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Sound School Podcast

Latest episodes

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Mar 26, 2025 • 13min

Beware the Chicken Bomb

The best way -- sometimes the *only* way -- to describe an element in a story that is disruptive and distracting for listeners is this: chicken bomb. This year, 2025, is the 20th anniversary of "chicken bomb" entering the lexicon of audio storytelling. What exactly is it? With help from Ira Glass, we'll explain. 
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Mar 18, 2025 • 7min

Amen, Chenjerai (Bonus Episode)

In this bonus episode, Rob takes his conversation with Chenjerai Kumanyika one step further. He digs in a bit more to the big question from the last episode: Who is the "you" telling this story now?" 
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Mar 11, 2025 • 42min

Amen, Chenjerai

Chenjerai Kumanyika delivered the goods. Rob interviewed Chenjerai on stage at the recent On Air Fest where Chenjraie was passionate, animated, and electric as he talked about a question he sees as essential for anyone in audio storytelling to consider. We're sure you'll be as transfixed as the audience.
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Feb 25, 2025 • 30min

Revisiting: The Longest Shortest Time

Just recently, Hillary Frank relaunched her popular podcast The Longest Shortest Time. This archive episode takes us back to Hillary's early days, when she was just finding her way in podcasting -- as we all were. 
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Feb 11, 2025 • 18min

The Layered Approach - Interviewing for Scenes

You want scenes in your story. But, reporting in the field isn't an option. What then? Simon Adler, a senior producer at Radiolab has an answer: interview for scenes using "the layered approach." 
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Jan 28, 2025 • 28min

The Backstory to "Our Ancestors Were Messy"

Nichole Hill pitched her show idea again and again. And, again and again, podcast companies said "no." But, that didn't stop Nichole. She said "I'm doing it myself!" Our Ancestors Were Messy, a podcast featuring hidden stories from the archives of historic, Black newspapers, launches February 5th. Sound School has the backstory to how Nichole dialed in the format for the show and why she chose a mix of chat and narrative styles. 
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Jan 14, 2025 • 21min

All Hands On Deck - NPR and the Nixon White House

Just over 50 years ago, in 1974, NPR took to the airwaves for a 25-hour-broadcast that Rob thinks may be one of the most tedious recordings he's ever heard and one that was also an incredible broadcast service. What is it? You'll have to listen. Trust us. It's worth it. 
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Dec 31, 2024 • 24min

Revisiting: First, Tell Them an Anecdote

Rob's interview with Misha Euceph is one of his favorites. As he says, she's very clear, engaging, and insightful about the craft of audio storytelling. On this archive episode of the show from 2019, they discuss why Misha believed it was important to start each episode of her podcast "Tell Them, I Am" with a personal anecdote.  
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13 snips
Dec 17, 2024 • 19min

Dissection - Daniel Alarcón's Writing Maneuvers

Daniel Alarcón, an acclaimed writer and host of 'The Good Whale,' dives into the intricate storytelling woven into narratives about animals. He discusses the emotional weight behind Keiko the orca's journey from captivity to freedom, highlighting the ethical dilemmas in human-animal relationships. Alarcón critiques common narrative strategies, advocating for specificity in writing that resonates deeply with audiences. He also shares insights on the challenges faced during Keiko's relocation, reflecting on the significance of compassion in storytelling.
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Dec 3, 2024 • 28min

Fingers Crossed, Twice

Nothing seems guaranteed these days for creative audio makers. "Short Cuts" was recently cancelled and "Pretendians" is seeking funding for a second season, two shows on this episode of Sound School that are high on Rob's must-listen list because they elevate the craft and deliver essential storytelling. 

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