The Power of Podcasting

Siobhán McHugh dissects what makes a good podcast and outlines how you can create one yourself. She blends practical insights into and critical analysis of the art of audio storytelling. Packed with case studies, history, tips, and techniques, this book introduces readers to the possibilities of the world of sound.

Siobhán McHugh is an award-winning writer, documentary maker, critic, and podcast producer. She has won seven gold awards at New York Festivals for coproduced podcasts including Phoebe’s Fall, Wrong Skin, and The Last Voyage of the Pong Su, and is consulting producer on The Greatest Menace, a queer true-crime podcast. McHugh has published four books of social history, including The Snowy: A History (2019). She is honorary associate professor in media and communications at the University of Sydney and honorary associate professor in journalism at the University of Wollongong.

McHugh’s detailed explanations of how audio can transform words are profound. . . . The Power of Podcasting is a reminder that audio storytelling is an art form.

Richard Berry, University of Sunderland:
Much more than a how-to guide for aspiring podcasters … A reminder of the power of sound and the huge potential of the podcast medium.

James Cridland, editor of PODNEWS:
A love letter to the power of podcasting and audio, from one of the most experienced storytellers with sound.

Richard Baker, host of The Last Voyage of the Pong Su:
Essential reading for anyone aspiring to make memorable audio. This is the ultimate guide to podcasting from a master of the craft.

Marc Fennell, creator of Stuff the British Stole:
The most in-depth guide to the best audio storytelling around the world. Packed with useful insights and ideas.

Carolina Guerrero, CEO of Radio Ambulante Studios:
An invaluable resource for anyone interested in understanding today’s global podcasting phenomenon. I learned so much.

Kim Fox, American University in Cairo and co-chair of the Podcast Studies Network:
Storytelling is Siobhán McHugh’s gift, so it shouldn’t be a surprise that this book is written as an immersive narrative … the ideal book for students, trainers, researchers and anyone who wants to learn about the inner workings of podcasting.

Olya Booyar, head of radio, Asia-Pacific Broadcasting Union:
Absolutely fascinating, and a terrific lesson in how to tell good stories. Whether you seek instruction, or simply to know why some podcasts are better than others, this book is for you. Considering how rapidly podcasting is developing, McHugh manages to keep it bang up to date, charting the latest trends and the ever-expanding honour roll of podcasts circulating around the world. For those looking for practical guidance in creating or improving their own podcasting, she populates the chapters with real, living, breathing people in all the highs and lows of their humanity, which is, after all, the secret to great radio, journalism and outstanding podcasting.