The University of Sunderland became a hub for future audio and podcast talent as the Radio Academy brought its Foot in the Door event to the north-east.
Held on 15 October at the University’s David Puttnam Media Centre, the event gave students, podcasters and audio creators the chance to connect with industry professionals and learn how to build sustainable careers in today’s fast-changing audio landscape.
Partnering with Sunderland’s student-run community station Spark, the Radio Academy designed the day to help early career professionals access training, network with senior figures and understand the full range of opportunities in modern audio, from on-air presenting to podcast production, content marketing and technical operations.
Workshops and panels featured a mix of broadcasters, podcasters and production specialists including Hits Radio 90s’ Steve Furnell and Karen Oxley, BBC Newcastle’s Emma Millen, BBC Radio 2’s Helen Thomas, and Adam Wilbourn, Head of Podcasts at WhatCulture.
Together they shared advice on developing a unique voice, growing an audience and adapting traditional radio skills for podcasting.
Dixi Stewart, Managing Director of the Radio Academy, said: “It was a wonderfully inspiring day full of fresh insight, thought-provoking discussion and audio passion.
“Students at the University of Sunderland are hugely talented, and it was a pleasure to share ideas about the future of audio and how their skills can help take the industry forward.”
Alumna and presenter Karen Oxley said: “It’s great for students to get direct advice from people already working in the industry.
“When we were starting out, we wouldn’t have known where to look for that guidance, so bringing everyone together in one place is a real boost for anyone serious about an audio career.”
Her co-presenter Steve Furnell added: “The facilities at Sunderland are incredible and the opportunities for creative audio and podcasting are fantastic. The north-east has always been full of talent — this event just makes it easier for people to take that next step.”
Lee Hall, Head of the School of Media and Creative Industries at the University of Sunderland, said: “The event was a huge success, connecting students with senior figures in the radio industry.
“And it wasn’t just about programme making for radio, students learned how to break into a range of roles including podcasting and technical careers.
Foot in the Door is supported by The Radio Academy’s partners BBC Sounds and Broadcast Bionics.
