Youthcast: Podcasting by the youth
Young people record their own podcast series with their own topics. They create their original content and host the show. Podcasting by the youth – for the youth.
Level of participation
Information
Voicing Opinions
Duration of participation process
Preparation: At least 2 months
Implementation: At least 2 months
Follow-up: A couple of days for analysis and documentation
Target group size
< 25 people
Costs
$$
Human resources needed
At least two persons for preparation, moderation and documentation
The method: what is it, when to use it and what outcome to expect
This method involves young people creating and hosting audio content to discuss, explore, and share their perspectives on various topics. Podcasting allows youth to engage in meaningful conversations and express their thoughts in an accessible and relatable format. Use this method when you want to provide young people with a platform to amplify their voices.
The outcome is a series of episodes that showcase the voices, ideas, and experiences of young people. Podcasts can be played worldwide via various podcast formats, so youth can present themselves as experts on their topics to a global audience. They can invite other experts as interview partners and thereby build up a network. Podcasts are particularly suitable for those whose strength lies in verbal rather than written storytelling. It is a format that can be consumed passively, so people can listen while doing something else, such as going to school or doing sports.
The process: how to conduct it in an in-person setting or online using a PC/laptop with video option
1. Introduction: Explain the purpose, goals, and expected outcomes of a podcast. Provide guidance on how to use recording equipment and software.
2. Topic Selection: Collaborate with youth to choose podcast topics that interest them.
3. Equipment Setup: Ensure youth have access to recording equipment, including microphones, headphones, and recording/editing software.
4. Training: Implement workshops on how to draft a podcast, including how to use equipment and software and how to create a story line. In addition, provide training in simple interview skills as well as moderation skills.
5. Content Creation: Youth research, script, and record podcast episodes.
6. Editing: Edit audio files for quality and clarity.
7. Publishing: Publish episodes on podcast platforms or a dedicated website like Spotify, local radio stations, universities and social media.
8. Promotion: Use social media, email, and word of mouth to promote the podcast.
9. Engagement: Encourage listeners to provide feedback, questions, and topic suggestions.
Blended participation
Include online discussions, audience submissions, and live streaming of podcast recording sessions.
Digital communication
Communication platform for the event: Teams, Zoom, Webex
Mural or Miro Boards are useful tools to document the process, idea collection and results.
Good to know
- Let young people take the lead in content creation, hosting, and decision-making.
- Maintain a regular release schedule to keep the audience engaged.
- Invite guest speakers or experts to join podcast episodes for diverse perspectives.
- Encourage constructive feedback to improve the quality of the podcast.
- Discuss privacy and consent when sharing personal stories or sensitive information.
- Understand copyright and legal issues related to podcasting, such as music usage and permissions.
- Partner up with local- or University radio stations in order to reach a bigger audience.