BBC Sounds Audio Lab
The BBC’s audio accelerator for producers and content creators.
We’ve launched a plethora of fresh voices and developed a slate of distinctive content that better reflect both audio creatives and BBC audiences - across the UK. I’m excited about growing our work by developing a new ‘always on’ title with a supplier who’s as passionate about the gaps in podcasting as we are.
Overview
Since 2021, BBC Sounds Audio Lab has been amplifying early career podcasters and audio creators through commissioning, training, mentoring and working in partnership with BBC and independent productions teams.
We’ve launched lots of fresh voices, ensuring bold, distinctive and ambitious ideas serve to boost next-level opportunities whilst reflecting the experiences and needs of BBC audiences across the UK.
In Spring 2026, we released our latest commissions including Made In China (Transracial adoption), Judged – A Mother’s Love (Parenting & Crime), It’s So Loud In Here! (Neurodiversity) and MF DOOM – Long Island to Leeds (Music)
Some of our award-winning titles include Colouring in Britain (History), Blossom Trees & Burnt-out Cars (Nature), Criminally Queer – The Bolton 7 (True Crime), Instrumental – Black British Trailblazers (Music), Sacred Money (Religion) and Now Here (Society). Find the full collection on the website.
Audio Lab 2026
In Summer-Autumn 2026, we want to extend our work by commissioning and developing a longer running idea - whilst continuing to champion fresh on and off-air talent.
We aim to work closely with a supplier to launch a new “always on” title, that like Audio Lab titles so far, makes the most of the space between expected podcast commissioning. We want to continue platforming stories, interests and passions – exiting new audiences to press play week in, week out.
More information can be found in the BBC Sounds Audio Lab Commissioning Brief – Summer 2026.
Useful Documents
