Judging
Excellence Through Expert Review
The NYC Podcast Awards employs a rigorous, three-round judging process designed to identify and celebrate the very best in audio storytelling. Our expert panel represents diverse perspectives from across the industry—academics, producers, and cultural influencers—ensuring fair and comprehensive evaluation of every submission.
How We Judge
Three-Round Process
1 Screening
All entries are reviewed for eligibility and distributed to category-specific judging panels based on expertise.
2 Evaluation
Multiple judges score each entry using detailed rubrics covering technical excellence, creativity, impact, and category standards.
3 Deliberation
Top entries advance to final round where judges discuss nuances and select winners through collaborative review.
Evaluation Criteria
1 Technical Excellence
Production quality, sound design, editing, and technical execution that enhances the listening experience.
2 Creativity
Originality of concept, unique storytelling approach, and innovative use of the audio medium.
3 Impact
Ability to connect with audiences, emotional resonance, and effectiveness in achieving the work's purpose.
4 Category Standards
Achievement of excellence specific to hosting, acting, writing, or genre-specific storytelling.
Our Judging Panel
Judges are selected by invitation only, ensuring our panel represents the highest level of expertise and commitment to excellence. We curate diverse perspectives across academia, industry professionals, and cultural influencers who champion underrepresented voices in audio storytelling.
Transparency & Integrity
Conflict of Interest: Judges recuse themselves from evaluating any submission where they have personal or professional connections to creators.
Blind Evaluation: Where possible, judges evaluate submissions without knowledge of creator identity to minimize bias.
Multiple Reviewers: Each entry is reviewed by multiple judges to ensure consistent and fair evaluation.
Judge Nominations
Know someone who would make an excellent judge? While positions are by invitation only, we welcome nominations from the community. Email contact@silversound.us with their credentials.
Our complete roster will be announced shortly. We maintain judge anonymity during evaluation to protect process integrity, and will publicly celebrate our distinguished panel closer to the ceremony.