As the lines between traditional radio and podcasting continue to blur, we are witnessing an exciting evolution in the audio landscape. At NAB Show New York 2024, radio and podcast professionals will come together to explore how emerging technologies, data insights, and new marketing strategies are shaping the future of the industry. This event is an unmissable opportunity for audio creators, producers, and marketers to learn, collaborate, and grow in an ever-changing media environment.

Embracing Technology to Enhance Programming and Marketing

One of the central themes at this year's show is how technology is transforming the way radio and podcast creators produce content and connect with their audiences. AI, social media platforms, and the rise of creators and influencers have become essential tools for enhancing programming and driving audience engagement. The session “How Marketing and Technology Work Together to Grow and Engage Audiences” on Wednesday, October 9, will delve into these themes. Speakers like Jason Hoch (CEO of Wavland) and Julie Koehn (President of Lenawee Broadcasting Company) will share insights on how technology has been used to support promotions and monetization strategies.

AI, for example, is now playing a pivotal role in personalizing content, analyzing audience data, and optimizing programming decisions. This enables radio and podcast teams to create more engaging and relevant content tailored to individual listeners. In another session titled "Innovative Sound Design and Video Strategies for Radio and Podcasts", Matt DeGroot (VP of Production, Crooked Media/Pod Save America) will reveal how AI is being integrated into their workflow to produce cutting-edge content for one of the top podcasts in the U.S.

The Power of Storytelling: Insights from Industry Leaders

Storytelling remains at the heart of both radio and podcasting, and this year's event will shine a light on how some of the most successful shows have mastered this art. Patti Jackson, the award-winning radio host from WDAS/iHeartRadio, will speak candidly in the session “It Takes a Team: How Talent Works Across the Team to Create Winning Shows” about how her show grew into a successful brand and how collaboration between production and marketing departments is crucial for success. Similarly, Sarah Austin Jenness, Executive Producer of the renowned storytelling phenomenon The Moth, will share how their podcast helped cultivate a global community of listeners and contributors.

Leveraging Data for Better Programming and Promotions

Another key topic being discussed is how data is being used to inform programming and promotional decisions. In the session “Leveraging Data Insights to Improve Programming, Promotions and Bottom Lines”, industry experts like Colby Tyner (SVP of Programming, Radio One & Reach Media) and Laura Ivey (Director of Research, Edison Research) will explore how data-driven insights are shaping the future of audio content. By understanding listener behavior, radio stations and podcasts can refine their offerings, making them more engaging and successful in today’s competitive audio landscape.

Attendees will also be able to participate in roundtables with panelists and peers to discuss what has worked for others in using data to boost audience growth and engagement.

New Opportunities in Monetization and Audience Engagement

Monetization strategies are evolving alongside new ways of engaging audiences. Jason Hoch of Wavland will discuss how the blurring lines between audio and video have presented new opportunities for creators to reach wider audiences. Podcasts, traditionally audio-only, are now expanding into visual formats, creating hybrid experiences that resonate with younger audiences, who often consume content across multiple platforms like YouTube.

Hoch will also highlight the various monetization pathways that are now available, from host-read ads and brand integrations to network ads and programmatic solutions. Understanding these revenue opportunities is essential for podcasters and radio hosts who want to build sustainable businesses around their content.

Key Takeaways and Exhibitor Recommendations

For attendees looking to expand their knowledge, Jason Hoch recommends focusing on three key areas: understanding your content, knowing your audience, and building a sustainable business model. He also suggests using the show floor to ask for help, experiment with new ideas, and explore innovative technologies designed to support long-term growth in the podcasting and radio industry.

To further enhance your experience, be sure to check out technical training opportunities on October 9, such as:

• Audio for Podcasting: Make Your Podcast Stand Out With Great Sound
• Using AI in Your Audio Recordings
• Getting the Best Audio to Your Camera
• Work Smarter, Not Harder in DaVinci Resolve

Don’t miss out on the chance to hear from industry giants, including Jason Hoch, Patti Jackson, and Sarah Austin Jenness, as they share their insights on radio and podcast production, marketing, and storytelling. Register for NAB Show New York using code MP02 and be part of the conversation shaping the future of audio!