What were you doing in your 20s? For aspiring Aussie entrepreneurs Sophie Greiner (22) and Bella Filacuridi (25) the answer is taking the podcasting world by storm with the development of their brilliant Dome app. Recently crowned the National Champions of Red Bull Basement 2024, these Sydney-based innovators are this week gearing up to represent Australia on the global stage in Tokyo. Competing against 40 other countries, they aim to bring their groundbreaking platform to life. And, ultimately transform podcasts into hubs for authentic connection and conversation.
What is the Dome app about?
The Dome app is a podcast analytics and community platform designed to empower creators with insights that were previously out of reach. While the podcasting industry is hurtling toward a staggering $130 billion valuation by 2030, it has yet to fully embrace its most vital asset – he listeners. That’s where Dome steps in. By leveraging AI-driven analytics, the platform offers podcast hosts unparallelled data on listener engagement. And, enables them to craft content that resonates and builds a loyal audience.
But, Dome doesn’t stop there. It’s also a space for listeners, providing a platform to connect with other fans, engage in discussions, and share feedback – all within one cohesive app. In short, Dome is creating a thriving ecosystem. One where hosts and audiences can build deeper, more meaningful connections.
From beginners to Red Bull Basement
For Sophie and Bella, entering Red Bull Basement was more than just a competition – it was a launchpad for their vision. With Sophie’s background in law, communications, and Chinese, and Bella’s expertise in product strategy and customer experience design, they’ve combined their skills to build something extraordinary.
Red Bull Basement offers a unique opportunity for innovators like them to refine their ideas, gain mentorship, and connect with industry leaders. For the duo, the chance to pitch Dome at the World Final in Tokyo is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
“Red Bull Basement provides access to a community of ambitious, like-minded innovators who inspire and challenge each other,” they explained. “It’s a transformative platform for taking our next steps as founders.”
How AI is powering the Dome app
At the heart of Dome’s innovation is AI. The platform uses AI-trained community data to unlock insights that go far beyond basic metrics. By analysing listener interactions and feedback, Dome helps hosts understand what their audiences want, guiding them to create content that truly resonates.
Sophie and Bella are adamant that leveraging AI isn’t just a luxury. It’s essential. “In today’s world, it’s not a question of if a startup uses AI. But, how,” they noted.
Dome’s ultimate goal is to revolutionise the podcasting industry by placing community at its core. “Podcasts are shaping elections, driving cultural movements, and sparking meaningful conversations. Dome aims to amplify this potential by fostering connections through niche micro-communities,” Sophie and Bella shared.
Their dream doesn’t end with the World Final in Tokyo. The duo envisions Dome as a cornerstone for meaningful connection in an increasingly digital world. A platform that not only unites listeners but also empowers creators to make a lasting impact.
As they prepare for the global stage, Sophie and Bella are focusing on refining their pitch, gathering feedback from podcasters, and ensuring their MVP (minimum viable product) is ready to impress. And yes, they’re also scouting for the best karaoke bar in Tokyo because, after all, innovation thrives on fun and connection.
The future of Dome
With their sights set on Silicon Valley, Sophie and Bella are proving that Aussie ingenuity has the power to disrupt industries and inspire change. To stay updated on their journey, follow Dome on LinkedIn, TikTok, and their official website.
As the world tunes in, one thing is clear: Dome isn’t just changing podcasts – it’s changing how we connect.
