Cindy Carpien

is a former NPR producer.

Steve Inskeep: Three songs that will change how you write for radio

Let Ray Charles, Bruce Springsteen and Steve Earle be your guides.

Colorado Public Radio: How to find the perfect audio moment

If you really want to describe something in a compelling way, you’ll need more than great sound — a surprising, defining moment.

Read this before you record ambience in the field

When it comes time to record ambience in the field, it’s important to capture different perspectives. Here are five approaches.