Revisiting the beginnings of their audio storytelling journeys, past participants of the NPR College Podcast Challenge reflect on how the competition influenced their careers and creativity.
Transcript
SCOTT DETROW, HOST:
Can a podcast change your life? It did for reporter Anya Steinberg. She won the first NPR College Podcast Challenge five years ago. As we kick off this year’s challenge, we asked her to catch up with some other alums.
An Unexpected Journey Through Storytelling
ANYA STEINBERG, BYLINE: Five years since her initial triumph, Miriam Colvin reflects on her debut in audio storytelling. As a freshman at Penn State University, she captivated listeners with a tale of an unexpected boxing match involving her grandpa’s friend and a young Muhammad Ali, then known as Cassius Clay.
(SOUNDBITE OF PODCAST, “COMPETITION WITH THE BEST”)
MIRIAM COLVIN: The underdog story is one that we’re all very familiar with.
STEINBERG: Colvin remains enchanted by her grandfather’s stories about his adventurous youth, including climbing bridges and a serendipitous meeting at a pencil sharpener.
COLVIN: These stories remind me we need to be out living.
STEINBERG: Inspired by her podcasting experience, Colvin has ventured into stand-up comedy and playwriting.
Cultural Connections Through Language
Bunmi Omisore took a different approach, exploring her family’s narratives through a linguistic lens. As a senior at Duke University, her podcast highlighted the challenges of connecting with family due to her lack of fluency in Yoruba.
(SOUNDBITE OF PODCAST, “HEARING MY FAMILY”)
BUNMI OMISORE: At best, it’s like a dance that I’ve seen many times before but never knew the steps to.
STEINBERG: Omisore’s honorable mention win prompted her to overcome her fears and embrace learning Yoruba, assisted by her father’s encouragement.
OMISORE: That slight discomfort that had stopped me for so long, it kind of makes you wonder, OK, how many other things are we missing out on because we’re not willing to be in that position as a learner?
STEINBERG: Omisore now feels more connected, proudly comprehending messages left by her father in Yoruba.
Friendship and Personal Growth
Jo Strogatz, another contest winner, attributes her current role at Radiolab to her podcasting success. Her entry, created while studying at the Salt Institute for Documentary Studies, featured an interview with a friend who prioritized friendships over romantic relationships.
(SOUNDBITE OF PODCAST, “JUST FRIENDS”)
STROGATZ: So have you ever felt romance with somebody?
STEVE SMALL: No, I have not. I have to say that my friendships are a hundred times more important to me.
STEINBERG: This exploration of friendship reshaped Strogatz’s own perspective, emphasizing the romantic potential within platonic bonds. Preparing for a trip to Paris, she chose a close friend over a romantic partner to accompany her.
(SOUNDBITE OF ARCHIVED RECORDING)
STROGATZ: Hello from Paris.
UNIDENTIFIED PERSON #2: Hi. Hi.
(SOUNDBITE OF HORN HONKING)
STROGATZ: (Laughter) Bonjour.
UNIDENTIFIED PERSON #2: Bonjour.
STEINBERG: For NPR News, I’m Anya Steinberg.
(SOUNDBITE OF MUSIC)
DETROW: If you’re inspired by these stories, the NPR College Podcast Challenge is now open. College students, you have until January 2027 to enter for a chance to win $5,000 and hear your story on NPR. Learn more at npr.org/studentpodcastchallenge.
(SOUNDBITE OF MUSIC)
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