Breaking the Audio Barrier to Let the Voice Out: A Student-Led Podcast Studio to Enhance Creativity and Employability
Over the past few weeks, I have initiated a new project that combines several of my long-standing interests: creativity, student engagement, digital storytelling, and experiential learning. Having been awarded the Faculty of Humanities TLSE Enhancement Grant, I am launching a project that aims to unlock the potential of podcasting as a tool for student-led expression and skill development.
This project, titled “Breaking the Audio Barrier to Let the Voice Out,” seeks to enable students to express themselves while developing work-relevant skills. By creating a student-led podcast environment, I want to make the studio a more visible, welcoming, and purposeful part of our learning community. Students will not only learn to create podcast content, but will also explore how to communicate ideas, collaborate with peers, and reflect on their experiences through audio.
For me, this is an opportunity to rethink how we encourage creativity and connection within higher education, through tools that are both accessible and empowering. While the project has only just started, I believe it holds real promise to support personal growth, build confidence, and help students feel that their voices belong in the conversation.
What I Am Trying to Do
The core aim of the project is to create a more inviting and purposeful environment for student audio storytelling. I am working with a small group of students to explore what this could look like in practice. My focus is on encouraging confidence, creativity, and a sense of ownership. I want students to feel that their voices matter—and that they have the tools and support to use them.
What Is Happening So Far
The project is still in its early stages, but it is already beginning to take shape. Recruitment and planning are underway, and I am putting together some initial resources to help guide the students involved. There is also work happening behind the scenes to build a simple online space where we can share content, reflections, and project updates.
Why This Work Matters to Me
This project brings together several things I care about deeply: creativity, student voice, and practical learning. I have always believed that when students are given the chance to lead, they often surprise us in the best ways. I want this project to be a space where that can happen. A place where students can try something new, build confidence, and feel proud of what they create.
What Comes Next
In the coming months, I will continue working closely with the student team to co-create this project, support them as they develop their ideas and begin producing content. We will also gather reflections along the way to understand what the experience means for those involved. My hope is that this project will not only bring the studio to life, but also create something lasting: an atmosphere where student voice is heard clearly, and often.
Interested in learning how it goes?... Stay tuned!