Persephonica, a major name in podcast production, has recently made headlines by establishing its first physical headquarters in Sheffield. This move signifies an important shift for the company and the media landscape in South Yorkshire.
While their London office remains active, the majority of Persephonica’s 14 staff members will now be based in Sheffield. This change is poised to create new opportunities and energize the media industry in the region.
Persephonica Expands to Sheffield
Persephonica, a well-known podcast production company, has opened its first physical headquarters in Sheffield. Their London base remains operational, but most of their 14 staff will now work from South Yorkshire.
Notable Productions
Persephonica is behind popular podcasts like Dua Lipa: At Your Service and Miss Me with Lily Allen and Miquita Oliver. They’ve also contributed to the success of Global’s The News Agents and recently launched Political Currency, hosted by Ed Balls and George Osborne.
Aiming to Create a Podcasting Hub
Co-founders Dino Sofos and Thomas O’Hara envision the Sheffield HQ becoming more than just an office. They aim to create a leading podcasting hub in South Yorkshire, producing major shows and nurturing new ideas and talent.
Commitment to Diversity
The founders are passionate about diversifying the media industry. Many talented individuals from lower-income backgrounds struggle to enter the media due to high living costs in London and low-paying internships.
Sofos and O’Hara believe that creating opportunities outside the capital is key to changing this. They plan to offer internships, training, and workshops, collaborating with local media and journalism courses.
Roots in Sheffield
Both Sofos and O’Hara were born and raised in Sheffield, making the city a significant choice for their headquarters. They’ve placed their office in the historic Leahs Yard, an area with deep cultural roots.
Sheffield holds a special place in their hearts. “Sheffield means the world to us. It’s where we were born and raised,” they said.
The city and its people have inspired them throughout their lives. They hope to add to Sheffield’s vibrant cultural landscape through their work.
Future Plans
Persephonica’s future in Sheffield looks promising. The company is set to offer a range of media and journalism opportunities to local talent. This move could transform the podcast industry in South Yorkshire and beyond.
The focus on nurturing and developing new talent is a significant move. It could pave the way for innovative and diverse voices in the media landscape.
Impact on the Local Economy
The new headquarters is expected to boost the local economy in Sheffield. With the influx of staff and potential new job opportunities, the city could see significant economic benefits.
Moreover, Persephonica’s presence might attract other media companies to consider Sheffield as a viable base of operations. This could further stimulate economic growth and job creation.
The company’s commitment to offering internships and training will provide local students with valuable experience in the media industry.
Building a Community
Persephonica aims to build a strong community around its new headquarters. They plan to engage with local media courses and institutions, providing students with hands-on experience.
This engagement will foster a sense of community and collaboration, encouraging the exchange of ideas and creativity. It could also lead to the discovery of new talents in the media landscape.
Preserving Cultural Heritage
By setting up in Leahs Yard, Persephonica is helping to preserve an important part of Sheffield’s cultural heritage. The historic site adds a unique charm and character to their operations.
The founders hope to contribute to the area’s rich cultural tapestry. They believe their work will enhance Sheffield’s cultural landscape and inspire future generations.
“We hope we can now add to the city’s rich cultural tapestry through our own work – Made In Sheffield,” they said.
A Model for the Future
Persephonica’s move could serve as a model for other media companies. By establishing a successful base outside of London, they’re demonstrating that talent and innovation can thrive anywhere.
This model could inspire other companies to explore opportunities outside the capital, contributing to a more diversified and inclusive media industry.
The move could potentially decentralise the media industry, making it more accessible to a wider range of talent.
Persephonica’s move to Sheffield marks a pivotal moment for the city’s media landscape. The company’s commitment to nurturing talent and diversifying the industry is commendable. Sheffield’s rich cultural heritage and burgeoning talent pool make it a fitting location for Persephonica to thrive.
This new headquarters is set to become a catalyst for innovation and growth in the podcasting world. Persephonica’s vision for a vibrant media hub is not just a boon for Sheffield but a model for decentralising the media industry across the UK.