On May 7, Radiodays North America, NCRA/ANREC and Canadaland will corporate and host this Podcastday for Creators. A one-day, 7-session gathering focused on podcasting, audio storytelling, and the evolving landscape of independent media production in Canada and North America. The summit will bring together podcast producers, journalists, campus and community
broadcasters, and independent creators to explore new approaches to audio production, audience engagement, and sustainable media models. The goal is to create a space where producers and the broader podcast ecosystem can connect, share knowledge, and build future collaborations.
The program will feature conversations with producers, practical sessions on podcast production, and discussions about the relationship between podcasting, public media, and independent journalism.
Agenda
9:00 AM
Welcome & Opening Remarks: Opening remarks to introduce the day, outline key themes, and set the tone for collaboration between community radio and the podcast sector.
Barry Rooke (NCRA/ANREC); Tony Wang (Canadaland), Peter Niegel (RDNA)
9:20 AM
Opening Panel: A cross-sector conversation exploring podcasting, independent journalism, and community broadcasting, highlighting different models, funding approaches, and what makes each unique.
Conrad Fox (NCRA/ANREC); Jesse Brown/Noor Azrieh (Canadaland); Andre Goulet (Harbinger Media Network); Moderator: Mary Chan (Organized Sound)
10:10 AM
From Listeners to Activists: Tools and strategies to transform audiences into engaged supporters through cause-driven storytelling, loyalty-building, and audience engagement techniques.
Chris M. Rougier (MPH Agency)
11:10 AM
The Hidden Driver of ROI: An exploration of how self-perception impacts performance, leadership, and creative outcomes in media and storytelling environments.
Nikki Stone and Claire Ravenstreet (The Sixth Suite) and Paul Gittens (The WHO Project)
11:50 AM
Lunch Break — Break for lunch. No food provided; participants are encouraged to explore nearby options at Hart House and the surrounding area.
1:00 PM
Making Money in Podcasting: A practical look at podcast revenue models, including crowdfunding, memberships, and building sustainable independent media businesses.
Jesse Brown (Canadaland)
1:50 PM
Building Podcast Communities: How to create shows that resonate deeply with audiences and build strong, engaged communities around your content.
Noor Azrieh (Canadaland)
2:40 PM
Growing Your Podcast: Strategies for expanding your audience, increasing reach, and sustaining long-term growth in a competitive podcast landscape.
Sherley Joseph (Black Canadian Creators)
3:30 PM
Journalism & Storytelling from Anywhere: How to produce impactful journalism and storytelling with limited resources, including remote production techniques and global perspectives.
Conrad Fox (NCRA/ANREC)
4:10 PM
Closing Q&A and Reflections: Final reflections, audience questions, and key takeaways from the day.