Testimonials
Nav Pal
Podcast Studio Manager, Haymarket
I didn't have much experience being on a podcast, especially not being interviewed, but the team at The First Studio, made the whole experience completely comfortable and seamless, which really helps with the nerves. If you want a professional and comfortable podcast studio, this is the place to go!
Matthew Chapman
Managing Partner, Future Group
I really enjoyed the whole experience with The First Studio. Shez immediately put me at ease, explained how we were going to approach the conversation and created an environment where I could relax and just talk.
His direction throughout the filming gave me confidence and helped us get into some really good conversations without anything feeling overly produced or scripted.
When I saw the finished content, I was genuinely impressed. It looked polished and professional, but still felt like me.
The First Studio, did a brilliant job of creating an experience that was relaxed, well directed and ultimately produced some fantastic content.
Anant Joshi
Host, Plant CEO
Recorded a podcast at The First Studio in Bethnal Green, recently and it was seamless from start to finish. Really easy to find, walkable from both Bethnal Green and Cambridge Heath stations, so well worth the trip even if you're coming from further across London.
The space is fairly cosy in person, but somehow looks much larger on screen once you're recording, well laid out and comfortable, clearly designed with podcasters in mind rather than being an afterthought to a music studio.
Gear was top notch, including an amazing state of the art AI camera system that most studios simply don't have. Everything was set up and ready to go, so we could just get on with recording without any faffing about. Sound quality was excellent throughout.
Shez, the owner, was really accommodating and great at communicating throughout, both before and during the session, which made the whole experience feel effortless.
The whole process was easy and straightforward, no technical hiccups, which meant we could focus on the conversation rather than the setup.
Highly recommend, whether you're local to Bethnal Green, or coming from elsewhere in London, this is a studio worth seeking out.
Ali Syed
Publisher Partnerships, Roku Inc
I had an incredible experience recording the podcast at The First Studio. I instantly felt comfortable and was given freedom to express my thoughts, outlook and opinions without feeling like I had to stick to a script. You’re in good hands and Shez will make you feel right at home and give you space to open up.
Gary Rayneau
Co-Founder, Project 23
I've done a few podcasts over the years, and for me, the less you notice the setup, the planning and the 'behind-the-scenes' mechanics, the better. For me, it simply felt like catching up with a friend and having a great conversation, and I mean that in the best possible way.
Gareth Pritchard
Operations Director, PPA
We worked with Shez Iqbal (owner of The First Studio), on the development and production of our I Found Myself in Publishing podcast series, prior to the launch of The First Studio in Bethnal Green.
Shez worked closely with our team to help shape the concept, prepare guests for filming, conduct interviews and oversee production through to publication.
We were particularly impressed by his ability to transform our office space into a professional recording environment while creating a relaxed atmosphere that helped guests feel comfortable and engage openly in conversation.
Throughout the project, Shez brought a strong combination of editorial, production and interviewing skills, and played an important role in delivering a high-quality series. Based on our experience working together, I would be happy to recommend Shez and would welcome the opportunity to collaborate again in the future.