Ever wonder what would happen if you handed the microphone over to your students? Tim Lundeen, Content Creator and Producer at Timothy Christian Schools in Illinois, did just that. In a few short months, he helped launch a high school podcast that’s not only thriving but also teaching students invaluable skills in a medium they already love. If you’ve ever thought a podcast was too complicated or expensive for your school, Lundeen’s journey offers a practical and inspiring roadmap to prove it’s more achievable than you think.
For Students, By Students
The first, and most crucial, rule for a successful student podcast? It can’t be a marketing tool. Lundeen was adamant that the podcast should be for the students, not prospective parents. ‘If we do this podcast… You can’t give it to the marketing team,’ he advised his principal. Why? Because a marketing-driven program wouldn’t resonate with the student body. The goal of the TC Podcast is to ‘entertain, encourage, and edify’ the students. The result is authentic content that students actually want to create and listen to. And as a bonus, that very authenticity provides prospective families a genuine window into your school’s culture.
Gear? Just Hit Record.
Many school leaders get hung up on the technical side, but Lundeen insists the most important question isn’t ‘What gear should I get?’ but ‘What are you trying to accomplish?’ The number one priority is content. You can start today with nothing more than a smartphone. ‘You take the phone, you hit record, and you put it in someone’s face, and you ask them a question. You are now a podcaster,’ Lundeen explains. When you are ready to upgrade, a quality setup can be had for a couple of thousand dollars—an investment a local business or supportive family might be happy to sponsor. Don’t let the fear of technology become a barrier to entry.
Find Your Champions
While student-led, a successful podcast needs an adult champion—a ‘grown-up in the room’ to guide, filter, and ensure the content is productive and healthy. This person doesn’t need to be an audio engineer; they just need to be dedicated to the task. From there, it’s all about empowering your students. You’ll be surprised by who steps up when given the opportunity. Look for students who are not just interested but willing to show up and learn. Lundeen notes that while students consume a vast amount of content, they often lack the knowledge to create it. Be prepared to teach them, give them grace, and let them take ownership of their learning. With repetition and encouragement, they will find their voice.
Starting a student podcast is about more than just creating content; it’s about building a platform for student voice, fostering new skills, and creating a healthy digital space. It begins with trusting your students, starting simple, and focusing on your ‘why’. As Lundeen so powerfully puts it, ‘If we ultimately are afraid of the impact that podcasts can have on students, then we will fail to train them for the impact they can have on podcasts.’ This school year, consider handing them the mic. You’ll be amazed at what they have to say.
Click here to listen to the full podcast episode.