BBC Sounds Summer 2025: New Podcasts and Emerging Audio Talent

BBC Sounds is set to launch a new podcast series titled “Rylan: How to Be in Love” on June 4, 2025. In this 12-episode series, host Rylan delves into the complexities of love, relationships, and human connection. The show features conversations with notable guests, including Stephen Fry, Louis Theroux, Philippa Perry, and Munroe Bergdorf.

BBC Sounds Podcast
- Rylan How to Be in Love Premieres June 4

Rylan shares, “Throughout this series, I’ll be talking to all my guests about love; what it means to them, how they describe it and how it manifests in every aspect of their lives. I get some unrivalled relationship advice from love experts, ask what we should be looking for in a partner, and discover the secrets of healthy, long-term relationships. Who knows, I might pick up some helpful tips along the way.”

🕵️ Investigative Series: “Marianna in Conspiracyland” Returns

The investigative podcast “Marianna in Conspiracyland” is set to return in June. Hosted by Marianna Spring, the series will explore the growing influence of UK health conspiracy movements online, offering listeners an in-depth analysis of this pressing issue.

🍔 “Shadow World: The People vs McDonald’s” Explores Corporate Power

Comedian Mark Steel hosts “Shadow World: The People vs McDonald’s,” a podcast that delves into the longest-running libel trial in UK history. The series examines themes of undercover spies, state surveillance, and corporate power, providing a critical look at the fast-food giant’s legal battles.

🗳️ “Postwar” Series Marks 80 Years Since 1945 General Election

Historian David Runciman presents “Postwar,” a 20-part historical series commemorating the 80th anniversary of the 1945 general election. Published under the Politically strand on Radio 4, the series explores the legacy and relevance of the postwar consensus in modern Britain.

👻 “Uncanny” Summer Specials and More

Listeners can look forward to three “Uncanny” summer specials in June. Additionally, the podcast drama “Central Intelligence” returns, and “The History Podcast: The Magnificent O’Connors” is set to debut on BBC Sounds in July.

🎙️ BBC Sounds Audio Lab: Nurturing New Podcast Talent

BBC Sounds Audio Lab returns for its fifth year, aiming to discover and develop the next generation of audio creators. Five new creators have been selected from hundreds of applicants to participate in this unique accelerator programme. They will receive comprehensive training and work with one of Audio Lab’s five production partners across the UK.

Khaliq Meer, Commissioning Executive for BBC Sounds Audio Lab, states, “It’s fantastic to be back with a brand-new BBC Sounds Audio Lab Creator line-up for 2025! Marisha, Katie, Adam, Keira and Eva are super impressive next-generation podcasters with uniquely relevant ideas on British cultures and experiences. I can’t wait to amplify their growth and development alongside our award-winning BBC and independent production partners, across the UK.”

📈 BBC Sounds Achieves Record-Breaking Q1 in 2025

According to RAJAR figures, BBC Sounds experienced a record-breaking first quarter in 2025. Approximately 31.4 million people tuned in each week for live output across BBC’s radio stations, securing a 43.1% share. This growth underscores the platform’s expanding influence in the audio content landscape.