My podcast is entitled History After Dark, essentially composed of weekly recaps of History’s most infamous events around the world. I chose the world map as an implication of interconnectedness, that which occurs on one side of the world is often reverberated or connected to other parts of the world. The beginning of this episode begins with a catchy, melodramatic interlude, as to draw in the listener. I then include a cymbal that comes into play as I announce the podcast name, to enunciate that this podcast brings history to light, even in the darkness. The background singers that come into focus as I narrate is made up of a Russian choir, appropriate for the context of this episode that focuses on the Russian Revolution. I raise the volume on the singers as I conclude my introduction so as to culminate the episode with a type of tension that would emphasize the episode’s focus and dramatic details.
Audio Credits:
- Students singing in Moscow (Russia) by Clément_B. License By CC0
- War sound – Epoch of War 3 by RAME – War Victory Fight Music Loop by RokZRooM. License CC-BY 4.0
- Something alarming by Victor_Natas. License CC-BY 4.0
Photo Credits:
- “A General Map of the World” by Samuel Dunn, Artist Thomas Kitchin (1794), a work in the Public Domain.
- “History After Dark – Episode 4” by Jaclyne Jones and licensed by CC-BY 4.0
Podcast Project
- “History After Dark” Podcast by Jaclyne Jones is Licensed CC-BY 4.0
Original Work
- Narration; Author-Jaclyne Jones Licensed CC-BY 4.0
Hello, thanks so much for sharing your work! I think the cymbal sound effect works well to give a more eerie vibe to the podcast that could play well with the idea of it being “after dark.” However, I did find the choir to be distracting from the narration, I’m not sure if it was just an audio mixing issue, or more of an internal issue for me, struggling to parse out the two vocal tracks from each other. While this idea does not appeal to me (sorry not much for general history) I do think it would have general wide appeal because many people enjoy history, and especially learning details of infamous events they may not be familiar with. Some slight notes on the narration (and these are quite picky, it really was fine) but to improve I would recommend adding a slight pause after the general introduction before you dive into the specific topic for the episode, and the speaking is a little monotone so I would also suggest attempting to add some more excitement or intrigue while speaking.
Hi Jaclyne!
First of all, I absolutely adore the poster you created! The use of the old map gives it such a charming, old-timey effect and really sets the tone beautifully. It feels intentional and immersive right from the start. My only tiny suggestion would be to consider adding a slightly thicker white border, or some subtle outlining, to the text at the bottom. The letter “P” in “Episode” blends a bit into the background artwork, so a little extra contrast might help it stand out more clearly.
That being said, I loved your narration! It was dramatic and suspenseful in the best way. You’re genuinely strong at this style of storytelling; the tone you used fits perfectly with the “After Dark” theme. It creates a sense of intrigue and even a hint of danger, which makes the whole podcast feel captivating and atmospheric!
Hello Jaclyn,
I love this podcast idea, especially how it focuses on the darker parts of history. I think this would definitely draw in an audience, likely made up of a combination of fellow history lovers, true crime enthusiasts, and possibly paranormal fans. The cover art is very fitting, I really like your statement about interconnectedness which made me love it even more. I do agree with Ana that the episode title could be a little clearer to read.
I am not too sure on the intro music, to me it sounds like a breaking news story is about to start, not a historical story. However the Russian choir really sets the scene for the specific topic. Your narration was great and love the little cymbal sound!
Hi Jaclyn,
I love this subject matter, I’m super interested in this topic and I think a lot of people would be too, especially with the hook you gave! The only thing that would be significant to clarify is if you’re making the podcast from a leftist perspective in support of establishing the USSR or if it’s a general history podcast. That way listeners would know what to expect, like if its a series or if the topics will change. I like the sound effects a lot.