Memphis, September 23, 2025
News Summary
The PodBox Memphis Festival is celebrating its third year with a lineup of free sessions, live pitch competitions, and hands-on labs for aspiring podcasters. Taking place at the Cossitt Library, the festival aims to make podcasting more accessible, featuring young talent and discussions on relevant topics led by experienced professionals. Attendees will have the chance to pitch their ideas for a chance to win coaching and promotion. This yearโs event coincides with International Podcast Day, making it a perfect time to engage with the growing podcasting community in Memphis.
Memphis is gearing up to host the PodBox Memphis Festival, celebrating its third year during the last weekend of September. The festival will take place from September 30 to October 1, coinciding with International Podcast Day. The event is set to occur at the Cossitt Library located downtown Memphis and will feature an array of free sessions, live pitch competitions, and hands-on labs designed for aspiring podcasters.
The festival was founded by Ena Esco, a 25-year radio veteran and host of the Verbally Effective podcast. In addition to leading the festival, Esco is the program director at LeMoyne-Owen College and oversees the Innovator-in-Residence program at Memphis Public Libraries. Originally, PodBox began as quarterly meetups with the objective of connecting and educating local podcasters, but it has since transformed into a full-fledged festival.
This year’s PodBox Memphis Festival places a strong emphasis on making podcasting easier and more accessible for everyone. Young podcasters Jordan and Louie, who are just 9 and 10 years old, will be showcasing their sports podcast called Mane Huddle. The festival will include informative sessions, one of which will focus on the evolving standards of journalism within modern podcasts, presented by senior news producer Loren. Additionally, Dr. Jamal, a pastor and podcaster, will lead discussions on faith and vulnerability, broadening the content available to attendees.
Participants at the PodBox Memphis Festival will also have the opportunity to submit 60-second video pitches in hopes of being selected for the live pitch competition. Five finalists will be chosen to present their pitches to a panel of Memphis media judges. The winning pitch will earn the recipient coaching from Esco, a full season on Magic 807 Radio, and promotion on the iHeartNetwork due to a partnering agreement with iHeart.
The festival will feature a fireside chat with Mayor Paul Young, addressing public investment in creator infrastructure, including the availability of free studios and classes. Esco has noted that podcasting serves as a powerful form of empowerment, allowing creators to voice their opinions and engage in important discussions that impact the Memphis community.
In addition to promoting healing and dialogue, the festival will support professional growth among podcasters. An intensive Q1 cohort will be offered for serious podcasters, focusing on pitch training and providing live feedback to participants. Furthermore, former iHeart General Manager Karen McCrary will lead workshops aimed at essential topics such as analytics, monetizing efforts, and establishing partnership structures that are crucial for podcasters’ success.
The PodBox Memphis Festival promises to be an engaging event for anyone interested in the art of podcasting. With its diverse sessions and opportunities for networking and growth, it appeals not only to seasoned podcasters but also to newcomers eager to learn the ropes of the industry.
Key Features of the PodBox Memphis Festival
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Dates | September 30 to October 1, 2023 |
| Location | Cossitt Library, downtown Memphis |
| Key Events | Free sessions, live pitch competitions, hands-on labs |
| Focus | Making podcasting faster and more accessible |
| Participants | Young podcasters, experienced journalists, community leaders |
| Pitch Competition | Video pitch submission for live competition; coaching and promotion for winner |
| Special Guests | Mayor Paul Young, Karen McCrary |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PodBox Memphis Festival?
The PodBox Memphis Festival is celebrating its third year, taking place the last weekend of September.
When does the festival take place?
This year’s festival coincides with International Podcast Day on September 30.
Where will the festival be held?
The festival will be held at the Cossitt Library located downtown Memphis.
Who founded the festival?
Ena Esco, a 25-year radio veteran and host of the Verbally Effective podcast, is the founder of the festival.
What events will take place at the festival?
The event will feature two days of free sessions, live pitches, and hands-on labs.
What is the focus of this year’s festival?
This year’s focus is on tools to make podcasting faster and more accessible.
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Additional Resources
- Choose901: PodBox Memphis Festival Returns
- Wikipedia: Podcast
- Daily Memphian: September 2024 Issue
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Podcast
- Choose901: Guide to Spring/Summer Festivals in Memphis
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
