Laura Sydell

Laura Sydell is a seasoned journalist, podcaster, and television writer based in San Francisco, California. With over 25 years of experience in journalism, she has made significant contributions to the field, particularly as the Digital Culture Correspondent for NPR, where she reports on the intersection of technology and culture. Her work has included coverage of topics such as the impact of the Internet on music and the effects of technology on human relationships.14

Sydell has held various prominent roles throughout her career. Before her tenure at NPR, she was a senior technology reporter for American Public Media's Marketplace, focusing on the human aspects of technological advancements during the Silicon Valley boom. She has also worked as a reporter for WNYC in New York City, where her coverage of race relations and city politics earned her numerous awards.234

In addition to her journalism work, Sydell has been involved in academia, serving as a lecturer at the Graduate School of Journalism at the University of California, Berkeley, for nearly 18 years. Her teaching has focused on cultural journalism and technology reporting.13

Sydell's contributions extend to various boards, including her role as a board member for the Center for New Media at UC Berkeley from January 2009 to January 2014, where she advised and consulted on new media initiatives.15 She has also served on the board of the National Arts Journalism Program and the Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive.13

Overall, Laura Sydell's career reflects a deep commitment to exploring and reporting on the transformative effects of technology on society and culture.