Potential of architecture podcasts

"Can you hear architecture?" This question accompanied architects and journalists at the Architecture and Media conference at the Haus der Geschichte in Düsseldorf. Among other things, the keynote speeches focused on the framework conditions for successful architecture podcasts and the role journalism plays in this.

Diverse insights: from urban planning to podcast art

In the various panels at the conference, the speakers addressed topics such as the history of building and architecture as well as urban planning and urban development. Criteria for an architecture podcast and suitable marketing measures were also discussed. Important criteria are the selection of guests that offer the listeners added value, diversity in terms of architectural topics, the production quality of the contributions and a constant publication frequency in order to strengthen the bond with the listeners. One of the criteria emphasized in this context is the audio communication of specialist information in a journalistic style.

Markus Langenbach, responsible for the conception and moderation of the "Talk4Builders" podcast, pointed out the importance of a professional studio. A high-quality result can be achieved with simple technical means. As program manager for construction and expansion at Medienverlag Rudolf Müller, he also emphasized that previous journalistic experience is an advantage.

Credibility of podcasts - The balance between marketing and journalism

Marietta Schwarz, freelance radio journalist at Deutschlandfunk, emphasized the connectivity and innovation potential of podcast formats. She emphasized the importance of a professional sound, convincing voices and committed creators. The journalist produces the podcast "Stadtradar" and pointed out that podcasts can be much more than just conversations between two people. Based on various radio formats, features or reports could also be implemented as podcasts. According to Schwarz, media professionals need to weigh up how much marketing and how much journalism there is in the contributions. It is also not irrelevant for clients to take a closer look at this point. "If the focus is too much on marketing, you quickly lose credibility," says Marietta Schwarz. "That's why I advocate more courage, desire, humor, wit and rebelliousness; it's all possible." The focus should therefore not be on marketing, but on audibly conveyed content.

Helene Pawlitzki, Project Manager "Audio and Podcasts" at the Rheinische Post, presented some theses on podcast marketing, including the need for time, patience and goals in order to achieve the desired reach. "The listener community is a secret weapon," said Helene Pawlitzki. The increase in reach through word of mouth should not be underestimated.

Potential of architecture podcasts on sustainability and urban development

In a discussion with Sebastian Schlecht, responsible for the "Green Cities and Regions" podcast from Baukultur NRW, and Dr. Frank Heinlein, Director Business Communication at Werner Sobek AG, the potential of podcasts was highlighted, particularly for key topics such as sustainability and green cities. The focus was on the question of how podcasts can help to position certain topics. In his podcast, Sebastian Schlecht offers citizens, politicians and journalists a platform for the architectural debate on aspects of urban development. Schlecht encouraged the participants to produce a podcast idea. Heinlein also noted positively that podcasts make it possible to share certain topics in a unique way.

Creative freedom and journalistic work in podcasting

"Podcasting is always worthwhile if you have good topics that can be conveyed audibly," said architecture journalist Kerstin Kuhnekath, who reported on her experiences as an architect and journalist and the investments that need to be made at a journalistic level. Storytelling, the selection of frames or topics - podcasting is linked to creative journalistic work. A targeted selection of guests can be decisive for the flow of speech and quality conversations. Availability is also a major advantage, as podcasts can be accessed online at any time. According to Kuhnekath, podcasts are the media format with the fewest restrictions. "It's your own stage that you can play on how, when and with whom you want - this freedom is often forgotten," says the architecture journalist.

This year's conference highlighted opportunities in the field of architectural communication. The talks and discussions contributed to gaining a better understanding of the role of podcasts and media professionals, as well as providing new impetus for the auditive communication of architectural topics.