Vancouver Public Library and V.I.A. have teamed up to help you discover new reads, hidden book gems and surprising literary finds. Check back every couple of weeks for the latest reading recommendations from the experts at Vancouver’s library.
Dreaming of creating a podcast but don’t know where to start? Check out these resources to figure out how to hone your interview skills, select the right equipment, master audio production and make your podcast profitable.
Want some hands-on help? Sign-up for our free podcast workshops at the Central Library: Record and Edit your Podcast Part 1 on Feb. 27 and Part 2 on Mar. 6.
Or maybe you’re just looking for a free professional quality recording studio to use? Book one in our Inspiration Lab at the Central Library or Bud Osborn Creation Space at our nə́c̓aʔmat ct Strathcona Branch.
Podcast Resources
Out on the Wire: The Storytelling Secrets of the New Masters of Radio by Jessica Abel
Hit podcasts like This American Life, Serial and Radiolab are seen as the best of the best in narrative journalism. If you are curious about how and what it takes to create these provocative stories then this book cannot be missed. Jessica Abel interviews the people behind these popular podcasts and packages the advice into a must read handbook for the aspiring audio creator.
Radio: An Illustrated Guide by Jessica Abel
Can’t find a copy of Jessica Abel’s Out on the Wire? Then check out Abel’s first version, published back in the 90s with Ira Glass. Radio is a 30-page, black and white comic book that still packs a punch. The step-by-step approach illustrates how to start and find stories, conduct an interview, hold the microphone and edit, to make great narrative stories.
The Art of the Interview: Lessons from a Master of the Craft by Lawrence Grobel
Asking the right questions helps create a compelling and rich narrative for your podcast. Lawrence Grobel spent a lifetime interviewing captivating personalities like Al Pacino and Barbra Streisand, and he shares his secrets behind the art of the perfect interview. Grobel’s practical strategies will take you through the research, question writing and editing process involved in a powerful interview.
Sound Reporting: The NPR Guide to Audio Journalism and Production by Jonathan Kern
Sound Reporting is an engaging and comprehensive guide to audio journalism that is considered to have bible-status for many in this field. This how-to guidebook covers every step in the audio story process like finding stories, writing conversationally for audio, producing stories and much more. Coupled with examples from real NPR stories, this book is a necessary introductory read.
Podcasting for Dummies by Tee Morris
If you are thinking about creating your own podcast then Podcasting for Dummies is the perfect introduction to the nuts and bolts of the professional audio production. In this third edition, expect updated information about the new tools and technology to help you succeed. Get started with this guide to write, record and produce a podcast that you’re proud to share.
Reality Radio: Telling True Stories in Sound
Step into the mind of the creator with this collection of essays by the people who successfully manipulate sound and create excellent audio stories. Contributors like Jad Abumrad from Radiolab and Ira Glass from This American Life reveal why they do what they do, and how they achieve their goals through production and editing.
Profitable Podcasting by Stephen Woessner
How are podcasters making money with their podcasts? Uncover the secret to a profitable podcast with Stephen Woessner’s recipe for success. This book contains information on how to grow revenue, build a listening audience, secure sponsorship to earn top dollars and become wildly successful.
