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I’ve been obsessed with storytelling since I could read.
I’m the CEO of Podcast Allies, LLC, a podcast production and training company helping media companies, NGOs, universities, and social impact organizations make beautifully crafted podcasts.
I host Sound Judgment, which unpacks how today's best hosts and producers make their magic. Research shows listeners become fans when they fall in love with the host — but the crafts of storytelling, producing and hosting are the least taught skills in podcasting! Guests include Stephanie Wittels Wachs of Last Day; John Barth, a key developer of The Moth Radio Hour; Glynn Washington of Snap Judgment, Columbia Journalism School's Sally Herships, and many more.
My journey: I spent more than 15 years as an online and print journalist. My work has appeared in Inc Magazine, Business Week, AARP The Magazine, The Boston Globe, and hundreds of pubs covering entrepreneurship, the environment, science and lifestyle issues.
My storytelling obsession took me to WBUR/NPR, NH Public Radio, and Colorado Public Radio. A few awards and several fellowships came my way, but the real joy came in the storytelling process itself. Talk to me anytime about "driveway moments."
Today, at Podcast Allies, we produce podcasts and train/coach individuals how to produce shows that connect to your audiences, using a listener-first, storytelling-first strategy. Clients range from the University of Colorado to the Environmental Defense Fund to multiple episodes and shows for Wondery.
Business Wars host David Brown says, “Elaine is one of the sharpest writers and producers in the podcasting industry. Everyone should be lucky enough to work with - and learn from - Elaine.”
Environmental Defense Fund's Yesh Pavlik Slenk says: "My gosh, you all just care so much about the shared work, the product and us as people. The energy and support you provided as well as the commitment to excellence was beyond what we get from other consultants. It really felt like we were a true team."
I speak on strategic storytelling and podcasting. My TEDx talk about understanding racism better through podcasting about the Tulsa Race Massacre has been viewed almost a quarter of a million times.