BBC Sounds is releasing a range of new podcasts, including star-led shows and investigative journalism.
The next-generation podcasters joining industry accelerator programme, BBC Sounds Audio Lab are also being announced.
Among the headline titles is Rylan: How to Be in Love, launching Wednesday 4 June. Across 12 episodes, Rylan explores the meaning of lasting love, with help from guests including Stephen Fry, Louis Theroux, Philippa Perry, and Munroe Bergdorf.
Rylan says: “Throughout this series, I’ll be talking to all my guests about love; what it means to them, how they describe it and how it manifests in every aspect of their lives.
“I get some unrivalled relationship advice from love experts, ask what we should be looking for in a partner, and discover the secrets of healthy, long-term relationships. Who knows, I might pick up some helpful tips along the way.”
The platform also adds to its slate of investigative series under the Radio 4 banner. Marianna in Conspiracyland returns in June as Marianna Spring investigates the growing influence of UK health conspiracy movements online.
Shadow World: The People vs McDonald’s, hosted by comedian Mark Steel, looks into the story behind the longest-running libel trial in UK history — a legal battle involving undercover spies, state surveillance, and corporate power.
Meanwhile, Postwar is a 20-part historical series from writer and historian David Runciman, marking 80 years since the 1945 general election. Published under the Politically strand on Radio 4, it explores the legacy and relevance of the postwar consensus in modern Britain.
There will be three Uncanny Summer Specials in June, the podcast drama Central Intelligence also returns in June and The History Podcast: The Magnificent O’Connors comes to BBC Sounds in July.
BBC Sounds Audio Lab returns for its fifth year, to discover and develop the next generation of audio creators.
Chosen from hundreds of applicants, five fresh creators will be immersed in a unique accelerator programme backed by a comprehensive package of practical and professional training while embedded with one of Audio Lab’s five production partners located across the UK.
Khaliq Meer, Commissioning Executive, BBC Sounds Audio Lab says: “It’s fantastic to be back with a brand-new BBC Sounds Audio Lab Creator line-up for 2025!
“Marisha, Katie, Adam, Keira and Eva are super impressive next-generation podcasters with uniquely relevant ideas on British cultures and experiences. I can’t wait to amplify their growth and development alongside our award-winning BBC and independent production partners, across the UK.”
