Radiodays Europe kicks off with appearances from Heads of BBC Radio 1 and Radio 2

Radiodays Europe’s first day of action took place on Sunday with dozens of sessions arranged in seven different summits.

They ranged from AI and audiobooks to podcasting and programming. There were also full sessions on inclusivity, sales and youth radio.

In the programming room, we heard from BBC Radio 1’s Aled Hayden Jones, BBC Radio 2’s Helen Thomas, and former BBC Radio 1 Controller Ben Cooper, whilst in the AI room were EBU’s Justin Kings, and radio producer/Youtuber Mike Russell, amongst many others.

Helen Thomas, Head of BBC Radio 2, shared insights on how to successfully run a radio station in a constantly evolving world.

She highlighted the importance of embracing change, citing the station’s new Scott Mills Breakfast Show as an example. While changes are necessary to stay relevant, Thomas stressed that they should always align with the station’s core brand identity.

She also discussed the role of social media in keeping listeners informed about scheduling changes, emphasizing the need for a strong understanding of both social platforms and the station’s brand, saying the station’s Instagram page is the second most interacted with at the BBC after Sport.

Helen further underscored the importance of creating a supportive, collaborative atmosphere within the station, especially as radio hosts face criticism and negative feedback. She encouraged station managers to reassure their presenters, saying, “Block out the noise… I believe in you.” For Helen, fostering strong internal foundations is key to navigating change and ensuring success.

Mike Russell shared eight AI tools worth looking at if you work in audio, radio or podcasting. He demonstrated his new AI-led contact form, which will reply with a personalised message. You can enter your own details here, and await an AI response, along with a link to his recommended tools.

See more and follow our coverage via the RadioToday X, Facebook and Instagram (stories) accounts.

Radiodays Europe is an annual international conference and networking event focused on the radio, audio, and podcast industries. It’s widely regarded as the largest and most significant gathering of its kind in Europe, bringing together professionals from across the globe to discuss trends, innovations, and challenges in the audio landscape.

Held each spring in a different European city, the event attracts over 1,500 participants from more than 65 countries, including broadcasters (public and private), podcasters, content creators, technology specialists, and industry leaders.

The conference, which began in Copenhagen in 2010, spans multiple days and features a mix of keynote speeches, panel discussions, workshops, summits, and networking opportunities. Its core mission is to raise awareness of radio, audio, and podcasting, fostering innovation, collaboration, and high-quality journalism within the sector.

It’s on till Tuesday 11th March at the Megaron Athens International Conference Centre in Greece.