How Audio Stories Build Literacy with Carla Herbertson, Co-Founder of Small Wardour episode artwork

EPISODE · Dec 17, 2025 · 45 MIN

How Audio Stories Build Literacy with Carla Herbertson, Co-Founder of Small Wardour

from The BookMachine Podcast: Conversations in Publishing · host BookMachine

Why audio matters for young readers and how it can empower children’s literacy and critical thinking. In this episode, we are joined by Carla Herbertson, former BBC children's radio producer and co-founder of Small Wardour. Carla is a passionate advocate for accessibility, literacy and the power of audio to bring stories to life. She talks about why kids audio is booming, how publishers can build creative multi-platform story worlds, and what the industry must do to engage children where they are. Carla also shares the story behind Bust or Trust, the hit investigative mystery podcast teaching media literacy to 7 to 11 year olds, and explains why audio can be a vital first step in helping children become confident, joyful readers.BookMachine Creative AgencyMarketing for the Publishing and Learning sectors. Your campaigns sorted from strategy to execution. BookMachine CampusFind the knowledge, inspiration and connections to thrive in the publishing world.BookMachine Creative AgencyMarketing for the Publishing and Learning sectors. Your campaigns sorted from strategy to execution.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Exclusive offer for Podcast Listeners! Get 20% off BookMachine Campus Membership with the code BMPOD20. Go to bookmachine.org/campus.Find out about BookMachine at the links below:BookMachine Creative AgencyBookMachine CAMPUS Live and Digital Publishing EventsThe BookMachine BlogFollow us on social media:Twitter (X) InstagramLinkedIn (Agency Page)LinkedIn (Community Page)

Episode metadata supplied by the publisher feed · Published Dec 17, 2025

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Why audio matters for young readers and how it can empower children’s literacy and critical thinking. In this episode, we are joined by Carla Herbertson, former BBC children's radio producer and co-founder of Small Wardour. Carla is a passionate advocate for accessibility, literacy and the power of audio to bring stories to life. She talks about why kids audio is booming, how publishers can build creative multi-platform story worlds, and what the industry must do to engage children where they...

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How Audio Stories Build Literacy with Carla Herbertson, Co-Founder of Small Wardour

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This episode was published on December 17, 2025.

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