Beyond the Feed: The Secret Life of Podcasts

20 May 2026
Talking Podcasts 2 Stage
Creator

Some of the most powerful podcasts are completely invisible. They’re not competing for downloads. They’re not trying to trend and you’ll never hear them.
Inside organisations, podcasting is being used to connect leaders and employees, simplify complexity, and build cultures people actually feel part of.

In this session, Ruth Barnes (Sonoloom) brings together three podcasting experts; Rachel Mallender (4am Creative), Jake Warren (Message Heard) and Michaela Hallam (Fresh Air) to lift the lid on this hidden world.

Through real examples and practical insight, we’ll explore what creators and producers can learn from a space that is quietly excelling at building trust, habit and human connection.

Because the future of podcasting might not be louder. It might be closer.

Chairperson
Ruth Barnes
Ruth Barnes, Founder - Sonoloom
Speakers
Rachel Mallender
Rachel Mallender, Senior Content Consultant & Creative Leader - 4am Creative
Michaela Hallam
Michaela Hallam, Director of Content - Fresh Air
Jake Warren
Jake Warren, CEO - Message Heard