Diary of a TY Podcaster - Lucy Collins

“As part of my TY Journalism module, I have bravely entered the world of podcasting. I am someone with zero broadcasting experience under my belt, so in the beginning, I was pretty nervous. However, that soon changed and I am really enjoying being part of this new venture at Sacred Heart.

The one thing I have noticed over the course of the podcasts is the variety of guests. The subjects covered in these student-led interviews have spanned politics, climate change, history, and feminism. The podcasts are also only 30 minutes long which is perfect for when you’re out walking.

Each Thursday, at 12:25pm, my Journalism class meets and this is the highlight of my day. From the minute Ms Bell scribbles the name of our next victim across the board, nervous chats break out and the excitement builds. Arms swing side to side, creating whiplash in the process of getting Ms Bell’s attention.

“Me,me,me!”

Chants are heard from either side of the classroom. Cue lots of research on computers, phones and books. Anything from Instagram to the future guest’s Wikipedia bio page. If the FBI are looking for any background checks, my class mates have it covered!

Your role in the podcast can vary from sound engineer to interviewer, to researcher to photographer. The experience you gain in this class is worth so much. I believe it’s what future employers will look at. It’s what puts you apart from the other Mary in the room. There’s something for everyone.

 We’ve had eight amazing guests so far. Cllr Gillian Coughlan, the Mayor of the County of Cork; Holly Cairns TD; entrepreneur, Callum Donnelly; environmentalist, Brendan McCormack; film producer and educationalist, Lord David Puttnam; author and past pupil, Louise O’Neill; local historian, Tim Crowley and composer, Justin Grounds. From listening to these influential people, I’ve realised that they all have one thing in common: if you are given a chance to be a role model, take it! You can influence a person's life with the tiniest act.

Louise O Neill (a participant of the sixth SHSS podcast) wrote a book, Asking For It , which is now a nationwide phenomenon. It addresses consent and the lack of justice being served no matter what your background is. Commended for her activism, she now has an honorary doctorate in Law from UCC.

I’m excited for next term as we’ve lots of great guests lined up. News at SHSS never stops. I feel like we’re really on the pulse.”

Lucy Collins, Transition Year.