Oliver Seymour
Oliver graduated with a BA in English Literature in 2017 and currently works as a Podcast Producer for Fresh Air, the UK’s leading branded podcast producer.
About Oliver's career
Describe your current role:
I’m a podcast producer for Fresh Air, the UK’s leading branded podcast producer. This means I work on podcasts, from coming up with ideas for a new series all the way through to distributing them to different platforms. Along the way, this includes sourcing guests, writing scripts, recording and editing interviews and carrying out research.
You feel as if everyone genuinely wants to be there. It’s not just ticking boxes to get a degree at the end – everyone relishes the chance to work together and learn from one another.
How did you get into this field after studying English Literature at Newcastle?
I got my first start in the audio industry by taking part in a six-week work experience scheme at a radio production company. I was then kept on as an Assistant Producer. For anyone interested in breaking into this type of work, I'd recommend beginning to gain experience and build a network as early as possible. You could take part in Newcastle's Student Radio society (The Student Radio Awards, in particular, are a great place to meet people), or create your own independent podcast. There are also lots of different organisations that may be of use, such as Multitrack Radio Academy, Rise & Shine, and UK Audio Network.
Studying English Literature at Newcastle University
How has studying English Literature at Newcastle helped you in your career?
My degree gave me the skills to think critically and openly about subjects. It’s really important in this career to see things from both your interviewee's and your audience’s perspectives. English Literature helped me learn to approach my interviews from multiple angles.
What advice would you give to a student interested in studying English Literature?
I would say make sure to get stuck in and make the most of it. The opportunity to spend three years reading and discussing texts with your peers and teachers, as well as writing creatively, is a brilliant one and I feel very privileged to have had that experience. Particularly in seminars, the more you put in, the more you get out. Don’t feel afraid to suggest a take that feels completely out there, as chances are it’ll spark a brilliant discussion.
What was the best thing about studying English Literature at Newcastle?
The passion of the staff and other students. You feel as if everyone genuinely wants to be there. It’s not just ticking boxes to get a degree at the end – everyone relishes the chance to work together and learn from one another.