“Code Switch,” NPR’s signature podcast, which discusses race and identity, is growing its audience with the transition to radio and other platforms.
The Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) announced its plans to provide a $600,000 grant for the podcast to expand its presence on the radio, through live and virtual events, and social media.
“CPB originally invested in Code Switch 10 years ago, and since then, it has been a model of successful innovation in public media,” Patricia Harrison, president, and CEO of CPB said.
“We’re pleased to support the expansion of its reach on radio and on multiple platforms to advance needed discussions and awareness about race and identity. This dialogue is crucial to helping us understand one another, which is the basis of a civil society.”
With the expansion of a new host and a senior editor, the Code Switch team will boost its production of short news stories featured on NPR’s flagship news programs. The show plans to provide more extended features that will be written and produced by noteworthy journalists, scholars, contributors, and Code Switch associates.
“We are grateful to CPB for their support of Code Switch that has allowed it to grow from blog to podcast, radio show and live events program. Code Switch’s fearless conversations about race are more vital than ever now and a key part of public radio’s mission to serve the American public,” NPR President and CEO John Lansing said.
“Thanks to this grant, the Code Switch team will be able to reach an even broader audience and become a larger forum for discussion, innovation, and thoughtful conversation.”
Eduardo Razo is the Assistant Content Editor for BNM, which includes writing daily news stories on the news media industry. He can be found on Twitter @eddierazo_ or you can reach him by email at eddie1991razo@gmail.com.
