Summer Youth Podcast Academy
The Summer Youth Podcast Academy is an immersive beginner podcasting workshop for New York City public school students, hosted by The Bell. The stories published here were reported, written, recorded, and mixed by our students in just three weeks.
Barbershop Dreams
In this episode, discover how Frank, a renowned Bronx barber, transformed his shop into a vibrant cultural and political hub, and ultimately a cornerstone of his community.
The Bronx Squeeze: Health Juices Making an Impact
Discover how Felicia Forbes, owner of Freckles Juice, transformed her humble beginnings selling juices from her Bronx apartment into a thriving juice bar chain, all while advocating for better health in her community.
Learn and Conjure
Explore the story of Em Eason, director of Skilled Craft Programs at Beam, leading exciting youth woodworking programs in NYC. Discover how woodworking and power tools empower teens, how Em’s approach to teaching has evolved, and an exclusive inside look at Beam’s transformative programs.
Inside The Mind of a Veteran Music Producer
In this episode, we sit down with veteran music producer, David Sisko to uncover the secrets behind his iconic studio and explore his journey through New York’s music scene.
Bangladesh Meets Brooklyn: The Fry Factory Story
In this episode, dive into the story of Fry Factory, a small fried chicken shop in a gas station in Brooklyn. Hear what fuels its success as a community favorite from young owner, Abubakor Siddik.
Brooklyn Tea’s Brewing Dreams
Follow the story of brewing dreams, tea, and community with this Black-Owned Tea shop.
A Café That Transformed a Community
Hear inspiring journey behind Elm Roastery, a cafe in Elmhurst, Queens, where one man’s resilience and dedication transformed a simple coffee shop into a cornerstone of community and hope.
Little Meeple, Big World
How can something as small as a board game make such a big impact on a community? Tune in to this episode to find out.
Sonder is Sweet
In this episode, follow the journey of Rachel Wu as she adapts to a new country, juggles long hours at a crepe shop, and balances a master’s degree in the middle of Jackson Heights, Queens.
Threads of Culture Woven Together
Each rug has a story, the essence of its creator stitched into it — so how do you convey that to a customer? In this episode, uncover what it means to have someone else’s culture in the palm of your hands. Literally.
Finding Pockets of Strength Within my Own Hair
Hear how Leah Thomas, owner of Elevate the Experience, a salon in Brooklyn, is revolutionizing the black hair experience.
Climbing Over it (Life)
Cliff Simanski shares the inspiring story behind GP81, one of Brooklyn's top rock climbing gyms.
Family Affair
Trying to better understand his family dynamics, Kenneth unveils stories of past tragedies and trauma.
Great Aunt Living in a Crazy World
I sit down with my great aunt to discuss Ecuador's political struggles and how they impact our family.
Don't Let it Hurt Me
Plagued by nightmares, my cousin Manar made a life-changing decision.
NYC Chaos Strikes!
In this episode, my friend Danny and I go on a journey to uncover the motives and desires of a young teen in a moment of chaos.
He's a Local Gas Station Worker, but He's Also My Dad
I try to understand my dad’s job as a gas station worker, what it means to him and how it impacts our relationship.
Trinidadian Culture, I Did Not Forget About You
My grandfather, who immigrated to the U.S. after growing up in Trinidad, has never spoken much about his Caribbean roots. I decided to interview him to uncover the reasons behind this absence.
Trial and Error Ends with Triumph
Decide for yourself whether or not my older sister Mary is a “trial and error child.”
The Best of Our Abilities
My cousin Emily and I discuss our experiences living with disabilities in an ableist society.