Smartphone Journalist
Podium.me is a platform for young journalists who are using their smartphones to record the stories and opinions of the under 25s from around the world. You can pitch your podcast ideas, whether it’s news, sport, music or simply a friend with something to say. This organization is looking for short, honest video and audio podcasts, and blogs.
Although this organization is based in the U.K. you can participate from wherever you are. Their shows are both live and streamed on demand across multiple platforms. They also offer internships that can be from 1 week to 4 months and can be done remotely.
Participants gush about Podium.me’s help in launching them in a career in radio or Television: “I started by contributing little bits of content to their podcasts over the year, before helping to pitch, produce and deliver a BBC Radio 1 documentary… I’ve since gone on to work as a freelance producer for the Radio Academy, RIG, BBC Radio Cambridgeshire and now have a permanent job at TBI media where I produce content for the BBC and other commercial broadcasters. Podium no doubt played a huge part in my success, and I recommend other young people who are hoping to work in broadcasting to take full advantage of Podium too” - Sera Baker
How do I get started? Just go to their website and learn how to pitch a show.
How much time will this take? This is a high time commitment. Getting involved will require training and then recording, producing and editing a show. Ideally you will produce several pieces for them.
How do I expand this narrative arc? If youth radio or performing arts is in your narrative arc, consider building on this interest with one of the following:
Write for your school newspaper and ideally take on a leadership role there.
If you have a journalistic bent, check out our post on this incredible organization promoting written and visual journalism, YR Media
Consider starting a school radio or TV station
Do a summer course like this one at the New York TImes.
HOT TIP: The most impressive part of launching a new radio or TV station at your school will be your ability to bring this program to life. So don’t shy away from the need to organize here. For maximum wow effect, complement this project with a local impact project or capstone project in radio, journalism or TV.