From Uncertainty to Intention: Reflections on the Sony Music Podcast Academy

Having graduated from university earlier this year, I must admit that, like many others, I felt somewhat lost when it came to defining a clear career path. After applying to countless roles in the pharmaceutical field and eventually securing a position as a sales executive at a small firm, I still found myself feeling unfulfilled and uncertain about the direction I was heading in. Conversations with friends revealed a shared sense of frustration; it felt like we were all stuck in the same endless loop of searching without clarity.

It was during one of my routine job-hunting sessions that I came across a LinkedIn post advertising the Sony Music Podcast Academy. My immediate thought was, Yes- This is perfect. The timing felt almost serendipitous. Just the summer before, I’d been having conversations with my younger sister about starting our own podcast, so I decided to apply. I was soon invited to a selection day, and what followed over the next few weeks would prove to be a truly transformative experience.

Now that I’m on the other side of it, reflecting on the six-week programme, I have nothing but positive things to say. On a personal level, it was a truly transformative experience. I walked away not only with a wealth of insight into the podcasting industry (far more layered and complex than I had ever imagined) but also having formed meaningful connections with eleven like-minded creatives, all at the beginning of their own journeys, alongside professionals already established in the industry.

This inaugural programme, directed by Fran, left no stone unturned. Every foundational aspect of the podcasting world was thoughtfully explored. From sessions on intellectual property with Jules Stephenson, to brand partnerships with Alex Lawson, building a podcast from the ground up with Kathleen Johnston and Ellie Halls of the Straight Up podcast, and even a session learning about the different types of microphones used in the industry with Gulliver Lawrence-Tickell. I felt completely immersed. With each workshop, masterclass, and talk, I walked away more informed and increasingly eager to delve deeper into the craft.

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All these sessions culminated in the unveiling of our main project: over four weeks, we were tasked with producing an original podcast pilot in groups of four, guided by the overarching theme of “Entertainment First.” Speaking from the heart, this was genuinely one of the most enjoyable parts of the programme. From ideation and brainstorming, to recording and post-production, every stage of the process was infused with curiosity, collaboration, and a shared excitement for creating something from scratch.

This was no word of a doubt an experiential environment. Every aspect of the pilot production was hands on. From the handling and setting up of the filming equipment off location, to the state-of-the-art vision mixer where we could vision mix in real time to the editing of the footage. There was a strong sense of trust placed in us, allowing creativity the freedom to flourish.

Personally, I found the post-production stage especially rewarding. While opening software like Premiere Pro initially felt daunting (often described as a pilot in a cockpit with the vast array of buttons), the guidance of the exceptionally talented engineers on the Sony Music Podcast team quickly transformed uncertainty into confidence. Every detail was treated with intention, from the colour grading of each camera angle to the precise timing of a keyframe of a transition. It became clear that the art of post-production is where a podcast truly comes to life: not only through its content, but through the careful craftsmanship that shapes it. Much like framing a piece of art, these meticulous choices elevate raw material into a finished canvas. Walking away, I have a newfound appreciation for post-production engineers who dedicate so much into ensuring the final product is seamless.

Weeks of hard work culminated in the final showcase, where each group presented their completed projects to a panel of industry professionals, including Chris Skinner, Vice President and Head of Content at Sony Music Entertainment, Jemima Rathbone, Executive Producer at Jampot Productions and Bernard Achampong, Chair of AudioUK. The experience was immensely rewarding. Watching a project come to life after weeks of dedication felt truly profound.

One of the highlights of the evening was seeing the reveal of the other groups’ creations. After weeks of anticipation, it became a moment of reflection and genuine awe at the collective creativity in the room. From the thoughtfully crafted presentations to the final reveal of each 10-minute pilot, the entire showcase felt joyful. An experience I will cherish and remember for a long time.

Alongside this whole experience, we were each paired with a mentor. Mentors were randomly allocated to provide support and advice. I personally want to thank my mentor Nia Deo for creating such a welcoming environment from the get-go. No question I asked felt too silly and the plethora of industry knowledge she provided fuelled my confidence.

Throughout the programme, we were also accompanied by voice notes from people across the industry. These candid reflections served as a powerful reminder that even the most accomplished individuals experience imposter syndrome and that this is entirely normal. It was a crucial reminder that we all deserve a seat at the table, and that we are exactly where we are meant to be.

Walking away from this experience, I can confidently say that I have found a direction for the career path I want to pursue. The Academy has marked a pivotal turning point in my personal and professional narrative. I feel more driven than ever to take creative risks and reach beyond my comfort zone. I want to end by thanking everyone who helped shape this journey. Your contribution has made a lasting impact and will not be forgotten.