Podcasts, being primarily audio-based, largely exclude the Deaf community from a major platform for opinion, commentary and current affairs. Without BSL interpretation, live podcast events remain inaccessible, limiting Deaf audiences’ ability to engage with content that can shape public discourse. This exclusion creates a cultural gap, denying equal participation in a growing and influential media space central to modern storytelling and conversation.

Over two weekends, we will programme live BSL interpreters for key events and create tailored marketing materials in BSL as part of an audience development strategy that will focus on the Deaf community. We will dedicate marketing support to specifically engage with the Deaf community to attend our live events, advertising our available resources to ensure London Podcast Festival 2025 will be more inclusive with clear signage, hearing loop software and live BSL interpreters.