Hello Podcast Community,

Over the past eight months as Executive Director of The Podcast Academy, I’ve spent a lot of time listening to our members, creators, networks, platforms, independent podcasters and the leaders shaping where this industry goes next. I’ve also brought my own perspective as someone who has been a podcaster for nearly a decade. What I’ve learned is that while podcasting continues to evolve quickly, the things that make this community special haven’t changed: great storytelling, incredible talent and a willingness to keep pushing the medium forward. TPA has always existed to support and celebrate that work and now, we’re leveling it up.

That starts with the Ambies. These awards belong to podcasting, and have become the recognition our industry aspires to earn. An Ambie means something. It means your peers saw your work and believed it represented some of the very best in podcasting. As we enter this next season, we’re protecting that credibility while thinking bigger. By bringing more of the industry into the room, elevating independent and international voices alongside the biggest names in the business, creating new opportunities for partners to support this community, and making the Ambies a true gathering point for podcasting. 

If you created something you’re proud of this year, submit it. If you’re nervous about showcasing your work, don’t be. This is the home for all levels of podcasting. If your company believes in the future of this medium, partner with us. We want you to be part of what we’re all building.

And the Ambies are only part of where TPA is going. The conversations I’ve had this year have reinforced something I strongly believe: our Academy has an opportunity and a responsibility to be a place where this industry comes together. That means continuing to recognize great work and support our members, while bringing together creators, industry leaders and partners to address the issues shaping podcasting, exchange ideas and help move the industry forward.

Podcasting isn’t standing still, and neither are we. I’m incredibly excited about what we’re building, and I hope you’ll be part of it.

Ami Thakkar
Executive Director
The Podcast Academy
Executive@thepodcastacademy.com