Science Heard Around the World: Podcasting in the U.S. and Beyond
B1) Science Heard Around the World: Podcasting in the U.S. and Beyond
It seems as if we’re entering the golden age of podcasting: technological innovation has made it possible to launch a podcast from your own bedroom, and a growing audience is hungry for content. Plenty of science podcasts have arisen to cater to that demand, many of which have been extremely successful. These successes, however, are largely enjoyed by U.S.-based science podcasts, which are reaching a broad audience not only in the U.S. but also overseas. But launching a successful (not to mention a financially successful) podcast is not easy, even in the U.S.—and it can be far more challenging elsewhere.
The panel will cover some of the necessary basics for those who want to get a sense of what it might take to start podcasting, including the tricks that help podcasters get great sound and tell compelling stories on a minimal budget. And it will dive deep into the two main challenges facing those starting a science podcast: finding an audience and finding funding. In doing so, the panel will explore the opportunities and drawbacks of launching a show independently, as well as working within a larger organization. Science podcast hosts producing content for audiences outside the U.S. will discuss challenges in their home countries, including but not limited to the following: a lack of audio reporting and podcasting culture; the particular local challenges in attracting funding, advertisers, and audience support; and the need for a support network of fellow podcasters. The panel and audience will discuss strategies for mitigating these challenges, launching new podcasts, and reaching enthusiastic listeners.
Science podcasting clearly is a major growth opportunity today. This panel will discuss how to help make it an international phenomenon.
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