In this episode, Detlef Wiese, Omar Essack, Isabel Wiese, Valentino Megale, and Quentin Howard explore the evolving role of AI in radio broadcasting as part of Radio Week 2026. They discuss the development of CaptionCast and its implications for the industry. The panelists highlight the importance of maintaining brand identity and creativity with AI, while addressing digital ethics and the need for human oversight in AI content creation. Discussions cover advancements in AI voice systems, preservation of minority languages, and AI's impact on job roles. The episode also delves into regulation, trust, and the future of AI in radio, concluding with insights on AI-first audio production and audience engagement.

(0:00) Introduction to Radio Week 2026 and smart ideas for the industry

(0:54) Introduction to CaptionCast and its development

(1:43) Omar Essack welcomes listeners to Radio Week Day four

(2:40) Encouraging audience interaction and introduction of panelists

(4:04) International audience participation in radio and audio

(5:10) Panelists discuss emerging technologies and digital ethics in radio

(6:14) Maintaining distinctiveness and brand identity with AI in radio

(9:42) AI's potential to inspire creativity and enhance producer capabilities

(14:06) AI's relevance and impact on radio organizations

(18:07) Repurposing content and improving listener experience with AI

(22:28) The necessity of humans in the AI content creation loop

(26:19) Advancements in AI voice and speech systems for diverse languages

(31:06) Preserving minority languages and current AI uses in radio

(34:39) Dynamic content creation and AI's impact on radio job roles

(42:11) Regulation and licensing in AI-generated music

(45:01) AI in cost savings, revenue generation, and voice recognition integration

(50:29) Trust, authenticity, and watermarking in AI-generated content

(53:02) AI in content verification and community management

(55:33) Starting AI-first audio production and disclosure of AI-generated content

(59:28) Audience trust and the use of AI voices in radio broadcasting

(1:00:29) Future expectations for AI in radio and an example of CaptionCast

(1:04:03) Closing remarks and anticipation for World Radio Day 2026