Exploring Resonances in Audio Media

This paper examines On the Record, China’s first podcast devoted to uncovering the truths behind famous murder cases, through the lens of critical discourse analysis. As audio media experiences a resurgence in popularity (Newman, 2024), this study highlights the podcast’s unique strategies for fostering resonance with its audience, situating it within the broader context of evolving media landscapes. Employing Norman Fairclough’s (1992, 2013) critical discourse analysis framework, this research focuses on three dimensions of On the Record’s discourse practices. The first dimension explores the textual features of the podcast, including vocabulary, tone, style, and rhetorical strategies. These elements are key to understanding how On the Record crafts its narratives to evoke emotional and intellectual engagement. The second dimension investigates the institutional processes that shape the podcast’s production, such as editorial decisions, resource allocation, and constraints posed by China’s media environment. Finally, the discourse process is analyzed to reveal how the podcast constructs meaning and appeals to listeners by balancing sensationalism with investigative rigor. The podcast’s ability to resonate with audiences is closely tied to its use of audio as a storytelling medium. Unlike traditional visual or written media, audio fosters an intimate, immersive experience, enabling listeners to connect deeply with the narratives. On the Record effectively leverages this affordance by weaving together detailed storytelling, personal reflections, and soundscapes that heighten the emotional impact. This approach not only captivates its audience but also challenges conventional news media by prioritizing depth over brevity, offering a slower, more reflective engagement with complex issues in our society. This study also addresses the socio-cultural significance of On the Record. As part of China’s burgeoning podcasting landscape, the podcast represents a shift in how media audiences seek and engage with narratives in a digital, post-truth era. By analyzing its revival and sustained relevance, the research uncovers how On the Record navigates the tensions between commercial viability and public interest journalism. The findings demonstrate how the podcast constructs resonance through shared cultural memory, collective trauma, and the exploration of moral and ethical dilemmas, fostering a sense of solidarity and introspection among listeners. In the context of interactive media, this paper contributes to understanding the transformative role of audio media in shaping audience experiences. It argues that On the Record not only tells stories but also cultivates a space for emotional and intellectual resonance that transcends the boundaries of traditional journalism. By doing so, it underscores the potential of audio media to build meaningful connections, foster resilience, and inspire collective reflection in an increasingly fragmented media landscape. This study provides a nuanced perspective on the evolving role of audio media as a powerful tool for storytelling and engagement, offering valuable insights into how podcasts like On the Record resonate with audiences and create lasting cultural impacts.