How podcasting is changing the audio storytelling genre

 

Abstract 

This article explores the impact of the post-2014 podcast resurgence on non-fictional 

audio storytelling formats. The empirical study comprises themed commentary by 

five significant US, European and Australian editors who commission and produce 

audio documentaries and features for broadcast and/or podcast. The article provides 

insights into the changing role played by public broadcasters, the growth of 

independent podcast networks and the perceived differences between radio and 

podcasting as a mode of delivering and receiving audio content. Of particular 

significance is the belief of senior commissioning editors that podcasting is fomenting 

a new, more informal, genre of audio narrative feature centred on a strong relationship 

between host and listener, with content that is ‘talkier’ and less crafted. 

The US audio 

storytelling podcast sector is growing fast, and much of it has links to a public media 

ethos, but how to resource it without compromising its editorial independence 

remains unresolved.

 

 

Keywords 

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2 

podcasting 

audio storytelling 

Serial 

Radiotopia 

public broadcasting 

This American Life