I’m a moderator, interviewer, and journalist focused on making complex ideas accessible through live conversations and audio storytelling. I regularly moderate public forums and interviews for organizations including the Aspen Institute, where I work with scientists, policymakers, and thought leaders on topics ranging from climate to public health. In parallel, I serve as Executive Producer of The Lens podcast in New Orleans, where I shape weekly conversations around local accountability journalism.

CAROLYNE HELDMAN

I’m a moderator, interviewer, and journalist focused on making complex ideas accessible through live conversations and audio storytelling. I regularly moderate public forums and interviews for organizations including the Aspen Institute, where I work with scientists, policymakers, and thought leaders on topics ranging from climate to public health. In parallel, I serve as Executive Producer of The Lens podcast in New Orleans, where I shape weekly conversations around local accountability journalism.

Available to hire

I’m a moderator, interviewer, and journalist focused on making complex ideas accessible through live conversations and audio storytelling.
I regularly moderate public forums and interviews for organizations including the Aspen Institute, where I work with scientists, policymakers, and thought leaders on topics ranging from climate to public health.
In parallel, I serve as Executive Producer of The Lens podcast in New Orleans, where I shape weekly conversations around local accountability journalism.

See more

Language

English
Fluent

Work Experience

Moderator & Interviewer (Live Events & Public Programs) at Aspen Institute (Public Programs and affiliated events)
July 1, 2023 - Present
Moderate live public conversations with scientists, authors, and policy leaders; translate complex topics into engaging, audience-centered discussions. Topics include climate change, public health, politics, and social policy.
Executive Producer & Host at Behind the Lens, The Lens, New Orleans
January 1, 2021 - Present
Created, host, and produce a weekly podcast from a non-profit newsroom; lead full production cycle including editorial planning, scripting, interviews, editing, and final mix; collaborate with reporters and editors to ensure narrative quality and journalistic rigor.
Executive Producer & Host at The Virus Diaries: New Orleans (Independent Podcast)
January 1, 2020 - December 31, 2020
Developed, launched, and produced bi-weekly narrative podcast chronicling the impact of COVID-19 on New Orleans residents; designed show structure, conducted interviews, scripted and edited episodes; employed trauma-informed storytelling to build trust with participants during crisis.
Executive Director at Aspen Public Radio (NPR Member Station)
January 1, 2013 - December 31, 2019
Directed all editorial, programming, and operational functions for NPR affiliate serving western Colorado; oversaw newsroom and on-air staff; mentored producers, reporters, and hosts; expanded investigative and cultural coverage; developed community partnerships; served as on-air host and contributor for special programming.
Program Director at Aspen Public Radio (NPR Member Station)
January 1, 2008 - December 31, 2013
Directed all editorial, programming, and operational functions; oversaw newsroom and on-air staff; mentored producers, reporters, and hosts; expanded investigative and cultural coverage; developed community partnerships.
Moderator, Guest Lecturer, & Event Host at Aspen Institute; Rocky Mountain Institute; Tulane University; American Enterprise Institute; and others
January 1, 2008 - Present
Moderate live events and panel discussions with thought leaders on climate, politics, culture, and public policy; served as guest lecturer on journalism, media, and narrative storytelling.

Education

B.A. in Film Studies at University of California, Santa Barbara
January 11, 2030 - April 1, 2026

Qualifications

Add your qualifications or awards here.

Industry Experience

Media & Entertainment, Non-Profit Organization, Education, Professional Services