Stony Brook University’s Podcast Incubator is accepting applications for a two-semester fellowship program that guides emerging podcasters from concept through launch, with instruction from industry professionals who have worked on shows including “This American Life,” “Song Exploder,” and “Here’s The Thing with Alec Baldwin.”
The program combines weekly evening workshops with personalized mentoring and peer feedback to help participants develop market-ready pilots or completed episodes. Over approximately eight months, fellows will learn podcast conception, pitching, scripting, recording, editing, and distribution strategies while building connections within the broader audio industry.
Faculty members include Ira Glass, host and producer of “This American Life”; Ophira Eisenberg, host of NPR’s “Ask Me Another”; Alec Baldwin, host of “Here’s The Thing”; Veralyn Williams, executive producer of WNYC’s “The United States of Anxiety”; and Ronald Young Jr., creator and host of “Weight for It.” Additional instructors bring expertise in production, storytelling, and audience development from work on independent and network-distributed shows.
The curriculum emphasizes practical skills that address common challenges for new podcasters. Participants will define their target audience, develop sustainable production habits, and create marketing strategies designed to reach listeners rather than chase vanity metrics. The program also covers monetization approaches, including sponsorships, subscriptions, and premium content models, allowing fellows to make informed decisions about revenue generation aligned with their show’s goals.
The hybrid format accommodates working professionals and creative practitioners. Weekly workshops meet Tuesday evenings at 7 p.m. Eastern Time, with options for online participation or in-person attendance at the New York City location. One-on-one mentoring sessions extend throughout the fellowship to help participants maintain momentum and refine their work.
Participants graduate with access to a global alumni network, industry connections at platforms including Spotify and iHeartRadio, and opportunities for job placement and publishing. The program also provides sponsored perks including discounted access to Stony Brook University recording studios, technical instruction, educational discounts on industry-standard tools, and invitations to podcast conferences and industry events.
The Podcast Incubator emphasizes community and creative risk-taking. The fellowship brings together creators from diverse geographic and cultural backgrounds, with past cohorts including voices from Nigeria, Qatar, the Shinnecock Nation, and Alaska. The program is designed as an inclusive space where participants receive honest, specific feedback on their actual work rather than generic advice.
Interested applicants should visit the Podcast Incubator website to apply. For questions about the program, prospective fellows can contact Kathleen Russo, Director, at kathleen.russo@stonybrook.edu or 631-882-9881.
