CPB has awarded Southern California Public Radio a two-year grant of $500,000 to help the organization grow LAist Studios, its podcast division.
“Southern California Public Radio has a proven record of producing engaging, on-demand programming,” said Kathy Merritt, CPB SVP for radio, journalism and CSG services, in a news release. “CPB is pleased to support their efforts to build on that record to reflect the rich cultural landscape of Los Angeles and engage with audiences seeking connection, information, and entertainment.”
LAist Studios, which was created in 2019, has produced several limited-run and ongoing podcasts including The Big One, Tell Them I Am, Servant of Pod, California Love, Hollywood, the Sequel and Norco ’80. The Big One, which anticipates a devastating earthquake on the West Coast, was named a top podcast in 2019 by outlets including Vulture, The Atlantic and The New Yorker. Apple named California Love a top podcast for 2020.
The grant will help SCPR boost its production and development of programs that can attract “young and underserved audiences,” according to the release.
“With Latino audiences making up nearly half of the Southern California region, the funding will support staffing and help LAist Studios empower up-and-coming content creators by giving them the tools to develop shows and engage diverse young audiences,” the release said.
“Since day one, our mission has been to create innovative on-demand audio that is representative of our amazing city,” said SCPR CCO Kristen Muller. “We are grateful for CPB’s support and excited to build on our momentum.”