Ready to bring your podcast idea to life? Since 2013, content creators from across B.C. and Alberta have been sharing their passions and telling local stories from small towns and underrepresented communities, all with the support of TELUS STORYHIVE. These stories have sparked conversations, shifted narratives and helped launch the careers of emerging content creators.
As TELUS STORYHIVE launches applications for its second annual Video Podcast program, they are seeking new and emerging podcasters, as well as STORYHIVE alumni, to share fresh stories and spark community conversations. Through candid discussions and deep dives into topics that inspire them, participants will have the opportunity to explore and share meaningful content.
“We are excited to launch the second TELUS STORYHIVE Video Podcast program,” says Audrey Kiss, STORYHIVE Interior B.C. Territory Manager. “Video podcasts are a dynamic medium, empowering local storytellers to share their voices and spark meaningful, community-driven conversations.”
Your Mic, Your Platform. Apply by Dec. 12, 2024 to be a part of this amazing program from TELUS STORYHIVE!
With support from TELUS STORYHIVE, Kyle Scott has been able to expand his creative horizons and explore new opportunities within his community.
Kyle Scott, a volunteer firefighter in Revelstoke, B.C., was in the early stages of starting a podcast with a friend when he came across the TELUS STORYHIVE program, offering new and emerging content creators production funding, training and support.
“I wanted to create a series highlighting the first responders of Revelstoke and show what their day-to-day lives looked like,” Scott says. “The goal was to showcase the time, dedication and challenges they face in providing essential services to the community. I thought it would benefit both the community and those interested in becoming first responders to see how our local crews manage the complexities of a healthy work-life balance.”
Scott knew the funding offered by the TELUS STORYHIVE program would make a big difference to his project, however, like many before him, he underestimated the impact of the other benefits that come with participating in the program.
“Obviously, the funding is a huge help. For me, it meant we could upgrade our microphones, hire local staff for production and enjoy the flexibility to bring our vision to life,” Scott says. “But STORYHIVE offers more than just funding. They connect new creators with mentors, provide an onboarding meeting with industry contacts, offer a detailed handbook that acts as a step-by-step guide for creating a podcast and maintain a Slack channel where creators can find support and community.”
Revelstoke Responders is set to release in the Spring of 2025, but the project has already had a positive impact on the Revelstoke community by creating job opportunities and reinvesting funds locally. Over the past year, thanks to TELUS STORYHIVE’s support, Scott has worked with a diverse range of community members, learned how to collaborate with third-party organizations and honed his elevator pitch – a skill that will undoubtedly benefit him in future ventures.
“I’ve learned a lot from the STORYHIVE community,” Scott says. “Skills like proper time management are crucial when working on a creative project. And remembering to ‘dot your Is and cross your Ts’ – understanding that the little details matter – helps when aiming to produce content that is both professional and educational.”
For future storytellers, Scott emphasizes understanding the commitment required to complete a creative project with TELUS STORYHIVE. However, he adds, it’s just as important not to be intimidated by the application process or the complexity of a project.
“I applied on a whim with just a general idea, and it’s been an amazing, life-changing experience with ample support throughout the process,” Scott says. “If someone is thinking about applying but feels unsure, I suggest they go for it. Don’t be afraid of the outline or the challenges ahead – just jump in and try.
Tell your own stories though STORYHIVE’s Video Podcast program
Selected applicants will receive $12,000 in production funding, training and a community to produce an eight episode video podcast series. The projects will also receive distribution support and gain access to more than one million viewers on TELUS Optik TV, Stream+ and TELUS STORYHIVE’s YouTube channel.
Who can apply?
Your Mic, Your Platform!
No video production or podcasting experience is required. TELUS STORYHIVE’s second annual Video Podcast program is open to new and emerging podcasters as well as STORYHIVE alumni.
Applications for the Video Podcast Program must be submitted online at STORYHIVE.com/apply by Dec.12, 2024.
“At STORYHIVE, we’re committed to expanding our program offerings to support all kinds of content creators to tell the stories of their communities,” Kiss says. “We’re eager to see the creative projects that will emerge from this program, especially from new and emerging video podcasters. We encourage passionate storytellers from Revelstoke and beyond in B.C. and Alberta to apply and bring their unique stories to life.”
Making an impact in B.C. and Alberta for over the past decade
Since 2013, TELUS STORYHIVE has distributed more than $66.9 million in production funding, supporting 1,400+ screen-based projects, with over 162,000 hours of robust training and one-on-one mentorship. STORYHIVE has also supported 270+ communities across B.C. and Alberta. Through innovative programs they provide production funding, training, mentorship and distribution on TELUS Optik TV and online platforms. STORYHIVE remains committed to supporting and empowering the next generation of Canadian content creators and storytellers.
Questions about the program? Tune in on TELUS Optik TV channel 9 and STORYHIVE’s YouTube channel from 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. PST on Nov. 19, 2024 for a Video Podcast ‘Ask Us Anything’ live event. The STORYHIVE team will be ready and waiting to answer your questions! Register for the event here.
Stay connected with STORYHIVE and learn about future funding opportunities on their social media channels Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and YouTube.
