Global Media Congress Panel Highlights Growth And Influence Of Podcasts In Journalism

The Global Media Congress recently hosted a panel discussion on the transformation of media, focusing on the rise and influence of podcasts. The session, titled "The Evolution of Media: Podcasting, Journalism, and Radio Resilience," was moderated by Nancy Tabet from Sky News Arabia. Panellists included Kevin Y Brown, Anup Oommen, Enas Al Refaei, and Dr. Hamad Al-Kaabi.

Dr. Hamad Al-Kaabi, CEO of Aletihad News Centre, discussed how podcasts have evolved in the Middle East. He noted that while their adoption lagged behind Western journalism, their impact has been substantial. He highlighted that audiences now prefer concise and engaging content. Traditional media must adapt to these preferences or risk becoming irrelevant.

Kevin Y Brown from Afripods spoke about the shift from broadcast to podcast in Africa. He pointed out that radio still plays a crucial role there but podcasts offer flexibility for listeners to access content anytime. This medium promotes transparency and trust between hosts and audiences while influencing political discourse and public opinion.

Enas Al Refaei, Deputy Editor at The National, emphasised radio's lasting impact on journalism over decades. She mentioned the growing appeal of long-form conversations that allow audiences to engage with discussions while multitasking. However, she warned against echo chambers and stressed the need for diverse perspectives to ensure balanced dialogue.

Anup Oommen from Campaign Middle East compared the podcast boom to the early 2000s social media revolution. He explained how both have changed content creation and consumption patterns. Today's tech-savvy audiences demand relatable hosts who are accountable for their content.

The Future of Podcasts

The panellists agreed that podcasts are reshaping journalism and public engagement by changing how stories are told and consumed. They highlighted podcasts as a cornerstone of modern media capable of informing, educating, and inspiring audiences worldwide.

Anup Oommen predicted a promising future for podcasts due to their ability to connect with audiences effectively. He described them as essential tools for modern media that can inform, educate, and inspire listeners globally.

The discussion underscored the significant role podcasts play in transforming media landscapes across regions. As they continue to grow in popularity, they will likely remain integral to how people consume information.

With inputs from WAM