2025-2026 Semester 

Message in a Bottle

The Cortes Island Academy welcomed acclaimed sound artist Ruby Singh for our first Podcasting Intensive — a deep dive into creative audio storytelling.  Throughout the week, students learned every step of podcast creation — from shaping story and recording sound to editing and production — as they explored one big question: What does an audio message in a bottle that travels through time sound like?

On the first day, students learned about audio recording, sound design, podcasting, and audio editing.

On days two and three, students learned about the Sensory Lotus method for poetic storytelling. How do we describe and abstract subject in poetic yet concrete terms? How do we bring vivid feelings and images to the mind of the viewer?

In addition to writing tactics, students learned about production schedules and how to pitch their creative idea to a producer.

On day 4, students jumped into in-depth audio editing for their shows, using the audio editing software Audacity.

On the last day, students aired their podcasts on a live radio production, for Folku Friday’s on the Cortes Radio.

2023-2024 Semester 

Journalistic Podcasts

In our Creative Tools for Truth-Telling block, students produced their own 15-40 minute podcasts. Students not only acquire the technical expertise required for podcasting but also hone their storytelling abilities, mastering the art of weaving narratives that captivate and engage audiences. 

Each podcast you’ll find here represents the culmination of meticulous research, thoughtful storytelling, and the dedication of our students to the pursuit of truth and storytelling. They have delved into the depths of diverse topics, amplifying voices, challenging perspectives, and shedding light on the multifaceted nature of the world we inhabit. Listen along below!