Too Long Didn’t Read

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 the podcast concept independently and produced a pilot episode to test tone and format. The initial structure paired a curious, non-expert host (myself) with an AI ethics researcher, Smera Jayadeva, creating a conversational dynamic that encouraged simple questions and thoughtful answers. After the pilot was commissioned, I became the project lead for the series. My role included: • Developing the editorial format and episode structure • Researching topics and writing scripts • Interviewing researchers and external guests • Editing audio and producing accompanying video content • Expanding the format for live recording at events In the second series, the podcast moved to a monthly release and introduced guest contributors. Each episode looked into three current news stories covering one story with the expert guest in more detail. Our topics ranged from digital death and online remains, to AI-generated politicians, misinformation and the “dead internet” theory.

Outcome

Over two series, Too Long Didn’t Read grew a steadily engaged audience and became one of the Institute’s most recognisable public-facing formats. The project helped establish new ways of working within the organisation, including: • Using YouTube Shorts, podcasts and Community posts for audience engagement • Integrating podcast content into wider campaigns and live events • Building relationships with external partners, universities and media organisations, including the BBC The podcast also expanded the Institute’s public engagement toolkit, demonstrating how long-form conversation can support trust, understanding and more nuanced discussion of emerging technologies. Leading Too Long Didn’t Read strengthened my skills in editorial judgement, interviewing and science-accurate storytelling. It also reinforced the value of slow, considered content in fast-moving news cycles — and the role digital content can play in helping people feel informed rather than overwhelmed.

Impact