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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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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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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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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Pod Bible co-founder Stu Whiffen caught up with Becky Lamb-Pritchard and Rosie Walwyn from Distorted – an audio first content agency which works with music artists, brands and businesses from all over the world on their podcasts, radio shows and social content.

We discuss how Distorted started and what they do to build a better journey for audio and visual content for businesses and podcasters.

To find out more about Distorted, you can visit their website www.thisisdistorted.com or take a look at their accounts on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter/X. You can also check out our recent interview with Becky Lamb-Pritchard to find out more.

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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Please tell us all about Distorted…

Distorted turned ten this year so we’ve been around a while. We describe ourselves as an audio first content agency, and we work with music artists, brands and businesses from all over the world on their podcasts, radio shows and social content. We’ve always created podcasts for our clients, but in the beginning it was in addition to their radio show and now it has grown so much that we now have a full podcast team and we work with many of our clients solely on podcast projects.

Although we have a wide national and international client base we also have a podcast studio in Leeds where we are based. It’s a mini tv studio with TV quality cameras and lighting, interchangeable branding options and air con, which has been very handy recently! In the studio, we work with a real mix of local and independent content creators and bigger agencies who require a studio in Leeds, it’s also shifted from podcasts only to wider content needs like webinars and videos for socials.

You are openly proud of your northern roots and obviously have the studio, but originally your client base was mainly international or London based, why did you make the decision to be in Leeds?

Most of the team live in Leeds and from the beginning the directors have always stood by the argument that they don’t need to move to make great creative work, it shouldn’t be one or the other. They also never did that thing that some businesses do where they pay for a PO box and a London number and address which they don’t own a desk in! They have always been proud to be making work in Leeds and contributing to the Leeds creative economy. It seems more important now than ever that there are opportunities outside of London. In recent years as the business has grown we do have team members based in London and Manchester as well as Leeds, but that was from the standpoint that we don’t expect those team members to move from where they live either.

The Distorted studio

In the time the business has been operational what significant changes have you seen in the podcast industry?

Many… are you ready for my list? I think the first is the most obvious – it’s boomed! Listening figures are up year on year with audiences growing and diversifying, I’ve noticed the conversation has shifted from “what is a podcast?” to “I need to make a podcast?” and “how do I make my podcast successful?”

I also think the rise of digital and streaming has democratised the media – it’s given creators and brands power over their content and voice. Previously if a brand or person wanted to create broadcast content they would have to be aligned with a media organisation. It’s enabled a lot more voices to be heard.

With the boom there are also other tougher challenges, it’s harder to cut through now so strategy and marketing are playing a key part and the listener has higher expectations.

How important do you feel video content is now for podcasters?

There is no doubt that adding video to your podcast increases discoverability and helps you reach a bigger audience, not only are streaming platforms prioritising video content but by creating video you can really make the most of a variety of platforms. BUT I absolutely think there is still a place for audio only too, audio really shines when it comes to sensitive, emotive topics and really getting someone to open up, it’s a much more natural experience having a conversation without a camera there. I also think audio only can enable easier clearance and access to behind the scenes – we’ve had access to places and people we’d have never got if we had a camera crew and a load of extra people in tow.

I think the term “podcasting” has actually evolved and what I’m hearing from brands and businesses is that when they say “podcast” they can actually mean really great, in-depth content available on a variety of platforms, not necessarily what us original podcast creators mean so it’s back to that why and distinguishing what a person or brand wants to achieve from a podcast to know whether video or audio is the best route forward.

How did you feel the pandemic lockdown affected the podcast industry?

It contributed to its growth and the overall awareness of podcasting but it has also led to a quicker feeling of saturation and taken us to a place where strategy is just as important as production. It’s become more serious and that’s great in terms of industry and scope but that can lead to restrictions and “rules”. The pandemic also led to the cost of living crisis and jobs in the industry are more scarce with payment in general for creatives at an all-time low – that is something we all collectively need to be aware of. Overall the podcast industry is really supportive of one another and that’s the way we need to stay or it will end up a race to the bottom.

What advice would you give a business that was considering creating a podcast?

What is your WHY! What are your objectives? What do you want to achieve?

Think about your strategy and marketing plan at the same time as the creative development…not an afterthought. “We can stick it on socials once it’s made” is not enough of a plan.

And finally, are you patient? Podcasting is a long game for most unless of course you have a marketing budget or a big name to throw into the mix.

What are you most optimistic about for the future of podcasting?

I believe there’s a place for all types of podcast content: always-on podcasts, series, documentaries, interviews, video podcasts, and both short and long audio versions!

Podcasting isn’t brand new and has come a long way. Twenty years ago barely anyone had the tech to listen to one and now it feels like everyone has their favourite or something they’ve been told to listen to, events like the Podcast Show in London feel fresh and exciting, with a real buzz. I think podcasting will continue to grow and evolve and I’m excited to be part of it. It might be that creators become more specialised in the certain types of podcasts they make.

What projects are you most proud of this year?

This year we launched Sonic Youth with Youth Music, a paid internship designed to kickstart the careers of young people based in Yorkshire. I’m really passionate about creating opportunities for young people, a lot of the old school routes that were open when I started out don’t exist anymore. Whilst digital is fantastic, there is a need for mentoring and the stuff you learn by being around people and having face to face time.

The intern team created their own podcast, Serving Kult – A Radio Show and Podcast series dedicated to Queer Rave and Hyperpop. They received training and support on all aspects of podcast production from hosting, to research, recording, and editing and along with this they have had coaching and mentoring to really ensure they are ready for that next opportunity. The podcast has done really well, it received loads of positive press and feedback and made it to Amazon’s pick of the week. I’m incredibly proud of the whole team behind this and our incredible interns.

We are also in the midst of launching a brand new Distorted podcast aimed at helping people start their careers in the music industry. The first episode will see our very own Rosie Walwyn chat with Sarah Story, this one will be out this August so watch this space!

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

At our website www.thisisdistorted.com, or they can follow us on Instagram, Facebook, X, and LinkedIn.

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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We asked Head of Client Services, Farrah Charles, to tell us more about the Garden Studios, and what The Hive memberships can offer to podcasters interested in a different recording experience…

Tell us about The Hive at Garden Studios – what’s your elevator pitch?

The Hive is centred around a dynamic and invigorating ecosystem, where creative individuals come together as a community to explore and embrace new ideas and technologies. It is a unifying experience that fosters connectivity among like-minded individuals, encouraging them to engage and collaborate with one another.

Who are the team behind The Hive?

The brainchild of Thomas Hoegh, founder and CEO of Garden Studios, The Hive is envisioned as a vibrant creative hub for the Film, TV, and Creative industry, open to all creatives. I look after The Hive’s client services with support from the dedicated team of Desiree Reece, Zoe Jones, Kadeam Taylor, Hector Carhill, and Hugo Nordstrom. Not to mention Lou Robinson our Studio Systems Engineer.

Is there a particular feature of the recording studio you are most proud to show podcasters?

We’re super proud of the exceptional quality of our facility and equipment available. All you need is an SD card; everything else is readily available. But we’re also very proud that 90% of all the fixtures and furnishings are either remade, recycled, or sustainable sourced. Our aim is to provide easily accessible and incredibly budget-friendly spaces for present and future creatives to bring their vision to life without breaking the bank or compromising on facilities.

What podcasts have used the Garden Studio so far – who would podcasters be joining?

Remel London, Future of Film, Your Aunties Could Never, Lennina Ofori (Awareness Tap), Axel Blake to name but a few.

Who would be your dream podcaster client? Tell us which host you want to see at The Garden Studios!

The truthful answer would be everyone and anyone. We’ve had students come through the doors who have never made a podcast before to professionals who only make podcasts. We’ve loved having them all. We created The Hive because we aspire to be more than just the latest favourite spot for one specific podcaster. Our ultimate aim is to establish ourselves as the go-to destination for all podcasters looking for a home to make their content. A permanent place that can evolve and grow with them. A hub where individuals gather, and where creativity naturally flourishes.

Find out more about The Hive, at Garden Studios now by heading to their website, or book a tour to see the studio space for yourself!

—

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 concept of the Nomono Sound Capsule is undeniably innovative. When I first tried it out, the ease of recording blew me away but I’ve been using a demo model for just under a month (I will be returning it to the company) and can now identify more clearly the features that I love and those that didn’t quite work like the site said they would.

The design is clean, the microphones look smart on camera, and the case is light and compact. It’s perfect if you record in different locations and need portable gear without the faff of multiple mics in different cases and recorders and cables and extra batteries and SD cards.

The Sound Capsule includes four wireless lavalier microphones and a spatial recorder with a big red button on it. Hit that button, and a few seconds later you’re recording. It detects which microphones you’re using and you don’t need to set any levels. Generally the Nomono was reliable and delivered as expected, however once or twice it wouldn’t register that I was only using one microphone and kept recording all of them which was frustrating.

The Nomono team were quick to look into it when this issue was raised, and explained that it could be caused by the outer carrying case being too low on power (despite all microphones and the central spatial recorder being fully charged), so it couldn’t recognise which microphones had been removed. This isn’t obvious to users, so Nomono have said they will include a note in the user manual to highlight this and are looking at ways to solve it in the next gen, which I think would be a great idea as there will be times when producers let the charge in the outer case get low or find themselves in the field with it out of battery.

The microphones are omnidirectional so you’re obviously not going to get the same vocal richness and warmth as you would from a traditional VO mic but the quality is good and I didn’t have any problems with peaking or distortion so the device set the levels well. I noticed occasional popping in the audio when the microphone was positioned in the centre of my shirt as specified by the instructions, but when the microphone was positioned off-centre this was no longer as much of a problem.

When you’ve finished recording, you hit the big red button once again and the audio files automatically upload to the cloud. No SD cards needed. When you have Wi-Fi this upload is fast, but if you don’t have Wi-Fi the recorder will store ~15 hours of audio and upload it as soon as it connects to Wi-Fi. I have used the recorder a lot over the past month and I only had an issue once when I was recording without Wi-Fi. When I reconnected to Wi-Fi, the audio from only one microphone uploaded to the cloud and the other microphone’s audio disappeared.

By far, the most exciting feature of the Nomono Sound Capsule is its capacity for spatial audio. The Sound Capsule monitors where the microphones are in relation to each other, so you can hear the speakers moving around your headphones as if they’re in the room with you. It takes aural storytelling to another level.

The Sound Capsule is £2,190 (ex VAT) plus subscription costs for the Cloud. You can use the Nomono without the cloud or use the Free subscription tier, but the most useful tier is $29 a month. Weighing up the few issues I’ve had with the device, I couldn’t justify paying over £2,190. However, as someone who writes a column for Pod Bible on innovation in storytelling, I think the spatial audio element and portability is exciting.

Alternatives at a lower price point:

DJI Mic: https://www.dji.com/uk/mic 
Zoom F2: https://zoomcorp.com/en/gb/handheld-video-recorders/field-recorders/f2andf2-bt/

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As we’re occasionally sent new bits of equipment to use for our shows, we thought we’d take the time to review some of them for the website in the hope that it may hep guide any future purchases you may be looking to make. First up, the RØDE PSA 1+ Professional Studio Arm…

A studio arm for a microphone is not something we’ve ever really spent much money on. In fact in the past we’ve tended to rely on basic extendable arms that have come as part of basic microphone packages and they’ve always seemed to do the job just fine. Having used the PSA 1+ however, there’s no going back.

This sturdy boom arm clamps to your desk and doesn’t budge whilst simultaneously offering an ultra-smooth gliding movement whenever you need to adjust the position of your mic. The internal dampened springs and neoprene arm also allow for quiet re-adjustment during recording, something that would often cause problems when using budget options previously.

All in all we’ve been very impressed with its ease of functionality and strength, not to mention the integrated cable management that not only looks good but also avoids any potential cable snagging during adjustment.

All in all it’s a big thumbs up from us in this instance. If you’re looking for an adjustable arm for your studio or home office then you cannot go wrong with the RØDE PSA 1+.

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“While the world fell apart, I knew I had to build, focus and create something unique & positive for the community. Gigs were cancelled, everything was closed but construction remained open. It was a no brainer.” Sophie explained that she used to live on the boat for many years, not only was it her home, it became a space to broadcast regular radio shows and mixtapes.

“The boat has always been a creative hub, many musicians, producers, artists, would pass through over the years. We would exchange and build ideas. There was always a sense of freedom & fun. Everyone loves the boat!”

We thought we’d ask Sophie a few questions about setting up The BoAt Pod.

Was a podcast studio always the long term vision for the boat?

Podcasting wasn’t even a thing when I was exploring all the various ideas for the boat. Radio station had obviously sprung to mind, pop up location, ice cream parlour, nail boutique. I knew I wanted the boat to be a space people could enjoy and experience. The podcast vision came about in 2018. I kept visualising it.

How long did it take to complete the boat transformation from start to finish?

9 months. We started in March 2020 and finished in December.

Was it a smooth sail?

Far from it! We gutted the vessel back to an empty shell which presented a huge amount of challenges along the way. Everything was built from scratch. Planning and attention to detail was essential to make the most out of the confined space. I had an amazing team on board to help bring the vision to fruition and spent 9 months in my overalls carrying a paintbrush and toolbox.

So, talk us through the design and lay out

I wanted to keep the boat minimal and classic. Interiors are another passion of mine so it was a lot of fun sourcing the right pieces for the boat. I went for a 60s/70s mid century modernist design. My favourite items on board are the leather egg chairs (so comfortable!) and the 60s cocktail bar which displays the boat’s wireless turntable and play five speaker kindly gifted to me by Sonos. Sounds incredible!’

You’ve branded the boat as Podcasting and Multimedia Production Studio/Creative Space. How else do you think the boat will be used in addition to podcast/vodcast rentals?

I would love to bring art, music and culture into the space. We’ve seen the rise in live streaming since the pandemic and the boat would be a great space to host intimate music sessions either pre recorded or live/interactive with a global audience. The space is flexible so it’s just a case of moving things around. We have stage boxes on board to accommodate a wide range of creative concepts. I’d like to feature events to help raise money to help musicians and to support mental health. I’m always open to ideas.

Is The BoAt Pod currently open for business?

Yes! Absolutely. We’ve just finalised the website where you can book online. We always have an engineer on board to assist. For any specific requirements or questions simply ‘Email Us’

Have you had anyone use the studio as yet?

Jumping Jack Frost, legendary drum and bass DJ/Producer started ‘The Frost Report’ monthly series on board. Due to social distancing we have had Frost host the shows with his guests projected onto the boat wall via Zoom which has worked really well. It’s been a joy to produce this Vodcast series and we look forward to more!

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“You’ve suddenly got a revolution on your doorstep…it’s mayhem, it’s chaos!” – Osman Ahmed, Shade

Shade is back with Season 4, reflecting on the power of the image within the civil rights movement and focusing on the Black Lives Matter 2020 uprisings. This intriguing quote came up in conversation between host Lou Mensah and ID Magazines fashion features director Osman Ahmed, as they discuss fashion’s response to the uprisings as a whole. Osman discusses how the fashion industry is built on change, trends, and short attention spans. But overnight, people have demanded more, and these fashion magazines have been shocked into dealing with significant issues of representation on a constitutional level, as they still uphold old 1920’s values.

Listen to episode two of the Shade podcast to find out more about the fashion industries response to the Black Lives Matter movement. 

“I think about the white allies that I do have. They feel what I’m saying. So I don’t have to explain feelings to them.” – Cheryl Thompson, Don’t Call Me Resilient

Don’t Call Me Resilient is a mini-series about the culture of race and racism. Academic Dr Cheryl Thompson opens the episode by discussing the lasting legacy of Uncle Tom and strongly asserts that we should all retire using the n-word. It’s a controversial debate and is bound to ruffle a few feathers, particularly with those that believe in reclaiming the n-word.

Listen to Episode One of Don’t Call Me Resilient ‘What’s in a word? How to confront 150 years of racial stereotypes’ 

“Nature abhors a vacuum and pharma abhors an empty facility” – Anne More, The Conversation Weekly

The Conversation Weekly has quickly become our go-to source for reliable and accurate news. They launched this new weekly podcast to highlight both the latest research and the academics behind some of society’s most pressing questions. This quote came from Anne More, a Senior Lecturer of Biochemistry at and Cell Biology at University College York, in their latest episode on the international intellectual property battle over Covid vaccines.

Listen to The Conversation Weekly ‘Coronavirus vaccines: what’s getting in the way of the global rollout?’

“Probably before a game, I’m more nervous about doing the matchday playlist!”
– Leah Williamson, Positively England

The Positively England host, Saunders CB, spoke to footballer Leah Williamson on behalf of the FA’s 21 days of positivity campaign. During the episode, they talked about her journey to becoming a professional footballer with many trials and tribulations. Discussing a major injury after debuting at Arsenal caused her to sit out for two seasons and balance her life to keep her mentally positive. But apart from being a phenomenal football player, we discover that she has a secret DJ talent and understands the importance of the matchday playlist. Leah knows how to please her teammates with various genres, to get them geared up for a match. And if England’s women’s team wins a game, just know the Spice Girls are at the top of the playlist!

Listen to the series now, where you can learn more about the campaign that ensures grassroots football stays a positive environment.

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Imriel Morgan is Founder and CEO of Podcast Agency Content is Queen. Imriel is a Marketing Maven and cultural innovator in the podcasting industry. Imriel’s on a mission to make podcasts inclusive, affordable and accessible.

The post Overheard In The Studio // #003 appeared first on POD BIBLE.

We asked our columnist and Content is Queen Founder, Imriel Morgan, to tell us more.

Hi Imriel! Pod Bible readers will know you from your Overheard in the Studio series, but can you tell us a little bit more about yourself and Content is Queen?

Sure, I’m Imriel Morgan, a podcast marketing expert, and the Founder of Content is Queen, a podcast agency that supports ambitious podcasters reach their goals through production, studios and promotions. Our goal is to help creators of all backgrounds share their humanity and grow their value in the world using audio.

The micro-grant scheme seems like a great way of opening up access to resources for new podcasters. How did you realise it was needed?

I’ve worked with many podcasters over the years, and I’ve heard tons of pitches, and I’ve been involved and even facilitated programmes to support podcasters get their foot in the door. However, while all of that work has been great and well-received, nothing beats cold, hard, cash in your pocket, a training workshop, a webinar or programme will help you gain skills and knowledge, but cash is what makes the podcast materialise.

I wanted to give out micro-grants because I believe that lots of people have great ideas that they’re burning to make but just can’t afford to do it in the way they’d like. This is ultimately about trusting creatives to do creative work in a way that makes the most sense to them. The pitches so far are a reflection of that. I was lucky that last year, the Audible team had heard about my work (on building affordable studios) and asked if I needed any support and I knew micro-grants would be vital to fulfilling our mission.

Thinking back to when you first started your podcast, what would you have used this grant for if you had that opportunity?

That was so long ago, but I’m fairly consistent with what I spend money on. I’ll invest in professional artwork, studio time, and editing. If I had any money left, it would go on social media advertising. Six years into being a podcaster and I haven’t changed where my money goes.

Content is Queen is also offering up to 6 hours of production support to grantees. Are there any areas where you often see knowledge gaps or where the industry is failing to provide support for entry level?

It’s a great question. The additional support we’re offering is to be that trusted voice and mentor on this journey for podcasters. It’ll be a knowledge or skill support for others, or it might mean getting access to the studio for a day. We’re keen to flex and adapt based on what people need.

Everything you want to know about podcasting is available on Google and Youtube. So I don’t think a lack of information is the problem. I believe many podcasters know what kit they’d like to try or what software they’ll spend time on. It’s the business of podcasting that seems to confuse folx. Part of our broader support effort is building trust and authority for these audiences in an easy-to-understand language that’s relevant and relatable.

Is there anything else you’d like to share with readers?

Yes! Apply if you’re new or an existing podcaster no idea is too small, silly, or weird. You’ve got to be in it to win it as they say. Apply now at contentisqueen.org/micro-grants applications close at 23:59 GMT 21st February 2021.

Imriel Morgan is Founder and CEO of Podcast Agency Content is Queen. Imriel is a Marketing Maven and cultural innovator in the podcasting industry. Her mission is to make podcasts inclusive, affordable and accessible. Read Imriel’s column, Overheard in the Studio and listen to Imriel’s podcast, Wanna Be, on Acast, Spotify and your favourite podcast app.

The post Imriel Morgan from Content is Queen talks micro-grants for podcasters appeared first on POD BIBLE.

“Celery is really good for bone-breaking”- Ruth, Wrap Party with Prime Video

This edible bit of gore comes from the Wrap Party, where hosts Rhianna Dhillon and Michael Leader interview the incredible foley artist, Ruth Sullivan. The series interviews those who have a crucial role in creating the magic that brings a film to life but is otherwise unrecognised in the grand scheme of things. In this episode, they ask Ruth how she would sound a murder scene, which comes with a surprising response! She stabs watermelons and cabbages, plays with oranges to provide that fleshy sound, and uses celery to replicate the snapping of bones, all to recreate the horrific sounds that we see on screen.

Catch up on the Wrap Party where you can get a glimpse of how cinematic masterpieces come together.

“I could care less about the Kardashians. Mary Robinson is my favourite influencer. ”- Pooja, Mothers of Invention

Climate Justice podcast Mothers of Invention got a facelift for their unforgettable season finale. Youth climate activists Xiye Bastida and Pooja Reddy took over from regular hosts Mary Robinson, Maeve Higgins and Thimali Kodikara. The women were joined by fellow activists Jamie Margolin and Brianna Fruean as they discussed their hopes, dreams and fears about climate change ahead of the US election. 

Listen to Mothers of Invention, Season 3, Episode 7 ‘We May Be Small But Our Impact Is Huge’.

“I seem to be going down a bit of rabbit hole of reading about really horrific people.”- Gabe, You Heard it Here First

Audible editor Gabe Flemming joins the Audible review podcast You Heard it Here First, to recommend a book he’s been loving. This chestnut was how he opened his review of Men Who Hate Women by Laura Bates. The book is all about incels (aka involuntary celibates), men’s rights activists, pick up artists, Mike Pence and other dastardly men who for some reason hate women. Thankfully the rest of the episode has just a smidge more lightness to it.

Listen to Series 2, Episode 6, ‘The Spectacle of Life and Death’ on You Heard It Here First.

“She seemed pleased that she caught an STI as it proved that she was sexually active” – June Jennings

The Doc Exchange host, June Jennings spoke to the directors behind the award-winning docufilm Crip Camp, Nicole Newnham and Jim Lebrecht. Host June is referring to a woman called Denise, who features in the film and lives with Cerebral Palsy.  It sums up the rebellious and joyous spirit that carries on throughout the film as well as exploring severe injustices. Nicole and Jim share that tropes around disability are usually very tragic and never equate to things like sex and eroticism. With this in mind, Nicole and Jim wanted to represent these characters as living life to the fullest, despite the boundaries society’s placed on them.

Listen to Episode 2 of The Doc Exchange to find out Nicole and Jim’s top documentary picks.

—–

Imriel Morgan is Founder and CEO of Podcast Agency Content is Queen. Imriel is a Marketing Maven and cultural innovator in the podcasting industry. Imriel’s mission to make podcasts inclusive, affordable and accessible.

The post Overheard In The Studio // #002 appeared first on POD BIBLE.

“A fanny a day keeps the AIDs away”
– Tash, The Log Books

This homophobic advertising slogan was overheard in a soon to be released episode of the new series of The Log Books. The trio behind the podcast will be picking up where they left off in 1983 all the way through to 1991, when the country was gripped by a major health crisis. Calls to LGBT charity Switchboard were at their peak based on the increasing number of entries in the log books from this time. 

Catch up on your Queer History with The Log Books

“Therapy is not going to make me happy…”
– Shay, All In Due Time

This heartbreaking and poignant statement comes from the All in Due Time podcast, which regularly see’s the two hosts both in their very early twenties battle with their mental health. Tears were shed in this episode as they talk about their struggles to access therapy and how unaffordable it can be for young people. In addition to that they recognise that therapy is not a cure-all for their problems. It’s worth listening to if you’re experiencing mental health issues alone and want to find helpful coping strategies while you sit on a therapy waiting list. 

Catch up on All in Due Time Season 2

“Tradition is just peer pressure from dead people”
– Magid Magid

In response to a stickler for rules and tradition, Magid Magid with his groundbreaking victory to becoming Lord Mayor, openly admitted to defying the rules and expectations that defined the careers of those that came before him. I caught up with Magid Magid for Wanna Be’s Black History Month special. If you don’t know, Magid Magid is the former Lord Mayor of Sheffield and MEP for Yorkshire and Humber. As the youngest ever elected Mayor of Somali descent he has defied the odds to excel in his career.

Listen to episode 111 As If By Magic of Wanna Be with Magid Magid 

“Who isn’t getting to reproduce?”
– Kathryn Medien

Surviving Society hosts Chantelle and Tissot welcomed Academic Kathryn Medien onto their podcast to talk about Internal Border Control. The conversation is fascinating as you hear how Kathryn went down a research rabbit hole of migrant maternity healthcare. Given the climate, this episode is a timely and necessary listen for anyone that wants to stay on top of conversations around migration, the NHS and healthcare inequality.

Listen to 103 Internal Border Controls & NHS Charges of Surviving Society with Kathryn Medien

Imriel Morgan is Founder and CEO of Podcast Agency Content is Queen. Imriel is a Marketing Maven and cultural innovator in the podcasting industry. Imriel’s mission to make podcasts inclusive, affordable and accessible.

The post Overheard In The Studio // #001 appeared first on POD BIBLE.

It was the 25th of November of last year. I was sitting in a Cafe Nero in Edinburgh, it was a Sunday and I was barely halfway through a 2000 word essay on the Faerie Queene due at noon the next day. Needless to say I was procrastinating. Big time. When I decided to contact Stakhanov that day, it was a complete shot in the dark. I’d heard of them through YouTuber Jaackmaate’s podcast, Jaackmaate’s Happy Hour, which is produced and recorded by Stakhanov. Stakhanov is a podcast production company based in London, it works with such notable shows as Football Ramble Daily, Berkhamsted Revisited and The Offensive. At the time, when I sent that email, I was certain I would not hear back. Mainly because I’d mentioned in the email that I was a fan of Jack’s show, which made me certain that they’d think I was a crazy stalker and send my email straight to trash. And yet—in early December—I was both surprised and overjoyed to see that not only did they email me back, but they also wanted me to come in for two weeks in July. By June, two weeks became seven and I was very excited to get started.

Since I’d never had a job before I had absolutely no idea what to expect. I wasn’t sure what work they’d want me to do, how strict the hours would be (I’m a chronic oversleeper), what I was and wasn’t allowed to wear (this was very important to me as a borderline goth), etc. Meeting Jon and Luke (two of the three owners of Stakhanov) for the first time was extremely nerve-wracking. Luckily for me they turned out to be very nice and extremely laid back people. During that initial meeting, they talked me through what they expected from me and showed me around the Stakhanov studio. The studio itself is absolutely beautiful, I was very impressed by it. I‘d seen parts of it before in Happy Hour’s YouTube clips and the specs were remarkable—especially compared to my station’s tech back in St. Andrews. Jon and Luke were very receptive to even my silliest questions and insisted that they wanted this experience to be as valuable as possible for me.

Over the course of my seven weeks, I ended up working on quite a variety of projects—both small and big. On my first day, Jon asked me to find out more about football commentary audio rights and whether a purchasable license for those rights even existed.

The next day, I remember sitting in Starbucks, researching audio rights on my laptop, frantically texting my Dad about how I was totally out of my depth. I felt like I was going in the completely wrong direction, certain I’d turn up the next day and be forced to waffle my way through my presentation. Luckily enough it turns out I was on the right track and just panicking for no reason at all, as per usual. Crisis averted. While it was quite nerve wracking, this first project did teach me that I had to be more confident in my abilities and leave my self-doubt in the dust.

During my second week at Stakhanov, I had the opportunity to follow Jon and Pete (the third owner of Stakhanov) to several meetings. I was a bit nervous and ended up arriving at the meeting spot about half an hour early. In the morning, we had three meetings one after the other with various agents. I acted as a fly on the wall, sitting and listening to the creative process unfurl. I really enjoyed watching the discussion, following the ideas being thrown back and forth. The opportunities presented to Stakhanov were inspiring, and I loved listening to the podcast ideas, the potential collaborations with important names in all sorts of spheres. Later that afternoon, Jon took me with him to meet Stakhanov’s PR agent. It was equally as interesting to sit in on this meeting, as the majority of my PR knowledge comes primarily from Agatha Raisin. We met the agent in an uber trendy hotel cafe, she had a messy bun and looked effortlessly cool. On first impression, very Agatha Raisin after all. But once the meeting began, I started to realise that I had no idea what moves a company needs to consider to both build their brand and keep their image pristine. I enjoyed following the conversation, chipping in sometimes when I felt like my input would be semi-valuable. This day of meetings made me realise that, as dumb as this is going to sound, there is a lot more to a company than I anticipated. Wild.

During my internship, I got to do a lot of very interesting and creative projects. My favorites were working on podcast pitches for two of the companies that we spoke to during the aforementioned meetings, which was very cool indeed. I really had a lot of fun coming up with those ideas and I hope they end up getting made, we’ll see if the companies like them . I also was in charge of coming up with several concepts for lifestyle, fashion and pop culture podcasts. I loved having the opportunity to do creative work and I really appreciate the trust that Jon put in my opinion. Hopefully that wasn’t a mistake on his part!

—

Before I leave you, dearest reader, I find myself compelled to reflect on what I’ve learned throughout this experience. Because that’s what one does when one writes about an experience. One has to reflect. So this is for your benefit, by the way. You’re welcome. Let’s get into it then, shall we?

The first lesson I’ve learned—and please don’t cringe too hard—is you miss 100% of the shots you don’t take. Yikes, I know, but there’s a reason why people say it. I’ve always been quite shy and as a result, I felt extremely uncomfortable reaching out to people or companies via email. I’m not sure why it stressed me out so much, but at the end of the day taking a chance will always pay off. The worst you’ll suffer is a “no” and, here’s a life hack, you’ll more likely just never hear back, so no actual straight up rejection! If you’re a student and you’re trying to figure out how to find internships, your best bet is to just fire out your CV to as many people as possible—even if you think they’ll never get back to you. Remember, it only takes one yes in a sea of no.

The second lesson I’d like to impart to you is the importance of creative writing and good writing skills. I did not expect just how useful my writing skills would be and writing actually became my main work while I was at Stakhanov. I was in charge of providing feedback on all written copy, from podcast synopses to tweets. I also started to write the monthly Football Ramble Daily Patreon blog post, which I will continue doing at university. Writing is very easy to learn, all it takes is a basic understanding of grammar and practice. Seriously. Like playing an instrument or running a 5K (which I will never do), it takes practice to hone and improve your writing skills. There are also a lot of writing courses and classes available online, which in my opinion is the best way to improve as the hardest part of writing is motivating yourself to write for the sake of writing. My mom has been telling me for years that I need to focus on my writing, and yeah. As much as I hate to admit it, mother knows best time and time again.

On a more serious note, my overall experience interning for Stakhanov was immensely positive. I’m very happy that I took a shot in the dark and sent that email all the way back in November. I guess it all worked out in the end! As I’m writing this, it’s the final days of my seven weeks with Stakhanov. It’s all gone by so fast, I still can’t believe it’s coming to an end. I never really felt like an ‘intern’ when I was at Stakhanov, which I think is really worth noting. Obviously, my workload was very different from my colleagues, but I felt like a part of the company and not somebody whose sole purpose—without trying to be too cliche—was to do the work no one liked or always get coffee for everyone. Instead I felt like my input was both valued and heard. Interning with Stakhanov helped me gain a lot of confidence in myself and my abilities, it was an absolutely invaluable experience. While I am looking forward to going back to university, I am sad that it’s already ending. This year will be my last at university and while I don’t know where life will take me, I know that these skills and lessons I’ve learned during my time here will follow me for years to come. There are very exciting opportunities in the future—for both me and for Stakhanov, so stay tuned.

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