Austin Has The Mic! – Ep. 17



This month we join the youth of Austin Has The Mic, a youth media partnership between Westside Health Authority and BUILD, as they cover an Austin community event. Hear them discuss the experience and their future plans. Plus, a highlight of the Iris Farm.


Women’s History Month: Honoring the Women In Our Lives – Ep. 16



For Women’s History Month, we hear from BUILD staff and youth on what they #ChooseToChallenge, as well as thoughts from our young people as they interview some special women in their lives. Plus, a powerful youth-performed spoken word piece.

Episode Segments:
(1:16) Youth producers discuss podcasting and what got them interested in the medium.
(7:17) BUILD youth and staff talk to us about International Women’s Day and what they #ChooseToChallenge.
(11:42) BUILD youth Kashila performs spoken word piece “Black Girl Magic”.
(13:34) Podcast program youth Tamia invites a friend for an honest conversation about gender stereotypes, social media’s beauty standards, and body positivity.
(24:05) Miguel interviews a female mentor of his and learns about her career path in public health and her professional advice for young women.
(31:20) Ziolet reflects on the unfair obstacles women have been facing for generations, and many of the dangers that women face every day.
(34:03)
Tobias interviews his mother about growing up black in Chicago, the generational shift she’s seen in family and relationship dynamics, and her advice for young mothers.
(43:32) Youth creators reflect on their segments.


Black Leadership of Today and Tomorrow – Ep. 15



In celebration of Black History Month, hear conversations with Black leaders of two different generations. BUILD youth leaders talk about their own goals and motivations, plus, interviews with Black Table guest speakers Derek Brewer and Sylvia Ewing.

Episode Segments:
(2:46)
BUILD Mentor-in-Training Cheveris talks about stepping up for your community, learning self control, and being the change you wish to see.
(10:25) BUILD Mentor-in-Training Schan on the difficulty of being a Black man in America, brotherhood, and communication.
(16:52) ‘BUILDing Girls 2 Women’ participant Destiny tells us about her dream.
(18:59) BUILD youth Jonathan interviews Derek Brewer, an educational consultant of more than 35 years, about his journey from dropping out of school and homelessness, to learning the skills that led him to success.
(40:34) BUILD youth Quintiara talks with Sylvia Ewing: marketer, event producer, communications strategist, and award-winning journalist, about creative inspiration, empowering others, and following your dreams.


BUILD Youth Look Back on 2020 – Ep. 14



On this episode, we will be hearing from BUILD youth, many from our Austin Has The Mic podcast program who produced their own segments, as they take a look back on the unforgettable year that was 2020. You’ll hear in their own words their reflections on the virus, quarantine, the summer protests, as well as other notable events you may have forgotten about.


“Claiming Your Power” (with Sylvia Puente) – Ep. 13



Sylvia Puente knows a thing or two about adversity—she also knows a thing or two about policy. In this youth-led interview, the distinguished President & CEO of the Latino Policy Forum discusses making positive change, while staying true to your heritage.


La Mesa Latina 2020 – Ep. 12



In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, BUILD is proud to present La Mesa Latina, a unique event that brings together many of Chicago’s most accomplished Latin leaders to share their stories with promising Latin youth from across metropolitan Chicago.


Exploring Leadership and Legacy (feat. Wood Harris and more) – Ep. 11



In our 11th edition, hear actor Wood Harris discuss growing up on the West Side; Michele Clark High School principal Charles Anderson sheds light on his school’s achievements; guest speakers from our Black Table event explain the importance of legacy; Chicago Bulls point guard Ryan Arcidiacono reflects on his first NBA game; one participant recounts an unforgettable day of service; and BUILD youth share thoughts on leadership.


Redefining The West Side (feat. Sgt. Jermaine Harris) – Ep. 10



Sgt. Jermaine Harris grew up on the west side. Unlike many that move away when they find success, Harris never left. Hear two of BUILD’s charismatic youth hosts interview Harris about his mentors, being a cop, serving his community, and hope for the future. Plus an MLK-inspired youth spoken word reflection.


An Attitude of Gratitude – Ep. 9



In this holiday-themed episode, hear what BUILD youth are thankful for, two stellar spoken word pieces, a youth-led talk show, an improvised BUILD song, a young man honoring his late friend, and an interview with ACT executive director Darnell Shields.

Donate! at bit.ly/2OFCc3G


The Sounds of Summer! – Ep. 8



BUILD knows how to make the most of summer. In this episode we follow young people from our media program, and listen to some of the fantastic original content they created this summer. Including: Community Issue Spotlights/PSAs, summer program participant interviews, coverage from a community basketball event,  and an in-studio interview with founder of Forty Acres Fresh Market, Liz Abunaw.