Alexandra Forsyth, host of the "Take a Chance on You" podcast, joins Jeff Revilla to explore the next frontier for podcasting: Human ROI and the power of live, in-person connections. The conversation transcends analytics, diving deep into authentic audience engagement, the rise of hybrid events, and the irreplaceable value of community in an evolving media landscape. From discussing the compounding effects of human connection to celebrating immersive podcast experiences and the merging worlds of audio, video, and live events, this episode is a must-listen for anyone ready to dream big in podcasting. About Alexandra Forsythhttps://www.alexandra-forsyth.com/Alexandra Forsyth is the host of "Take a Chance on You," a UK-based podcast that launched in February of the previous year. Driven by a passion for human connection, Alexandra Forsyth created the show as a platform for people to share their stories, discuss challenges such as loneliness, burnout, stress, and resilience, and offer practical strategies for wellbeing. Her empathetic approach fosters authentic conversations, empowering guests to reflect on their journeys and encouraging listeners to take chances on themselves. Having built a vibrant community through live events, networking, and real-time engagement, Alexandra Forsyth is a strong advocate for the concept of "human ROI"—the irreplaceable value of personal connection in podcasting. With appearances on various podcasts, a TEDx talk, and a commitment to authentic storytelling, she continues to expand her reach across audio, video, and live experiences. Based in London with a transatlantic audience, Alexandra Forsyth is recognized as a leadership strategist and a thought leader pushing the podcast medium beyond traditional digital boundaries. Key HighlightsWhat is Human ROI? Alexandra Forsyth explains her concept of "human ROI" as the real return gained from meaningful connections, not just digital download numbers.She shares insights from her own journey starting "Take a Chance on You," emphasizing community, self-reflection, and resilience.For Alexandra Forsyth, live podcasting and community events are essential for building trust and offering real value beyond vanity metrics.Want to livestream and record podcasts like we do? Check out these links and build your empire! Transistor FM - for podcast hostinghttps://transistor.fm/?via=poduty Castmagic - to make written content from your audio podcasthttps://get.castmagic.io/ugp958dba02x Streamyard - for livestreaming and recording podcast episodeshttps://streamyard.com/pal/c/6282618417446912 Stories Referenced This Episode Opinion: Podcasting Moves Beyond Plug-and-Play Into Live EventsSource: Podcasting Today UKhttps://podcastingtoday.co.uk/opinion-podcasting-moves-beyond-plug-and-play-into-live-events/ The podcast industry is rapidly evolving beyond traditional audio and video formats, with more creators embracing live events, hybrid experiences, and deeper audience engagement. In an opinion piece for PodcastingToday, podcast host and leadership strategist Alexandra Forsyth argues that success is shifting away from simply maximizing downloads and ad impressions toward creating meaningful, in-person experiences. She believes podcasting offers a unique form of "human ROI" that can't be measured through analytics alone, as creators build stronger communities through live events, brand partnerships, and authentic conversations. As AI continues to transform media and marketing, Forsyth sees human connection becoming one of podcasting's greatest competitive advantages.404 Media Celebrates Three Years with Live Podcast, Livestream, and Subscriber PartySource: 404 Mediahttps://www.404media.co/three-years/Independent journalism outlet 404 Media is celebrating its third anniversary by hosting a two-day event centered around its community of paying subscribers. On September 3, the team will record a live episode of the 404 Media podcast at WNYC's Greene Space, featuring discussions about the future of independent journalism, AI data center resistance, and science reporting. The event will also be livestreamed for remote supporters. The celebration continues the following evening with an anniversary party at Threes Brewing in Brooklyn, where subscribers receive free or discounted admission based on their membership level. The events highlight how live experiences can strengthen subscriber relationships while creating additional value beyond digital content.The Phillies Show Brings Live Podcast to the Ocean City BoardwalkSource: 97.3 ESPNhttps://973espn.com/phillies-podcast-live-ocean-city-boardwalk/Photo from livestream: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zAhZN0-CH0YAs the Philadelphia Phillies return from the MLB All-Star break, The Phillies Show is taking its podcast directly to the fans. On July 17, hosts Todd Zolecki of MLB.com, Jim Salisbury of NBC Sports Philadelphia, and former Phillies General Manager Ruben Amaro Jr. recorded a live episode from Manco & Manco Pizza on the Ocean City, New Jersey boardwalk. The event featured special guests Charlie Manuel, who managed the Phillies to their 2008 World Series championship, and former Phillies manager and player Larry Bowa. Fans could attend the live recording in person or watch and listen later across the show's podcast and streaming platforms.Netflix Leans on Live Programming, Podcasts, and AI as Growth SlowsSource: CNBChttps://www.cnbc.com/video/2026/07/17/netflix-leans-on-live-programming-podcasts-and-ai-as-growth-slows.htmlAs subscriber growth begins to slow, Netflix is expanding beyond on-demand entertainment by investing in live programming, podcasts, and artificial intelligence. According to CNBC, the company is seeing increased watch time as it experiments with new formats that encourage audiences to engage in different ways. Live events and podcast-related content are becoming part of Netflix's broader strategy to keep viewers connected to the platform, while AI is being used to improve the user experience and support content discovery. The shift reflects a growing trend across the media industry as platforms look for new ways to increase engagement beyond traditional streaming. Bullseye with Jesse Thorn Brings Public Radio to an Open Mic StageSource: NPRhttps://www.npr.org/2026/07/17/nx-s1-5895154/guy-branum-live-at-the-lyric-hyperionBullseye with Jesse Thorn took an unconventional approach to live podcasting by surprising attendees at an open mic night at the Lyric Hyperion Theater in Los Angeles with a live interview featuring comedian and writer Guy Branum. Created as a reward for supporters of Maximum Fun during its ann...