Strategic Storytelling & Brand Growth

Case Study: Amazing Wildlife Podcast (SDZWA + iHeart)

Role: Podcast Host + Senior Editor

1. Project Summary

As a senior editor, I led the editorial direction and production of Amazing Wildlife, a branded podcast that translates complex scientific research into engaging, accessible storytelling for a global audience.

Serving as the strategic bridge between San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance (SDZWA) and iHeartMedia, I shaped the show’s voice, developed the episode framework, and managed the end-to-end production lifecycle. By aligning institutional conservation goals with mass-market audio trends, the show quickly earned a top-rated ranking in the Kids & Family category on iHeart and Apple Podcasts.

2. The Challenge

• Translating Niche Science: We needed to turn dense, academic conservation research into entertaining audio without sacrificing scientific accuracy.
• Production Complexity: Managing approval workflows between a large non-profit institution and a fast-paced commercial media network (iHeart).
• Stakeholder Management: Balancing the expectations of researchers, marketing executives, and external producers under tight weekly deadlines.

3. My Role

• Editorial Strategy & Lead: Designed the show’s narrative arc, ensuring every episode reinforced SDZWA’s "Alliance" rebrand and conservation mission.
• Strategic Liaison: Acted as the primary point of contact for iHeart, streamlining feedback loops to keep production on schedule.
• Talent & Guest Management: Briefed and directed high-profile guests (including Dr. Jane Goodall) and internal subject matter experts to ensure consistent brand messaging.
• Performance Analysis: Monitored listener sentiment and download metrics to refine content strategy for future seasons.

4. Strategy

• "Family Co-Listening" Format: We designed episodes to appeal to children and parents simultaneously, maximizing household engagement.
• Accessible Authority: We adopted a tone that was educational yet conversational, removing barriers to entry for casual listeners.
• Platform Optimization: Leveraged iHeart’s distribution network with SEO-friendly titles and cross-channel promotion to drive discoverability.
• Editorial Consistency: Created a rigid show bible and script template to maintain quality at speed.