Mission:
Our mission is to empower voices through the transformative tools of podcasting, creating opportunities for individuals to share their stories, ideas, and perspectives with confidence. We strive to inspire literacy, active listening, meaningful connection, creativity, and positive change by giving people a platform where their voices can be heard. Through podcasting, we believe in building stronger communities, encouraging thoughtful conversations, and helping individuals discover the power of their own stories.
Vision:
Our vision is to create a future where every voice is empowered to think critically, communicate confidently, connect meaningfully, and inspire positive change. We envision a world where people have the tools and opportunities to share their stories, listen to diverse perspectives, and engage in conversations that strengthen communities. Through the power of podcasting, we strive to cultivate curiosity, understanding, creativity, and a lasting impact—one voice, one story, and one connection at a time.
USE YOUR VOICE! SPEAK UP THE WORLD IS LISTENING!
Who Are We:
Empowering Every Voice Through Podcasting.
Ellis Stephens and his journey with podcasting inspired the creation of The Stephens Speak Up Scholarship. With the support of The Rotary Club of Carpet City, Ellis has become the first recipient to receive a scholarship through the National Podcast Project.
Before the National Podcast Project even had a name, Ellis was a middle school student who surpassed many odds during COVID to submit a podcast to the NPR Podcast Challenge and ended up winning a Top 10 award nationwide. He set a standard for his peers as he discussed the topic of “Toxic Masculinity” through the perspective of a drama kid.
Throughout his high school career Ellis has shown a dedication to using his voice and other creative outlets to SPEAK UP. In 2020 Ellis’ creativity and perseverance helped give birth to this project. 5 years later, we will remember him as he graduates and continues his journey at Marymount Manhattan College in New York City for musical theater. As this project grows, this scholarship will bring us back to a simple motto:
The voice of one child can create great change.
We support partnerships with schools, businesses and non-profits for podcasting and video podcasting projects.
The National Podcast Project is a nonprofit organization that supports podcasting in the K-12 and college classroom as a vital literacy tool. We celebrate storytelling as a vehicle for change, connection, and the amplification of marginalized voices.
Meet the Team