The Hottest Entertainment Mediums of the 21st Century: Snapchat. TikTok. Audio Fiction?
With the world’s obsession with AI and every shiny, new technological advancement, it might be perplexing to see the sustained popularity of audio fiction. In some ways, it feels like an archaic form of entertainment, something your grandmother might have tuned into once a week. And you wouldn’t be wrong: audio fiction has been immensely popular throughout the ages. It first emerged as radio plays, which exploded in popularity during the 1920s, leading to the world-changing "War of the Worlds" broadcast in 1938. According to Edison Research, in early 2023, 75% of Americans aged 12 and older reported that they had listened to online audio in the past month.
Inspiring Podcasts For Your Summer Listening Playlist
Summer is the perfect time to refresh your podcast playlist with some inspiring and thought-provoking content. Whether you're lounging by the pool, taking a road trip, or simply enjoying the longer days, there's a podcast out there to keep you entertained and learning. I've curated a list of must-listen podcasts that will make your summer listening engaging and fun. From powerful stories of women in business and untold queer histories to the latest TED Talks and conversations about wellness and tech, there's something here for everyone.
From Informed to Involved: 5 Great Social Activism Podcasts
Sami Reed of Pod People has compiled a list of episodes from podcasts that challenge the way we think about activism to help you choose the thing YOU can do in this world. Cheers to change!
[Werking Title] with Eliza Lambert: Kia Miakka Natisse On Audio Art
Kia had just returned from a creative retreat when we sat down to chat, and she was brimming with inspiration. This former Invisibilia host did not grow up as a backseat NPR baby. She found her love of audio through her education, approaching it as an artistic practice. She’s medium-agnostic — a storyteller-first who uses her winning authenticity to build community.
[Werking Title] with Eliza Lambert: James Kim on the Future of Audio Fiction
Audio fiction is the oft-overlooked sibling of nonfiction in the podcasting scene. James Kim helped change that with his critically-acclaimed indie project, Moonface. He’s continued to be a creative force, innovating on format to tell layered stories. And if you listen closely, you can hear James’ public radio origins. He says, “I wanted to try to tell a story that felt real, that can resonate with people in the same way a ‘[This] American Life’ story pick.”