The Third Coast International Audio Festival (TCIAF) is an independent non-profit organization based in Chicago that curates and celebrates the best audio documentary and podcasting work from around the world. Founded in 2001, it is often referred to as the "Sundance of Radio."[1]
The festival was established to provide a forum for radio producers, journalists, and podcast creators to share their work and discuss the craft of audio storytelling. Its centerpiece has historically been the annual Third Coast Conference, which brings together hundreds of creators for workshops, listening sessions, and networking. Following the conclusion of its long-term partnership with the Richard H. Driehaus Foundation, the organization transitioned to a fully independent non-profit model.
Third Coast / Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Competition
The festival hosts an annual international competition, formerly known as the Third Coast / Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Competition. It honors excellence in various categories, including Best Documentary, Best New Artist, and Radio Impact. The awards are considered among the most prestigious in the audio industry.
Re:sound Radio Program
The festival produced[2][3]Re:sound, a nationally syndicated radio program and podcast distributed by PRX. Launched in 2004, the program serves as a curated showcase for award-winning audio documentaries and experimental sound pieces discovered through the Third Coast Competition.[4] The show has been hosted by Gwen Masci[5] and Johanna Zorn,[6] along with various festival curators. The show is broadcast on public radio stations across the United States, including WBEZ in Chicago.[7] Each episode is themed, often highlighting social issues, historical events, or personal narratives, and has been recognized for its role in bringing independent audio craft to a mainstream broadcast audience.[8] The final episode aired in February 2021.[9]
Current Status
In 2024, the organization launched the "We Need Third Coast" crowdfunding campaign to secure its future as an independent entity, successfully raising over $54,000.[10]
Following this success, the festival announced the relaunch of its flagship program as the independent 2024–25 Third Coast Competition. The new cycle introduced a "Collective Pricing" model to ensure accessibility for independent producers.[11] The late deadline for the 2025 awards cycle was set for April 17th, 2025.[12]
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