Discover the power of a podcast network; the tremendous value that it brings to it’s member shows, and how it’s fostering democracy and civil discourse from all sides of the political landscape.  Join hosts Neil McPhedran and Jennifer Lee Gunson in conversation with Jenna Spinelle and Brandon Stover, the driving forces behind The Democracy Group, as they share the intricacies of their pioneering podcast network. From exploring the website's role as a central hub for diverse voices and initiatives, to dissecting the innovative use of thematic shows and curated playlists, we uncover the transformative impact of podcasts on civic education and political discourse. The episode provides a behind-the-scenes look at their fellowship program, highlighting their dedication to nurturing the next generation of leaders and fostering inclusive dialogue. Join us as we navigate the nuances of political conversations, the challenges of bridging divides, and the inspiring potential of podcast networks in pushing forward a common goal and educating the general public.Connect with us:Learn More: Continuing Studies PodcastJoin: University Podcasters Network LinkedIn GroupConnect w/ Jen: Jen LinkedIn or jpodcreations@gmail.comConnect w/ Neil:  Neil LinkedIn or neil@podiumpodcastco.comTwitter:  @namcphedran / @podiumpodcastcoChapter Timestamps:(00:00:59) Introduction to The Democracy GroupIntroduction to Jenna Spinelle and Brandon Stover from The Democracy Group,  a non-partisan network of podcasts focused on democracy education.(00:02:47) The Democracy Group's OriginJenna  & Brandon introduce themselves, and walk the audience through the origins of The Democracy Group and their initiatives (00:06:38) Building the NetworkInsight into the early days of building The Democracy Group network. (00:08:35) Nonpartisan ApproachThe challenge of maintaining a nonpartisan environment and the structure the network uses to create this, and select shows to be a part of the network.(00:11:21) Benefits of Joining a NetworkDiscussion on the key benefits of joining a podcast network, focusing on promotional and marketing opportunities.(00:13:00) Application and Rules for Joining the NetworkBrandon explains the application process for potential network members. Jenna explains the voluntary nature of network participation but the main requirement of a consistent publishing schedule.(00:15:52) Media Training for Podcast GuestsJen asks for some more information on their podcast specific media training programs, the how and why behind it.(00:18:02) Collaboration Across the NetworkOverview of the avenues for collaboration amongst shows across the network through meetings, training, and virtual events.(00:19:44) Fellowship for Young VoicesDescription of the fellowship programs for the next generation that the network is offering.(00:22:44) The Central Hub: The Democracy Group WebsiteBrandon & Jenna describe the Democracy Group’s website, newsletters and overall strategy behind them.(00:24:57) Network-wide Playlists and Thematic ShowsIntroduction to network-wide playlists and their effectiveness in offering a taste of diverse shows. (00:27:25) Building a Network: Key ConsiderationsJenna shares her key learnings on how to launch a network. (00:29:00) How the Network has Shaped Jenna & BrandonJenna and Brandon share the way working on the network has really exposed them to political viewpoints that are different from their own and the importance of that. (00:30:33) Closing Hosts Neil & Jen share their key takeaways from their conversation and wrap up the episode. (00:59) - Introduction to The Democracy Group (02:47) - The Democracy Group's Origin (06:38) - Building the Network (08:35) - Nonpartisan Approach (11:21) - Benefits of Joining a Network (13:00) - Application and Rules for Joining the Network (15:52) - Media Training for Podcast Guests (18:02) - Collaboration Across the Network (19:44) - Fellowship for Young Voices (22:44) - The Central Hub: The Democracy Group Website (24:57) - Network-wide Playlists and Thematic Shows (27:25) - Building a Network: Key Considerations (29:00) - How the Network has Shaped Jenna & Brandon (30:33) - Closing