The aim of this course is to help students develop a podcast idea from the brainstorm stage to a full-fledged pilot episode. We'll begin with a brief history and overview of the podcast industry (in all its tumult) and a review of the different types of podcasts (documentary-style narrative, interview-based narrative, chat show) and the perks and challenges of each. Then we'll move into practical skills like crafting elevator pitches, interviewing for broadcast, writing for the ear, choosing sources, researching archival material, and basic audio editing, mixing, and scoring. We'll also touch on the business of podcasting including budgeting, production planning, and marketing. The course will be a mix of discussion and hands-on exercises, leading to a completed pilot episode (and listening party!) by the end of the semester. |