Description
Saturday, Apr 25, 10:30am-4:30pm
Open to all
Limited to 12 participants
Hybrid Workshop*
Please note that this workshop does not cover technical production skills such as audio engineering, editing software, or equipment training.
The Ears Have It is a one-day immersive workshop designed to introduce participants to the art and craft of narrative podcasting, with a special focus on story development and writing for the ear. Whether you’re an aspiring podcaster, educator, journalist, or creative storyteller, this workshop offers a practical, energizing foundation for building audio stories that resonate.
We begin with a guided tour of the narrative podcast landscape. We ask what makes a compelling story, how audio differs from other media, and why structure is the backbone of every strong episode. From there, we break down core building blocks of story: character, stakes, arc, and theme. Through case studies, listening exercises, and discussion, participants will explore how acclaimed podcasts like Radiolab, Heavyweight, and Wind of Change use writing to create intimacy, tension, and emotional depth.
A major focus of the day is writing for audio. Participants will learn how to craft narration that sounds natural when spoken, how to weave tape and narration together, and how to revise with rhythm, clarity, and listener experience in mind. Hands-on writing prompts and group feedback help emerging storytellers develop their voice, sharpen dialogue, and strengthen narrative instincts.
We will also cover outlining strategies, interview preparation from a narrative perspective, and scripting approaches for a range of podcast formats. To round out the day, participants will receive a brief overview of what comes after the script, including recording best practices and how to position a new podcast for launch and audience discovery.
By the end of the workshop, participants will leave with a rough outline or script excerpt, a deeper understanding of story mechanics, and a practical set of tools to elevate their next episode.
Participant Preparation:
Please come with a podcast idea—anything from a loose concept to a story you’ve already begun developing. Advance listening: one episode each of Heavyweight, Radiolab, or Wind of Change.
*This workshop will take place at the QWF Office (Room 3, 1200 Atwater Avenue, Westmount, Quebec) with up to 2 virtual spots for participants who are unable to attend in-person because of distance or disability. By default, all workshop registrations are for in-person spots. If you would like to request a virtual slot, contact Riley at riley@qwf.org stating the reason for which you would need the virtual spot, then wait for a response before registering. Please do not register until you receive confirmation of a virtual spot for you.
