(Listen on spotify, apple podcasts)
I discovered Siobhan and her work on the internet, of course. Her book “The Power of Podcasting” caught my eye and I added to cart. Most books about podcasting are full of tactics and fluffy advice. The Power of Podcasting, however, gave me specific examples from Siobhan’s decades in radio, documentary, and podcast production to back up her learnings.
In this episode, I had the opportunity to (virtually) sit down with author Siobhan McHugh, award-winning podcast producer, Oprah & Oxford Handbook endorced scholar based in Australia and ask her some of the deeper questions I’ve asked myself for years like…
When is it ethical to add music to an interview?
Is it OK to add in your perspective as the host or journalist?
Why is podcasting so popular now? How did we get here and where are we going?
Siobhan shares her journey from Ireland to Australia, from science student to a celebrated figure in radio and why audio storytelling is still her favorite format.
🎙️ Introduction and Podcasting Background (00:00 - 07:51)
Siobhan McHugh introduced as an award-winning writer, documentary maker, and podcast producer
Discussion on the impact of Serial podcast on the podcasting industry
Authenticity in podcasting
📚 Audio Storytelling and Education (07:51 - 18:00)
Siobhan's experience teaching audio storytelling to skeptical students
Emphasis on the power of audio as a medium
Discussion on the cost and effort involved in producing narrative podcasts
🎭 Ethical Considerations in Podcasting (18:00 - 29:45)
Debate on the ethics of manipulating emotions through music in podcasts
Importance of balancing storytelling with ethical considerations
Discussion on the trend of hosts becoming part of the story in podcasts
🔍 Investigative Podcasting and Human Nature (29:45 - 39:24)
Analysis of Serial's approach to storytelling and its impact
Discussion on the balance between drama and respect in true crime podcasts
Importance of humanizing subjects in investigative podcasting
🎤 Podcasting's Influence and Future (39:24 - 47:31)
Discussion on podcasting's role in political communication
Analysis of different podcast formats and their appeal
Reflection on the future of podcasting and its potential impact
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