In a landmark move to expand its recognition of global excellence, The Podcast Academy (TPA) has introduced two new honors: the International Impact Award and the International Governor’s Award. These awards spotlight the growing influence and contributions of international voices in the podcasting world and will be presented at The Podcast Show London on May 21st, during TPA’s prestigious Awards for Excellence in Audio, popularly known as The Ambies.

The inaugural recipients set a high bar: James Cridland, a globally renowned radio and podcasting expert, will receive the International Impact Award, while Steven Bartlett, entrepreneur and host of The Diary of a CEO, will be honored with the first-ever International Governor’s Award.

1. The New Global Awards: International Impact and Governor’s Honors

• International Impact Award: Recognizes a podcast or individual based outside the U.S. whose work significantly benefits global podcast audiences and industry growth.

• International Governor’s Award: Celebrates outstanding contributions and influence by a non-U.S.-based podcast or creator on the global podcasting industry.

2. Why Now? TPA’s Vision for International Recognition

• These new categories reflect the globalization of podcasting, a medium no longer confined by borders.

• By honoring international voices, TPA aims to elevate the reach and reputation of podcasting as a powerful tool for storytelling, education, and cultural impact.

3. James Cridland: The Industry’s Radio Futurist

• Editor of Podnews, a globally read podcasting newsletter.

• Over 35 years in media, including pivotal roles at Virgin Radio (launching the first streaming radio app) and BBC (enhancing online audio quality).

• Currently based in Australia, Cridland advises podcast platforms and broadcasters worldwide.

• A vocal advocate for open podcasting standards, championing sustainability and innovation.

4. Steven Bartlett: Redefining the Modern Podcast with ‘The Diary of a CEO’

• Host of The Diary of a CEO, the second-largest interview podcast globally and fastest-growing worldwide.

• Youngest Dragon on BBC’s Dragons’ Den, revolutionizing modern entrepreneurship storytelling.

• Founder of FlightStory (portfolio includes SpaceX, Huel, Whoop) and co-founder of Thirdweb (backed by Shopify and Mark Cuban).

• Bestselling author of 33 Laws for Business and Life, with over 1 million copies sold globally.

• Commands 25M+ social media followers, shaping both business discourse and audio engagement.

5. The Ambies: Elevating the Podcasting Medium

• TPA’s Ambies celebrate excellence across genres, promoting podcasting as a unique and personal medium for storytelling and information.

• With these new international awards, the Ambies reaffirm their commitment to inclusive, global recognition of creative excellence.

The Podcast Academy’s launch of the International Impact Award and International Governor’s Award marks a turning point in the recognition of global podcasting talent. With James Cridland and Steven Bartlett as the first honorees, TPA has set a compelling precedent that reflects the borderless, democratized nature of modern audio storytelling.

These new awards are more than symbolic—they represent a strategic and cultural shift in how the podcasting world acknowledges innovation, influence, and excellence across geographies. As podcasting continues to evolve, these international recognitions highlight its role as a truly global medium for inspiration, entrepreneurship, and social change.