Lea Redfern

Lea Redfern is a Lecturer in the Discipline of Media and Communications at the University of Sydney, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. She has been teaching since 2017, developing audio courses and integrating podcasting across disciplines. Her research focuses on podcasting pedagogy, voice studies, and the politics of listening. Redfern holds an honours degree in Communications (first-class) from the University of Technology Sydney and is currently completing a Graduate Certificate in Educational Studies (Higher Education).

• Education:
  • Bachelor of Communications (Honours) - University of Technology Sydney
  • Graduate Certificate in Educational Studies (Higher Education) - in progress

Her research interests emphasize educational podcasting, aural narratives, and voice as a communicative tool. She explores how podcasting democratizes storytelling and fosters empathy through listening practices. Her work bridges academic theory with industry expertise, informed by over 20 years at the ABC.

Recent publications analyze podcasting's role in political discourse, feminist media, and literary adaptation. Media engagements include discussions on the US election's podcasting landscape and abortion rights advocacy. Redfern has received international recognition for her radio drama and documentary work, including the 2016 Sarah Award and 2003 Human Rights Radio Award.

• Awards:
  • 2016 Sarah Lawrence College International Audio Fiction Award
  • 2003 Australian Human Rights Radio Award

Teaching spans undergraduate and postgraduate courses in audio design, podcasting theory, and media research. She advises on projects blending audio with interdisciplinary themes. No labs or formal research teams are explicitly mentioned in her profile.