Exploring the World of Radio and Podcasting with Fyona Smith.

16th July, 2024

In a captivating episode of RadioTalks, we had the privilege of diving into the life and career of Fyona Smith, the Managing Editor of Today FM. Fyona shared with us her remarkable journey from her Australian roots to becoming a pivotal figure in Ireland's audio landscape.

A Journey Rooted in Heritage and Passion

Fyona's connection to Ireland runs deep, stemming from her Scottish lineage and ancestral ties to Sligo. "My Celtic connections are strong," she affirms. "I fell in love with Ireland during a pivotal trip to Dublin over a decade ago. It was during a European radio tour, and I was immediately struck by the country's rich culture and the vitality of its radio industry."

Reflecting on her early influences, Fyona recalls, "I was raised on an eclectic collection of vinyl records curated by my music-savvy mother. Radio became an extension of my love for storytelling and connecting with audiences."

From Tokyo to Today FM: A Radio Odysseu

Fyona's journey into the world of radio took a serendipitous turn during her time in Tokyo as a backup singer for an Elvis impersonator. "That experience broadened my horizons," she muses. "Upon returning to Australia, I found myself alphabetising music at a local radio station. It was my first glimpse into the inner workings of commercial radio, and I was hooked."

Her career soared from there, encompassing roles in on-air hosting, music programming, and eventually overseeing 34 radio stations across Australia. "Radio has provided me with incredible opportunities," Fyona shares. "Each role has been a steppingstone, leading me to larger markets and greater responsibilities."

Navigating the Evolution: Radio vs. Podcasting

Discussing the nuances between live radio and podcasting, Fyona emphasises, "Podcasting offers an intentional, immersive listening experience distinct from traditional radio. It allows for deeper engagement and the exploration of niche content."

She adds, "Podcasting is a playground for creativity, where imagination thrives, and production costs remain comparatively low. It's a medium that continues to grow in popularity due to its flexibility and accessibility."

Today FM: Pioneering Ireland's Radio Frontier

"Today FM has reached nearly 1 million listeners," Fyona proudly states. "We've set ambitious goals focused on audience engagement and fostering collaboration within our team and with our dedicated listeners."

She underscores, "Today FM remains committed to nurturing talent and staying attuned to industry trends. We aim to uphold our position as a cornerstone of Ireland's dynamic radio landscape."

Looking Forward: Fyona's Vision for Today FM

"As we look to the future," Fyona shares, "Today FM aims to expand its reach and influence in the evolving media landscape. We're dedicated to preserving the essence of radio while exploring new frontiers in podcasting and digital content."

Fyona Smith's journey from Australia to Ireland, fueled by her passion for radio and enriched by her leadership at Today FM, epitomizes dedication and vision in the media industry. Her insights into the evolving dynamics of radio and podcasting offer a glimpse into the future of audio storytelling.