listeners to hear in your current series?

I’m always excited when the Corporate Law Center Faculty Director, Richard Squire, comes on the show. He’s not only brilliant, but he’s funny and super engaging to listen to. We have an upcoming episode where I pose the question to him: should Sam Bankman-Fried spend even one day behind bars? This episode questions everything we thought we knew about how we punish white-collar crime in America and whether there are alternative ways to do it. It’s a super fascinating question, and I can’t wait to hear what our listeners think.

If readers can start on one episode of Bite-Sized Business Law where should they start?

Is Elon Musk Overpaid at Tesla? Interplanetary Warfare: Mars vs. Delaware.

Which future business law trends discussed in your series are you most eager to see come to life?

So many! Artificial Agents in the boardroom, meaning having an AI robot sit as a member on a corporate board. That issue was discussed on this episode, and I’m convinced artificial agents are coming soon to a boardroom near you.

Greater transparency into litigation funding arrangements which, as of now, require almost zero disclosure. The private equity spigots have been turned on full blast and they’re flooding mass tort litigations with money, which creates real risks, from sanction evasion to bankrupting viable corporations. That issue was discussed here and I’m looking forward to seeing how it evolves in the near future.

Where is Bitcoin headed and how many other digital coins will get ETFs? This is a fascinating ride to be on, as my guest Anthony Scaramucci explains in this episode.

I’m also eager to see the global corporate community rise to the 21st century challenges of promoting stability in a world rife with geopolitical tension and taking steps to stem certain global risks like election interference, even if it negatively impacts share prices. That issue will be discussed on an upcoming episode celebrating 80 years of Bretton Woods and calling for a new world geo-economic order.

Listen to Bite-Sized Business Law on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other popular podcast apps >>

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Who are you and what’s your podcast about?

I’m Akram Khan. I’m a dancer, choreographer, and director, and I’ve made movement into my life and work. Move to Live, brought to you by Marquee TV, explores the profound questions that arise from the intersection of movement and life, such as: How does the way we move affect how we think and behave? What happens if we don’t get the opportunity to move? How does movement play a part in life apart from dance? I have always wanted to talk with creative people about these questions.

What’s the first podcast you ever listened to?

I’m really interested in other people’s stories and their connection to music. And so I enjoy listening to BBC Radio’s Desert Island Discs. Music has always played such an important part in my life. One of my fondest podcasting memories is being interviewed for the show. The presenter, Kirsty Young, has an amazing voice for radio. I also enjoy BBC Radio 4’s Homeschool History (mostly with my kids) and Gimlet Media’s The Habitat.

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

Connecting with our bodies is essential; without this connection, we can’t fully engage with the world around us. Our physicality shapes our relationship with everything outside of ourselves. Movement has always been my way of communicating. I wanted to explore this connection with people who aren’t necessarily dancers. I’m curious about their relationship to movement. It’s something that I’ve been wanting to do for a while now and it’s been an enlightening journey.

Akram Khan and Andy Serkis

Which podcasts do you take inspiration from?

Joe Rogan’s podcast intrigues me. His show hosts such a diverse range of guests and while I don’t always agree with them, often I am interested in hearing what they have to say and how they choose to respond.

Who’s your dream guest for the podcast?

I’m really interested in film so it would be amazing to speak to Christopher Nolan and Steve McQueen. Their insights and stories would be absolutely fascinating.

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

For me, being on the receiving end of interviews is familiar territory but conducting them is a whole new experience. It has been incredibly enlightening to be the one guiding the conversation so that my guests feel comfortable in sharing their own ideas and stories.

(Left) Akram Khan and Izzy Judd
(Right) Es Devlin and Akram Khan

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

The first episode is a conversation between Susannah Simons, Director of Content at Marquee TV, and myself; it’s a good introduction to the series. Suzannah interviews me and really, she sets the tone for the insightful discussions to come.

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

I don’t have social media but you can find out more about what I am up to through my Company at www.akramkhancompany.net and on social media, Instagram: @akramkhancompany and Facebook: AkramKhanCompany.

Listen to Move to Live on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other popular podcast apps >>

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Who are you and what’s your podcast about?

We’re Kristen Meinzer and Jolenta Greenberg, and together we host How To Be Fine, a show about feeling better, not perfect. All this season, we’re tackling the sometimes thorny subject of friendship – from how to make friends and how to maintain long-distance friendships, to how to deal with conflict and even how to break up with BFFs. On some episodes we talk with experts. And in alternate episodes we serve as the show’s friendship guinea pigs, trying out the advice of our experts while recording ourselves.

What’s the first podcast you ever listened to?

It was probably This American Life for both of us!

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

Jolenta is a comedian who wanted to make her own content and tell her own stories so podcasting seemed like a natural fit. Meanwhile, Kristen got thrust into it 15+ years ago. She was working as culture producer at a public radio show and was asked to start hosting a podcast. A few years later, when they were each between podcasts, Jolenta invited Kristen to start hosting a show with her, and they’ve been doing it ever since.

Kristen Meinzer and Jolenta Greenberg

Which podcasts do you take inspiration from?

We love any podcasts where the hosts have smart takes on what otherwise may seem like dumb subjects – reality TV, tabloid news, celebrity memoirs, and so on. We believe that those “dumb subjects” tell us a lot about what we value as a society. They’re also fun!

Who’s your dream guest for the podcast?

Definitely Dolly Parton. We adore everything about her! Her creativity, her entrepreneurial spirit, her altruism, her joy, her vulnerability, and her work ethic. She truly makes the world a better place.

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

We don’t have to be perfect. In fact, our listeners tend to like us best when we’re being vulnerable, stumbling, and learning along with them.

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

The first episode of our series on the Loneliness Epidemic is a great place to start.

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

You can follow us on Instagram at @howtobefinepod. You can also listen to us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your favourite shows.

Listen to How To Be Fine on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other popular podcast apps >>

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Who are you and what’s your podcast about?

I’m Emma Lightbown, a fashion stylist, podcaster, and presenter. Off the Hanger is the fashion podcast where we chat to guests about their favourite wardrobe pieces and the amazing stories behind them. The guests are a fabulous, diverse mix of people from familiar faces to industry experts, fashion fanatics, and those with a unique sense of style.

What was the first podcast you ever listened to?

Sh**ged, Married, Annoyed – I love the very honest look at married life and the ridiculous / gross / hilarious stories that people send in. I learnt very quickly that it was one to listen to in the car not on public transport as you get some funny looks when you’re hysterically laughing at something no one else can hear!

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

Off the Hanger combines two of my favourite things – fashion and being nosey! I love chatting to the guests about the deeper meaning behind their clothes, why they choose what they wear, and how fashion impacts their everyday – it’s a way of showcasing that fashion is way more than just the superficial.

Which podcasts do you take inspiration from?

I loved the format of Films To Be Buried With – so took inspiration from that when creating my own format. Although we wander off topic I really enjoy having the same set of questions that I cover with every guest. Fearne Cotton and Elizabeth Day are both incredibly inspirational. I love their interview style – it’s warm, friendly, and never invasive even though they cover some very personal topics with guests.

Who’s your dream guest for the podcast?

Iris Apfel was always my dream guest up until her passing earlier this year. She had such a wonderful and unique sense of style – breaking down the stereotypes of what you can and can’t wear past a certain age. She was always truly authentic in her outfit choices and I would have loved to have known her answers to the Off the Hanger questions.

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

My chat with artist and print designer Jess Williams (“Top Fashion Tips From Artist & Print Designer Jess Williams”). We cover so much in this episode – trying to get over the diet culture hangover, Jess’s beautiful work, how she feels about wearing her own designs, and her childhood love of fancy dress. She shares her most embarrassing fashion moment, her most sentimental wardrobe piece, and the dream style treasure she’s lusting after.

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

Off The Hanger is available on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. Or you can find me on Instagram and TikTok: @offthehangerofficial

Listen to Off the Hanger on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and other popular podcast apps >>

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Who are you and what’s your podcast about?

I am a broadcaster called Matthew Bannister. I have presented programmes on BBC Radios 1, 2, 4, 5Live, World Service and Local Radio, but in 2018 I finally designed my perfect job: the Folk on Foot podcast. In each episode I go walking and talking with a top UK or Irish folk musician in a landscape that has inspired them. And to make it even more beautiful, they sing and play on location. We’ve travelled the length and breadth of the country from Shetland and Orkney in the North to Faversham, Port Isaac and Dartmoor in the South and from Galway Bay in the West of Ireland to Robin Hood’s Bay and Spurn Point in the East of England. Our guests read like a Who’s Who of contemporary folk, ranging from Eliza Carthy, Seth Lakeman and the Unthanks to Johnny Flynn, Richard Thompson and Sandra Kerr, plus nature writers like Robert Macfarlane, Raynor Winn and Amy-Jane Beer.

Folk on Foot host Matthew Bannister

What’s the first podcast you ever listened to?

The Guilty Feminist. It taught me so much!

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

Podcasting is a wonderful way to test out an idea and see if an audience likes it. You don’t need to get commissioned and you can make the episodes as long or as short as they need to be. I didn’t have to convince anyone else that Folk on Foot was a good idea before we launched. I just put it out there. Fortunately lots of other people loved it as much as I do and we now have a wonderful supportive community of Folk on Foot members.

Which podcasts do you take inspiration from?

I love Catherine Carr’s Where Are You Going? – she just accosts complete strangers and finds out their fascinating hidden stories with such charm. During lockdown I listened to The Stubborn Light of Things by the novelist and nature writer Melissa Harrison, who took us for immersive and enlightening walks in the countryside when we were confined to our homes. I’m delighted to say we’ve just recorded a Folk on Foot episode with Melissa and the composer and musician Laura Cannell walking, talking and playing in rural Suffolk. (You will hear nightingales singing in the background as Laura plays her bass recorder.) I was delighted recently to be a guest on The Plodcast with Fergus Collins which is always a great listen. We had a wonderful walk around the remains of a Roman settlement at Silchester. Anyone who needs more inspiration to get out and engage with the natural world should check out Liv Bolton’s brilliant The Outdoors Fix.

Who’s your dream guest for the podcast?

I have already walked and talked with many of my heroes and heroines, including the Scottish singer, songwriter, storyteller and theatre maker Karine Polwart and the great guitarist and songwriter Richard Thompson (founder of Fairport Convention). I have been a fan of his music since I was a teenager, so to walk around his old haunts in Muswell Hill and hear him play in the garden of the house called “Fairport” that gave the band its name was a dream come true. I have my sights set on persuading the wonderful Shetland fiddle player Aly Bain to record with us soon and if the amazing singer and musician Rhiannon Giddens is reading this, there’s a standing invitation to come for a walk with us.

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

The biggest challenge isn’t making wonderful episodes – it’s the sheer continuous hard work you need to put in to make sure anyone notices they’re out there.

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

There are over 70 episodes of Folk on Foot, so you could either begin at the beginning with the irrepressible trio called The Young’Uns taking us for a musical walk on the historic Hartlepool Headland – then work your way forward – or you could start with the latest episode featuring the singer and fiddle player Frankie Archer taking her 21st Century approach to folk using loop pedals, drum effects and samples out into the countryside around the town of Consett in County Durham where she grew up. Then work your way back. Either way there are so many treats in store!

Singer, fiddle player, and the latest guest on Folk on Foot, Frankie Archer.

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

At our website: www.folkonfoot.com or @folkonfoot on Instagram, Facebook, X/Twitter and TikTok. Our episodes are available, as they say “wherever you get your podcasts”.

Listen to Folk on Foot on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other popular podcast apps >>

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It’s been said that “More than a podcast, Media Storm is a campaign” – why did you choose podcasting as the medium for these conversations?

Media Storm is an ethical news venture with the aim to execute and embody targeted editorial reform in the news sector. We set out on this aim for reform after we discovered ingrained malpractices while working together at leading national news outlets. Podcasting is the perfect medium for these conversations – you’re not bound by traditional editorial conventions, some which are so fixated on appearing “balanced”, they end up platforming fiction as much as fact. Plus, podcasting provides a much-needed balm for the fast-paced 24 hour clickbait news cycle – you can take your time to reach out to communities who may be wary of speaking to traditional media.

What do you consider when taking on a new topic?

Our core principle is to provide ‘right of reply’ to marginalised groups that are denied due representation in everyday news coverage. This means prioritising refugee voices in immigration coverage, indigenous and frontline voices in climate coverage, or people with experiences of homelessness, disability, prison, addiction, sexual assault, or racism (and so on) in social policy discussions affecting them. When taking on a new topic, we ask ourselves: who are the critical missing voices in the biggest news stories? And crucially: what expertise can they provide? Too often, “case studies” in the news are valued only for their trauma, heartstring tugs for the end of the story. But those with experience are also experts: they have knowledge of the system, knowledge of the cause, and knowledge of the impact.

Did you take inspiration from any podcasts in particular before you started?

Most current affairs podcasts take a more traditional approach to news, but we have been inspired by those taking a slower approach to stories – such as Serial, Tortoise’s The Slow Newscast, or more recently, A Bit Fruity. We’ve also been inspired by dynamic female duos, whatever the genre! 2 Dope Queens, Closet Confessions, All Killa No Filla, to name a few.

What is the most valuable lesson you have learned from creating Media Storm?

Don’t give up when the going gets tough. Trying to build a podcast from the ground up without massive financial investment or celebrity fronting is not a goal with many models of success. Nor is trying to sustainably monetise ethical, non-sensationalist, source-led journalism. We are not following a well-trodden path here, and sometimes we lose the trail or struggle to see the way ahead, but we have always found a way to continue and it has always been worth it – it just takes a bit of determination and unconditional support for each another as partners. Just because the path isn’t clear, doesn’t mean there isn’t a way through. And we have learned time and again that there are enough people who value our work and share our frustrations with modern news practices to make Media Storm work in the long-term. Lessons are: trust yourself, think creatively about obstacles ahead, and never compromise on the standards of your work.

Is there one thing that excites you the most about Series 4 you can’t wait for listeners to hear?

There’s so many things it’s hard to choose! We’re excited to launch our new weekly current affairs format, digging more directly into the biggest news story of each week. We’ve got special investigative episodes coming up, the first on the 13th June about the opaqueness of rape ‘justice’ trials. We’ve got a killer guest-host, a segment that will help take listeners outside of the Western worldview on news, and plenty of speakers that will help us find the facts behind the fear-mongering. Most importantly, we’re excited to leave people after each episode with something to talk about.

Do you have any podcast recommendations for listeners to continue learning between episodes/seasons?

We would always encourage listeners to continue learning from people with lived experience! We recommend Life After Prison – hosted by Zak Addae-Kodua and Jules Rowan, who have both spent time in prison. It’s a podcast for people whose lives have been affected by the criminal justice system – but also for people who have no experience with it to learn directly from people who have! We’d also recommend Homo Sapiens: conversations, stories and a good old laugh with LGBTQ+ icons and allies, and Maintenance Phase – debunking the junk science behind health fads, wellness scams and nonsensical nutrition advice.

Listen to Media Storm series 4 now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and other popular podcast apps >>

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Who are you and what’s your podcast about?

I’m outgoing, midwestern-grown, and on the brink of turning thirty, fueled by a love for adventure and drawn to tales reminiscent of Indiana Jones and The Jungle Book. Whether it’s hiking, snorkeling, or exploring the diverse culinary scene of Los Angeles, I’m always seeking new experiences. My fascination with the outdoors and diverse cultures led me to stumble upon a mysterious disappearance in the Indian Himalayas. Justin Alexander, a nomadic traveler and survival expert, vanished in 2016. His last known journey, accompanied by a self-proclaimed holy man, was announced to social media with a cryptic message: ‘I should return mid-September or so. If I’m not back by then, don’t look for me.’ Thus began my four-year investigation, chronicled in my podcast, ‘Status: Untraced,’ delving into the enigma of Justin Alexander’s disappearance.

What’s the first podcast you ever listened to?

To be honest, I can’t recall the very first podcast I ever listened to. However, the first docu-series podcast that truly grabbed my attention was Serial. Prior to that, I indulged in a variety of podcasts spanning self-help, news, and comedy genres, such as School of Greatness, The Daily, and This Past Weekend.

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

I decided to start podcasting because of a fortuitous encounter with Alex Vespestad in 2020. As we became acquainted, he shared Justin Alexander’s story with me. Alex, being a well-established creator of true-crime podcasts, extended an offer to collaborate on a podcast about Justin. Upon delving into Justin’s story, I found myself captivated by his character; he essentially was my imaginary childhood hero – brought to life. The enigmatic circumstances surrounding his disappearance – a suspect found hanged in jail, cryptic messages, and swirling rumors – only fueled my intrigue. Thus, seizing the chance, I eagerly embraced the opportunity to delve into his story through podcasting.

Which podcasts do you take inspiration from?

I draw a lot of inspiration from my initial exposure to Alex’s work alongside Neil Strauss, in the podcast, To Live and Die In LA. From the moment I started listening, I was immediately hooked and managed to binge the entire first season in less than 24 hours. Shout out to Spotify Wrapped for quantifying my obsession.

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

As a podcaster, I’ve learned that the journey is full of unexpected twists and turns. From navigating interviews and writing scripts to overcoming hurdles like securing international visas during a global pandemic and even getting a car stuck on a Mexican beach, every step has tested me in new ways. I’ve come to appreciate that life rarely unfolds exactly as planned, but therein lies its beauty. So my biggest lesson has been to trust in myself, my team (Alex truly is a genius; I couldn’t have done this without him), and the timing of the process itself.

Oh, and I’ve also managed to slow my speaking pace, albeit just a little.

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

It’s wild to look back on now, but readers can listen to the origin story of my aspirations and career, in addition to the growth of my philosophy on life, by tuning into Status: Untraced. “Check it out on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts…” Sorry, the new podcaster inside of me took over for a second.

As far as any future work goes, we’ll see just have to see what happens! But if you’re curious to stay updated, you’ll find me fairly active on Instagram.

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PB: WHY DO YOU LOVE PODCASTS?

AL: I love podcasts for so many reasons. I love the feeling of really clicking with a show, learning the in-jokes and the idiosyncrasies of the hosts, the verbal foibles and when the rhythm of the format becomes familiar and hypnotic and you feel one of the gang. I love learning things through audio too, I’m such a slow reader and I just feel like podcasts are a format my brain can digest.

I listen to podcasts for a big part of the day, every day – so they soundtrack everything. So in a weird way they also offer companionship – a constant presence of someone smarter, funnier, cooler in my ears, improving me a little, osmotically!

WHAT WAS THE FIRST PODCAST YOU EVER LISTENED TO?

The Ricky Gervais Show with Karl Pilkington and Stephen Merchant. I must have listened dozens and dozens of times now. I can quote large chunks of it still. Subconsciously (and maybe a bit consciously!) I think I was channelling a bit of that dynamic when we started My Dad Wrote A Porno.

WHICH PODCASTER MAKES YOU LAUGH THE MOST?

I’ve been a huge fan of Julia Davis for a long time now and it was through her that I discovered Vicki Pepperdine. Dear Joan & Jericha is so perfect, I love hearing podcasters genuinely making each other corpse.

WHICH PODCAST HAS EDUCATED YOU THE MOST?

Recently I really loved Nice White Parents – great journalism and just so gripping even though on the surface the public education system in a specific neighbourhood in the US doesn’t necessarily sound like it would be. It was informative and educational without being preachy or inaccessible. You can really hear that it was a labour of love. Newscast is always clarifying and helpful so I never miss that, that’s one of only a few long standing regulars in my library.

CAN YOU RECOMMEND A SHOW OUR READERS MAY NOT HAVE HEARD OF?

I’m always surprised when people say they haven’t heard The Mystery Show. Starlee Kine investigates mysteries ”you can’t solve with the internet” like ‘How tall is Jake Gyllenhaal?’ – why do we care? Because this is a prime example of the ordinary made extraordinary in story telling. It is a logistical feat, with the yarns sometimes unravelling over weeks or even months, and yet the production strikes a perfect balance between slick and DIY. The fact that it only ran for one season is a tragedy.

Want more from Alice Levine? Check out the Gospel According To… My Dad Wrote A Porno, where we hear form her and her podcast partners in crime…

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PB: WHY DO YOU LOVE PODCASTS?

AZ: I love the authenticity of them, the best podcasts for me are when you feel like you’re genuinely listening in to a conversation between friends, almost eavesdropping as opposed to being spoken to directly by the hosts. When you get the feel that a podcast has been overly edited for me it loses that naturalism that I think the very best podcasts have. Also, there’s no other medium that allows such a wealth of information to be dispensed to the listener in such an entertaining fashion. The fact that podcasts are these longform chats between people who know their subject matter inside out for the most part, makes them incredibly

WHAT WAS THE FIRST PODCAST YOU EVER LISTENED TO?

Is it bad that it was one of my own!? I mean, this was years ago, and it wasn’t even called a podcast despite being exactly that. It had the snappy title of Mars Planets MySpace Radio. That should give you an idea of how old it is seeing as Mars Planets don’t exist anymore. Neither does MySpace really. I hosted a podcast with a different MySpace user each week and we played out the best tracks from unsigned bands on MySpace. Anyway, I listened to that in around 2006 which I think factually makes it the first.

WHICH PODCASTER MAKES YOU LAUGH THE MOST?

I love Wrestle Me, the podcast hosted by Marc Haynes and Pete Donaldson. I’m not even a massive wrestling fan but the two of them together are brilliant and I find the journey through the history of all the Wrestlemanias and Marc’s knowledge of the sport ridiculously entertaining.

WHICH PODCAST HAS EDUCATED YOU THE MOST?

As a writer I find John August and Craig Mazin’s Scriptnotes a really useful podcast. They offer some great analysis of different genres of film and TV as well as giving their insight into the industry itself. So yeah, I’d say that’s probably educated me the most, especially when I started writing. Also, I don’t think anyone knows as much about Bond as John Rain on SmershPod, so in terms of an education in 007, that show is a must.

CAN YOU RECOMMEND A SHOW OUR READERS MAY NOT HAVE HEARD OF?

I really enjoy Friends With Friends, where Dave Cribb and Pete Allison are going through and analysing every Friends episode is great fun. Also, the eternally affable Tom Price does My Mate Bought A Toaster, where he interviews guests based on their Amazon purchase history is a lovely listen.

Alex Zane was co-host of the recently concluded film podcast Clash of the Titles. You can catch up on the whole catalogue now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and other popular podcast apps >>

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Who are you and what’s your podcast about?

I’m Daisy Mack, I help people find their breath as a way to deal with the stress of everyday life. Spiritual Mixtape the podcast is all about exploring life’s ups and downs and the lessons we learn along the way. Each episode is like a different track off your favourite mixtape. It’s meant to make you feel something – ideally better.

In Spiritual Mixtape, we talk about everything from dealing with change and finding your purpose, to the little moments that bring us joy or challenge us to grow. It’s a place for honest conversations about the real stuff we all go through.

My goal is to create a space where we can share stories, reflect on life’s journey, and find some tools to help navigate this mystery we call life.

What was the first podcast you ever listened to?

It was so long ago I can’t recall. I got into podcasts early on. Around 2006, maybe, before Saltburn era! And back then I can only imagine the spectrum of weird things I would have listened to. I think there would have been a ton of music related podcasts, but spiritual woo woo stuff. So not a lot has changed.

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

I wanted to make spirituality accessible. There seem to be more gatekeepers than ever with something that should be free to all. I want to share what I know in the hope that the listeners can benefit from the tools I value, like breathwork and meditation. As well as those tough life lessons. My failures have often turned into my greatest assets, but it didn’t feel that way at the time and it would have been comforting to know I wasn’t alone at the time. We are never alone.

Which podcasts do you take inspiration from?

This is a long list, but here are my two faves. I love The Imperfects, it’s like listening to your siblings giving you life advice. A friend recommended it and each episode I have two thoughts “I wish I knew that sooner” and “If I can make my podcast half that good I would be winning”. For astrology there is no one better than Molly McCord. I think in life there are some people who hold a frequency so that others can find them and level up to them. Like being on the same wavelength. What an amazing opinion to have of someone you have never met.

You recently started Junior Zen Zone – can you explain how you create these episodes differently for younger listeners?

Teaching young ones to meditate is a joy. They are naturally more intuitive because they trust their imagination and their senses. When you suggest an idea like “giving your worries to the stars” it’s easy for them to accept. In their mind’s eye they see it and it feels real to them. If I use clear imagery like forests or space, like telling a bedtime story, they slip straight into a meditative state. They have a single point of focus and I try to keep it with breath cues and a fun story.

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

That’s a great question. Each episode of the pod is a different tool to help the listener grow, heal or feel better in some way. I always find it interesting what episodes touch people. For me, I would say episode 1 is the perfect intro. However, I had the most emails and comments about the grief episode “how to reframe loss as gain“. The reality is if you have found Spiritual Mixtape you are probably on a journey where endings have played a significant role, so that episode does feel fitting.

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

Come and meet me on socials, stan store or the Spiritual Mixtape site. Beyond the podcast I love to give things away to my mailing list so add your details there too.

Spiritual Mixtape is produced by This Is Distorted. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other popular podcast app >>

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To mark the moment, we’re returning to our Issue #017 cover star interview. This is the Gospel According To Kelechi Okafor…

Actor? Director? Dance innovator? Social commenter? D*ckhead in recovery? Baby girl? Kelechi Okafor wears many hats and as her podcast grew she built herself the perfect platform to show each one off in all its glory. We caught up with the Say Your Mind host back in October 2021 to chat all things podcasting…

PB: TELL US ALL ABOUT YOUR SHOW! WHAT’S YOUR PODCAST ELEVATOR PITCH?

KO: Say Your Mind is the current affairs podcast that you might not want to listen to on loudspeaker at work, but you definitely want to listen to regardless. The podcast expertly combines tarot, current affairs and pop culture into one expletive filled fun time and is delivered to you from the perspective of a Nigerian-British Baby Girl. I am the Baby Girl FYI.

WHY PODCASTING? WHAT IS IT ABOUT THE FORMAT THAT APPEALS TO YOU?

I enjoy podcasting a lot because I love sharing my thoughts and I find it much easier than typing, although I am pretty mean on the keyboard when it comes to tweeting! On the subject of tweeting though, the thoughts you share can be taken down at any time and that’s why I like podcasting because I am in control.

WHAT‘S THE SECRET TO BEING A GOOD PODCAST HOST?

A good podcast host should be able to tell you something you already knew but deliver it to you in such a way that you think you’re hearing that thing for the first time. It is about having a fresh, confident attitude about whatever it is that you’re discussing and ultimately wanting your listener to already miss you the moment that episode is done.

IF YOU COULD GO BACK TO BEFORE YOU STARTED OUT AND GIVE YOURSELF ONE PIECE OF ADVICE, WHAT WOULD IT BE?

Be patient! That is the number one piece of advice I would give myself and anybody else who is starting out as a podcaster. I worried so much about whether people would listen to Say Your Mind, and then I worried about when I would get enough listeners to enable me to have live read sponsors etc. I spent a lot of time being impatient about getting to the markers of what makes a “successful” podcast that I just stressed myself out for no reason. Now I have these grey hairs! Once I just started going with the flow and being proud of whichever stage I was at, the things I was so fixated on attaining came to me naturally.

HOW DID YOU FIND PODCASTING DURING THE PANDEMIC RELATED LOCKDOWNS?

I found podcasting to be really therapeutic during the lockdowns. I definitely didn’t have to worry about whether people would listen to the episodes or not. Ha! Honestly, I felt purposeful because I knew listeners needed to hear me reassure them that things would be okay in one way or another, while making them aware of other things that were happening in the world. Hearing me swear and laugh as I talked my way through each subject, also gave listeners permission to feel their own feelings. It was also really nice to spend so much time with my brother Sadiq because he joined me as a guest in residence on the podcast since we were already in a bubble. Getting to share my podcast with him will always be one of my best memories of an otherwise rather challenging time in all our lives.

DO YOU HAVE A DREAM GUEST OR GUESTS WHO YOU’D LOVE TO HAVE ON THE PODCAST SOME DAY?

I would fall on the floor if I could get Viola Davis on the podcast. I admire her acting skills so much and I fear that if I were to have her on as a guest, I would just breathe heavily into the mic and forget what I wanted to ask her. I would also like to interview afrobeats artist Wizkid, mainly so I could show him my dance moves to each of his songs. Finally I think I would like to have Lewis Hamilton on the podcast now that I have added a new segment to the podcast called Start Your Motors to complement my love of Formula 1. I don’t think he’d accept though, my swearing and random song breaks might lead him to believe that I’m a tad unhinged.

WHICH EPISODE OR EPISODES OF YOUR PODCAST MEAN THE MOST TO YOU?

Probably Episode 21: What now? This was the first episode after my pregnancy loss and I can’t believe how early it was in my podcasting journey yet I still insisted on being vulnerable and transparent while showing up to record. Episode 55: Easter Special – Baby Girl and a Baby was great because I announced I was expecting a baby and it was lovely to be able to have such a beautiful and intimate experience to share with my listeners.

WHICH PODCASTS OR PODCAST HOSTS INSPIRE YOU?

I know I have said this before because I love talking to you all! (Kelechi was our Podcast Disciple back in Issue #008!) but it would definitely be The Read with Kid Fury & Crissle. Their podcast is the reason I even thought being a host of my own podcast could be a reality. I love their openness while maintaining their personal boundaries. It is such a hilarious and well presented podcast, I really have no choice but to stan.

FINALLY, WHAT ARE YOUR CURRENT FAVOURITE PODCASTS?

I love listening to The Receipts podcast because they’re really wonderful women and funny as hell. I really like Who We Be TALKS_ too. Harry and Henrie are really youthful and vibrant hosts. I was a guest on their podcast a while back and I left proper feeling like they were my new friends, and that speaks volumes about their hosting skills!

Listen to the last ever episode of Say Your Mind on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other popular podcast apps >>

Get your tickets for the last ever Say Your Mind live show! In person Saturday April 13th, Conway Hall, London or live-streamed anywhere in the world. Find out more >>

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Simon – how did you get involved in the STUDIOCANAL Presents – The Podcast?

The idea was being talked about for a little while before it actually happened. STUDIOCANAL has, from issue one, been incredibly supportive of my Film Stories project, from the podcast to the print magazine. Over time, the conversation began about an official STUDIOCANAL podcast, to go through this incredible library of films – just as Film Stories’ own podcast was enjoying lots of success.

Following long and very fun conversations with the STUDIOCANAL team, myself and Jane Long – the show’s brilliant producer – got the greenlight, and it’s gone from there.

What’s been your favourite moment of the podcast so far?

Many. The less obvious ones are the films I personally wouldn’t have discovered, so deep in research I found new movies I really liked. On the podcast itself, Ken Loach taking the mickey out of my Midlands accent was something I didn’t ever anticipate happening in my lifetime, nor discussing Asim Chaudhry’s burner account!

But it’s the range of guests really that have helped lift it so much. Lots of interesting people, most of whom I’d never otherwise be able to meet.

Who’s your dream guest for the podcast?

Well, Kevin Costner is always my go-to, but he hasn’t made any STUDIOCANAL films (yet!). Steve Martin would be a joy, though, as would Guillermo del Toro, Celine Song, Jessie Buckley, James Cameron, and Paddington Bear.

What film haven’t you discussed yet but you’d love to?

Oh, Cliffhanger. They veto me every time! Our production meetings are quite something. I’m still thrilled I got Santa Claus: The Movie through!

Do you think that listeners should have seen the films before listening to the episodes?

No. We’re careful to flag up spoilers, although we’re also conscious that sometimes, given the films we’re talking about, it’s hard to avoid chatting about the ending. But I’d still say no you don’t, but inevitably, you’ll get even more out of the show if you have.

How important do you think it is to use clips of the films in the podcast?

It enriches it. Jane Long won’t like me for saying this, but she’s a brilliant producer and editor, and works really hard to make it sound sleek and professional. I mean, it’s what she’s great at, as anyone who listened to her work on the BBC’s Screenshot knows. But the level has from the outset been high, and the clips are very much a part of that.

Listen to STUDIOCANAL Presents – The Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other popular podcast apps >> 

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