Interview with Richard Stansbury, Content Manager for 9Podcasts

Hi Richard! Thanks again for speaking with me! Firstly, could you speak to me about the beginning of your career in the media?

After I completed the Commercial Radio course at Swinburne University, I started my career with the ACE Radio Network in regional Victoria where I was an on-air host, and copywriter and would assist with audio production. I spent two and half years there before moving back to Melbourne and starting at 3AW as a panel operator before I took on other roles as a Program Producer, on-air contributor and fill-in host.

You have had extensive experience in broadcast/radio journalism. How have these roles helped/influenced your current position? What are the biggest differences between radio and podcasts?

Having been fortunate enough to work across many different roles and programs, and with different hosts and producers has given me a strong foundation of skills. Working in both FM and AM radio has given me a broad knowledge of different demographics. Being a part of breaking news programs has assisted me the most with decision-making and the ability to chase a contact/interview and develop a compelling story. 

My time as a panel operator gave me the skills and confidence to be able to edit and build audio packages, and video content. And having been behind the mic and working with a lot of high-profile talent has given me the ability to be able to talk to, discuss ideas with and build strong relationships with every host I work with, or with any potential podcaster.

Could you also speak about your current position? What does your media cycle/schedule look like as the Content Manager for 9Podcasts? What does this role specifically entail on a day-to-day basis?

My media cycle is constant. I am always consuming news, sports and entertainment, whether that be listening to the radio, watching TV, listening to podcasts or consuming social media.

Day to day, I am trying to grow and develop the slate of 9Podcasts that come out of Melbourne, whether that be growing existing products or working on new ideas. This involves constant communication with all podcast hosts and producers discussing content ideas, liaising with other departments in Nine to further promote our products and meeting with content creators to see where our next exciting projects will come from.

How has/will the advent of AI affect how podcasts are produced/consumed? Do you think AI will have much of an effect on podcasting, as compared to other forms/mediums within media?

I see AI as a great tool for any content creator to use to their advantage, whether to help bring an idea to life, help inspire a project or take it to the next level. Whether that be through brainstorming, script writing, artwork, creating music, enhancing damaged audio or video, it is a great tool to enhance the podcast experience for the listener.

Are there any new projects/shows that we should be looking out for from 9Podcasts? Alternatively, what stories do you hope to platform more of?

We are excited to be working with Peter Daicos in 2025 on a very personal project for him. We will also be teaming up with some heavy-hitting influencers with an emphasis on growing our young female listeners and we will keep developing engaging true crime podcasts, with some exciting stories coming out of Melbourne.

What do you believe is the role of podcasting within the larger media ecosystem?

I believe the role of podcasts in the larger media ecosystem is growing. Foremost, it is putting pressure on traditional forms of media to entertain, be accurate and be innovative. Being such a competitive medium, it constantly challenges content creators to be informed on what people want to consume and be willing to adapt and change to keep up with demand.

Finally, what makes for a good podcast pitch? 

A good podcast pitch is direct. What is it about? Who is listening? I should be able to get an idea of the podcast in one sentence.