WHAT: iHeartMedia has announced round two of its NextUp Initiative, with applications now officially open. NextUp aims to empower creators of all backgrounds by giving them the tools to succeed in the podcast industry, from developing and marketing a podcast to using industry-leading software. The NextUp program will span six months beginning January and will include a monthly stipend. Creators will exit the program with at least three finished episodes and a polished pitch for their podcast.
NextUp is led by industry veterans and iHeartPodcast executive producers, Anna Hossnieh and Joelle Smith, and iHeartPodcast production manager Yesenia Medellin. The program will mentor the selected NextUp fellows, elevating the voices of new, historically underrepresented storytellers, and provide an incredible opportunity for the next generation of podcast creators to be heard.
WHO: All interested up-and-coming creators are encouraged to apply. Applicants selected will have the opportunity to work with and learn from some of iHeart’s top creators and executives with the goal of creating content focused on their own unique perspectives and stories. The inaugural NextUp initiative produced a full slate of shows from all eight of its NextUp fellows, covering a range of important topics from the working class to Native American identity.
WHEN: Submission period begins today and runs through September 30, 2022.
WHERE: Visit iHeart.com/nextup to submit your application.
