Digital Culture Podcast

In this episode, James Akers and co-host Adam Sykes speak with Ankur Bahl, actor, writer, consultant and former Director of Digital Stage and Studio at Sadler’s Wells. Together they discuss how cultural organisations can approach digital transformation, understand evolving audience expectations, and make better use of data and technology. Ankur also shares his perspective on AI, organisational change, and the importance of creating authentic connections with audiences. They discuss: Why digital transformation is about people, processes and strategy, not just technology How cultural organisations can better understand audience behaviour and meet rising expectations The role of AI in arts organisations and why leaders need governance rather than avoidance Links and resources discussed in this episode: Download the transcript for this episode (Word document)Responsible AI Practical Toolkit from Arts Council EnglandFollow Ankur on Instagram and LinkedInMusic by ⁠⁠SHAR Further support The Digital Culture Network is here to support you and your organisation. Our Tech Champions can provide free one-to-one support to all creative and cultural organisations who are in receipt of, or eligible for, Arts Council England funding. If you need help or would like to chat with us about any of the advice we have covered above, please get in touch. For our latest updates, join our mailing list and follow us on LinkedIn.

The Digital Culture Podcast is for creative and cultural professionals to get to know the Digital Culture Network team, learn how we can help your digital skills development, and find out what’s happening across the sector. In this episode, James Akers speaks to digital marketing expert Adam Koszary about how social media has evolved and what it means for cultural organisations today. They discuss the importance of clear strategy, authentic tone of voice, and creating engaging content that connects with different audiences. Adam also shares practical advice for small teams on balancing creativity, resources and expectations in an increasingly complex digital landscape. They discuss: Why having a clear focus and strategy is essential in today’s algorithm-driven social platforms How to develop an authentic tone of voice that resonates with different audiences Practical ways small teams can create effective content without chasing viral success Links and resources discussed in this episode: Download the transcript for this episode (Word document)  Find out more about Adam on his website Subscribe to Adam’s newsletter Music by ⁠⁠SHAR

In this episode of the Digital Culture Podcast, James Akers speaks to Tech Champions Dean Shaw and Adam Sykes to explore how organisations can use the tools they already have to better understand, reach, and engage their audiences. From simple content creation techniques to practical Customer Relationship Management (CRM) automations, the conversation highlights how even small teams with tight budgets can make big improvements to their audience journeys.They discuss: How using content at the right time can create more engaging communicationWhy you don't need big budgets for high-impact contentWhat CRM automations and personalisation options can help audiences feel more connected to your organisationLinks and resources discussed in this episode: Download the transcript for this episode (Word document)Indigo Ltd Museums and Galleries BenchmarkSubstrakt 2025 Benchmark ReportMusic by ⁠⁠SHAR 

In this episode four Tech Champions reflect on their experience at the 2026 REMIX Summit in London – a fast‑paced, future‑focused gathering exploring innovation across the creative industries. Their conversation highlights themes that stayed with them a month later: the growing value of authenticity in a digital world, the resurgence of “slow culture,” the structural challenges around class and access, the recognition of Digital Arts as a new art form by Arts Council England, and the expanding role of creative health.They discuss: How authenticity and “slow culture” are gaining momentumWhy Arts Council England’s announcement was met with excitementCreative health and digital wellbeing tools are on the riseLinks and resources discussed in this episode: Download the transcript for this episode (Word document)REMIX Summit London 2026Digital Arts becomes Arts Council England’s tenth supported artformMusic by ⁠⁠SHAR 

In this episode of the Digital Culture Podcast, James Akers speaks with Katy Farrell and Nicola Barratt, the Social Media Tech Champions, on the whirlwind of digital change in 2025 and look ahead to what 2026 will bring. They unpack everything from AI slop flooding our feeds, to the rise of vertical video, evolving engagement metrics, the increasing role of search across social platforms, and the wellbeing challenges faced by social media managers.They discuss: Why audiences increasingly value real people and real storiesHow social search is transforming content discoveryWhat steps can be taken to avoid staff burnoutLinks and resources discussed in this episode: Download the transcript for this episode (Word document)Newsletters to keep up to date on social:Dan Slee’s weekly newsletterMatt Navarra’s Geekout NewsletterDigital Culture Network newsletterConnect with Katy and Nicola on LinkedIn:Katy FarrellNicola BarrattGreat content examples:Creating Paddington’s oranges from Alice Esme GreenacreSmashing pumpkins from Royal ArmouriesTraitors round table from National Museums ScotlandTK Maxx trend from Thackray Museum of MedicineEmplifi 2026 report – findings from a survey of more than 560 marketersMusic by ⁠⁠SHAR