Too Long Didn’t Read
The Alan Turing Institute · 2022–2024 · Creator & Producer
Context
Too Long Didn’t Read is a public engagement podcast I developed at The Alan Turing Institute in response to the growing noise and hyperbole around Large Language Models (LLMs) such as ChatGPT, and other AI developments in the press. Existing communications serving the public were largely event based, reactive or press-led, leaving little space for calm, accessible discussion aimed at a general science interested audience.
Challenge
The challenge was to create an in-house engaging podcast, with a repeatable, small-footprint format. The podcast needed to: • Be credible and accurate without feeling too academic • Address current, evolving AI stories in accessible language • Build public trust and grow an audience of listeners, not simply chase clicks • Sit comfortably alongside existing institutional communications while reaching wider public audiences As the idea originated outside the formal content plan, it also required internal buy-in, a strategic editorial rationale and a scalable production approach.
Approach
I developed a lightweight production workflow and a consistent editorial structure that could be repeated episode-to-episode. Episodes were planned around a clear narrative arc (what’s the question, why does it matter, what does the research actually say), with accessible language, careful signposting, and enough room for researchers to speak naturally rather than “perform” expertise. I handled planning, recording, editing, and distribution in a way that kept the format sustainable while maintaining a high standard of audio and story craft.
Outcome
Across two series, over twenty episodes were produced, covering topics from AI in politics to misinformation, digital death and the so-called “dead internet”. The podcast reached new audiences, helped establish new public engagement formats at the Institute, and gave researchers a trusted platform to discuss their work in an accessible, public-facing way.