BBC Sounds Audio Lab returns for a third year to amplify more next-gen podcast creators

Fresh from launching five more unique podcasts from a range of diverse new voices last month, Audio Lab returns for a third year to find the next generation of audio creatives and help them turn their ideas into podcasts on BBC Sounds.

A unique accelerator initiative, Audio Lab alumni have already gone on to win an ARIA for Best New Podcast and BPA for Best Climate Podcast in 2023, championed in the Radio Academy’s 30 Under 30 and taken up sought after up roles with production companies including BBC Audio, Aunt Nell Productions and Goalhanger Podcasts.

This year’s immersive programme once again includes a full-time salary for seven months (July 2024 to January 2025) at Assistant Producer level, plus a comprehensive package of practical and professional training that includes dedicated production support and a bespoke training plan. The creators are also offered the opportunity to join the Radio Academy’s prestigious Mentoring Programme and be paired with a senior creative in the audio industry, to help build their personal and professional development.

Each of the four successful creators will also be embedded with one of Audio Lab’s production partners from across the UK, including three independent companies. Reform Radio in Manchester who aim to nurture young creatives and use audio drama, music and spoken word to develop storied in unique and engaging ways, Reduced Listening in London who specialise in making documentary, audio drama, music curation, conversational and narrative podcasts, Overcoat Media in Cardiff who create bespoke audio to tell factual stories that inform and intrigue including A Positive Live with Sam Smith, and BBC Audio North in Salford, the single biggest supplier of BBC radio programmes and podcasts made outside of London.

Khaliq Meer, commissioning executive for BBC Sounds Audio Lab, says: “More people are listening to podcasts than ever before and we’re passionate about helping the next generation access the best support and resources, achieve new creative heights and authentically reach new audiences via a showcase on BBC Sounds.”

“We’ve designed Audio Lab to offer an immersive experience where emerging talent can hone their skills and learn from some of the brightest and best. I’m incredibly proud of the titles all our alumni creators have produced so far and I’m excited to be back for a third time, with a fantastic set of award-winning production partners from across the UK.”

To support applicants with their submissions, there will be an Audio Lab webinar presented with BBC Academy Fusion on Thursday 7 March at 5.30pm, with reflections and an opportunity to ask questions about the seven month development programme. Find out more and sign up here.

Audio Lab is for those with a range of audio and content making experience such as writing, interviewing, recording, editing or presenting and be highly motivated to develop those skills. You might be self-publishing audio or video content on well-known social media channels, have produced or presented at smaller radio stations or previously held junior production roles. A passion for audio and podcasts is essential, along with an idea for a conversation, story or perspective to develop into a distinctive podcast. Further information and terms and conditions can be found on the Audio Lab website and BBC Careers Hub.

Audio Lab is open to all and encourages applications from all UK under-represented groups including Black, Asian & Minority Ethnic; LGBTQIA+, disabled and lower socio-economic backgrounds.

Applications open on 5 March via the Audio Lab website and BBC Careers Hub, and close on 2 April 2024.

Meet the BBC Sounds Audio Lab year two creators:

Anouska Lewis, Audio Lab year two creator says: “By supporting me as a creator, Audio Lab has also allowed me to explore the past in a less traditional way and appeal to fellow Gen Z History Huns. Working with Mags Creative as part of the scheme has been a dream. They were so enthusiastic about my idea from the beginning and supported me throughout. I can’t wait for people to hear it!”

Hometown Boring? is a Mags Creative production for BBC Sounds Audio Lab, available now.

Seun Matiluko, Audio Lab year two creator, says: “The Audio Lab experience was a rollercoaster. It gave me the opportunity to learn how to make a high-quality podcast and be involved at every stage of the process, from pressing record on the microphone, to interviewing contributors and editing the content together. I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to bring this podcast to life.”

Seun’s Talking Drum British And West African is a Three Arrows Media production for BBC Sounds Audio Lab, available now.

May Robson, Audio Lab year two creator says: “Now Here would be nowhere without Audio Lab. The idea would still be floating around in my head. It’s been a wild ride – exciting, exhausting and eye-opening all at once. I’m very grateful to my team for their support and belief in me as a creator and presenter.”

Now Here is a BBC Scotland production for BBC Sounds Audio Lab, available now.

George Powell, BBC Sounds Audio Lab year creator says: “Audio Lab gave me the incredible opportunity to make a podcast that attempts to answer some of the questions I had about Stanlow. It also gave me a huge insight into every stage of making a programme with the BBC, with the support and guidance of an industry leading-team.”

Black Gold is a Long Form Audio, BBC News production for BBC Sounds Audio Lab, available now

Taqwa Sadiq, Audio Lab creator says: “Audio Lab gave me an invaluable opportunity to spend time delving into Zakat, meeting wonderful and fascinating contributors along the way. It has demystified what it’s like to work at the BBC and what it takes to make a multi-part series, as well as working with some amazing people in audio.”

Sacred Money is a BBC Audio Speech & Music Podcasts production for BBC Sounds Audio Lab, available now

AM2