We had the pleasure of speaking to award-nominated broadcast journalist, podcast producer, and presenter Cherise Hamilton-Stephenson, who will be running her workshop How To Make Your Own Podcast as a part of our series of (RE)Connect workshops this October half term! Find out all about Cherise’s own podcast as well as what to expect from the workshop itself.
Can you tell us about your podcast Interconnected Voices and how it started?
Interconnected Voices is a twice British Award winning podcast (Gold for The Creativity Award and Bronze for Best Current Affairs Podcast) that platforms underrepresented voices on political issues.
I started Interconnected Voices because I became bored of consuming news that I could not relate to. I also observed a disconnect between traditional news and minority Millennials/Gen-Z, the feeling is that their stories were not being platformed and told authentically in their own voice.
Starting Interconnected Voices was a good way for me to combine my passion for giving a voice to those presently voiceless, whilst utilising my journalism and radio production skills to connect with young audiences that no longer consume news through traditional channels
What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learnt so far as a podcaster?
I have learnt two big lessons: consistency is key; as humans we create habits. The best way to build a listenership is to consistently put out content, as much as you can. Also, have fun! The best thing about creating audio is the freedom to change your format, style, and sound, experimenting with different interview styles to fit your chosen topic; evolving your podcast and not letting it stagnate. For example, my latest series ‘Black Voice Collections’ is a series of anecdotes and reflections portraying the realities of being Black and British – the highs, the lows and all that’s in between. The episodes are a completely different style to series 1 & 2, they are 3 – 6 minute long episodes with beautifully designed soundscapes and promo videos.
What is the one thing you see most people forget to organise/take care of when they start a podcast?
A lot of people forget the importance of marketing their podcast and understanding their target audience. Marketing is crucial because it’s how people will know that your podcast exists. There’s a lot of free marketing initiatives on social media you can utilise so people can become aware of your podcast, engage and subscribe. I will be sharing innovative and free ways to market your podcast and build a subscriber base during my workshop.
What do you hope people take from your (RE)Connect: Make Your Own Podcast workshop?
From this workshop people will learn how to form, produce and execute their own podcast. From planning and research to promotion, collaboration and monetization. You will also get your opportunity to make your own short podcast trailer.
What was the first podcast you ever listened to?
Scene on Radio – I was hooked from the first episode, exploring the relationship between race, class and sports in American Society. I was intrigued by the interesting facts and the archive footage that was sourced. The hosting was informal, making it an easy listen, coupled with a sensitive approach to contributors who shared their stories on difficult topics.
Cherise’s (RE)Connect workshop How To Make Your Own Podcast for 16 – 25 year olds will take place 11:30am – 1pm on Friday 29 October. Find out more and book here.
All (RE)Connect workshop bookers can get £10 off tickets to Black Is The Color Of My Voice. Just add tickets to both events to your basket and the discount will be applied automatically. Book here.
