Topic Selection ---Pitch Preparation

The advice I found particularly significant during my research on How to Successfully Pitch a Podcast is this: to be a personable person during your presentation – be yourself, social, friendly, and most of all, genuine. People can tell when you are being genuine and this trait will play a part in their decision as to whether you are a trustworthy person.  Articulate your speech and stay on topic with your presentation, covering your podcasts/projects main details painting a Big Picture. Communicate with the people in the room, respectfully listen to questions they may pose, and show them you can think through obstacles on the spot. Show that you know your podcast thoroughly and know what you are talking about (material/facts/also show that you can have a formulated opinion of your own based on...). Details will make you look professional and trustworthy, and showing passion for your project/podcast will appeal on an informal level. Research the company/person who you are pitching to and most importantly Their Audience! Know everything about them; from their successes to their failures and their previously launched podcasts. Know why your podcast will appeal to them and their audience and show the compatibility correlation. All in all, make your presentation a short, well-told story, meaning, PRACTICE your presentation plenty of times beforehand.

The sources I used for my research were either blogs written by authors who have backgrounds in leadership, presentation or business and such, or certified stations like CBC and their prestigious Dragons Den entrepreneur show. The podcast blogs look and checked-out to be professional with contact information, and detailed, certified credentials on their About page. In one of the podcasts, there are a few guest individuals who were introduced also as reliable sources with reasonable education and experience backgrounds. The one video of the Behind the Scenes of Dragons Den was, although a video of regular business owners/regular people, yet their advice came from first-hand experience and I believe their advice in particular, to a fellow regular pitcher, is the most realistic re-cap of the pitching process.

http://www.cbc.ca/dragonsden/behindthescenes/audition-advice-from-the-den

http://coachingforleaders.com/podcast/pitching-a-great-idea/

http://www.jumpstartinc.org/blog/podcast-perfecting-your-pitch.aspx

                The information I need to be clear on when presenting my pitch this week will be my overall knowledge of the topic, the specific question/issue I will be regarding and the key aspects that it will encompass, the importance of this topic in relation to current events or the reason from its revival, my sources to be filtered to the best, most reliable material to create an authoritarian, yet informal tone in my, after all, scholarly-ish podcast. Overall, to present the appeal and the interesting side of the topic and why it will be as interesting for audiences as it was for me to research.

W14 Shanice Grocia Topic Selection

I have chosen the podcast show Lexicon Valley, and decided to focus on, “Jumping Salty in the O” a podcast by Bob Garfield and Mike Vulou that discussed the topic of Ebonics.  The actual phrase “Ebonics” is one that is highly confusing and controversial because of the issue - what does it really refer to? The term was first coined in 1970 by a psychologist and attempted to define African American English. The question still remains however; what exactly is African American English? Is it broken English? A dialect? Vernacular speech? Or is it a separate language on its own?

I found it quite interesting how African Americans not only have a sub-culture, but also a debateable language under the bigger umbrella of English. An interesting factor that the podcast brought into play was the Kathryn Stockett debate. The popular book and Grammy nominee film, The Help, was written by the Caucasian author, Kathryn Stockett. She uses the sub-language, Ebonics within her writing to portray the lives and stories of the African American characters within her work. The debate, however, was if she even had the authority or should have even used this dialect in the first place.

Through listening to this podcast and using Spark (Student Papers and Academic Research Kit) to narrow and define my topic, I found the “Describe” “Analyze” “Connect” options to be the most helpful tools in better understanding and critiquing what the assignment is asking for. These options explain the term for better comprehension and can even be contrasted with the next page that offers “Disciplinary Approaches” for different faculties.

In conclusion, I’d like to narrow this topic to focus on Ebonics in relation to the production of film and literature. What are reasons producers and authors of books use Ebonics within their works when such a heavy controversial background surrounds the language? Through using SPARK, It has allowed me to recognize the audience as active thinkers in my podcast. Hence the reason why I decided to ask a question that opens up to many possibilities and critiques. Students in my position should always keep in mind that the audience is not always passive, and may not agree with the stance the podcast-broadcaster may take.

Sara Siddiqui, W14: Topic Selection

Initially, I was sure that I wanted to use one the following podcast shows: On the Media, Freakonomics, Under the Influence, and Stuff You Missed in History Class to find a topic that I want to emulate for my own show. I was convinced that I would be able to find an array of topics on social and cultural issues on those podcast shows. However, as I browsed through various topics in the aforementioned podcast shows, I did not find anything that caught my attention. I was interested in creating a podcast on 1) the caste system in India (and its impact on children and youth), 2) learning disabilities and what it means to be normal, or 3) looking at the topic of shadism/colourism beyond its colonialist discourse. Unfortunately, I had an extremely tough time finding any podcast that covered these subjects, as 1) these topics are quite broad and 2) I could not find any podcast on these topics. Hence, I began looking at different podcast shows and in the midst of doing so, I came across an interesting topic, titled: "Ungifted: Intelligence Redefined" on Spark. Nora Young (Interviewer) and Scott Barry Kaufman (a cognitive psychologist - interviewee) were engaged in a dialogue about the ways that we currently define "intelligence," and how labels such as "gifted" or "learning disabled" influence children's learning and self-esteem. I enjoyed the style of the podcast, and it was interesting that the topic was presented in the form of an interview.

In terms of creating my own short podcast, I want to use an "On the Media" style podcast by focusing mainly on the portrayals of individuals who have learning disabilities or are considered as "gifted". I want to explore how stereotypes are treacherous, as it creates an oversimplified image or idea of people's actions and behaviour, which are more complex and relative than individuals assume. Although, I will be drawing on a topic that I found on Spark, I want to use an 'On the Media' style podcast for my show and try to present it in the form of an interview. In my short podcast episode, I want to review the dangers of labels and discuss its implications in the realm of education. Moreover, I want to explore how stereotypes have the potential to further stigmatize a particular group of individuals (who share similar experiences of marginalization) and thus, may internalize a discourse of being a misfit in society.

I used SPARK last semester for an assignment that I had to complete, and I found it extremely helpful. For example, since the assignment for this course revolves around research (and the process of researching), I had a look at the "Research" section on SPARK, and it suggests that depending on the length of the paper, we should have at least 5-8 resources for a shorter paper, and 8-10 resources for a longer paper. Although, we are not writing an "essay," I presume that our transcript for the podcast will be around 5-7 pages (single-spaced). Hence, I am aim to find at least 5-8 resources so that I do not overwhelm myself with too much information, which I would not be able to cover in 15 minutes. Additionally, as I was going through the left panel on SPARK, the time management bar covered interesting topics and suggestions for research. I also came across a helpful checklist for assignments: http://www.yorku.ca/spark/time_management/Time%20Management%20-%20Assignment%20Task%20Checklist_Final_Oct4.pdf

In my opinion, websites like SPARK are great for students who are struggling with topic selection and decision-making, however, I believe that it is crucial for students to consult with course instructors occasionally to make sure that they are on the right track.

Adelina Ruffolo, W14: Topic Selection

I chose to listen to the 'Under the Influence' podcast. The topic of discussion was 'The Psychology of Price.' Not only do I find this topic interesting in general, but it also took a psychological perspective on the subject, which interests me a great deal. I enjoyed the use of music in the podcast in the introduction and as breaks between speech. The music chosen also fit in well with the topic being discussed. The pace of the speaker is also fairly good, he is not speaking too quickly or too slowly but at a pace that he can be understood and heard. I also liked that the language is not overtly complicated but not 'dumbed' down. It was beneficial that the speaker explained certain terms that may not be well known by the average person. The speaker is convincing and well-informed on the topic they are talking about. It is clear that a lot of consideration and research went into getting information about this topic. 

I have two topic ideas for my podcast and cannot decide between the two yet. The Under the Influence topic interests me because advertisements sell people goods and services, they can be presented to the public in both ethical and unethical ways. Advertisements get people talking for both good and bad reasons, they want to be remembered and leave a lasting impact. Some advertisements target people in an overtly obvious manner. For instance, there was an advertisement that a Canadian company did for an mothers against guns group in America. The ad depicted one child holding an item that is illegal in America and another child holding a gun. The message of the ad was clear, but many felt it was unethical to show children holding guns. The ad and the controversy surrounding it says a lot about our culture and the generation we live in. The other topic I am interesting in doing my podcast on is 'On the Media'. Journalists produce stories that are both ethical and unethical. The Rob Ford case is particularly interesting because not only is he the mayor of Toronto but also apparently a drug addict. The question to bear in mind when it comes to this particular topic is, is it ethical for reporters to discuss and uncover Rob Ford's drug addiction? Should it have been discussed because he is a public figure and therefore, his rights as a private citizen no longer apply? Or should what he does in his private time be kept from the public? Ralph Potter created what is known as a Potter Box which is a step-by-step guideline on making ethical decisions in journalism. The Potter Box helps journalists decide whether or not to publish a story that may or may not be ethical. 

The Spark website did not really help me much in regards to making decisions about my podcast. My advice to fellow students in my position is just to take the time to do proper research and not be lazy. Improper research can lead to faulty information and even at times plagiarism. Also, to get as much information from multiple sources as possible.  

Topic Selection

For my assignment, I have chosen to go with either an Under the Influence or Everyday Einstein podcast styled show. I liked them personally because I found them easy to listen to. There were no commercials or excessive noises which would interrupt with my listening comprehension of the information the primary podcast voice was presenting to me. Some podcast shows, like the 99% Invisible, I found to be hard to listen to. They discussed deeper topics of science and technical things which the listener needs to keenly listen to, yet clips of sounds would interfere with my comprehension. I felt like those ‘sound scenes’ would apply best visually not audibly because knowing little about the topic and having a ‘sound scene’ at the beginning of a podcast makes it extremely difficult for the audience to visualize something they do not know about or recognize yet.

            I want to create a show about the ancient city of Petra found in Jordan- a historical/architectural/cultural piece or on gangs in prison. I want it to be easy on the ears- audibly simple to comprehend and understand, yet appealing and hooking even in its simplicity. Although, contrarily Sparks uses a controlled amount of background noise to keep its podcasts involving, I find the sounds-to-the-words synchronization too choreographed in a corny way.

Concerning topic discussion and The Question, I have noticed that most podcasts consist of about a quarter of defining and explaining, aside from answering a question. A topic is presented, talked about, expanded on briefly and then a question is asked. The question is followed by a few definitions or explanations to break down the topic further for the audience. The key to a successful podcast seems to be the quality of information and making sure that your audience is with you 100% of the way because once you say something the audience cannot go back and reread what you said in the case that they did not understand your information. Everything you say must be very understandable. 

Topic Selection

Daniel Calabretta

Student# 211059219

W14

Topic Selection

I have chosen to recreate a Freakonomics podcast, as it critically analyzes topics the most efficiently as opposed to the other podcasts available. Freakonomics looks at and analyzes various types of subject matter in a unique manner. Freakonomics offers more variety and diversity in comparison to the other podcasts. For example, ‘Grammar Girl’ focuses strictly on writing and grammatical elements whereas ‘Spark’ directs its attention to technological innovations and how they work. Being a political science minor, I am intrigued by Freakonomics, given the many political issues it covers. For example, in the latest podcast section of the website, Freakonomics discussed the contentious issue of whether or not to legalize drugs in more US states, in light of the legalization of marijuana in Colorado. 

            For my podcast, I will attempt to emulate the style and the topics that are similar to those found in Freakonomics. For instance, Freakonomics recently published a podcast entitled ‘Fear Thy Nature’. Stephen Dubner, journalist and author, examines this play (where the audience participates), called ‘Sleep No More’, by applying a social scientific approach used by Philip Zimbardo in his Stanford Prison experiment. I find it intriguing and, indeed fascinating, to see the application of a credible and academic method to a case study. I would like to mimic this podcast in particular, as it interviews an expert in the area of discussion and then receives feedback from non-experts who attended the interactive-play. The one element that I will try to imitate is examining a topic through the lens of a particular discipline of study. Similar to Freakonomics, I will also input archival audio in my podcast and play segments of individuals I have interviewed.

            I will be creating a podcast on the topic of the incumbent Harper government as to the manner in which it has attempted to undermine and, in large measure, effectively discourage the work of independent and peer-reviewed scientific work conducted by scientists employed within the federal civil service because there findings and research do not always accord with the political and policy agenda of the Harper government. The deleterious environmental impacts and substantial carbon footprint caused by tar sands’ extraction and development in Western Canada are issues that these scientists have analyzed thoroughly, but whose findings and recommendations have not resonated appealingly to the Harper government. The dichotomy in respect to this issue is that science is based primarily on fact whereas politics are largely based on “spin”. In terms of interviews for the podcast, I may consult with Jessica Vaisica who is a research officer in the Faculty of Science at York, along with students in my class in an attempt to get multiple and varied perspectives on this issue. I will be analyzing the political, societal and economic ramifications of the discontinuance of federal research centers and the implications and consequences that this political agenda can have to the scientific community in particular and to all Canadians in general. 

Emilia Vieni, W14: Topic Selection

       Despite what I wrote in my last blog post, I will be researching a topic related to Everyday Einstein instead of Freakonomics or Under the Influence, which I had at first planned. I ended up thoroughly going through every set of podcasts, and realized I actually find Everyday Einstein to be very interesting! I enjoy the range of topics, from the Space Time Continuum to something more simple, like Why the Sky is Blue, and I realized that in my free time (especially when I am at work) I research out of interest many topics similar to what you would find on Everyday Einstein, as they spark my interest quite a bit. I think I would really enjoy my research experience a lot more if I could report on a mysterious, scientific topic.
        Like I said, I enjoy Everyday Einstein's range of topics, but I also found the way they are explained quite effective. Lee Falin keeps a good pace throughout his podcasts, which allows for a better understanding of what he is talking about, even when he reports on the mathematics of space time continuum. He also uses a vocabulary that isn't too saturated, which is good for keeping a level understanding with the audience members.
        After getting a better understanding of the kinds of podcasts created for Everyday Einstein, I then had to think of something that I would enjoy explaining. After reaching topics related to space and earth (which I find the most fascinating), I ended up going with "The Colonization of Mars". This topic explains how and why humans might seriously one day, permanently move to Mars. There is a lot of information on the topic, so a challenge for me in my podcast will be breaking down all my information into a 15 minute segment, and keeping it simple as well as accurate.
      I took a look at Spark while I was trying to find a topic. It seemed fine, but I suppose it did not help me as much as it could since I already knew the direction I was going with my topic (so I had already taken the steps it outlined subconsciously). If you are having trouble with your topic selection, Spark does help a little when it comes to breaking the search steps down, but I think it is more for people who are new to the task of finding a research topic, since the steps are very simple and if you are already used to research, then you will already be doing what they state. I would not add to their advice, as I think it is fine as is. Anything more complicated or detailed would take away from the simplicity it is trying to convey to students in order to help them not feel so overwhelmed with the task of finding a topic.