Welcome to the second edition of the Share Sync Newsletter! In this issue, we're excited to bring you a carefully curated collection of the latest industry news, updates, and exclusive insights from inside the Media and Communications course and beyond. It’s been an exciting month full of activity, including the launch of the Share Sync Live event, hosted by Baxters Baristas in Coventry, and some outstanding professional activities from our current students and alumni
Enjoy exclusive access to a brand-new, never-before-seen video recording every month, featuring a special guest who brings fresh perspectives and valuable insights Our newsletter is designed to be interactive, offering you direct links throughout each page So, whether you're looking for industry trends, expert interviews, or behind-the-scenes glimpses, you’ll find plenty of exciting resources to explore!
Stay connected and keep up with all the dynamic happenings from our latest engaging interactive edition
SHARE SYNC Podcast
In this episode, we delve into the unique power of the book as an object, an experience, and an event as we are joined by special guests Dr Matt Johnston and Emma Lambert organisers and curators of the ‘The Book As ” launching 18th - 20th February in the Hyperstudio, Delia Derbyshire In collaboration with the Photography BA program, this episode reflects on the book as a meeting point for networks, creation, and shared moments of joy, especially recalling the childhood wonder of reading Tune in for a thoughtful discussion on slowing down, reflecting, and finding meaning in the spaces between the pages
Live Event
Join us for a live recording of Share Sync, where we will be discussing International Women’s Day, topical conversations and more with special guests from industry!
WEDNESDAY 26TH FEB 2PM BAXTER BARISTAS, JORDAN WELL, COVENTRY. CV1 5QP
We are pleased to share our exciting collaboration with Baxter Baristas, who will be hosting Share Sync Live events. Listen back to last month’s first Live event via our YouTube page.
CRITIQUE // CHALLENGE // CREATE
Outreach highlights
Media and Communications student, Naveed Chowdry has found a remarkable opportunity to put his academic knowledge into practice through volunteering with Racing Club Warwick, a football team that has become a significant part of his journey
This hands-on experience has proven to be an invaluable aspect of his learning, allowing him to bridge the gap between theory and real-world application.
CHECK IT OUT ON OUR SOCIAL MEDIA STORIES
Outreach Highlights
Naveed’s role with the club encompasse responsibilities, from photographing mat creating dynamic graphics and videos T not only enhanced his technical skills bu provided a unique chance to experiment creative aspects of media production. Wh the intensity of a match or crafting promo he has been able to use the tools and con learning at university in a practical, fast-p environment.
Beyond just the technical skills, Naveed c at Racing Club Warwick with helping him personal and professional qualities Key s time management, creativity, and working under pressure have been integral parts of his development. Each game, each project, pushes him to meet tight deadlines and produce high-quality content while balancing his academic responsibilities
Isabelle Miller is putting theory into practice as she plays a central role in managing the social media for Balsall Common Radio, working step by step to enhance the station's online presence. She has started by creating examples of Instagram and Facebook posts, which are expected to be published soon Over the coming months, Isabelle will take a more active role in managing other platforms like TikTok and increasing engagement across all channels, with plans to expand her involvement after April. Additionally, she will assist with a full redesign of the station’s website
A significant part of Isabelle’s work involves revamping Balsall Common Radio’s social media pages to create a more cohesive brand identity. Currently, posts on Instagram and Facebook feature varying color schemes, and Isabelle is working to unify these elements to establish a stronger, more consistent visual presence that aligns with the station's house style.
To further streamline the process, Isabelle is designing templates for Instagram and Facebook posts and stories, ensuring that the content remains visually appealing and consistent across both platforms. She is also advising the team on how to best reach their target audiences, focusing on boosting engagement and fostering a connection with the local community.
The ultimate aim of Isabelle’s work is to promote Balsall Common Radio to its diverse local audience, tailoring content for each social media platform and maximizing its impact Stay tuned for more updates on her progress!
The latest in the industry
In this insightful interview with Liam Heeley, we dive into the story behind HEADS, a creative community that Liam initially started from his bedroom and has now grown into a thriving space in Media City, Manchester We explore how the project has expanded and made an impact on local freelancers and creatives, providing them with an affordable and accessible environment to work and create content Liam sheds light on the struggles freelancers face when relying on coffee shops for their workspace – not just in terms of costs, but also the lack of a dedicated space to focus and collaborate.
Today, HEADS serves as a physical hub where over 150 creatives come together to share ideas, collaborate, and work on their craft. The conversation delves into the importance of having a dedicated headspace for both productivity and creativity and how creating a supportive community of like-minded individuals has allowed local freelancers to thrive. We also discuss the partnership between Liam, his colleague Molly, and the local talent they work with, as well as the unique opportunities that have come from these collaborations
Later in the interview, we touch on the significance of documenting the creative journey, particularly the behind-the-scenes process Liam emphasizes the importance of vlogging and capturing the progress of ideas and projects, especially as the medium has evolved over the past seven years.
Finally, we discuss the crucial role that failure plays in the creative process how trial and error, and not being afraid to fail, are essential to growth and innovation. This interview is a deep dive into how creativity, community, and the right headspace come together to foster a productive and supportive environment for freelancers and creatives
Listen via #YouTube
We welcome any enquiries and collaboration to join a Share Sync Talk, we hope you enjoy the discussions!
Team updates
Algorithm as Tastemaker and Influencer In this Share Sync talk Media and Communications course director Dr Martin James explores some of his work first introduced in his paper ‘Prosuming the MEdiaverse’ suggesting that algorithm is now our main tastemaker and influencer.
Martin has extensively researched algorithm as a music tastemaker and scene shaper in his forthcoming book ‘Popular Music Journalism –Then and Now’.
Playlist
WATCH:
My Happy Marriage – Netflix When the Stars Gossip – Netflix Mindset is Everything | Cole Bennett | TEDxUIUC, via YouTube YellowJackets, season 3 via Paramount+
LISTEN:
Demolition from the upcoming album, ‘City of Clowns’ by Marie Davidson
LISA- Born Again feat.Doja Cat & RAYE The News Agents, USA podcastHow AI was Stolen – Then & Now
Scan the QR code to be one of the first to watch new interview with Founder of Heads UK, Liam Heeley!
