Can a podcast be more than just a way to share findings? Can the process of making one actually transform how research happens?

In this special bonus episode of Whose Power?, we share a curated audio montage exploring Participatory Action Research in practice. Originally produced as a presentation for the EPOD (Evolving Practice-based Research and Research Methods) Conference 2026, this piece serves as the audio companion to our forthcoming book chapter, "Whose Power? Participation and the Power of Podcasting to Bring Diverse Voices to Research."

Featuring candid reflections from members of the Preservative Party, academic researchers, and audio producers across Series 1 and Series 2, the episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at how co-creating audio functions as a participatory methodology to reveal, disrupt, and transform traditional power dynamics. From creating psychological safety and trust to reclaiming narrative autonomy, the group discusses why informal, spoken conversation often reaches communities in ways traditional academic prose simply cannot.

Featuring thoughts and reflections from:

Abigail Harrison Moore, Bobby (Elis), Callum, Chris Garrington, Eden, Esme, Grace, Jordan Keighley, Lauren, Rahesa, Rowan, and Tae.

Research & Book Context:

This audio montage accompanies our book chapter contribution for the EPOD publication series, detailing the practical and theoretical impact of co-produced audio in participatory research methods. See previous EPOD publications here.

You can read a transcript of the episode here.

Find out more about the Preservative Party on their LinkedIn or the Leeds Museums & Galleries website.

This is a Research Podcasts production.

In episode five of Whose Power? Abigail Harrison Moore and Lauren are joined by new Preservative Party members Eden, Rowan, and Esme to explore the growing impact of this youth-led curatorial group on participatory research and museum exhibitions.

Together, they discuss how podcasting serves as a powerful tool for amplifying young voices and fostering safe, collaborative spaces. Eden, Rowan, and Esme share what drew them to the group, reflecting on the welcoming environment and the transformative nature of their involvement.

Together they highlight the accessibility of podcasting, the importance of research, and the potential of youth-led work to shape museum practices and challenge broader societal perceptions.

• Read a full transcript of this episode

Find out more about the Preservative Party on their LinkedIn or the Leeds Museums & Galleries website.

This is a Research Podcasts production.

Presenters:  Abigail Harrison Moore, University of Leeds and Lauren, Preservative Party

Guests: Rowan, Esme and Eden, Preservative Party

Producer: Chris Garrington, Research Podcasts

Studio and sound: Helix, University of Leeds and Krissie Brighty-Glover, Research Podcasts

Music: Aura, by Tae, Preservative Party

Artwork and graphics: Preservative Party with Krissie Brighty-Glover, Research Podcasts

Photography: Andrew Lord

Funding: Research England Participatory Research Fund 2024-25

In episode four of Whose Power? Abigail Harrison Moore and Tae speak with Hugo and Callum from the Preservative Party about the impact of collaboration in museum exhibitions. They discuss how inclusive, participatory research methods can reshape curatorial practices and empower those involved.

Hugo shares how giving young people a platform, especially through podcasting, can boost confidence and amplify underrepresented voices. Callum reflects on how working with the Preservative Party has influenced his research journey and deepened his connection to museum objects. Together, they highlight the value of diverse perspectives and the importance of co-creation in cultural spaces.

• Read a full transcript of this episode

Find out more about the Preservative Party on their LinkedIn or the Leeds Museums & Galleries website.

This is a Research Podcasts production.

Presenters:  Abigail Harrison Moore, University of Leeds and Tae, Preservative Party

Guests: Callum and Hugo, Preservative Party

Producer: Chris Garrington, Research Podcasts

Studio and sound: Helix, University of Leeds and Krissie Brighty-Glover, Research Podcasts

Music: Aura, by Tae, Preservative Party

Artwork and graphics: Preservative Party with Krissie Brighty-Glover, Research Podcasts

Photography: Andrew Lord

Funding: Research England Participatory Research Fund 2024-25