Taking over the IABC EMENA podcast has been an exciting, slightly intimidating adventure. I’ve been busy learning the ins and outs of microphones, playing around with editing software, and turning my home office into a makeshift recording studio.
But as I step into this world of audio, I keep coming back to one question: how can I make this podcast truly inclusive?
Not just in the topics we explore or the guests we feature — but in the experience itself. Podcasting, like anything we do in communication, should leave no one out.
That’s where my ALLIES framework comes in. Designed for inclusive communication, ALLIES (Accessibility, Language, Live sessions, Imagery, Engagement, Stories) offers a roadmap for crafting a podcast that doesn’t just sound good but feels good for everyone.
Here’s how I’m applying it.
Accessibility: Bringing everyone to the table
First things first: accessibility is non-negotiable. Podcasts are for everyone, but not everyone experiences audio in the same way.
Here’s what can be done to ensure no one gets left out:
- Transcripts for every episode. These aren’t just for SEO benefits (though, yes, they help there too). They ensure that deaf or hard-of-hearing listeners, or those who simply prefer to read, can still access the content.
- Clear audio quality. I’m spending extra time on sound design—clean, crisp, and free from distractions. For neurodivergent listeners or anyone sensitive to background noise, this isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s essential.
- Subtitles for video content. When I share clips or full episodes in video format, accurate and well-synced captions will always be there.
- Flexible formats. Key takeaways, audiograms, or downloadable PDFs help busy listeners engage in ways that work for them.
Language: Making it welcoming
Language is powerful. It can open doors or build walls. To ensure my podcast speaks to everyone:
- I’m mindful of the words I use, steering clear of jargon, stereotypes, and othering language.
- We’ll try to include references and stories that resonate across different cultures and lived experiences, so no one feels left out.
Live sessions: Engaging asynchronously
Not every podcast has the capacity for live sessions, but that doesn’t mean you can’t create dynamic and inclusive engagement. Here’s what I’m doing instead:
- Episode feedback loops: At the end of each episode, I’ll invite listeners to share their thoughts, questions, or ideas via email, social media, or a feedback form.
- Listener highlights: I’ll incorporate listener comments and questions into future episodes, creating a sense of real-time connection over time.
- Interactive follow-ups: Polls and discussion prompts on LinkedIn or other platforms can spark conversations around each episode’s theme.
- Accessible recordings: While there are no live events, every episode will be designed to be inclusive, with clear audio and transcripts, making them easy to revisit and share.
Imagery: Visual inclusion for an audio-first medium
Podcasts may be about sound, but imagery matters—especially for promotion.
- Inclusive artwork: The visuals for the podcast will reflect diversity in age, gender, ethnicity, and abilities.
- Alt text: Every visual I share will include alt text descriptions, making them accessible to visually impaired listeners.
- Diverse storytelling in visuals: Audiograms and promotional materials will reflect the diversity of voices we feature.
Engagement: Building a community, not just an audience
Inclusive podcasting is a two-way street. It’s about creating a dialogue, not just broadcasting.
- Feedback channels: I’ll regularly invite feedback through surveys, emails, or social media to understand what’s working and what could improve.
- Community spaces: I’m planning to create an online hub where listeners can connect with me and each other. Think LinkedIn groups or AMA sessions.
- Interactive episodes: Polls, listener questions, or challenges will make the audience part of the story.
Stories: Amplifying diverse voices
A podcast is only as good as the stories it tells. For me, that means focusing on authenticity and diversity.
- Diverse guests: I’m inviting guests from a variety of backgrounds, industries, and life experiences—not to check boxes, but because their stories enrich the conversation.
- Accents and dialects: Voices matter, and accents are part of identity. I’ll celebrate a variety of ways of speaking, making the podcast a space where everyone feels heard.
- Listener stories: I’ll ask the audience to share their own experiences and weave them into episodes, amplifying real, lived experiences.
In other words
Podcasting isn’t just about hitting “record” and uploading files. It’s about creating a platform where everyone — regardless of their background, abilities, or preferences — feels included and valued.
With the ALLIES framework as my guide, I’m aiming to craft a podcast experience that truly reflects the values of accessibility, diversity, and belonging.
If you have tips, ideas, or feedback, I’d love to hear them. Let’s make podcasting a space where inclusion isn’t just a buzzword but a practice.
Stay tuned for the first episode — it’s coming soon!#
