Podcast
Decentered Media Podcast
Hosted by Rob Watson · EN
Decentered Podcast – An off-centre look at community, social and sustainable media.. With discussions about the role of media in sustainable and participative communities, providing an alternative to mass media. We look at how we build our capabilities to tell our own stories and think about the importance of what we become in producing and sharing our own media content.
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Episodes
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Decentered Media Podcast 005 – Russell Todd and Foundational Media
Apr 1, 202501:18:07Tap to summarizeIn this episode of the Decentered Media Podcast, Rob Watson is joined by Russell Todd to explore how foundational economics intersects with community media and local development. Their conversation unfolds as a thoughtful and searching exchange that raises important questions about how communities sustain themselves in a time of economic and institutional flux. What emerges is not a neat summary of policy prescriptions or market interventions, but a reflective dialogue about the deeper social and cultural infrastructures that hold local life together—and the role media plays in either reinforcing or eroding those bonds. At the heart of the discussion is the concept of the foundational economy, a term that may sound abstract but relates directly to the everyday services and relationships that make daily life viable. From nurseries and garages to local food outlets and cultural centres, the foundational economy concerns the parts of society often overlooked by headline economic strategies. What makes this conversation distinctive is how Russell and Rob take this economic lens and apply it to media, asking what happens when local communication becomes centralised, commodified, or rendered invisible in policy and practice. Rather than treating media as a bolt-on or an afterthought, the conversation suggests it must be understood as an integral part of any foundational approach to community development. The tendency, they observe, has been to think of media as either a marketing tool or a platform for elite cultural output, rather than a means of building capacity, fostering deliberation, and supporting community resilience. Rob draws attention to the failure of mainstream policy to account for this, particularly in new local development frameworks that fund neighbourhood-level regeneration but omit media from their scope entirely. This absence becomes more stark when contrasted with examples from the conversation where local connection and trust matter. Russell reflects on practical work being done in places like Monmouthshire, where foundational service providers—such as mechanics or childminders—are engaging with ideas of poverty awareness and political education. These services are not just economic transactions, but relational encounters that contribute to how people manage and make sense of their lives. Media, they argue, should be part of this ecology: rooted, relational, and responsive. The conversation also moves into the terrain of social trust and cultural life. Drawing on Raymond Williams’ idea of culture as “a whole way of life,” Rob and Russell consider how media practices might sustain the kind of everyday conviviality that has been hollowed out by extractive economic models. The decline of locally-owned media, the consolidation of commercial radio, and the virtualisation of community interaction via global platforms all point to a media landscape that is increasingly disconnected from the places it claims to serve. Without alternative forms of media embedded in local contexts, they argue, the public sphere becomes thinner and more fragmented. They explore how foundational media might offer a different model—one that supports local storytelling, strengthens civic identity, and recognises the social value of communication as care, rather than just content. This reorientation asks us to shift the question from what we care about to how we care for. In doing so, it foregrounds a different ethic of media production and consumption: one based not on extracting attention or maximising reach, but on nurturing shared spaces of meaning and participation. The discussion concludes with reflections on the need to build solidarity among those already doing this work in practice, and to think more carefully about how ideas spread and gain traction. Drawing on the innovation diffusion model, Russell emphasises the importance of connecting early adopters and local innovators in a way that builds collective capacity, rather than remaining in isolated pockets. The challenge, they suggest, is not only to make media more local again, but to reimagine it as foundational in every sense—economically, socially, and democratically. This episode does not offer quick answers, but instead invites us into a slower and more considered reflection about the systems we live within and the changes we might wish to see. In doing so, it makes space for the kinds of conversations that are often squeezed out by the noise of the attention economy. And perhaps that, in itself, is one of the most foundational acts of all. Source
Transcribe →Community Radio in Ireland with Brian Greene
Feb 20, 2025Tap to summarizeFor the latest episode of the Decentered Media Podcast, Rob Watson spoke with Brian Greene about the history, challenges, and future of community radio in Ireland. Brian is a board member of Craol, the representative body for community radio in Ireland. Their discussion explored how Irish community broadcasting developed alongside commercial and state-run radio, how it has been shaped by regulatory and funding decisions, and what lessons might be relevant for those working in community media in the UK. The conversation highlighted the role of community radio as a public resource, the importance of sustainable funding, and the ways in which technological and policy shifts are influencing independent media. The Origins and Evolution of Community Radio in Ireland Brian outlined how community radio in Ireland has its roots in the pirate radio movement of the 1980s. While commercial pirate stations often focused on music-driven programming, community radio developed separately, shaped by a commitment to access, local representation, and public engagement. Brian described his own early experiences in community radio and how figures like Jack Byrne helped establish a model that placed community development at its centre. Rob and Brian discussed how Irish community radio stations were not simply a by-product of pirate broadcasting but emerged in parallel, with their ethos and goals. The introduction of legal licensing in the late 1980s and 1990s provided a regulatory framework that recognised community radio as distinct from commercial broadcasters. The adoption of principles from the AMARC Charter further shaped the development of the sector, reinforcing ideas of pluralism, inclusion, and non-commercial sustainability. Policy and Funding Structures—What Ireland Got Right A key part of the discussion focused on how policy decisions have influenced the sustainability of community radio in Ireland, based on the Future of Media Commission’s Report. Brian explained that structured funding mechanisms have helped ensure that independent local broadcasting can survive without being purely dependent on advertising or short-term grants. He outlined the different funding initiatives that now exist in Ireland, such as: A Community Media Fund to support non-commercial broadcasters. A Local Democracy Reporting Fund that provides resources for independent journalism. A Courts Reporting Fund that ensures public access to legal reporting. A Digital Transformation Fund that helps community broadcasters adapt to new technologies. Rob noted that these forms of targeted funding are largely absent in the UK, where community radio stations must compete for broader funding sources that are often tied to arts and social enterprise priorities. The conversation highlighted that structured, long-term support can make a significant difference in ensuring the stability of community media, allowing it to operate as a genuine public resource rather than an afterthought in media policy. Audience Engagement and the Value of Community Radio As the conversation moved towards audience engagement, Brian shared findings from a recent survey on Irish community radio listenership. The data suggested that 40 percent of respondents listen to community radio, but over half do so only occasionally. The most popular time for listening is late at night, between 10 PM and 7 AM, driven by interest in local news and high-quality programming. Rob and Brian discussed the challenges of maintaining audience engagement while keeping community radio distinct from mainstream commercial broadcasting. They considered how different demographics engage with community radio, noting that older listeners are more consistent in their habits, while younger male listeners aged 18–25 represent an emerging audience. The key takeaway was that local content and diverse representation remain at the heart of community radio’s appeal, providing a sense of place and identity that larger broadcasters often overlook. Measuring the Impact of Community Media Beyond Financial Metrics One of the key points Brian raised was the need to rethink how community media impact is measured. Rather than focusing solely on audience figures or financial returns, he argued that evaluation should also consider: The number of people who gain training and skills through community radio. The extent to which community radio provides a platform for underrepresented voices. The role of community radio in strengthening local civic engagement and social cohesion. Rob agreed, noting that in the UK, there is often pressure to demonstrate success in economic terms, but this approach overlooks the wider role that community radio plays. They discussed how community broadcasters can better document their impact through qualitative stories, case studies, and participatory reporting, rather than relying only on traditional metrics. Technology and the Changing Landscape of Community Broadcasting The conversation also touched on how new technologies are reshaping community media. Brian explained how hybrid models of broadcasting—combining FM/DAB transmission with digital streaming and on-demand content—are enabling stations to reach wider audiences while maintaining their local focus. Rob and Brian reflected on how the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated changes in content production and distribution. Many stations adapted to remote production models, which opened up new possibilities for engagement. However, there remains a challenge in ensuring that these technological shifts do not create barriers for participation, particularly for volunteers and contributors who may not have access to high-end digital tools. Lessons for the UK—Strengthening Community Media for the Future Towards the end of their discussion, Rob and Brian considered what lessons could be applied to the UK community media landscape. They agreed that one of the most pressing issues is the need for more structured policy support and funding for community broadcasters. In contrast to Ireland, where policy discussions have included representatives from community media, UK media policy tends to be dominated by commercial and state-run broadcasters, with little space for community-led perspectives. They also explored the importance of ensuring clear regulatory recognition for community radio as a distinct part of the media ecosystem. This includes defining sustainable funding sources, strengthening independent governance structures, and recognising community radio as a form of public interest media that supports democratic engagement. The conversation between Rob and Brian offers a valuable reflection on how community radio in Ireland has developed and the lessons that can be drawn for media practitioners in the UK. By looking at policy structures, funding models, audience engagement strategies, and the role of technology, the discussion provided insights into how community broadcasting can remain sustainable, relevant, and impactful. The key takeaway is that community radio should not be treated as a secondary or niche part of the media landscape but as an essential platform for local voices, civic participation, and dem...
Transcribe →Community Radio in Ireland with Brian Greene
Feb 20, 202501:20:29Tap to summarizeFor the latest episode of the Decentered Media Podcast, Rob Watson spoke with Brian Greene about the history, challenges, and future of community radio in Ireland. Brian is a board member of Craol, the representative body for community radio in Ireland. Their discussion explored how Irish community broadcasting developed alongside commercial and state-run radio, how it has been shaped by regulatory and funding decisions, and what lessons might be relevant for those working in community media in the UK. The conversation highlighted the role of community radio as a public resource, the importance of sustainable funding, and the ways in which technological and policy shifts are influencing independent media. The Origins and Evolution of Community Radio in Ireland Brian outlined how community radio in Ireland has its roots in the pirate radio movement of the 1980s. While commercial pirate stations often focused on music-driven programming, community radio developed separately, shaped by a commitment to access, local representation, and public engagement. Brian described his own early experiences in community radio and how figures like Jack Byrne helped establish a model that placed community development at its centre. Rob and Brian discussed how Irish community radio stations were not simply a by-product of pirate broadcasting but emerged in parallel, with their ethos and goals. The introduction of legal licensing in the late 1980s and 1990s provided a regulatory framework that recognised community radio as distinct from commercial broadcasters. The adoption of principles from the AMARC Charter further shaped the development of the sector, reinforcing ideas of pluralism, inclusion, and non-commercial sustainability. Policy and Funding Structures—What Ireland Got Right A key part of the discussion focused on how policy decisions have influenced the sustainability of community radio in Ireland, based on the Future of Media Commission’s Report. Brian explained that structured funding mechanisms have helped ensure that independent local broadcasting can survive without being purely dependent on advertising or short-term grants. He outlined the different funding initiatives that now exist in Ireland, such as: A Community Media Fund to support non-commercial broadcasters. A Local Democracy Reporting Fund that provides resources for independent journalism. A Courts Reporting Fund that ensures public access to legal reporting. A Digital Transformation Fund that helps community broadcasters adapt to new technologies. Rob noted that these forms of targeted funding are largely absent in the UK, where community radio stations must compete for broader funding sources that are often tied to arts and social enterprise priorities. The conversation highlighted that structured, long-term support can make a significant difference in ensuring the stability of community media, allowing it to operate as a genuine public resource rather than an afterthought in media policy. Audience Engagement and the Value of Community Radio As the conversation moved towards audience engagement, Brian shared findings from a recent survey on Irish community radio listenership. The data suggested that 40 percent of respondents listen to community radio, but over half do so only occasionally. The most popular time for listening is late at night, between 10 PM and 7 AM, driven by interest in local news and high-quality programming. Rob and Brian discussed the challenges of maintaining audience engagement while keeping community radio distinct from mainstream commercial broadcasting. They considered how different demographics engage with community radio, noting that older listeners are more consistent in their habits, while younger male listeners aged 18–25 represent an emerging audience. The key takeaway was that local content and diverse representation remain at the heart of community radio’s appeal, providing a sense of place and identity that larger broadcasters often overlook. Measuring the Impact of Community Media Beyond Financial Metrics One of the key points Brian raised was the need to rethink how community media impact is measured. Rather than focusing solely on audience figures or financial returns, he argued that evaluation should also consider: The number of people who gain training and skills through community radio. The extent to which community radio provides a platform for underrepresented voices. The role of community radio in strengthening local civic engagement and social cohesion. Rob agreed, noting that in the UK, there is often pressure to demonstrate success in economic terms, but this approach overlooks the wider role that community radio plays. They discussed how community broadcasters can better document their impact through qualitative stories, case studies, and participatory reporting, rather than relying only on traditional metrics. Technology and the Changing Landscape of Community Broadcasting The conversation also touched on how new technologies are reshaping community media. Brian explained how hybrid models of broadcasting—combining FM/DAB transmission with digital streaming and on-demand content—are enabling stations to reach wider audiences while maintaining their local focus. Rob and Brian reflected on how the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated changes in content production and distribution. Many stations adapted to remote production models, which opened up new possibilities for engagement. However, there remains a challenge in ensuring that these technological shifts do not create barriers for participation, particularly for volunteers and contributors who may not have access to high-end digital tools. Lessons for the UK—Strengthening Community Media for the Future Towards the end of their discussion, Rob and Brian considered what lessons could be applied to the UK community media landscape. They agreed that one of the most pressing issues is the need for more structured policy support and funding for community broadcasters. In contrast to Ireland, where policy discussions have included representatives from community media, UK media policy tends to be dominated by commercial and state-run broadcasters, with little space for community-led perspectives. They also explored the importance of ensuring clear regulatory recognition for community radio as a distinct part of the media ecosystem. This includes defining sustainable funding sources, strengthening independent governance structures, and recognising community radio as a form of public interest media that supports democratic engagement. The conversation between Rob and Brian offers a valuable reflection on how community radio in Ireland has developed and the lessons that can be drawn for media practitioners in the UK. By looking at policy structures, funding models, audience engagement strategies, and the role of technology, the discussion provided insights into how community broadcasting can remain sustainable, relevant, and impactful. The key takeaway is that community radio should not be treated as a secondary or niche part of the media landscape but as an ess...
Transcribe →Decentered Media Podcast 003 – Public Purpose Media with Tom Chivers
Feb 1, 202501:24:01Tap to summarizeIn this episode of the Decentered Media Podcast, Rob Watson is joined by Tom Chivers, Campaign Coordinator at the Media Reform Coalition (MRC), to discuss the role and future of public service media in the UK, particularly in the run-up to the BBC Charter Renewal. Tom outlines the MRC’s work in advocating for a more democratic, independent, and accountable media landscape. He discusses how the MRC was originally formed in response to the phone hacking scandal and has since expanded its focus to tackle media concentration, digital regulation, and public service broadcasting reform. At the heart of the discussion is the BBC’s future and the challenges it faces. Tom and Rob explore how commercial pressures, political influence, and global media trends are shaping the institution, often at the expense of its public purpose. They discuss the growing commercialisation of BBC content, the impact of market-driven decision-making on creative output, and the lack of genuine public engagement in shaping the BBC’s direction. With the upcoming BBC Charter Review, Tom argues that this could be a pivotal moment—either leading to further decline or providing an opportunity for transformation. He outlines the case for mutualisation, a model that would restructure the BBC as a truly democratic, citizen-led organisation, giving the public direct influence over governance, content priorities, and decision-making. Rob and Tom also reflect on broader trends in media, democracy, and civic engagement, questioning how public service media can reclaim its role as a platform for public conversation, cultural expression, and shared identity in an increasingly fragmented and commercialised media environment. This episode is essential listening for anyone interested in the future of public service media, the BBC’s role in society, and how we can reshape the media landscape to serve democratic and civic interests rather than commercial and political ones. Find out more about the Media Reform Coalition and the upcoming Media Democracy Festival taking place on 31st May 2025. Listen Now on Decentered Media or subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Amazon, YouTube, and other major podcast platforms. Support Rob’s work by becoming a Patreon Subscriber, and help to keep these podcasts free to access. Source
Transcribe →Decentered Media Podcast – Exploring the Differences in Public Service Media Between the UK and USA with Josh Shepperd
Jan 24, 202501:13:14Tap to summarizeIn this episode of the Decentered Media Podcast, Rob Watson engages in discussion with Josh Shepperd, Associate Professor of Media Studies at the University of Colorado and author of Shadow of the New Deal: The Victory of Public Broadcasting. Josh’s work explores the historical development of public service media in the United States, tracing its origins, challenges, and evolution into systems like NPR and PBS. The conversation explores the distinctions between the UK’s centralised, BBC-led model and the USA’s decentralised, fragmented approach to public service media. They explore questions that are critical to the future of media’s democratic purpose: What can we learn from the different origins of public service broadcasting in the UK and the USA? How have cultural and political contexts shaped the priorities and frameworks of public service media in both countries? Why is public service media essential for democratic engagement, and how do we define its purpose in an era of algorithms and globalised platforms? What role should universities and educational institutions play in sustaining and innovating public service media? Josh shares his insights into how early US public broadcasting was driven by a vision of education and equal access to information for rural and underserved communities. Rob complements this by reflecting on the BBC’s Reithian ethos of “educate, inform, and entertain” and how that has evolved (and, in some ways, faltered) in a digital-first media landscape. This episode invites listeners to reflect on the broader role of public service media and its relevance in an increasingly fragmented and commercialised media landscape. Key themes include the balance between populism and educational engagement, the risks of centralisation, and the opportunities for decentralised, community-driven media models to thrive. Join the Conversation Whether you’re a media professional, an academic, or simply someone passionate about the future of democratic communication, this episode is an invitation to explore the possibilities of a renewed, inclusive approach to public service media. Listen now and join the discussion: How do we redefine media’s role in serving communities in a digital-first, algorithm-driven world? Source
Transcribe →Exploring Community Media Innovation: John Coster and Citizens Eye at COMPUTALA
Jan 13, 202500:21:44Tap to summarizeIn the latest exhibition at LCB Depot’s COMPUTALA, John Coster, an independent journalist and community media pioneer, is set to showcase the transformative journey of Citizens Eye, a grassroots media initiative he founded in Leicester in 2008. This immersive exhibition delves into how digital tools and social media redefined local storytelling and community journalism, empowering underrepresented voices across Leicester and Leicestershire. Through interactive displays, visitors will explore Citizens Eye’s extensive archives, including over 1,200 films, 15,000 images, and audio interviews, which document the region’s diverse cultural fabric. The exhibition also highlights the project’s innovative use of platforms like YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter, alongside free media training and collaborative events, to foster inclusivity and participation in local narratives. A standout feature of the exhibition is John’s collaboration with Leicester-based digital artist Jas Singh. Together, they will create dynamic moving image content inspired by the Citizens Eye archives. Singh will also produce live digital art during an open event, adding an interactive and performative dimension to the showcase. John Coster’s work with Citizens Eye exemplifies a blueprint for modern, community-driven media, blending grassroots journalism with emerging technologies. This exhibition not only celebrates a remarkable legacy but also demonstrates how digital connectivity continues to shape the future of inclusive storytelling. Source
Transcribe →Supporting Resilience and Change – Snehalaya’s Impact in Ahmednagar
Nov 6, 202400:29:56Tap to summarizeAt an event this week organised by John Coster of the Parallel Lives Network in Leicester, community advocates Joyce Connolly and Dr. Priti Bhombe spoke passionately about their involvement with Snehalaya, a grassroots organisation rooted in Ahmednagar, Maharashtra. Their reflections offered insight into Snehalaya’s unique role in creating safe spaces for women and children affected by social marginalisation, HIV, trafficking, and gender-based violence. Snehalaya, which translates to ‘Home of Love’, was established with the vision of providing holistic support to marginalised individuals and communities. Operating in Ahmednagar since 1989, the organisation focuses on initiatives designed to empower women and children, addressing the structural issues that perpetuate cycles of poverty, abuse, and inequality. Their work, deeply embedded in the community, offers a model of resilience, hope, and transformation for those facing social exclusion and stigma. Dr. Priti Bhombe, a staunch supporter of Snehalaya, highlighted the organisation’s commitment to education as a transformative tool. Through comprehensive schooling and vocational training, Snehalaya provides children from impoverished and at-risk backgrounds with essential life skills, laying a foundation for self-sufficiency and dignity. Programmes like the Balbhavan Project—which offers a safe learning space for children—focus on breaking the cycle of generational poverty and stigma by promoting education and awareness. Beyond traditional schooling, Snehalaya also engages young girls and women in skill development and vocational training, offering pathways out of exploitative circumstances. From small enterprise skills to computer literacy, these programmes empower women to take control of their economic futures, ultimately fostering a sense of agency and resilience within their communities. Snehalaya’s impact is particularly profound in the realm of healthcare, where it provides crucial support to those affected by HIV. Maharashtra has one of India’s highest HIV infection rates, and Snehalaya’s health services, including preventative education, testing, and ongoing medical support, serve as a lifeline. Joyce Connolly noted that through Snehalaya’s HIV support programmes, both children and adults receive the care and empathy they deserve, helping to dismantle the stigma that often isolates those affected. Further, Snehalaya’s Rehabilitation Centre provides refuge for survivors of trafficking, forced labour, and abuse. In this safe environment, survivors access psychological support, counselling, and a network of peers that helps rebuild their confidence. It is this comprehensive approach—addressing both physical and emotional well-being—that has become the hallmark of Snehalaya’s work. Joyce Connolly emphasised the importance of Snehalaya’s international partnerships, particularly those cultivated through Snehalaya UK. Established to rally financial and volunteer support, Snehalaya UK has been instrumental in amplifying awareness of the organisation’s mission. Joyce and Dr. Bhombe highlighted how fundraising and educational efforts in the UK allow Snehalaya to extend its reach and continue its vital programmes. In collaboration with organisations like the Malala Fund, Snehalaya has advanced its goal of accessible education, especially for young girls facing cultural and economic barriers. The Parallel Lives underscored the power of community action across borders, with Snehalaya’s supporters in the UK acting as advocates for sustained change in Maharashtra. Both Connolly and Bhombe reflected on the importance of consistent, culturally attuned support, and on Snehalaya’s ethos of “empowerment over charity,” which prioritises lasting community-based solutions over short-term aid. As Snehalaya continues to grow, its impact on individuals and families in Ahmednagar remains transformative. For the thousands who benefit from its programmes each year, Snehalaya is more than a shelter or support system—it is a place where dignity, resilience, and hope are not only preserved but celebrated. The stories shared by Joyce Connolly and Dr. Priti Bhombe remind us of the importance of solidarity and sustained support for organisations like Snehalaya. Through initiatives in education, healthcare, and rehabilitation, Snehalaya is building a future where every individual, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to live with dignity and purpose. Those interested in supporting their work can connect through Snehalaya UK, fostering a global network committed to challenging social inequities and uplifting vulnerable communities. Source
Transcribe →Labour Party Conference 2024 – Catch-Up With Gareth Benest
Sep 24, 202400:16:24Tap to summarizeAs the Labour Party Conference 2024 drew to a close, I had a quick chat with Gareth Benest, of the International Broadcasting Trust, who shared his thoughts and observations from the conference, and the principles of global engagement that need championing. Source
Transcribe →Decentered Media Podcast – Media’s Democratic Deficit
Sep 4, 202400:26:51Tap to summarizeThere is a deficit in our media, where control of the platforms we depend on to inform us about the world and each other, are increasingly distant and far removed from the places that we live. We need a wide-spread participation-driven change to counterbalance the concentration of power in the hands of fewer media organisations and platforms. In this episode I share some thoughts about how and why this matters, and where we can begin to rebalance our media. Source
Transcribe →Decentered Media Podcast 147 – Is Community Media in the UK Failing?
Aug 22, 202400:42:06Tap to summarizeWelcome to the Decentered Media Podcast, where I explore the current state of community media in the UK, focusing on the recent Ofcom review of local media. In this episode, I examine whether community media—particularly community radio and community news—is effectively fulfilling its intended role in supporting social cohesion and cultural democracy. I also consider whether the leadership from Ofcom, the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), and advocacy organisations has adequately sustained a clear and purposeful mission for community media. As the media landscape continues to evolve, the challenges facing local and community media are becoming increasingly complex. This podcast aims to initiate a broader discussion and careful examination of these challenges, particularly in the context of social policy development in the UK. I invite listeners to reflect on the role that community media can play in addressing these issues and to consider what steps might be necessary to ensure it remains a relevant and effective tool for community engagement. The conversation highlighted the need for a reassessment of the strategies and policies that govern community media, with a view to ensuring it can continue to serve its important role in local communities. As we concluded, we encouraged listeners to think about the role of community media in their own contexts and to engage in the ongoing dialogue about its future in the UK. Source
Transcribe →