In an enlightening event hosted by Founder Jon Savage, the Media Masterclass at Newtown Junction AMPD Studios on 29 November 2024 was a transformative experience, designed for aspiring podcasters and content creators. Attendees had the unique opportunity to unlock the secrets of success within the rapidly growing podcast industry, courtesy of the African Podcast Network, the largest network of its kind on the continent. Throughout the session, participants delved into crucial topics including the business of podcasting, monetisation strategies, and how to effectively transform their passion for storytelling into a viable career. The interactive format of the masterclass encouraged active participation, allowing attendees to engage through Q&A segments, where Jon Savage shared invaluable advice and insights based on his extensive experience in the field.
Jon Savage is a dynamic South African director, content strategist, podcaster, musician, and multi-disciplinary creative who has made a significant impact across various industries. Known for his boundless energy and passion for innovation, Jon is the founder of the African Podcast Network (APN), a platform that amplifies African voices and fosters a new wave of storytelling through podcasting. With a career that spans music, broadcasting, and digital content, Jon has become a leading figure in the African media and creative industries. His journey is marked by numerous accolades, showcasing his creative ingenuity and leadership in content creation. Among his notable achievements, Jon has received 4 Loeries for Mashlab, 3 South African Music Awards, and 2 Liberty Radio Award nominations for The Eye. He also garnered 5 Loeries nominations for AMPD Studios by Old Mutual, reflecting his diverse contributions to the field.Â
Jon’s work has not gone unnoticed on the international stage—he was part of the South African selection for the Cannes Film Festival for his work on Stone Cold Jane Austen and received a Loerie nomination for BUSQR. His innovative spirit was further recognized with an SXSW Spotlight selection for product innovation, underscoring his commitment to pushing boundaries in both digital content and creative storytelling. As an expert in the podcasting business, Jon emphasizes the importance of monetisation and industry insights, guiding aspiring content creators on how to thrive in the evolving podcast landscape. His Media Masterclass sessions, held at Newtown Junction and AMPD Studios, are highly sought after by those eager to learn about the intricacies of the podcast industry. Jon Savage’s contributions to podcasting and the broader media landscape continue to inspire a new generation of creators, making him a seminal figure in the evolution of African storytelling through technology.
APN takes podcasting beyond traditional audio, offering 360 Podcast Marketing Solutions tailored to amplify brand messaging. Through immersive content integration, strategic sponsorships, and programmatic audio, APN ensures campaigns deliver measurable results. APN is more than a network; it’s an enabler for emerging talent. Through AMPD Studios, Africa’s largest empowerment hub, APN provides aspiring podcasters with free access to world-class studios and content creation tools, thanks to a partnership with MTN. As a platform-agnostic network, APN distributes content across major platforms like Apple, Spotify, and YouTube
By attending this masterclass, participants gained a deeper understanding of the industry’s dynamics and learned how to navigate the challenges and opportunities within the podcasting landscape.This event not only equipped creators with the tools for success but also reinforced the idea that with the right guidance and resources, anyone can thrive in the ever-evolving world of content creation.For more information and updates on future events, be sure to follow the African Podcast Network and join the movement toward innovative and impactful storytelling