Head-to-head comparison
NPR Training vs On Air Fest
Two of the resources tools podcasters reach for. Here's how they differ on pricing, features, audience, and the trade-offs that actually matter day-to-day.
Free audio storytelling and journalism resources from NPR's newsroom training team.
Best for: Audio journalism craft
Brooklyn audio festival mixing live tapings, performances, and industry conversations.
Best for: Creative craft festival
At a glance
The honest trade-offs
NPR Training
Pros
- Completely free, no signup required
- Working-newsroom perspective
- Practical not theoretical
Watch-outs
- Strong journalism orientation
- Light on monetization topics
- Updates irregularly
On Air Fest
Pros
- Strong creative programming and live tapings
- Three walkable Brooklyn venues
- Ambies awards now embedded in the weekend
Watch-outs
- Smaller than Podcast Movement
- Mostly NYC-centric attendees
- Public passes sell out quickly
Which one should you pick?
Pick NPR Training if
You’re building around audio journalism craft. Publishes practical, opinionated craft articles for audio reporters — structure, editing, mixing, interviewing. All free.
Pick On Air Fest if
You’re building around creative craft festival. Called the "Coachella of Podcasts" by Fast Company. Leans creative and editorial rather than ad-tech and sales.
Also worth comparing
Or see all NPR Training alternatives.
Frequently asked
What does NPR Training do better than On Air Fest?
NPR Training's standout is "Completely free, no signup required". On Air Fest doesn't make that promise — it leans into "Strong creative programming and live tapings" instead. If the first sentence describes your workflow, pick NPR Training; if the second does, pick On Air Fest.
What are the trade-offs?
NPR Training: strong journalism orientation. On Air Fest: smaller than podcast movement. Whether either matters depends entirely on what you actually need — neither is a deal-breaker by itself.
Can I use NPR Training and On Air Fest together?
Both are resources tools so most teams pick one. Some workflows do combine them — for example, using NPR Training for one show or episode type and On Air Fest for another. Worth trying both free tiers before committing.