Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Bella Roberts is a social media star and editorial trainee known for her TikToks and Instagram reels on @belladoesediting. In this episode, Jan Maciejewski speaks with Bella to discuss her reasons for becoming an editor; the rewards and challenges of social media; and the realities of working in a competitive industry.
Oxford Media Society is the foremost forum within the University of Oxford for discussion about the media industry in the 21st century. The society hosts interviews with world-class speakers; leads interactive skills and employability workshops; and connects students to organisations and opportunities within the media sphere. To learn more, follow us on Instagram @oxfordmediasoc and @spotlightpod.ox.
Credits:
Host & Editor: Jan Maciejewski
Producer: Guy McEwing
Directors: Jan Maciejewski & Guy McEwing
Composer: Ariana May
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Chris Broad is a Youtuber and filmaker who started his YouTube channel, Abroad in Japan, in 2012. Chris has built a loyal global following with his signature blend of dry humor, cinematic visuals, and deep dives into Japanese culture, society, and travel. What started as a side project during his time on the JET Programme has since evolved into a full-time career spanning hundreds of videos, several travel series and most recently, a bestselling book detailing his decade-long journey living and working in Japan.
In this epsiode, Anotoni Lee speaks with Chris to discuss his love of filmmaking; what drives his creative process; the challenges of building a YouTube channel; and what it means to share a country’s culture with millions of viewers.
Oxford Media Society is the foremost forum within the University of Oxford for discussion about the media industry in the 21st century. The society hosts interviews with world-class speaks; leads interactive skills and employability workshops; and connects students to organisations and opportunities within the media sphere. To learn more, follow us on Instagram @oxfordmediasoc and @spotlightpod.ox.
Credits:
Host & Editor: Antoni Lee
Producer: Jan Maciejewski
Directors: Jan Maciejewski & Guy McEwing
Composer: Ariana May
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Benjamin Moser is a Pulitzer Prize-winning writer, biographer, and literary critic. Benjamin is perhaps best known for his biographies of Clarice Lispector and Susan Sontag which go beyond just chronicling their lives to offer profound insights into the cultural and intellectual landscapes of their time.
In this episode, Guy McEwing speaks with Benjamin to discuss his approach to biography, the challenges of capturing a life on the page, and the responsibility of a writer in shaping literary history.
Oxford Media Society is the foremost forum within the University of Oxford for discussion about the media industry in the 21st century. The society hosts interviews with world-class speakers; leads interacting skills and employability workshops; and connects students to organisatiosn and opportunities within the media sphere. To learn more, follow us on Instagram @oxfordmediasoc and @spotlightpod.ox.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Sean Tucker is a photographer, filmmaker, writer, and one of the most thoughtful voices in the creative space. As a popular YouTuber, he explores both the technical aspects of photography and the deeper philosophy behind the creative process. His fascinating career path has taken him from growing up in Africa to working as a pastor, as an industrial photographer for furniture companies, and more. Through it all, Sean has developed a unique perspective on art, storytelling, and the meaning of creativity.
In this episode, Antoni Lee speaks with Sean to discuss the art of photography, his magazine The Parable, and his book The Meaning in the Making. They also discuss YouTube as a creative platform; the mindset and approach to sustaining creativity; and some advice for aspiring artists.
Oxford Media Society is the foremost forum within the University of Oxford for discussion about the media industry in the 21st century. The society hosts interviews with world-class speakers; leads interactive skills and employability workshops; and connects students to organisations and opportunities within the media sphere. To learn more, follow us on Instagram @oxfordmediasoc and @spotlightpod.ox.
Credits:
Host & Editor: Antoni Lee
Producer: Guy McEwing
Directors: Jan Maciejewski & Guy McEwing
Composer: Ariana May
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Baylen Leonard is a radio broadcaster specialising in country music. He is best known for his work with Absolute Radio Country, which he presents six days a week, and for his podcast Country Music Talk where he has interviewed country music stars such as Kelsea Ballerini, Keith Urban, and Bailey Zimmerman. He has twice been recognised as International Broadcaster of the Year by the Country Music Association, and has won two British Country Music Awards (CMAs) for his work as a radio presenter. In this episode, Maya talks to Leonard about his journey into commercial broadcasting, the appeal of American music in the UK, and whether or not Beyoncé can be considered a country artist.
Oxford Media Society is the foremost forum within the University of Oxford for discussion about the media industry in the 21st century. The society hsots interviews with world-class speakers; leads interactive skills and employability workshops; and connects students to organisations and opportunities within the media sphere. To learn more, follow us on Instagram @oxfordmediasoc and @spotlightpod.ox.
Credits:
Host & Editor: Maya Heuer-Evans
Producer: Guy McEwing
Directors: Jan Maciejewski & Guy McEwing
Composer: Ariana May
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Shazia Mirza is an award-winning Birmingham-born actress, writer, and stand-up comedian. Born as the eldest daughter to Punjabi-Pakistani parents, Shazia first read Biochemistry at the University of Manchester before completing a PGCE in London. Whilst a science teacher, Shazia began to study acting part-time before eventually moving away from teaching all together. As a comedian and actress, Shazia is a staple on TVs and radios in households across the country and even hosted her own podcast, Pale, Male, and Stale, with journalist John Kampfner. More recently, Shazia has formed a comedy-supergroup alongside fellow female British-Muslim comedians, which Shazia has dubbed as ‘the Muslim Spice Girls’.
In this episode, Jan speaks with Shazia about her childhood, career, and reflections on the changing worlds of comedy and media in Britain. They delve into the relationship between comedy and teaching, the morality of making jokes at your community's expense, and how Punjabi ideals of duty influenced her career. With insights on the novel ways in which comedians now market themselves, Shazia discusses how traditional routes into comedy are becoming more and more overcrowded as the market becomes increasingly overcrowded.
Oxford Media Society is the foremost forum within the University of Oxford for discussion about the media industry in the 21st century. The society hosts interviews with world-class spearks; leads interactive skills and employability workshops; and connects students to organisations and opportunities within the media sphere. To learn more, follow us on Instagram @oxfordmediasoc and @spotlightpod.ox.
Credits:
Host & Editor: Jan Maciejewski
Producer: Guy McEwing
Directors: Jan Maciejewski & Guy McEwing
Composer: Ariana May
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Negar Esfandiary is a British-Iranian journalist and researcher, with over two decades of international experience. Having worked for Channel 4 News, BBC Radio 4, and COLORS Magazine, Negar has a unique perspective on international journalism and the role of ethics in storytelling. Her work with the Women’s Learning Partnership’s Oral History Project has documented the lives and contributions of extraordinary women leaders from the Global South.
In this episode, Antonia speaks with Negar about her fascinating journey from reporting for local newspapers in London to covering global events and documenting oral histories. They delve into the changing landscape of journalism, the ethical dilemmas of reporting, and the importance of maintaining a human connection in every story. Negar shares her thoughts on freelancing, the role of languages in journalism, and her advice for aspiring reporters on finding their unique voice. With anecdotes about pivotal career moments and reflections on the challenges of modern media, this episode is a masterclass in thoughtful journalism.
Oxford Media Society is the foremost forum within the University of Oxford for discussion about the media industry in the 21st century. The Society hosts interviews with world-class speakers, leads interactive skills and employability workshops, and connects students to organisations and opportunities within the media sphere. To learn more, visit our website or follow us on socials @oxfordmediasoc and @spotlightpod.ox
Credits:
Host & Editor: Antonia Rogers
Producer: Jan Maciejewski
Directors: Alice Hazell & Antonia Rogers
Composer: Ariana May
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of Spotlight, in collaboration with the Oxford Review of Books, Caspian and Andy sit down with Susanna Clarke, the renowned author of Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell, a Hugo Award-winning alternative history, and Piranesi, which won the 2021 Women's Prize for Fiction. An alumna of St Hilda's, Susanna explores her journey from childhood inspirations to crafting deeply immersive, fantastical worlds. Susanna discusses the challenges of writing, the influence of Oxford and medieval history on her work, and her perspective on creativity as a deeply personal and organic process. She also shares thoughts on balancing historical authenticity with magical realism, her experiences with adaptations, and the transformative impact of winning the Women’s Prize for Fiction. This episode is a must-listen for aspiring writers and fans of rich, atmospheric storytelling.
Oxford Media Society is the foremost forum within the University of Oxford for discussion about the media industry in the 21st century. The Society hosts interviews with world-class speakers, leads interactive skills and employability workshops, and connects students to organisations and opportunities within the media sphere. To learn more, visit our website or follow us on socials @oxfordmediasoc and @spotlightpod.ox
Credits:
Host: Caspian Wagner and Andy
Producer & Editor: Alice Hazell
Directors: Alice Hazell & Antonia Rogers
Composer: Ariana May
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of the Oxford Media Society Spotlight podcast, Caspian speaks with acclaimed screenwriter and director Stuart Hazeldine, best known for directing Exam (2009) and The Shack (2017). Stuart shares his journey from being a creatively inclined child in Surrey, captivated by sci-fi worlds, to his rise in the film industry, penning scripts for major studios and directing critically acclaimed films.
He discusses the joys and challenges of writing and directing, the intricacies of adapting faith-based works like The Shack, and how serendipitous moments—like a butterfly on set—can create cinematic magic. Stuart also offers invaluable advice for aspiring writers and directors, emphasizing creativity, resilience, and the importance of standing out. A must-listen for anyone passionate about storytelling and the art of filmmaking!
Oxford Media Society is the foremost forum within the University of Oxford for discussion about the media industry in the 21st century. The Society hosts interviews with world-class speakers, leads interactive skills and employability workshops, and connects students to organisations and opportunities within the media sphere. To learn more, visit our website or follow us on socials @oxfordmediasoc and @spotlightpod.ox
Credits:
Host: Caspian Wagner
Producer & Editor: Alice Hazell
Directors: Alice Hazell & Antonia Rogers
Composer: Ariana May
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Harriet Worsley is a fashion journalist, stylist, author, and lecturer. A graduate of Central Saint Martins, Harriet has contributed to leading publications such as Vogue, Timeout, and The Sunday Telegraph. She was formerly Senior Internet Designer at Condé Nast and a Fashion editor at Draper’s. Harriet has authored four books, including Decades of Fashion and 100 Ideas That Changed Fashion. She currently lectures in fashion communication and journalism at Central Saint Martins.
In this episode, Antonia speaks to Harriet about her dynamic career, from breaking into the industry through internships to her pioneering work in digital fashion journalism during the rise of the internet. They discuss the transformation of fashion journalism in the digital age, the challenges of freelance writing, and the opportunities presented by social media. Harriet also shares her insights on writing and styling, her approach to crafting fashion features, and the evolving role of print magazines in a digital world. Her reflections on teaching the next generation of fashion journalists, alongside anecdotes from her time in the industry, provide a candid, inspiring, and invaluable perspective for anyone passionate about fashion and storytelling.
Oxford Media Society is the foremost forum within the University of Oxford for discussion about the media industry in the 21st century. The Society hosts interviews with world-class speakers, leads interactive skills and employability workshops, and connects students to organisations and opportunities within the media sphere. To learn more, visit our website or follow us on socials @oxfordmediasoc and @spotlightpod.ox
Credits:
Host & Editor: Antonia Rogers
Producer: Alice Hazell
Directors: Alice Hazell & Antonia Rogers
Composer: Ariana May
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of Spotlight, Caspian interviews renowned voice artist Andrew Wincott, celebrated for his 22 years on BBC's The Archers and for award-winning performances in video games like Baldur's Gate 3, which earned him a BAFTA. Andrew shares his journey from Oxford to classical theatre and becoming a versatile voice in radio, audiobooks, and video games. He discusses his early years training in acting, his first role in BBC Radio Drama, and the unique challenges of voice work across genres. From motion capture in fantasy games to the intricate preparation needed for audiobooks, Andrew offers insights into the world of audio performance and the evolving nature of storytelling in media.
This episode was recorded as part of a live event in October 2024.
Oxford Media Society is the foremost forum within the University of Oxford for discussion about the media industry in the 21st century. The Society hosts interviews with world-class speakers, leads interactive skills and employability workshops, and connects students to organisations and opportunities within the media sphere. To learn more, visit our website or follow us on socials @oxfordmediasoc and @spotlightpod.ox
Credits:
Host: Caspian Wagner
Producer: Antonia Rogers
Editors: Caspian Wagner & Alice Hazell
Directors: Alice Hazell & Antonia Rogers
Composer: Ariana May
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Saira Khan, broadcaster and entrepreneur, rose to prominence as the runner-up on the first season of The Apprentice in 2005. Since then, she’s become a familiar face on UK television, from hard-hitting documentaries to her roles as a panellist on Loose Women and The Martin Lewis Money Show. In this episode, Alice Hazell speaks with Saira about her journey from corporate sales to television, the impact of her immigrant background, and her commitment to diversity and authenticity in media.
Saira discusses her resilience in navigating the challenges of being a woman of colour in the media industry, her passion for sharing underrepresented stories, and the balance between business acumen and personal integrity. She shares her philosophy of building a “life CV”—crafting a legacy of stories worth telling—and her insights on creating a personal brand that resonates deeply with audiences. Through her candid reflections, Saira explores the evolution of traditional and social media, the significance of cultural understanding, and the importance of staying true to oneself.
Oxford Media Society is the foremost forum within the University of Oxford for discussion about the media industry in the 21st century. The Society hosts interviews with world-class speakers, leads interactive skills and employability workshops, and connects students to organisations and opportunities within the media sphere. To learn more, visit our website or follow us on socials @oxfordmediasoc and @spotlightpod.ox
Credits:
Host & Editor: Alice Hazell
Producer: Antonia Rogers
Directors: Alice Hazell & Antonia Rogers
Composer: Ariana May
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
William Lee Adams is a London-based journalist, broadcaster, and author, currently with the BBC World Service. Originally from Georgia in the United States, he studied psychology at Harvard before moving to London to pursue a master’s in Southeast Asian Studies. In addition to his work in journalism, William is the founder of Wiwibloggs, a leading platform dedicated to the Eurovision Song Contest, and recently produced a documentary for the BBC chronicling a personal journey through the country that shaped his family - Vietnam: Return to Banana Garden Market.
In this episode, Jan Maciejewski interviews William about his multifaceted career, from navigating the competitive worlds of American and British journalism to building a global community around Eurovision. They delve into his creative inspirations, the evolution of journalism throughout his career, and the contrasting landscapes of UK and US media. William reflects on his Vietnamese heritage, his journey of self-discovery, and the deeply personal experiences behind his recent documentary. With candid stories and invaluable career advice, William’s insights offer a heartfelt and inspiring listen for anyone passionate about media, storytelling, and cultural exploration.
Oxford Media Society is the foremost forum within the University of Oxford for discussion about the media industry in the 21st century. The Society hosts interviews with world-class speakers, leads interactive skills and employability workshops, and connects students to organisations and opportunities within the media sphere. To learn more, visit our website or follow us on socials @oxfordmediasoc and @spotlightpod.ox
Credits:
Host & Editor: Jan Maciejewski
Producer: Alice Hazell & Guy McEwing
Directors: Alice Hazell & Antonia Rogers
Composer: Ariana May
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This episode was recorded in June 2024 as part of a live, audience-attended event.
Lauren Layfield is a broadcaster, journalist, and author. Known for her versatility, Lauren has worked across various media platforms, from presenting on CBBC and Capital Radio to her current roles on BBC Radio 1’s Life Hacks and The Official Chart: First Look. She’s also a DJ, mental health advocate, and author of the children's novel Indi Raye is Totally Faking It.
In this episode, Alice Hazell speaks to Lauren about her journey through the media industry, from her early love for local radio to her diverse career in broadcasting. They explore the challenges of moving from hard-hitting journalism to children’s TV, her love for live radio, and her thoughts on the changing media landscape. Lauren also shares valuable advice for aspiring broadcasters, revealing how patience, persistence, and authenticity helped her achieve her dream job at Radio 1. Full of humour and wisdom, Lauren's reflections are both insightful and inspiring.
Oxford Media Society is the foremost forum within the University of Oxford for discussion about the media industry in the 21st century. The Society hosts interviews with world-class speakers, leads interactive skills and employability workshops, and connects students to organisations and opportunities within the media sphere. To learn more, visit our website or follow us on socials @oxfordmediasoc and @spotlightpod.ox
Credits:
Host & Editor: Alice Hazell
Producer: Antonia Rogers & Sofia Johanson
Director: Alice Hazell
Composer: Ariana May
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jane Thynne is a novelist, journalist and broadcaster. An alumna of St. Anne's, Jane has worked as a journalist for the BBC, The Sunday Times, The Daily Telegraph and The Independent. Passionate about historical fiction, she has published 12 novels. Her most recent, Queen High, was picked as a 2022 Book of the Year by the Daily Telegraph, Financial Times and Guardian.
In this episode, Archie Pearman speaks to Jane about her career from her beginnings in broadcasting to her career on Fleet Street. They discuss how her time at Oxford has shaped her career, how journalism has changed over the last 40 years, and her advice for any aspiring journalists or authors to enter the industry. She also shares an insight into her writing process: the challenges and delights of writing historical fiction, the inspiration behind her book 'Widowland,' and how she fights distractions. Jane's anecdotes, advice and nuanced view of the world are invaluable and entertaining - a true pleasure to listen to.
Oxford Media Society is the foremost forum within the University of Oxford for discussion about the media industry in the 21st century. The Society hosts interviews with world-class speakers, leads interactive skills and employability workshops, and connects students to organisations and opportunities within the media sphere. To learn more, visit our website or follow us on socials @oxfordmediasoc
Credits:
Host & Editor: Archie Pearman
Producer: Antonia Rogers
Director: Alice Hazell
Composer: Henry Nurse
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode, Sofia Johanson interviews Rachel Cunliffe. Rachel is the associate political editor of The New Statesman. Having previously served as Comment and Features Editor at City AM, she now covers Westminster and national politics, interviewing MPs such as John Hayes and Chris Skidmore and the head of the Vote Leave campaign, Matthew Elliot. Rachel is a regular contributor to the New Statesmen Podcast, and she also writes about her own life, from "The Disaster House" to personal essays in the Deleted Scenes Column.
Rachel discusses her beginnings in journalism, her career over the last decade, and the challenges of being a political journalist in the modern world - from the tumultuous nature of contemporary politics, to facing the real dangers that come with being a journalist in the digital age. She shares the need to be flexible in order to excel in modern journalism, her experiences writing about her own life, and the story behind her favourite interview to date.
Oxford Media Society is the foremost forum within the University of Oxford for discussion about the media industry in the 21st century. The Society hosts interviews with world-class speakers, leads interactive skills and employability workshops, and connects students to organisations and opportunities within the media sphere. To learn more, visit our website or follow us on socials @oxfordmediasoc
Credits:
Host & Editor: Sofia Johanson
Producer: Eden Kilgour
Director: Alice Hazell
Composer: Henry Nurse
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of Spotlight, Antonia Rogers speaks to the Director of Comedy at the BBC, Jon Petrie. In his extensive career in comedy, he has overseen beloved TV shows such as Friday Night Dinner, the Windsors and People Just Do Nothing. He is responsible for the commissioning of all scripted comedy programmes to the BBC, and his most recent commissions include the third series of The Cleaner, featuring Greg Davies, Cunk's Quest for Meaning, and And Did Those Feet... with Alan Partridge.
Jon shares his path into producing TV comedy, and his advice for anyone wanting to enter into the field. Antonia and Jon also discuss the complexities of commissioning comedy for the BBC, and what the purpose of comedy should be. With a career full of highlights, it's a privilege to listen to Jon's expertise and experiences in the industry.
Oxford Media Society is the foremost forum within the University of Oxford for discussion about the media industry in the 21st century. The Society hosts interviews with world-class speakers, leads interactive skills and employability workshops, and connects students to organisations and opportunities within the media sphere. To learn more, visit our website or follow us on socials @oxfordmediasoc
Credits:
Host & Editor: Antonia Rogers
Producer: Archie Pearman
Director: Alice Hazell
Composer: Henry Nurse
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode, Archie Pearman speaks to David Rintoul. David is an actor with a wealth of appearances on the stage, screen and in audio. He has worked extensively with the Royal National Theatre and Royal Shakespeare Company, and his TV credits include Doctor Finlay, Pride and Prejudice (1980), and Game of Thrones. His film work includes the title role in Legend of the Werewolf (1975), Is Anybody There? (2008), and The Ghost Writer with Pierce Brosnan and Ewan McGregor.
Archie and David discuss his path to becoming a professional actor, from his experiences in student productions at Edinburgh to his work with the RSC and on-screen. They also discuss the mechanics of acting, from narration technique (including a special performance of Winnie the Pooh) to the differences between stage and screen. With 50 years of experience as an actor, David provides an intimate and unrivalled insight into the world of drama, sharing the highs and lows of the industry.
Oxford Media Society is the foremost forum within the University of Oxford for discussion about the media industry in the 21st century. The Society hosts interviews with world-class speakers, leads interactive skills and employability workshops, and connects students to organisations and opportunities within the media sphere. To learn more, visit our website or follow us on socials @oxfordmediasoc
Credits:
Host: Archie Pearman
Director: Alice Hazell
Producers: Sofia Johanson & Antonia Rogers
Composer: Henry Nurse
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of Spotlight, Sofia speaks to Ossian Shine, the Global Sports Editor for Reuters News. Having previously focussed on tennis and the Olympics during his two decades with the agency, he has covered Football and Rugby World Cups, various Olympic games, and Wimbledon amongst countless other international sporting events, including the most recent Super Bowl.
Ossian shares how he entered the field of sports journalism and his insights into how the industry has changed during his career. From how technology has changed the purpose of sports journalism, to the rise of women's sports, Ossian offers a window into this ever-changing field.
Oxford Media Society is the foremost forum within the University of Oxford for discussion about the media industry in the 21st century. The Society hosts interviews with world-class speakers, leads interactive skills and employability workshops, and connects students to organisations and opportunities within the media sphere. To learn more, visit our website or follow us on socials @oxfordmediasoc
Credits:
Host & Editor: Sofia Johanson
Director & Producer: Alice Hazell
Composer: Henry Nurse
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of Spotlight, Flora Symington speaks to BBC Radio 4 Commissioning Editor for Drama and Fiction, Alison Hindell. An alumna of Somerville, Alison started her career at the Royal Shakespeare Company before moving into radio. Having been head of Audio Drama at the BBC since 2005, she has directed more than 270 radio dramas, including the iconic Archers. Her recent commissions include Daphne du Maurier's Beside Myself, featuring Helena Bonham Carter and Bill Nighy, and the Limelights podcast series.
Alison brings her extraordinary insight to Spotlight, sharing how she chooses the most compelling scripts and what makes a good radio drama. Alison and Flora also discuss the impact of the Archers' domestic abuse storyline, which Alison was the producer for, and the power of drama to make a genuine impact, whether that be changing perspectives or turning a novel into a bestseller.
Oxford Media Society is the foremost forum within the University of Oxford for discussion about the media industry in the 21st century. The Society hosts interviews with world-class speakers, leads interactive skills and employability workshops, and connects students to organisations and opportunities within the media sphere. To learn more, visit our website or follow us on socials @oxfordmediasoc
Credits:
Host & Editor: Flora Symington
Director: Alice Hazell
Producer: Archie Pearman
Composer: Henry Nurse
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.