ASIA

Radiodays Asia, the leading radio and podcasting conference in the Asia-Pacific, has announced more speakers for its 2024 edition.Sopit Wangvivatana, Audio Media Manager at Thai PBSSopit brings nearly 30 years of experience in the broadcasting industry, currently overseeing the production and development of audio content at Thai PBS including Podcast and online radio. Sopit has an extensive background in radio and television, covering news and documentaries, and has also served as a news reporter, announcer, and moderator at various universities.Han Seo Son, Chief Producer, MBC, KoreaHan has been producing KPOP radio programs for 19 years. In 2018, he launched IDOL RADIO, and has directed over 500 episodes. Currently, he is the Chief Producer for IDOL RADIO, and runs large-scale concerts utilizing the IDOL RADIO IP in both Japan and Korea

Emma Lawson, Digital Producer, ABC, AustraliaAs a leading content creator and experienced Digital Producer at the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), Emma is passionate about building the ABC’s capability to create content for younger audiences on emerging platforms. With a rich background in producing digital, radio, and television content for public broadcasters, Emma excels at transforming traditional media into engaging, innovative formats.At the ABC, Emma spearheads the strategy for their TikTok account, producing and commissioning fit-for-platform video, mentoring staff, and driving an attitude of experimentation for the wider corporation. She is also pioneering efforts to transform ABC’s podcasts into visual mediums.Hermann de Campo, Managing Director, Zaibr Innovations, GermanyAs a respected AI expert, LinkedIn Top Voice for AI, and author, Hermann is known for making complex AI concepts accessible to a broad audience and supports global companies in successfully implementing AI solutions. Additionally, he has extensive experience in the media industry, working with international and local clients in radio, TV, dubbing studios, and film production companies. Hermann is valued for his ability to make technology understandable for everyone, making him an inspiring figure in both the AI and media sectors.Chang Lu, Radio Programme Producer, CTGN Radio, ChinaAs an experienced radio feature journalist, scriptwriter, and producer at CGTN Radio Lu has produced in-depth profile stories, radio documentaries, and cultural podcasts focusing on humanities, arts, and history. Lu’s work has garnered both domestic and international recognition, including several prestigious awards.  Recently, Lu has been the creator, scriptwriter, and producer of several acclaimed radio dramas. These include “The Wrong Train” (2022), “Glad You’re Here” (2023), and the series “Echoes of Kuliang: A Tale of Love, Peace, and Friendship” (2024).  Lu is committed to bringing compelling stories and innovative audio experiences to a diverse audience, showcasing their expertise in both traditional and modern radio production techniques.Neil McPhedran, Founder and Executive Producer, Podium Podcasts, CanadaPodium Podcasts is a multi-award-winning podcast marketing and production company specialising in higher education, non-profit, and narrative podcasts. With 25 years of experience in digital content creation and marketing, Neil has led Podium Podcasts to receive multiple podcast awards, including the Webby People’s Choice Podcast Award for Best Business Podcast and for the Best Science & Education Podcast.  Before going all-in on podcasting, Neil led digital-focused teams for both multinational ad agencies and boutique digital agencies, honing his expertise in digital marketing, content creation, and website and app development. His innovative approach has made him a leader in developing effective marketing strategies using technology.Glenn Van Zutphen, Host of MoneyFM 89.3FM “Saturday Mornings”, Van Media Group, SingaporeWith 30+ years as an international journalist, radio and TV host and communicator, Glenn has held both front-line and behind-the-scenes positions in print, radio and television news during his career while living and working in the US, Japan, Switzerland, Hong Kong and Singapore, including spells working for NPR, ABC News, CNBC and CNN… and now as host of MoneyFM 89.3FM “Saturday Mornings” in Singapore. As the founder of global media consultancy, VanMedia Group, Glenn also provides media coaching & communications programs.Nasir Ali Khan, Mentor at RadioDPS, IndiaFrom having severe stammering issues as a student in school to becoming a leading voice on Radio in Jammu and Kashmir, Nasir has come a long way in his Radio journey. Nasir has worked for many private leading FM channels in Kashmir and now mentors kids at Radio DPS an in-house Radio Station at Delhi Public School Srinagar, Nasir is known for his connection with people on radio and has been responsible in bringing many social changes through his radio shows and campaigns over the years. Nasir is the only Radio host of J&K who has the distinction of being on Air for 111 hours non-stop which saw him run many campaigns on social issues.Xiao Wang, Editor in Chief, CGTN, and Programme Producer, ChinaAt CGTN Wang Xiao leads a team of journalists and editors to produce accurate, timely, and engaging news content as well as overseeing editorial content and ensuring the highest standards of journalism.  Wang also manages media relations and fosters collaborative partnerships, coordinating with various media outlets to enhance program reach and influence.  As a producer Wang produces and manages various commentary shows, including the prominent program “World Today” “Chat lounge” and “Biz Today”.James Ross, CEO, Asia Radio Concepts & Host of MoneyTalk, RTHK Radio 3, Hong KongJames has worked in radio and TV since the age of 14 when he started at the UK’s BBC Radio Solent. He’s been an engineer, studio manager, reporter, presenter, and programme director. He spent many years at BBC Radio 1 & 2 in London, followed by 10 years with Bloomberg Radio and TV in Tokyo. Since 2003 he’s been in Hong Kong working for ITV, Lightning International, and RTHK. James hosts RTHK Radio 3’s morning “Moneytalk” business news show. James also presents a weekly syndicated 2 hour oldies programme, “The Greatest Hits of Music”, broadcast by 25 radio stations worldwide. (www.somethingontheradio.com)RJ Vijdan, Radio Mirchi Host and digital influencer, IndiaAs a Radio DJ Vijdan has carved out a unique space in the world of radio broadcasting. Known for his engaging on-air presence and sharp wit, Vijdan seamlessly blends entertainment with cultural and social commentary, making him a favourite among listeners.  RJ Vijdan’s multifaceted career and his dedication to both entertainment and cultural commentary make him a distinguished figure in the media landscape. His insights and experiences promise to inspire and engage audiences wherever he goes.Paul McNally, Founding Director, Develop AI, South AfricaPaul is an award-winning journalist and entrepreneur with 20 years of experience starting companies in AI, podcasting, justice education and community radio. He founded Develop AI, an innovative company that trains people on how to use AI responsibly, reports on AI and builds AI projects. He is also the founder of Develop Audio, a company that produces award-winning investigative podcasts like Alibi and Asylum and trains journalists to create quality audio. McNally was part of the Journalism and Media Lab in 2017 at Wits University and a member of the South Africa Media Innovation Program in 2018. In 2015 he founded Citizen Justice Network, a community radio innovation which trained community paralegals to be radio journalists and disseminated legal journalism to millions of people in rural areas in South Africa and Kenya. He is the author of the influential book, The Street, published by Pan Macmillan, on police corruption and torture in South Africa.Yumie Yoshiba, Radio Producer, NHK, JapanAs a producer in the radio department at NHK, Japan’s public broadcaster Yumie oversees program production and promotion of all radio shows. Having worked at NHK for nearly 30 years, Yumie has been in the radio department for the past 4, before this she primarily appeared in and produced television programs.Kristian Porter, CEO, Public Media Alliance, UKThe PMA is the largest global association of Public Service Media organisations.  Kristian has extensive experience working in public media support and advocacy, with a background in the NGO sector, editorial management, events, and as a journalist. He has worked globally in his roles for PMA and works with the association’s membership and partners to develop campaigns, relationships, strategies, research, and projects. He is a passionate advocate for media freedom, media independence and journalist safety, and sits on the steering committee for the Public Broadcasters International (PBI) conference and runs the secretariat for the Global Task Force for public media (GTF).K. Oanh Ha, Podcast Host and Senior Reporter, Bloomberg, Hong Kong SARK. Oanh Ha is a Big Take Asia podcast host based in Hong Kong. She’s also a Bloomberg News senior reporter covering the region’s travel and tourism industries. She joined the news organization in 2010 as Vietnam bureau chief and has also served as an editor overseeing coverage of Asia consumer and health news. Before joining Bloomberg, she worked as a host and reporter for KQED Public Radio in San Francisco. She’s also reported for the San Jose Mercury News. She was born in Vietnam and grew up in California.Radiodays Asia will be held 2-4 September in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Register for the conference here. […]

India’s Union Cabinet has approved the proposal for the 3rd batch of ascending e-auctions for 730 FM radio channels in 234 new cities, with an estimated reserve price of Rs. 7.84 billion under the private FM Radio Phase III Policy.According to the official statement, the Cabinet also approved a proposal to set the Annual License Fee (ALF) for FM channels at 4 percent of Gross Revenue, excluding Goods and Services Tax (GST). This will apply to the 234 new cities and towns.The rollout in these new locations will fulfil the unmet demand for FM radio and offer new and local content in regional languages.

This initiative is also expected to create new employment opportunities, promote local dialects and culture, and support the ‘vocal for local’ initiative.Many of the approved cities and towns are in aspirational districts and areas affected by Left-Wing Extremism (LWE). The introduction of Private FM Radio in these regions will further strengthen the Government’s outreach efforts.Photo: PIB/YouTube […]

Content from BPRThe concept of positioning brands and products became popular in the 70s and 80s when the ‘noise’ levels around advertising highlighted the benefits of clear positioning with the success of individual products.As an example Volvo is clearly associated with safety. Volvo has been an innovator in this area for many years. Similarly, BMW’s Ultimate Driving Machine has built desirability and appeal around it. Mercedes equals luxury and so on.

Radio brands also have clear positioning attributes – both positive and negative – understanding these is often the key to success.Consumers don’t re-evaluate brand attributes in a clear and rational way – deeply held brand perceptions guide behaviour and often frustrate attempts to change the way listeners see individual products.In radio there are many examples of stations caught in a ‘positioning trap’ as an example,   attempts to ‘modernise’ an old-fashioned brand can fail as the station abandons its traditional audience and fails to attract any new listeners simply because they don’t believe that the brand/station is aimed at them.Changing brand positioning is difficult – not always impossible, but usually expensive.Instead of changing brand positioning, modifying something to become close to consumer expectations is a more realistic objective.In radio this means evolving programming and branding in-line with consumer expectations. Rock doesn’t become Pop simply because management would like it to be. However Rock or Pop positioning may be modified to better fit today’s listeners needs.Making changes also requires clear communications – along with a clear plan, consumers also need to understand what might be different.Before any of these steps can happen you need to understand the positioning of your brand without that you stand to lose more than you gain.Positioning is like a shop window – a clear idea connects:This ..Or this**Thanks David LloydBy Peter Don, BPR […]

More speakers have been announced for Radiodays Asia and Podcast Day Asia. Radiodays Asia takes place 2-4 September in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Podcast Day Asia takes place on Tuesday, September 5, and is part of Radiodays Asia.Abe Thomas, CEO, BIG FM, IndiaAbe is a business leader, growth driver, digital entrepreneur, and brand builder with a proven track record of building and running large businesses for media publishers. Having deep knowledge of multi-media platforms of broadcasting (TV & Radio) print and digital media backed with over 30 years of hands-on leadership experience demonstrating the ability to build & scale media businesses within a competitive environment.Thomas Giger, Branding Consultant and Partner, Pure Jingles, The NetherlandsWhen Harry Chapin released ‘WOLD’ – about a morning jock seeking happiness – Thomas was dreaming of radio in the womb! As a teenager, he started to live the dream in ’92, and later worked as a morning host, imaging producer, music director and assistant PD. His passion for format flow, station sound and world travel come together at PURE Jingles, where he consults clients on audio branding.

Wade Kingsley, Creative Coach and Radio Consultant, AustraliaWade works with media companies around the world to help innovate their idea generation capabilities so they can accelerate growth in both audience and revenue. His experience includes over 25 years in media, marketing and sales working in leadership roles at Nova Entertainment, Southern Cross Austereo and dentsu.  He is the Australian Ambassador for World Creativity and Innovation Week; and a co-host of the ‘Gamechangers: Melbourne Radio Wars’ podcast.Chris Marsh, Senior Lead, Future State Sound Design and Audio Production, LiSTNR Original Podcasts, SCA, AustraliaOver the past 20 years, Chris Marsh has been a driving creative force behind many of Australia’s biggest radio shows and podcasts. He has collaborated with notable names such as Carrie Bickmore and Tommy Little, Mick Molloy and Jane Kennedy, Matt Tilley and Jo Stanley, as well as podcast hosts Abbie Chatfield, Tom Tilley, The Shameless Girls, Alex Dyson, Matt Okine, and even former Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull.  His most significant creative relationship has been his 15-year association with Hamish and Andy.  As the Creative Audio Producer for their radio shows and, for the past six years, on Australia’s #1 podcast, Chris has also contributed to several of their TV projects. In addition to his technical expertise in editing, recording, and all areas of audio production, Chris has unique skills in managing high-profile talent. He also possesses vast knowledge in creating compelling, entertaining content and understands what it takes to run highly effective teams.You can register for the whole three-day Radiodays Asia conference, or you can register just for Podcast Day Asia. […]

On behalf of the President of India, the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (MIB) has announced an invitation for proposals to select an agency for conducting the e-auction of private FM channels as part of FM Radio Phase-III.Eligible entities include companies registered under the Companies Act of 1956/2013, foreign companies with a registered office in India, or consortia of such companies. The selected agency will oversee the allocation of FM radio frequencies according to the MIB’s guidelines.Detailed information on the application procedures is available on the official MIB website and the Government’s e-procurement portal. The RFP, including the scope of work and eligibility criteria, can be accessed at [MIB’s website](http://www.mib.gov.in ) and [CPPP Portal](https://eprocure.gov.in/eprocure/app ).

The deadline for bid submissions is 17 September 2024. Bidders must register on the e-tender portal and submit their proposals online, accompanied by a non-refundable application fee of Rs 50,000 through the Bharatkosh Portal.Eligibility criteria for agencies include a minimum paid-up capital of Rs 25 million and a combined net worth of at least Rs 100 million.Phase III of this expansion aims to rejuvenate the FM radio sector by introducing more private players, enhancing regional representation, and broadening content offerings, from local news and cultural programming to diverse music genres. […]

In an ADMA conference session examining trends and predictions for the coming 12 months, Professor Scott Galloway explored big picture media trends, largely from an American viewpoint.Looking back over the past 12 months he says the losers were: Movie Studios, Theatres and Traditional Creators.  The winners were: Sport, TikTok, Netflix and Generative AI.In trends for the coming year, Galloway believes “the streaming laggards will bounce back,” but that we will see the first streaming service close down as unbundling and rebundling lead to consolidation in the streaming industry.

He predicts that Tiktok will compete with Spotify and come up with original music and programming.Making observations about the TikTok business strategy, Galloway observed that TikTok has one channel not many, “but it knows you so well you don’t need channel choice.”“Choice isn’t a good thing, consumers want more value not necessarily more choice. Passive consumers want that… most consumers are passive… they are happy that the AI told them want to eat and what to watch.”TikTok gets more data about what you enjoy, because most of its videos are short and there are many actions a user can take in a short time, so it can calibrate using the many actions viewers take with each video.Galloway says there has been “unbelievable revenue growth for the main companies, Amazon, Meta, Youtube and Alphabet.”The difference between AI and traditional search is that Google puts the emphasis on you to make decisions about the search results. “AI won’t give you all results for you to make a decision, it tries to give you the top result in the best way,” Galloway says.If a consumer doesn’t like the results they can refine them, but many people won’t. He thinks there will still be life for traditional search.“The things that save you time are most valuable,” says Galloway. Amazon, Netflix, ChatGPT help you zero in on products or save time from watching ads. ChatGPT helps you save one third of your time in writing emails or reports. He believes consumers will find these time saving features usefulIn the new instant AI environment, traditional media companies will still have a strong hand due to their content. “Traditional content platforms have some leverage, they will be in a position to licence or create other ad streams to get money from AI companies.”More predictions for 2024 are:
India is the new China, it will lead growth rate
Meta’s new growth vehicle is Whatsapp, while Facebook will decline
Swing countries such as Saudi Arabia and India will sit in the middle of the big powers and will be in a positive position while the others play off against each other
Nigeria and Indonesia are set for growth
A big observation is that people don’t read emails as much anymore, but that text messages and Whatsapp messages will be able to get to themOne of the biggest threats, according to Galloway, is misinformation and the concentration of power. “This is a worthwhile fear… All platforms will see the mother of misinformation near the US election.”“AI won’t take your job, someone who understand AI will take your job,” concluded Galloway. […]