Apple Podcasts Celebrates ‘Hysterical’ as 2024 Show of the Year
In a remarkable achievement that highlights the evolving landscape of podcasting, Apple Podcasts has awarded the prestigious Show of the Year title for 2024 to "Hysterical." This recognition is granted to a podcast that exemplifies quality, creativity, and innovation in the field. "Hysterical," a gripping seven-part series, is a collaborative production by Wondery and Audacy’s Pineapple Street Studios. It delves into an enigmatic illness that affects a group of high school girls in upstate New York, capturing the intrigue and attention of listeners worldwide.
The series premiered on Apple Podcasts in July 2024 and quickly soared to the top of the charts, securing the No. 1 position in the Top Shows category. Its compelling narrative and investigative prowess resonated with audiences, and by the end of the year, "Hysterical" was recognized as the ninth most popular new show of 2024 according to Apple Podcasts’ Top Charts.
The Genesis of ‘Hysterical’
The mastermind behind "Hysterical," Dan Taberski, was inspired to investigate this story amidst the rising media attention on “Havana syndrome.” This mysterious ailment had been affecting diplomats and CIA agents globally, sparking widespread speculation. Taberski recalled a similar case involving high school girls in Le Roy, New York, who suffered from an unexplained illness years prior. Intrigued by the potential connection between these disparate groups, he pondered, “What if it’s a hysterical illness?”
In discussing the Havana syndrome, Taberski noted, “A lot of people still think it was an attack from some sort of microwave weapon. The media was speculating about it, interviewing those affected, but there was a hesitancy to consider, ‘What if it’s all in your head?’” This curiosity led him to juxtapose the Le Roy incident with the experiences of diplomats and CIA officers, illustrating that such phenomena could impact anyone.
Accolades and Praise
Jenna Weiss-Berman, Audacy’s executive vice president of Podcasts, lauded Taberski for his innovative approach in podcast documentaries. “Dan Taberski has continually been at the forefront of podcast documentary, and with ‘Hysterical,’ he is operating at the top of his game. He uniquely taps into the zeitgeist with humor, insight, and a breeziness that listeners have always flocked to,” she stated, acknowledging the significant role Apple Podcasts plays in showcasing Taberski’s work.
Marshall Lewy, Wondery’s chief content officer, echoed this sentiment, expressing excitement over the recognition. He described Taberski as a “breakthrough storyteller and a true podcast auteur,” praising his ability to present complex questions in a captivating manner. Lewy emphasized that investigative limited series like "Hysterical" offer listeners an opportunity to delve into intricate real-world stories that defy easy answers, taking audiences on an engaging journey.
Insights from Dan Taberski
In a special conversation available on Apple Podcasts for Creators, Taberski shared valuable insights into his storytelling process. He emphasized the importance of pursuing stories that evoke continuous questions and uncertainties. “When I’m trying to decide if I want to do a project, the more time I spend with it, the more questions I have to have,” he explained. This sense of intrigue and the desire to explore unanswered questions are key indicators for him that a story is worth pursuing.
Taberski also discussed the significance of collaboration in crafting compelling narratives. “I work with a team of collaborators that has been pretty consistent, and that sort of creative relationship really builds over the course of years,” he noted. This collaborative dynamic, coupled with the evolving nature of podcasting and narrative audio documentary, contributes to the freshness and excitement of the medium.
Embracing the Journey
For Taberski, the journey of creating "Hysterical" was as rewarding as the final product itself. He highlighted the importance of embracing the challenges and uncertainties that arise during the production process. “There’s something that’s so fresh about it, and you really are figuring it out as you’re going along,” he remarked. This willingness to explore and adapt keeps the storytelling process dynamic and engaging.
Listeners can now access all episodes of "Hysterical" on Apple Podcasts. For those seeking an uninterrupted listening experience, Wondery+ offers ad-free episodes. Moreover, Apple Podcasts has introduced new features to help listeners discover and celebrate narrative series. These include a new Top Series chart, a specific Series category, and Series Essentials, a feature that recognizes a standout series each month.
Broader Implications and Reactions
The recognition of "Hysterical" as Show of the Year underscores the growing influence and diversity of podcasting as a medium. Podcasts have become a powerful platform for storytelling, offering creators the freedom to explore a wide range of topics and formats. The success of "Hysterical" highlights the demand for investigative journalism and narrative storytelling, allowing audiences to engage with complex subjects in an accessible and immersive way.
This award also reflects the increasing importance of podcasts in the media landscape. As more people turn to podcasts for information, entertainment, and education, the medium continues to evolve, offering new opportunities for creators and listeners alike. The innovative storytelling and compelling narratives exemplified by "Hysterical" serve as a testament to the potential of podcasts to captivate and inform audiences worldwide.
For more information on Apple Podcasts and the recognition of "Hysterical," you can visit Apple’s official newsroom.
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