Unmuted: Speak Up! CASE Students Amplify Their Voices Through Podcasting

Our CASE and ArtLab students have been working hard this year to put their character values and skills into action—culminating in some exciting and professionally recorded podcast projects! These students have been learning that their voices are powerful and needed, their perspectives matter, and they have important things to say.

Our CASE theme this year, “Unmuted: Speak Up!”, has been about encouraging students to express themselves with confidence, consideration, and clarity. Through this podcast project, they have done just that. They have explored how to form and articulate their own perspectives on various topics, communicate their thoughts effectively, and practice perspective-taking as they listen to and engage with their peers.

This experience has gone beyond simply recording voices. It has been an exercise in critical thinking, empathy, and communication—growth practices straight from NAZA’s Holistic Vision for Youth Development. Students have challenged themselves to dig deep into their own thoughts, consider different perspectives, and hone their message to communicate what they want to say. They have practiced having a growth mindset with endurance, working through the process of writing scripts, researching their topics, and tailoring their delivery.

Along the way, students have also developed practical skills, such as:

• Scriptwriting and storytelling

• Setting up and using professional podcasting equipment

• Researching and organizing information

• Speaking with clarity and confidence

• Asking meaningful questions and engaging in discussion

One of the most rewarding parts of this project has been watching students encourage and support one another. When one student felt nervous after seeing the professional recording setup, another student immediately reassured them, saying: "We need your thoughts! You always have wonderful things to say when you speak up. Be confident in that." Moments like these highlight the value of this process—not just for skill-building, but for fostering friendships, belonging, and confidence.

These students embraced meaningful conversations, covering topics such as:

• The impact of social media on friendships and self-perception

• What they wish adults knew about being a middle schooler today

• Trying foods from different cultures and discussing their experiences

Through these discussions, they are not only talking but also growing, connecting, and making their voices heard.

At CASE and ArtLab, we want every student to recognize that their thoughts, perspectives, and voices matter. This podcast project has been a powerful way for them to see that in action. We are so proud of the creativity, persistence, and teamwork they have shown. These students are Unmuted, and they are speaking up with confidence!