Unfiltered conversations.

Podcasts: The Voice of Modern Protest and Equality

Many moons ago I co-created with another artist Suzanne Lee, a performance of 400 women’s voices, with giant mouths projected onto the walls of the Union Chapel theatre, London. It was before the internet. It gave women a chance to stand up and speak out. Now we all have the platform of podcasts to speak out about what we believe in, to stand up for positive change and to make the world a better place.

In recent years, podcasts have emerged as a powerful tool for global communication and activism, evolving into what can be considered a new form of protest art. This medium transcends traditional barriers, allowing voices from all corners of the world to be heard, fostering dialogues that span continents, and facilitating the creation of living legacies. As a host of Brave New Girls podcast I know that I for one look for voices who are leading the way in their fields; often women who are going against the flow, pioneers and activists.

The Global Reach of Podcasts

Unlike traditional forms of protest, which often rely on physical presence, podcasts offer a virtual stage from which voices can echo globally. This expanded reach has transformed the way we engage with issues of equality, justice, and human rights. Women, who have long used their voices in public protests, now have a more accessible and far-reaching platform to share their narratives, experiences, and advocacies. One in which they can go deep into explaining their thoughts, ideas and solutions. As a guest myself on podcasts I enjoy the one to one experience whilst knowing that your words will ripple and reverberate outwards to 100,000s of people round the world.

Podcasts as Living Legacies

Podcasts create a unique 'living language' that evolves with time and global events. Each episode captures a moment in history, reflecting the ongoing societal changes and discourses. Through podcasts, marginalized voices, which have often been sidelined in mainstream media, find a haven to craft and disseminate their stories, creating a tapestry of living legacies that can influence current and future generations. Whilst there are dedicated podcasts to every sector and factor of society, there is a also a flow of diverse voices disseminating across the full spectrum of podcasts. It’s like we are creating an audio map of this point in history.

Addressing Gender Disparity

Despite the democratising potential of podcasts, there remains a noticeable disparity in the representation and listenership of women-led podcasts. This gap prompts critical questions about accessibility, visibility, and the structural support needed for women podcasters to thrive. Addressing this imbalance is crucial in ensuring that podcasts serve as a truly inclusive platform. There are no particular barriers to entry, but when you look at the top echelons of podcasts, where the money is, the landscape is predominantly male. At least with podcast guesting we can get our voices on multiple podcasts, and spread our message that way.

The Challenges of Expression in Podcasts

As podcasts remain relatively free from algorithmic influences (for how long I’m not sure), they offer an authentic space for unfiltered conversations. However, this freedom also comes with challenges. There is an ongoing debate about the extent to which podcasts should be regulated, balanced against the need to maintain freedom of expression while adhering to standards of decency, ethics, and legislation. How we balance propaganda, protest and personal expression will continue to be debated, but if you are working for the greater good the podcasts are the platform to do that.

Inspire others

Leveraging Podcasts for Change: 10 Actionable Tips

Start Your Podcast: Use this platform to share your perspective and rally support for your cause.

Collaborate: Partner with other podcasters to extend your reach and impact.

Guest Appearances: Utilise guest spots on popular podcasts to amplify your voice.

Engage with Listeners: Foster a community by actively involving your audience in discussions.

Diversify Content: Cover a range of topics to attract and retain a diverse listener base.

Utilise Social Media: Promote your podcast across various social media platforms to maximise visibility.

Seek Sponsorships: Align with sponsors who share your values and can support your mission.

Consistent Content Creation: Regular episodes keep listeners engaged and attract new ones.

Monitor Feedback: Use listener feedback to refine and evolve your content.

Join Podcast Networks: Gain better visibility and support by being part of podcast networks. 

Conclusion

Podcasts have undeniably become a potent tool for modern activism and advocacy. As we navigate this digital age, it is vital to harness the power of this platform, not only to voice dissent and demand change but also to build communities, share stories, and create a more equitable and just world. The future of podcasts in shaping societal discourse is bright, provided we recognise and utilise their potential to the fullest. 

 PS. Watch my masterclass - it’s a free intro to podcast guesting that will get you started on your brand storytelling journey. Dare to share, and your people will find you.

PPS. Read my book Dare to Share- a step-by-step guide to podcast guesting