Diversifying the Mic: Expanding Voices and Opportunities in Podcasting

We have to acknowledge privilege everyday in podcasting. While legacy media has been historically male dominated, podcasting presents an exciting opportunity for diversity in any genre. The Women in Media Network launched with a mission to put women’s voices first, while amplifying underrepresented voices.

This engaging session will explore the importance of diversity in podcasting, focusing on enriching content with new and different perspectives by being more intentional with guest outreach, network curation, and unlocking monetization opportunities through inclusive practices. Join a panel of experienced podcasters and industry experts as they share insights on how to actively diversify your podcasting approach and create compelling content that invites underrepresented perspectives.

1. Understanding the Importance of Diversity:
– Discuss the cultural and social relevance of presenting diverse voices in podcasts.
– Explore how diversity enhances creativity, storytelling, and audience connection.

2. Developing Diverse Content:
– Strategies for identifying and integrating diverse topics that appeal to a broader audience.
– Incorporating different perspectives and cultural narratives into existing themes or new series.

3. Inviting Diverse Guests:
– Best practices for conducting interviews that respect and highlight diverse experiences.
– Discussing the role of representation in enhancing credibility and relatability.

4. Creating a Safe Space:
– Techniques for fostering a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for creators, guests and audience.
– How to address sensitive subjects with empathy and respect.

5. Monetization Opportunities and Financial Support Through Diversity:
– Exploring partnership strategies with brands that prioritize inclusion and diversity.
– Exploring the Canadian grant system to support diverse voices in podcasting

Increasing representation in podcasting not only enriches the medium but also fosters inclusivity in modern media where podcasting is becoming mainstream. Let’s make the new mainstream more accessible to the voices and audiences that have traditionally been ignored.

About the Panelists:

• Dr. Pam Palmater, a proud citizen of the Mi’kmaw Nation and member of Eel River Bar First Nation, is a globally recognized public speaker and trainer whose compelling voice ignites a fire for social justice and inspires us all to join the collective journey towards reconciliation with Indigenous communities. As a well-known Indigenous podcaster, documentary filmmaker, and YouTuber, Pam’s adept utilization of social media platforms to illuminate Indigenous issues distinguishes her as a trailblazer. Her indomitable spirit, fervor for social justice, and consequential contributions have reshaped Canadian laws and policies, exemplifying the power of individual agency.
• Fede Vargas is the Founder of My Most Authentic Life, a platform and podcast dedicated to exploring big life changes and unconventional paths. Born in Mexico and raised in Canada, Fede brings a global perspective, having worked extensively across Asia Pacific and Latin America and lived in Europe. Now based in Toronto, Canada, he is fluent in English and Spanish.
• Red, formally known as Lil’Red has a career spanning 20+ years in Canada’s entertainment industry. You may recognize her from Toronto’s first black radio station Flow 93.5 FM (among other shows) and The REDPRiNT Podcast.
• Sarah Burke is award-winning producer, podcaster and broadcaster and the founder of the Women in Media Network. She is the host of the Women in Media Podcast and produces several podcasts on her network including the Jann Arden Podcast with multi-platinum, award-winning singer, songwriter, actor, author, and podcaster Jann Arden. She has also taught podcasting as a professor at Western University through the Faculty of Information and Media Studies.