Jo Stanley Presses Play on Broad Radio, Australia’s First Women-Led Radio Network

Broad Radio is now live, pumping out a curated, daily mix of tunes and talk with a difference: it’s created for women, by women.

Launching with full programming this morning (October 7th) at 7am, Broad Radio is the culmination of four years’ work, spearheaded by veteran radio announcer and comedian Jo Stanley and her husband Darren McFarlane.

The radio and podcast platform has a mission to carry diverse voices, experiences and perspectives, a space for “exploring and celebrating women’s stories, perspectives and experiences, many of which are missing in mainstream media,” says Stanley.

At launch, the Broad Radio boasts Stanley alongside co-hosts Marieke Hardy (writer and broadcaster) and Michala Banas (actor and director).

The Morning Broads Breakfast show features a rotating lineup of Ella Hooper (singer-songwriter and Killing Heidi frontwoman), Nelly Thomas (award-winning Australian comedian, author and broadcaster), Shelley Ware (TV and radio presenter, and education specialist), Rana Hussain (broadcaster, podcaster, and diversity and inclusion specialist), and Mimi Kwa (author, podcaster, speaker and journalist).

Also joining the Breakfast spot as regular contributors are Brihony Dawson (TV presenter and commentator), Bev Killick (comedian) and Madeleine West (actor, podcaster and advocate).

When pitched to the industry and investors, the support was “enormous,” Stanley tells The Music Network. In every conversation, she continues, “they’ve seen the value of the idea, and understood what we’re doing in terms of creating something new for an audience. I’ve had nothing but encouragement.”

Ultimately, the co-founding team took the equity crowdfund path to get Broad Radio on the airwaves. “Investors instantly saw the problem which is: there aren’t enough women’s voices on radio and there’s a very large audience of women – 5 million over the age of 35 in Australia.”

The aim, she explains, is “to have a very large market share” for its audience.

“We hope that the people who tune in are those that are seeking really broad stories, broad content,” including sport, music, beautify, literature, science and politics. “Everything under the sun, but in a way that’s reflective of the lives they’re experiences.”

Pioneering radio and television broadcaster Tracee Hutchison created its playlist, which travels all the way back to the 1960s through to now, showcasing such talent as Aretha Franklin and Nancy Sinatra, and homegrown talent Helen Reddy, Olivia Newton-John, Kylie Minogue, Chrissy Amphlett, Aunty Ruby Hunter, alongside brand new artists and new releases, she explains.

“There is so much great music and so many great artists that don’t get the airplay they should because they don’t fit a dominant sound, or an algorithm,” says Hutchison.

“I’ve kind of become a human algorithm, but programming with intention and a whole lot of joy.”

Listen live by downloading the Broad Radio app from Apple App Store or Google Play, stream by visiting Broad Radio or access Broad Live via Alexa.

“Our goal is to positively impact the lives of every woman in Australia,” says Stanley. And to provide “stories and information, inspiration. That means that we’re supporting women’s health and happiness and pursuit of fearlessness. That’s our mission.”