Conferences provide an invaluable space for dialogue, innovation and insights but how can you ensure that the discussions continue beyond the event? How can you create a lasting digital footprint for your conference and amplify the impact of your delegates’ work?
We’ve combined our expertise in training and podcast production to offer a unique two-part workshop that will make your conference memorable and, more importantly, help create a lasting digital presence for your institution or event. Here’s how our innovative approach can take your conference to the next level.
Part 1: Introduction to Podcasting for Academics
The first part of our workshop focuses on the basics of podcasting and its value as a medium for academics to engage with wider audiences. Podcasting has become a powerful tool for disseminating research and sparking discussions in academic and professional circles. However, many researchers are still unfamiliar with how to produce and host a podcast effectively.
Using positive examples of podcasts produced & presented by researchers with Research Podcasts training and support, this session will cover what makes a ‘good’ academic/research focused podcast and why. Through interactive exercises and discussion, we will then help them discover more about the essential practicalities and skills needed to podcast and the things they should consider before embarking on their own.
The content of this session can be tailored to suit your institution’s needs, whether it’s for early-career researchers, faculty members, or students. Our goal is to give delegates the skills and confidence to launch their own podcasts.
Part 2: Mock Podcast Interviews – Putting Knowledge into Practice
In the second part of the workshop, delegates can take their newly acquired knowledge into a more practical setting. On a first-come, first-served basis, participants will have the opportunity to engage in a mock podcast interview with one of our experienced podcast producers and presenters.
These mock interviews are designed to be informal and low-pressure, providing delegates with a chance to experience a recorded interview in a supportive environment. This is an excellent opportunity for those who are new to podcasting or interviews to gain confidence and practice their speaking skills. It’s also a great chance for future podcast hosts to get a feel for what it’s like to run an interview.
Delegates will receive edited recordings of their interviews within seven days. They can then use these recordings as they wish—whether for personal development, sharing within their academic networks, or as part of their professional portfolios. For those who want a more polished finish, we offer the option to add intros, closers, and music to the recordings.
These mock interviews also provide the foundation for delegates to reflect on how they might conduct their own interviews as podcast hosts. It’s a perfect hands-on experience to apply the skills learned during the first part of the workshop.
Full-Day Program and Scheduling Recommendations
Our two-part conference workshop is designed to be delivered on the same day, but we recommend splitting the activities into two parts to optimise learning and application:
- Morning: Part 1 – Introduction to Podcasting with up to 30 delegates
- Afternoon: Part 2 – Mock Podcast Interviews limited to 10
This structure allows delegates to absorb the core concepts in the morning session, then immediately put those concepts into practice during the mock interviews in the afternoon. It gives them the chance to refine their skills, gain confidence, and feel more comfortable in the informal podcasting environment.
Enhanced Services: Digital Footprints and Podcast Publishing
For those looking to expand the reach of their mock podcast interviews, we offer additional services to enhance your digital footprint:
- Podcast Artwork: We can create custom artwork for the podcast.
- Audiograms and Transcripts: These assets are ideal for promoting podcast episodes on social media and increasing accessibility.
- Publishing to Podcast Apps: We can publish the recordings to popular platforms like Spotify and Apple Podcasts, making them accessible to a wider audience.
The BruPod
One example of our success is our recent collaboration with Brunel Doctoral School. After recording mock podcast interviews with students at their summer school, Brunel requested we produce a mini podcast series, titled “BruPod”. This series was published in Autumn 2024, featuring students’ insights into their research methodologies, advice for PhD candidates, and more.
We handled all aspects of podcast creation—from recording and editing to uploading episodes and creating artwork. As a result, Brunel now has a lasting digital footprint for their summer school, which has become a valuable resource for promoting their Doctoral School and showcasing the incredible work of their students.
We are heading back in 2025 for series 2 but you can listen to series 1 now:
Customisation and Flexibility
If you prefer a simpler offering without the afternoon recording session, we are also happy to deliver just the Introduction to Podcasting session. For example, we’ve worked with the Skills and Education Group in the past to provide this tailored option.
Conclusion
By integrating podcasting into your conference offering, you not only provide valuable learning opportunities for your delegates but also create a lasting, accessible digital resource that can amplify the impact of your conference for years to come. Whether you’re looking to provide a taster session or a fully developed podcast series, our two-part workshop approach can be customized to meet your needs. Contact us today to discuss how we can help make your next conference more memorable and impactful.
Contact Krissie Brighty-Glover today on Krissie@researchpodcasts.co.uk for a free consultation and no obligation quote.
Lauren White, Assistant Producer