BBC Sounds launches Audio Lab to ‘amplify’ the next generation of podcasters

BBC Sounds has announced Audio Lab, a new programme to accelerate the journeys of grassroots podcasters and audio creatives with diverse stories and inspiring ideas from across the UK.

Billed as the first initiative of its kind, it will provide a space for the next generation of podcasters, opening up the industry to a wider range of people by giving six audio creatives the opportunity to turn their ideas into a series of podcasts for BBC Sounds. The initiative is a paid development programme including bespoke training from the BBC Academy, mentoring and production support from BBC Audio, as well as marketing and promotion for the best ideas to help amplify unheard stories with new perspectives.

Audio Lab is open to all, and particularly welcomes ideas from audio creators from under-represented groups across the UK including Black, Asian & Minority Ethnic; LGBTQIA+, disabled and lower socio-economic backgrounds.

To guide applicants through their submissions, Audio Lab also presents a series of podcast masterclasses hosted by BBC Sounds Lab producer Leanne Alie and supported by BBC Academy Fusion, with some of the scheme’s ambassadors as guests including broadcaster and journalist Mobeen Azhar, BBC Asian Network presenter and host of Brown Girls Do It Better podcast Poppy Begum, and Radio 1Xtra’s Richie Brave.

There’s further information in the BBC Sounds press release. Alternatively, visit the Audio Lab website.