Podcast conference "Decibel" celebrates debut
160 guests listened to experts from the fields of audio, podcasting and marketing at the "Decibel" conference. The speakers answered questions about the fast-growing medium of podcasts. The audio platform Spotify was also represented at the conference.
For organizer Nico Leuenberger of Podcastschmiede, this event was a necessary milestone: "To be able to offer high-quality formats in Switzerland, you need a lot of know-how and constant development." This is what all those involved in the industry were to receive at the first Swiss podcast conference, along with the opportunity to network even more with each other. "We want to make Switzerland a podcast country," Leuenberger explains. "Above all, this requires a lot of collaboration. So we're all the more pleased that so many people found their way here today."
Laber podcast or fantastic worlds
More and more companies are using podcasts as a tool for marketing and communication. Marie Dippold, founder of the podcast label Viertausendhertz, showed at the conference what is important for a suitable format. Audio strategist Stephan Schreyer explained to the audience how to keep the content relevant and how to consider audio as a whole, along the entire customer journey.
If content and ideas are right, it is equally important to ensure the right sound. Tobias Mikutta from Yellowtec showed how technology combats rustling or hissing in the podcast.
Acoustic Brand Experience
The melodies of credit card companies or fast food restaurants are subconsciously anchored in our heads. Meng Tian from the Department of Noise demonstrated this vividly in a guessing game. This is thanks to elaborate sound design, which develops voices and melodies to match the brand strategy of companies.
The audience to the podcasts his time
Podcasts are consumed with the highest level of attention and over a long listening period, which is unique in the media landscape, according to Podcastschmiede. The biggest names in the industry know how to keep listeners enthralled over many episodes. Sabine Meyer from the successful Swiss podcast "Beziehungskosmos," Mirja Gabathuler from Tamedia ("Apropos") and Wiebke Achterwinter, who produces "Kaulitz Hills" at Spotify, among others, discussed and took audience questions. The core of the discussion was again and again the reach, even if not all of them were allowed to name concrete figures. The panelists agreed that success does not come by itself: it takes perseverance and targeted measures to strengthen the podcast. "Ideally on all possible channels," said Achterwinter from Spotify.
Podcasts as a way of life
A listening bar was available at the "Decibel" where several formats could be heard. A live recording of the parent podcast "Rotzphase" with host Cheyenne Mackay and her husband Marcel Zulauf also reflected how diverse podcasts can be. Decibel 2022" ended with a fire show in front of Technopark.
Leuenberger is satisfied with the first edition of "Decibel," saying that the feedback from guests has been very positive. The next conference will be held on November 14, 2023.
