Overview:
– It’s a programme/podcast from BBC Radio 1
– The show replaced ‘The Surgery’ in 2017 and took the Sunday Teatime slot
– The programme is hosted by Katie Thistleton and Vick Hope
– The show was previously hosted by Cel Spellman, Katie Thistleton and Radha Modgil
– The programme includes discussion of health and social issues such as exam stress, sexual health, alcohol and drugs.
– Although both ‘The Surgery’ and Life Hacks ran in scheduled broadcast slots, in recent years the programme has been available as a podcast and encourages digital consumption and interaction.
How it attracts a young audience:
– The language used and the way the presenters present themselves suggest that they are trying to appeal to more of a youth audience as they tend to use informal language as if they were speaking to a friend – this also makes it more personal which may make the listeners feel as if they are being directly addressed.
– The content discussed is mainly targeting a youth audience as it specifically discusses growing up and going through life from a teenager/ younger persons position (university etc)
What audience pleasures are offered by ‘Life Hacks’? (Using uses and gratifications theory):
Audience pleasures that are offered by Life Hacks would be Diversion, education and personal relationships.
Personal relationships: the feeling of support that is experienced as a result of knowing that there is an area/space for advice and help- knowing that people are going through the same thing as you.
Personal identity: Being able to relate to stories being told and seeing your character reflected in the different topics mentioned.
Education: learning about different ways of handling problems etc.
Diversion: listening to different podcasts( reflecting what you are going through)- able to escape from what you are going through by seeking help and allowing yourself to listen to other people’s stories etc.
What does the title “Life Hacks” Suggest?:
‘Life hacks’ is a terminology associated with the youth demographic – suggests that the show is targeting youth/millenials
Listening Stats:
– Radio listening figures in the UK- 90% of the population tune in to the radio every week
– 61% tune of the population tune in to digital radio every week.