Exciting Live Podcast Festival in LA Set for November 3-5
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Chapter 1: The Return of Live Podcasting
As the constraints of COVID-19 fade away, the demand for in-person gatherings has surged, leading to a significant revival of live podcasting. Prior to the pandemic, live podcasts were gaining traction, offering podcasters a unique opportunity to connect more deeply with their audiences.
Engaging directly with listeners through face-to-face interactions and small discussions can significantly enhance both downloads and financial support.
Podcast strategist George Witt emphasizes the importance of the vibrant atmosphere at live events. "The energy generated during these shows is incredibly valuable for podcast hosts," he explains. "Being able to receive immediate feedback in real time is irreplaceable."
He continues, "The key aspect is the connection with the audience; it’s about nurturing loyalty and strengthening relationships. Following live events, we frequently observe a surge in downloads, which suggests that these experiences foster long-term listener commitment."
With that in mind, it's exciting to announce that from November 3rd to 5th, the On Air LA Annex will return to Southern California, offering a three-day series of live performances, discussions, and podcast recordings featuring prominent figures and storytellers shaping today’s audio landscape. Recognized as "the Coachella of podcast festivals" by Fast Company and praised by Forbes for showcasing the intersection of creativity, branding, and the human voice, this festival marks its first Los Angeles edition in three years. Attendees can look forward to a diverse lineup that includes hosts from Vulture's Into It, KCRW's Morning Becomes Eclectic, and LA Poet Laureate Lynne Thompson, among many others.
The festival will take place across various venues, including KCRW HQ in Santa Monica, the newly opened dublab warehouse, and the alternative comedy venue, Dynasty Typewriter. The On Air LA Annex promises a rich array of programming that has recently been enhanced with exciting new additions. Joining the lineup are Sam Sanders (Host, Into It), Anthony Valadez (Host, Morning Becomes Eclectic), Novena Carmel (Host, Morning Becomes Eclectic), Lynne Thompson (LA Poet Laureate), and Ariel Shapiro (Lead Reporter, Hot Pod), alongside numerous other creators and comedians.
Section 1.1: Highlights of the Festival
On November 3rd, during the inaugural night at KCRW HQ, festival-goers will get the first glimpse of Pink Card, a new series from ESPN's 30 for 30 created by Shima Oliaee, co-creator of the Peabody Award-winning podcast Dolly Parton's America. Launching later in November, this groundbreaking podcast explores the stories of Iranian girls across three generations who risked everything for freedom amid the country’s ban on attending soccer games. To learn more about Pink Card, check out Oliaee's interview at the festival.
On the following evening, November 4th, the festival will present the world premiere of Unlicensed, an Audible Original set to launch on November 10th. Creators Joseph Fink and Jeffrey Cranor, along with the series stars Molly C. Quinn, Lusia Strus, and T.L. Thompson, will perform the first episode live, complemented by a score from composer Disparition, followed by a Q&A session. Unlicensed follows Molly Hatch, a recently divorced woman embarking on a new chapter after two years of sobriety. When she responds to an unusual job ad for a PI's assistant, she enters a world of mystery and unexpected friendship with detective Lou Rosen.
Before the live performance of Unlicensed, night two will also celebrate The Last Waltz during a special taping of Object of Sound, the Sonos Radio show hosted by Hanif Abdurraqib. Guests will delve into the enduring appeal of the iconic documentary capturing The Band's final concert.
Section 1.2: Schedule Overview
November 3 — Hot Pod Summit @ KCRW HQ
10am | This exclusive business summit, hosted by Ariel Shapiro, gathers key industry leaders for dialogues on the evolving podcast landscape on the West Coast, exploring topics like the relationship between podcasts and Hollywood.
November 3 — LA Annex @ KCRW HQ
6:30pm-9:30pm | An evening filled with performances and discussions, featuring Sam Sanders, Novena Carmel, and Anthony Valadez, alongside the exclusive premiere of Pink Card and networking opportunities with the LA audio community.
November 4 — LA Annex @ KCRW HQ
6:30pm-9:30pm | Night two will feature a live performance of Unlicensed, poetry from Lynne Thompson, and a live taping of Object of Sound, plus networking with performers.
November 5 — Open House @ dublab, Powered by Patreon
12pm-5pm | Open to all, this event will showcase the vibrant LA creative community with live DJ sets, exclusive podcast merchandise, and live recordings from various podcasts.
November 5 — On Air Comedy Event with Earwolf @ Dynasty Typewriter
6:30pm-9:30pm | The festival concludes with a comedy night featuring a game of Comedian Family Feud, hosted by Jacquis Neal, and a lineup of esteemed podcasters.
Program Partners & Sponsors Include: Audible, Patreon, Stitcher, 30 for 30, KCRW, Vox Media Podcast Network, The Verge, Hot Pod, LA Public Library, Inkling, dublab, Dynasty Typewriter