So during lockdown I worked with a lifelong friend, a musician Tom Southerton who’s now based in Japan, to develop a podcast. I wanted to turn the tables and get me to talk a little bit more in depth about the importance of the broadcast network of connections.

It was great to talk with a few consultants from the Hawk network throughout the series and discover what their projects were like. As this is the broadcast network series I also liked getting guests from more obscure or leftfield areas too.

You can find out more by going to www.linkedin.com/company/ancast/ or https://www.hawkmediapartnership.com/team_member/ben-anchor/

Sneak preview Audiogram: https://share.descript.com/view/J21YyJ6ad49

During the episode we go through some talking points:

If you found this episode useful and want to hear other stories check out the series and subscribe, there are even plans for an audiobook so keep tuned in!

For more information about the host and additional offerings head over to ancast.co.uk

Thanks for listening!

Ben

More from host Ben:

I have been working at the 'hard end' of broadcast independently for many years, if there's a major transformation or project needing a specialist - this is where I shine. A big fan of cloud, DevOps and agile methods - I like having enough technical grounding and balance it with communicating with people - of all levels.

It all started working in production and editing videos on a laptop to now helping deliver huge complex broadcast projects where I can turn up and not be phased by any of it - let me work with the team and get on with delivering it without supervision. You will see from my track record all of this and when you meet me I like to build up trust and demonstrate this by attention to detail, honesty and big picture mentality.

In my spare time I love culture, like to travel and explore where I can improve my photography hobby - also like to get involved in charity fundraising. If you want to reach out feel free to send me a connection here and we can talk.

Specialities - project management, business analyst, media solutions engineering, workflow specialist, technical consultant, agile, facilitation, training

Me and Angus go way back and was one of my first senior managers I sort of got on with really, he has time for anyone and thought he would be a great guest. His expansion of Hawk has been incredible especially over the last year and fascinating to find out what’s behind it all.

It was great to find out that Angus has also spent some of his career in satellite, radio and the European space agency - giving weight to finding your ideal role!

You can find out more by going to www.hawkmediapartnership.com/ or https://www.linkedin.com/in/angusblackwood/

Sneak preview Audiogram: https://share.descript.com/view/mLl7AMDDvAb

During the episode we go through some talking points:

If you found this episode useful and want to hear other stories check out the series and subscribe, there are even plans for an audiobook so keep tuned in!

For more information about the host and additional offerings head over to ancast.co.uk

Thanks for listening!

Ben

More from guest Angus:

I founded The Hawk Media Partnership to meet the needs of broadcast and media companies looking for a one stop shop in technical consultancy.

Broadcast & media is undergoing extraordinary change. Conventional linear TV is giving way to radical new models of media delivery. New players like Netflix, Amazon and Apple are pumping millions into production and rights acquisition. DAZN is on the warpath. Will BBC Match of the Day, which began in 1964, still have an audience in 2024?

These monumental changes, coupled with intense competition for eyeballs, mean that broadcasters and their suppliers need to be able to deliver media to consumers better than ever before - faultlessly, seamlessly and efficiently.

Through a mutual friend and someone I’d done a show with previously it was a recommendation - Amber was keen to do a show and I had a slot left.

I’d always wanted to find out what apprenticeships were like and how the mentoree support was like with Rise - Amber even recognised a few previous guests!

You can find out more by going to https://www.linkedin.com/in/amber-holbrook-721284a4/

Sneak preview Audiogram: https://share.descript.com/view/w4MtMzljoq9

During the episode we go through some talking points:

If you found this episode useful and want to hear other stories check out the series and subscribe, there are even plans for an audiobook so keep tuned in!

For more information about the host and additional offerings head over to ancast.co.uk

Thanks for listening!

I’ve known most of the panel members for as long as I’ve been going to the IBC show, some as independents, some with their companies but all sharing the same camaraderie. And as were in the festive period me and some of the panel spruced up with hats and Christmas jumpers!

I wanted to host a live podcast on the eve of 'IBC 2021'. Streaming to LinkedIn which was one thing I’d always wanted to do. I'm keen to get some industry folks together and talk about the 2nd show in a row cancelled, the advent of IBC Digital and other topics related to the show.

You can find out more about the IBC show by going to https://show.ibc.org/

Sneak preview Audiogram podcast: https://share.descript.com/view/dt6RcZmQaDb

During the episode we go through some talking points:

For more information about the host and additional offerings head over to ancast.co.uk

Thanks for listening!

More on our panel guests:

Paul Markham:

I've done software, hardware, infrastructure, networks, web, cloud, security, audio, video and broadcast technologies. I've managed teams, recruited teams, performance managed and handled redundancies. I took the ITIL foundation exam and got only one answer wrong. I've worked on business cases, led workshops, solved awkward problems and generally tried to bridge the gaps between technology, business and people to get to the real initiatives that can make things better.

Tony Dotchin:

Prince 2 and Agile qualified Project Manager with a proven track record of delivering complex and diverse projects.

Experienced in design and delivery of contribution events using technical and operational knowledge to create robust and innovative delivery mechanisms and operational solutions for sports broadcasting. Extensive experience on DTT and DTH platforms. Former REME avionics technician.

Jonathan Marshall

Whether in his earlier role in BBC R&D or latterly in commercial innovation, Jonathan has played a key role in the invention and dissemination of many of the interactive technologies we now take for granted - Red button TV, hybrid TV (internet + broadcast) and integration of programming with Social networks and online trends. To do so has required a leading level of creative and truly multidisciplinary understanding and vision, working with other visionaries, writers, programme makers, technologists and broadcasters. The result of his work has been to significantly extend the reach and possibility of the creative industries in both broadcast and online environments.

Phil Hodgetts:

I partner with broadcasters and telecommunications companies across Europe to scale their flexible workforce in-line with delivery needs. My role is to work closely with various client stakeholders to scope requirements of unique and complex technology programmes, understand what skills are required and deliver those skills from Caspian One's Partnered Network of Associates.

I’d met Jeremy working on related projects in the industry, it was only after he became one of the network of Hawk consultants that I really understood what makes him tick. It was interesting to hear from someone who’s been around the block and likes the smaller broadcasters and companies now.

Who knew that Jeremy was once a TV presenter, he comes from the creative and post-production side of broadcast and now finds himself deep in the technology now.

You can find out more by going to: www.hawkmediapartnership.com/team_member/jeremy-smith/

Sneak preview Audiogram: https://share.descript.com/view/elto6g2EaUp

During the episode we go through some talking points:

If you found this episode useful and want to hear other stories check out the series and subscribe, there are even plans for an audiobook so keep tuned in!

For more information about the host and additional offerings head over to ancast.co.uk

Thanks for listening!

Ben

More from guest Jeremy:

With more than 25 years’ experience in broadcast television operations and programme-making, I offer unique leadership for hard-working teams, provide structure to complicated activities and solve knotty problems in pressured and dynamic environments to deliver efficiencies and clever solutions.

A hybrid background leading operational and technical teams for large and small businesses in the television industry together with experience writing, directing and editing programmes for ITV and BBC helps me bridge gaps of understanding between creative and operational parts of businesses.

Having put out another guest slot post wondering who may respond I was interested in Priyanka’s response as she is in social media software. My take on it was is it part of broadcast media and how it has evolved with the younger generations.

It was my first 3 shot interview with Priyanka and co-founder Shannon both taking part, it was fascinating hearing the Volv story and how they fit into this new eco-system of news consumption.

You can find out more by going to https://volvmedia.com/ or LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/company/volvmedia/

Sneak preview Audiogram: https://share.descript.com/view/0Y56tDomDX2

During the episode we go through some talking points:

If you found this bonus episode useful and want to hear other stories check out the series and subscribe, there are even plans for an audiobook so keep tuned in!

For more information about the host and additional offerings head over to ancast.co.uk

Thanks for listening!

Ben

More from guests Shannon & Priyanka:

Our founders Shannon Almeida and Priyanka Vazirani reimagined the news after they personally witnessed the jarring implications of biased news while working on a social campaign for their first startup. Now, they are taking on the media industry as a whole by solving its three main challenges - reader's declining attention span, information overload, and most importantly, media bias - in an easy, approachable manner.

I’ve known Kim for many years and always been a friendly outgoing type in the industry so I directly messaged her and invited her on the show. Glad she was able to impart some of her insights into acquiring skills in the industry and what it’s like to move on.

Kim explains her early days and the fact that commercials were mastered on tape and couriered around to the broadcast facilities. Also little known fact is her candle making side hobby!

You can find out more by going to www.pmi.org or www.linkedin.com/in/kim-j-billings/

Sneak preview Audiogram: https://share.descript.com/view/MXCNhO5ha49

During the episode we go through some talking points:

If you found this episode useful and want to hear other stories check out the series and subscribe, there are even plans for an audiobook so keep tuned in!

For more information about the host and additional offerings head over to ancast.co.uk

Thanks for listening!

Ben

More from guest Kim:

A results-oriented Senior Manager, relied upon to lead digital transformation and innovatory business change. Leading programs to support the strategic direction of the business and achieve organisational goals. A pragmatic and methodical approach; leading by example, encouraging cross-vertical synergies and departmental collaboration to ensure continuous improvement. My greatest satisfaction comes from coaching and mentoring staff to develop their careers and grow their sphere of influence.

https://share.descript.com/view/MXCNhO5ha49

We go way back and actually started our operations jobs on the same day sharing rides in his car, we have had separate but great career paths in the industry. He messaged when I was doing series 1 asking if he can have a slot - so reserved him an episode in series 2!

Joseph’s work is something I don’t deal with day to day - especially new developments so was fascinated to understand the latest offerings. Hitting the nail on the head by saying it’s tried and tested to consumer so why not expand to business to business.

You can find out more by going to https://www.linkedin.com/in/joseph-nunwa/

Sneak preview Audiogram: https://share.descript.com/view/28ClI8kTqKK

During the episode we go through some talking points:

If you found this episode useful and want to hear other stories check out the series and subscribe, there are even plans for an audiobook so keep tuned in!

For more information about the host and additional offerings head over to ancast.co.uk

Thanks for listening!

Ben

More from guest Joseph:

Joseph is a proven technologist with a track record in identifying and implementing innovative transformation within the Media & Entertainment sector. Throughout his 14 year career, Joseph has held several progressive technical, operational and customer facing positions across global technology suppliers, service providers, and content owner organizations.

Joseph is a customer focussed result-driven individual who has demonstrated his ability to work for organizations with differing corporate strategies, showcasing his ability to adapt and grow within multi-national, multi-billion-dollar organizations.

I must have known Debbie for over 20 years since our call centre job at Uni and she was doing music production and initially wanted to go in that direction. I always bump into her at trade shows and always got time for each other - so when I was looking for final guests I decided to ask her.

Was great figuring out what went on since Uni as she left in the audio direction and only just figured out how she then took the broadcast route but via the audio route in. The talk is a good eye opener into starting in a place, company or role that is far removed from what you do today.

Sneak preview Audiogram: https://share.descript.com/view/JRuxw2TOkBS

During the episode we go through some talking points:

If you found this episode useful and want to hear other stories check out the series and subscribe, there are even plans for an audiobook so keep tuned in!

For more information about the host and additional offerings head over to ancast.co.uk

Thanks for listening!

Ben

More from guest Debbie:

APMP qualified. Audio systems design, test and installation. Experienced in systems integration and building solutions in workflows, playout and automation, MAM and production systems and in responding to tenders and creating proposals.

Experienced in designing and installing intercom systems. Bosch Project Management qualification achieved.

Specialties: Audio systems design, test and installation.

Intercom systems. Project Management

It was through our mutual network of consultants at Hawk that I met Kevin, I wasn’t sure what his specialist expertise was - until he offered to do a guest slot. It was great as I’d never been in the commercial part of broadcast so I learnt a thing or 2 from him.

The insight Kevin gives to brinkmanship, where deals go to the wire and where both sides know they need to make a deal - it was fascinating. He also offered alternate podcasts from anything from sailing to pottery I think!

You can find out more by going to https://www.hawkmediapartnership.com/team_member/kevin-moroney/

Sneak preview Audiogram: https://share.descript.com/view/apPGh8IyKNn

During the episode we go through some talking points:

If you found this episode useful and want to hear other stories check out the series and subscribe, there are even plans for an audiobook so keep tuned in!

For more information about the host and additional offerings head over to ancast.co.uk

Thanks for listening!

Ben

More from guest  Kevin:

Specialising in providing advice within the broadcast and wireless telecoms infrastructure sectors. Our Clients include major UK and European Broadcasters and Investors.

Areas of expertise include: I Transactional due diligence I Broadcast & Wireless Infrastructure I Business Strategy I Internet PTV I Service Management I Regulatory Matters I Spectrum Allocation and licensing I Digital TV & Radio I Commercial management & negotiations I Asset valuations I