Positively Resonate-ing on Last Weekend’s Podcast Festival
I wasn't able to attend the Resonate Podcast Festival, but I heard many great things. That's why special guest writer and podcaster Tania Mohammad (Undiscarded: Stories of New York), who attended Resonate, graciously gave the update here. Thanks Tania!
Positively Resonate-ing on Last Weekend’s Podcast Festival
by Tania Mohammad
Still buzzing from Resonate Festival on the weekend Oct 25th & 26th, at the beautiful Insititute of Contemporary Art at VCU in Richmond, Virginia. It was an indie podcaster’s paradise: genuine community vibes, tons of smart (applicable) insights, and a focus on creators that was refreshingly free from corporate noise. From the affordable tickets to carefully curated sessions and unique listening experiences (shout-out to Dennis Funk, Talia Augustidis, and Avery Trufelman), it was clear that this weekend in Virginia was for (audio) lovers. Big thanks to Chioke I’Anson and Kelly Jones, plus their incredible team, for making it all happen and keeping it small and intimate. Every session put storytelling front and center, from sessions on creativity and sound techniques to the struggles and financial realities of production, and left me feeling grounded and inspired. I also got a brand new headshot on day two! As a serial documentarian (phone glued to hand!), this is just Part 1 of the main stage recap—stay tuned for more on the smaller sessions, live performances, and yes, the parties!
Highlights included Nichole Hill, fresh from Tribeca's audio nonfiction storytelling debut. Her insights on blending podcasting and film-directing analogies made a real impact. We are actually directors, not just producers, so let's use those personal imprints in our audio storytelling. Her show "Our Ancestors Were Messy" uses juicy gossip from old newspapers to tell the stories of this lesser-known era in black history—that’s totally up my alley.
Jasmine Green and Sarah Esocoff shared spot-on tips on tackling complex, layered topics. Using their upcoming season of "Sounds Gay" as a case study, they revealed how Sarah embedded herself in the Gaylor fandom to explore its fascinating subculture. Think niche fan feuds, pop culture, and music—can someone greenlight this already?
Mia Lobel’s session on resilience was the group therapy everyone needed, and I was lucky to catch part of it between sessions. The collective exhale in the room was palpable, and I swear I spotted a tear or two.
Fashion maniac moment: Learning from Avery Trufelman (of "Articles of Interest") on storytelling through fashion. After her live interview with Chioke, I’ve got the itch to dive into the history of the motorcycle jacket and maybe buy one (for fashion, not function).
Ronald Young Jr.’s talk on storytelling’s emotional truth and exploring where your POV stems from hit deep. Totally unsurprisingly, especially if you've heard his show deeply personal soul-bearing show "Weight for It".
After hearing from Davy Gardner, I’m finally tempted (and maybe slightly terrified) to take an improv class. He really encourages you to be more fearless in your storytelling. NATO was my favorite takeaway, his acronym for "No Attachment To Outcome." It is freeing when you think about it (but remember, don't overthink!).
This event was the perfect mix of creativity, connection, and inspiration. But my favorite part after toiling away on solo indie projects and electronic interactions on Slack or Zoom was meeting your Podheros, Podmentors, and Podfriends in person! It was THE BEST; good for my soul and reaffirmed my commitment to Podcasting. I’ll be honest the connection has been shaky these last few months. There were ample opportunities to mingle (and stay out way too late) and fall in love with charming Richmond. I hope to nab a ticket next year because Resonate 2025 will surely be a hot commodity after this blockbuster weekend.
About Tania:
Tania Mohammad, a Karachi-born storyteller with a global upbringing, now calls New York home. With over 15 years in media production, content development, and event management, she brings a unique blend of expertise from both the media and non-profit sectors. She loves working on stories about niche pop-culture, hidden histories and underdogs, but definitely can get behind a brand with mission. In her free time Tania enjoys exploring NYC’s cultural and culinary scenes, has a passion for Broadway, and is drawn to drag, burlesque, and supernatural teen TV. She lives in Queens with her husband, two kids, and a Siberian cat named Luka.
Award-Winning Podcast Producer & Host | Community Collaborator | Passionate about Content, Production & Outreach
Tania Mohammad
Insta @act2newyork
LinkedIn:linkedin.com/in/taniamohammad
Website: taniamohammad.com
