What do audio experts listen to in the summer?
Feature
The quieter summer period is a time of catching up, having a much-needed breather and some extracurricular learning for much of the industry.
They say everyone’s got a podcast these days. But what do people who work in audio actually listen to themselves?
Is it wise to opt for something educational or even — gasp — related to work? Better understand workplace culture with Bruce Daisley? Get deep into the mindset of industry leaders via How I Became? Or even get on top of all the major stories each week from an array of trade podcasts, including one from our very own team?
Or perhaps it’s best to switch off completely and listen to something set in an entirely different world to your work life.
The Media Leader asked some audio experts what’s coming out of their AirPods (other headphones are available) during those sweaty commutes and holiday downtime.
Jessica Bernard, group audio director, Goodstuff Communications
“In the summer, I try and make sure most of the time I’m not working is spent on a sunbed near some cool water, with an iced drink and a podcast in my ears.
“My current obsession is investigative journalist podcasts with a mix of the more light-hearted and vaguely relatable, such as My Therapist Ghosted Me. Series like Sweet Bobby, Ghost Story, Who Trolled Amber? or The Missing Cryptoqueen completely baffle and fascinate me, and I finish each one desperate to talk through them with someone. Arguably a better conversation starter than the weather.
“Naturally, things need to be mixed up so now and then I’ll tap into podcasts around nutrition and health, attempting to introduce good habits via osmosis. But mostly it’s the fascinating true crime stories and comedy podcasts that are top of the list for me.”
Molly Carter, multimedia podcast producer, Bauer Media
“Love and Radio — this podcast is nothing like I’ve heard before. It pushes the boundaries of what an interview can be and has so much fun in doing so. I heard about the episode ‘Points of Egress’ at The Podcast Show and decided to listen to it — I was hooked!
“The host, Nick van der Kolk, keeps you on your toes. When you think you know where the guest’s story is going, it suddenly warps and changes, turning the whole thing on its head and leaving you speechless.
“Topics might sound mundane to begin, but the host manages to put a unique spin on each one, often putting himself in the centre of the story so we can explore the topic with him. In ‘Points of Egress’, he takes his involvement a step too far, putting himself in between a couple and being involved in what could be their end.”
Oli Walters, head of international podcast sales, Global
“It feels like summer is only just getting going and so, rather than sharing an entertaining podcast that keeps you on the edge of your seat, I wanted to share one that does a good job of gently nudging you off the seat.
“Nothing Much Happens is a podcast from iHeart and it can help anyone drift off to sleep on these hot summer nights. It’s a true life-saver for me — helping me unwind during these difficult, hot, restless nights. It’s hosted by Kathryn Nicolai, who is a yoga and meditation teacher, and she’s a host who knows that you’re probably not 100% following along. However, her calm, relaxing tone is really all that matters.
“The only challenge is finishing an episode, as I tend to drift off after the first 10 minutes. That said, I’m always told not to worry if I’ve missed episodes because, well, nothing much happens!”
Laura Hodges, podcast account director, Octave
“This summer, I’ve been binging SmartLess. Just launched within the Octave network, but a fan long before then, this is a really fun listen that’s been keeping me entertained on the commute.
“Jason Bateman, Will Arnett and Sean Hayes (off Will & Grace – LOVE!) get together and you’re listening to good friends catching up about everything and anything. The best bit: one of the hosts invites a surprise guest each week, with the other two having no clue who it’ll be.
“In walks Kevin Hart, Will Ferrell, David Beckham, Jon Bon Jovi, Vince Vaughn… cue fangirling from the hosts as they share brilliantly authentic stories, funny moments from their lives, behind-the-scenes gossip and audition stories — all the good bits.
“It feels like you’re in the room with them, having a laugh at their improvised chat. I’ll admit it: I want them to be my friends!”
Brian Berner, global head of advertising sales and partnerships, Spotify
“My go-to podcasts to listen to are Pivot and Prof G Markets, as they help me stay updated on the advertising and tech industry, as well as the broader economic climate.
“When I want to listen to something more fun and light-hearted, I tune in to What Now? With Trevor Noah. He’s hilarious and even though he’s also discussing current events, I value his unique take and his ability to authentically bring a sense of humour to the situation, no matter the topic. His most recent episode on the Olympics is a great example — definitely worth a listen!”
Nicole Logan, executive producer — development, Goalhanger
“I’ve just started listening to How to Write a Book from Daylight Productions/Sony Music. Like many people in 2020, I decided to finally put some of my ideas down on paper, but as soon as the restrictions were over, I found myself seduced by the great outdoors with its group activities and travel, and my trusty manuscript started to gather dust.
“This series has made my lockdown hobby feel tangible once more; the experts on the microphone, Sara Collins, Sharmaine Lovegrove and Nelle Andrew, are full of wisdom and warmth, making each 30-minute episode fly in a way that almost feels like you are learning via osmosis, rather than being lectured — a podcast masterclass in more ways than one.”
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