Advanced Certificate in Ageism in Entertainment Media
Published on June 20, 2025
About this Podcast
HOST: Welcome to the podcast! Today, we're talking with Dr. Jane Smith, who's here to tell us about an exciting new course titled "Advanced Certificate in Ageism in Entertainment Media." Dr. Smith, can you give us a quick overview of this program? GUEST: Absolutely! This course is designed to address the pervasive issue of ageism in film, television, and advertising. It aims to challenge stereotypes and promote inclusivity by teaching participants how to create age-diverse narratives. HOST: That sounds fascinating! What inspired you to create this course? GUEST: I've been working in media studies for over two decades, and I've seen firsthand how ageism impacts actors, writers, and audiences. I wanted to create a space where industry professionals and advocates could come together to learn, discuss, and address these issues. HOST: In terms of industry trends, what are some examples of ageism that you've noticed in entertainment media recently? GUEST: There are still far too few complex, well-rounded roles for older actors, especially when compared to their younger counterparts. Ageist attitudes often lead to typecasting or invisibility, which limits opportunities for talented performers. HOST: That's disappointing but not surprising. What challenges have you faced while developing and teaching this course? GUEST: One challenge has been helping participants unlearn their own biases. Many people don't even realize they're perpetuating ageist stereotypes, so it's essential to provide a safe and supportive environment for self-reflection and growth. HOST: Absolutely, addressing our own biases is crucial for personal and industry-wide change. Looking toward the future, where do you see the potential for progress in combating ageism in entertainment media? GUEST: I'm optimistic about the increasing demand for diverse representation on screen and behind the scenes. As audiences become more vocal about wanting to see themselves reflected accurately, I believe we'll start to see a shift in the types of stories being told and the characters being portrayed. HOST: Dr. Smith, thank you so much for joining us today and sharing your insights on the "Advanced Certificate in Ageism in Entertainment Media." We're excited to see the positive impact this course will have on the industry. GUEST: Thank you for having me! It's been a pleasure discussing this important topic with you.
