The Audio Academy says it will place audience connection at the center of The Audio Academy Festival 2026, bringing broadcasters, audio executives, creators and technology specialists to the Royal College of Physicians in Regent’s Park, London, on Thursday, Oct. 1. The program will examine how radio, podcasts, music and emerging technologies can strengthen relationships with listeners. It will also include immersive sound demonstrations, practical sessions and one-to-one career conversations with industry professionals.
BBC Radio 1 presenter Greg James will discuss sharing a tandem bicycle with Prince William and winning gold at the 2026 Audio and Radio Industry Awards for his breakfast show. Simon Myciunka, president of audio at Bauer Media Group and chief executive officer of Bauer Media Audio U.K., will join Steve Jones, chief executive officer of Stingray Radio in Canada, to consider the future of commercial radio.
Other speakers include Anoushka Mutanda-Dougherty, creator of the ARIAS gold-winning BBC Sounds podcast “Fame Under Fire,” and broadcaster, DJ and producer Nerm, who will explore the future of AI in music. Hits Radio’s Victoria Glover will discuss the true story behind the ARIAS-winning podcast “My Stalker Moved in Next Door.” At the same time, Beano Brain will examine how audio can reach Generation Alpha. Paul Gerrard, content director of Hits Radio, will also reflect on the station’s 2026 ARIAS win for U.K. Station of the Year.
Festival experiences will include acoustic art and immersive sound in the Dolby Library. Delegates will also be able to book one-to-one career conversations with representatives from organizations including Audio Always, Audible, Bauer Media, Bengo Media, the BBC, Spotify, Times Radio, Tortoise and Unedited.
The event will also honor audio industry figures who have died during the past year, announce the Audio Academy’s new fellows and conclude with an after-party supported by PPL and PRS for Music.
In a world full of distraction, there’s something uniquely powerful about the way sound informs, entertains, challenges and connects us.
Chris North, Audio Academy festival executive producer
Bringing the industry together
Aradhna Tayal Leach, managing director of the Audio Academy, pointed to the value of bringing the industry together beyond formal commercial settings. “The Audio Academy Festival is a rare opportunity to come together for deeper dives and discussions exploring the future of the global audio landscape. There is space to build meaningful connections, moving beyond competitive boundaries and sales tactics, whether that’s meeting a content director or commissioner, or discovering new talent and innovation. Expect a day of sharing, networking and huge celebrations of our world-leading audio,” she said.
Chris North, festival executive producer, added, “This year, we’re putting audio first. In a world full of distraction, there’s something uniquely powerful about the way sound informs, entertains, challenges and connects us. Every conversation, every session and every experience at this year’s festival has been curated through that lens.
Dixi Stewart, festival creative director, said the event would celebrate the breadth of the medium and the people behind it. “It’s always a joy to share our passion for radio, music, podcasts and audio in all its fabulous forms with friends across the industry. This year’s festival is proud to put audio first and audiences center stage, celebrating the creativity, innovation and craftsmanship behind the outstanding content that enriches our lives every hour of every day.
“I’m enormously grateful to our generous sponsors Arqiva, Audible, BBC Sounds, Broadcast Bionics, PPL and PRS for Music, RCS and Xperi for their support in recognizing the brilliant people who dedicate their time and talents to the broadcasts, podcasts, streaming, immersive experiences and groundbreaking technologies which are shaping the future of audio,” she said.
You can find more information about The Audio Academy Festival here.
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