We believe the strength of the independent sector lies not just in great shows, but in the people who build, support, and advocate for indie creators.

To recognise those contributions, we are proud to launch the Heroes of Indie Podcasting, an annual initiative designed to honour individuals whose work has helped shape and strengthen the independent podcasting ecosystem.

Our hall of heroes

Our inaugural Heroes were chosen after months of nominations, shortlisting and deliberations within Mercury. All of our podcasters were invited to participate, and many worthy names were put forward. We wish we could send you all a trophy (and seriously, we wish we could keep the trophies ourselves, it’s pretty awesome) but, just like Mercury, we believe the best things come in small and mighty packages. That’s why we kept our first year of inductees to just three.

And what a super trio they are…

Arielle Nissenblatt

I’m very excited to be recognized as a hero of independent podcasting. When I set out to work in the podcast space back in 2017, I didn’t know anyone. I really had a lot of imposter syndrome. And I spoke to people who I envied, and I wanted to be in their place, and 90 % of the reason I’m here is because people were kind to me over the years and taught me about how they got to where they are. And 10 % of the reason I’m here is because I will never give up and I have a lot of hustle. And I hope to at least share some of those things with other people. This just is really affirming to me.

A genuine legend of the podcasting world, Arielle is someone who, despite her extraordinary contributions to our industry, still defines herself foremost as a listener and a fan. From newsletters and podcasts to conferences and events, her work has been shaped by a determination to champion creators of all sizes. She has made a career out of listening to podcasts, and in doing so has become one of the world’s loudest and most respected advocates for the independent, the undiscovered, and the underheard.

Emma Turner

I’m incredibly flattered and surprised to have been included in the inaugural Mercury’s Heroes of Indie Podcasting. The Independent Podcast Awards were launched to showcase the brilliant indie creators out there, and over the past three years of the event we’ve done just that. Each year our judges are always blown away with the fantastic talent on show, and I love being part of the team that helps to push these shows out into the world.

Not all superheroes have their own podcast, and Emma is the ultimate example of modesty and humility, so much so that her indelible footprint can be easily missed. And yet, without her tireless efforts over the past three years, the independent podcast world would be without its biggest stage. As co-founder and organiser of the Independent Podcast Awards, Emma has not only created the premier awards for UK indie creators, but has drawn the blueprint for the rest of the world to follow, so that independent podcasters everywhere can get the recognition they deserve.

Mystery Inductee, Coming Soon

Our third and final inductee of 2026 is so secret, that not even they know they’re being inducted, and we’re planning quite the surprise, so watch this space, because all will be revealed soon…