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ABOUT CYRIL KWADZO
In this episode, Adrian Daniels sits down with Cyril Kwadzo, co-founder and CEO of Gold Coast Report (GCR), Ghana’s largest podcast network. Cyril shares insights into the network’s popular shows, the significance of live events, and the strategic partnerships that have helped GCR thrive. This episode offers a deep dive into the podcasting landscape in Ghana and the innovative approaches GCR employs to engage and grow its audience.
We discussed:
-The origins and growth of GCR
– The challenges and triumphs of building a podcast network in Ghana
-The importance of consistency and community in podcasting.
CONNECT WITH KWADZO AND GCR
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegoldcoastreport/ Twitter: https://x.com/goldcoastreport Website: https://listentogcr.com/
SPECIAL LINKS
SPONSORS: Workspace Global: https://bit.ly/3Rz6tT9
Gluten-Free Bakery and Niche Breads and Catering in Accra, Ebat Foods: https://www.instagram.com/ebatsfood/
Build your own community with Skool: http://thesoundofaccra.com/skool
Visit Twi learning Centre: https://twilearningcentergh.com ( Use code: TLC-SA-2024)
Follow Twi Learning Centre: https://www.instagram.com/twi.learning.center.gh/
Rent anything in the UK: fatllama.com/r/adri-6451b
Free Podcast course: https://skl.sh/2TRY0fN
Start or uplevel a podcast: https://www.atozpodcasting.com
TIMESTAMPS
0:00 Incremental Improvements in African Podcast Production 18:31 Challenges of Podcasting in Africa 26:44 Mosaic’s Evolution and Impact 33:32 Ghana’s Podcasting Landscape 35:50 GCR Labs and Podcast Optimisation 37:57 Highlights of GCR’s Journey 42:04 Building a Sustainable Podcast Network 46:34 Monetisation Strategies for Podcasts in Ghana
KEY POINTS
Curious about the rise of podcasting in Ghana? Our latest episode of “The Sound of a Crowd” features an in-depth conversation with Cyril Kwadzo, co-founder and CEO of Gold Coast Report, Ghana’s largest podcast network. Discover how GCR is transforming the media landscape with innovative shows and live events.
Here are 3 key takeaways from our chat with Cyril:
– Organic Beginnings: GCR started from a simple idea and a BlackBerry phone, evolving into a network with over 25 hosts and multiple shows.
– Community Building: Live events like Mosaic have turned listeners into a vibrant community, showcasing the power of audio storytelling.
– Consistency is Key: From recording in a living room to partnering with major brands like Spotify, GCR’s journey underscores the importance of consistency and quality.
Tune in to hear more about GCR’s journey, the challenges of podcasting in Africa, and their vision for the future. Don’t miss out on this insightful episode!
– Pass this on to someone interested in podcasting.
Welcome and Introduction
– Adrian Daniels welcomes listeners to the Sound of Accra podcast.
– Introduction of the guest, Cyril Kwadzo, co-founder and CEO of Gold Coast Report (GCR), Ghana’s biggest podcast network.
Background and Name Origin
– Cyril explains the origin of his name and its unique spelling.
– Discussion on the initial plan for GCR and how it evolved from a late-night TV show concept to a podcast network.
Formation and Growth of GCR
– The initial idea of creating a late-night show inspired by The Daily Show and The Colbert Report.
– Transition to podcasting due to lack of response from TV networks.
– Recording the first test episode on a BlackBerry Z30.
– The organic growth of GCR from a single show to a network with multiple shows.
Key Shows and Content
– Overview of popular shows on the GCR network, including “Sincerely Accra,” “Free Your Mind,” “Sex and Sanity,” and “After the Whistle.”
– Discussion on the diverse interests and specialties of the hosts.
Production Quality and Team Dynamics
– Emphasis on the importance of high production quality and continuous improvement.
– The role of the team in maintaining consistency and quality across all shows.
– The structure and organization of the GCR team, including editors, graphic designers, and videographers.
Challenges and Low Moments
– Common challenges faced, such as technical issues and guest no-shows.
– The importance of resilience and learning from mistakes.
Podcasting in Ghana and Africa
– The cultural relevance of podcasting in Ghana and its growth potential.
– Comparison of the podcasting landscape in Ghana with other African countries.
– The role of GCR in promoting and growing the podcasting ecosystem in Ghana.
Live Shows and Community Engagement
– The significance of live shows for GCR, including the Mosaic event.
– The impact of live events on building a community and engaging with the audience.
– The strategic planning and execution of live shows.
COVID-19 Impact and Adaptation
– How COVID-19 provided an opportunity for GCR to reassess and improve its operations.
– The shift to remote recording and the use of platforms like Riverside and Zencastr.
– The importance of planning and structuring content during the pandemic.
Brand Partnerships and Revenue Streams
– The approach to securing brand partnerships and sponsorships.
– The importance of aligning values and goals with partners.
– Various revenue streams for GCR, including advertising, sponsorships, ticket sales, and merchandise.
Future Plans and Vision
– The vision for GCR in 2024 and beyond, including expanding their event space and community involvement.
– The goal of creating a sustainable and supportive environment for podcast creators and listeners.
Conclusion and Contact Information
– Adrian Daniels wraps up the episode, encouraging listeners to visit the GCR website and follow them on social media.
– Invitation for audience engagement and feedback on the episode.
Key Takeaways
– The importance of passion, consistency, and continuous improvement in podcasting.
– The role of community and audience engagement in building a successful podcast network.
– The potential for growth and innovation in the podcasting space in Ghana and Africa.
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