WITH AWARD-WINNING MULTI-HYPHENATE KENYA BARRIS
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The “Variety x Audible Cocktails and Conversations” panel at The Audible Listening Lodge showcased the art of conversation with esteemed guests Kenya Barris and Rachel Ghiazza. The panel del into their experiences and insights on the importance of meaningful dialogue in today’s society.
Kenya Barris, renowned writer and producer known for his work on hit TV shows like “Black-ish” and “Grown-ish,” shared his thoughts on how conversation plays a crucial role in storytelling and creating authentic characters. He emphasized the power of genuine conversations in addressing complex social issues and promoting understanding among diverse audiences.
Rachel Ghiazza, Vice President of Content Acquisition at Audible, added her expertise on the art of audio storytelling. She discussed how conversations through audio formats have the unique ability to engage listeners and evoke emotions. Ghiazza highlighted the importance of choosing the right voices and tones to convey stories effectively.
The panel attendees had the opportunity to learn from these industry leaders and gain insights on how conversation can be a catalyst for change and growth. It was an enlightening discussion that celebrated the art of conversation and its impact on entertainment and culture.
Panel discussion highlights included:
- Kenya Barris on working with Audible on projects including DJ Drama’s Gangsta Grillz Podcast: “Audible wanted to do things that were far beyond anyone else [in audio]. Immersive, really sort of 360-degree sonic things that make you feel something different than a normal podcast. It didn’t feel flat, and it felt like, as a storyteller, the kind of thing I want to do.”
- Rachel Ghiazza on the types of stories Audible tells and what listeners will take away from them, “[At Audible] we really care about the creative arts… we create things where there are strong characters that leave listeners feeling like they understand who they are, have some kind of connection to them, and there was a real story.”
- Kenya Barris on the power and potential of audio storytelling: “Podcasting can be relevant now, and I think that’s a really important and special part of the medium. We need to be able to talk about what we’re experiencing right now, and do it in a real, immediate way.”
Photos by John Salangsang & Katie Jones/Variety for Audible
Video by Variety for Audible
