In a world full of screens, endless scrolls, and viral trends, it’s easy to assume that today’s kids are just passive consumers of digital content. But at Be Loud Studios, a kid-centered, joy-fueled media organization in New Orleans, children and teens are flipping the script—literally. They’re grabbing the mic, hitting record, and turning those same screens into powerful tools for storytelling, collaboration, and confidence-building.
Founded by two educators who saw something spark in their classrooms, Be Loud Studios was born from a simple question: What if kids had the chance to tell their own stories, in their own voices? The answer has blossomed into a full-fledged youth radio program that’s currently helping over 500 kids from across the city express themselves, connect with their community, and develop real-world skills in audio production.
From Struggle to Spark
In 2018, co-founders Diana Turner and Alex Owens were teaching at Bricolage Academy in very different classrooms, but noticing the same thing. “We were constantly trying to solve this problem [with] kids who are really successful in [Alex’s] makerspace [and] how we can make sure they’re [just] as successful in reading and writing,” recalls Turner.
One student, in particular, stuck with them. In traditional classrooms, this student struggled to even begin writing assignments. But when he was given the chance to write a script and record a podcast, he showed up to school early, ready to speak into the mic with a crumpled script in hand. “He didn’t become a different kid,” Turner says. “He became the kid we knew—just finally in the right setting.”
That setting—an authentic, student-run radio space—quickly grew from a classroom experiment into a school-wide show and, eventually, an independent nonprofit. Since becoming a 501(c)(3) in 2019, Be Loud has transformed into a citywide hub for youth voice, creativity, and community.
More Than a Mic
At its core, Be Loud Studios is about more than making great radio (though they absolutely do that, too!). The organization is guided by three C’s: competence, connection, and choice. These are the building blocks of the confidence that Be Loud aims to instill in every child who walks through its doors.
Competence comes from real skill-building, like interviewing strangers, mixing audio, and producing episodes for air. Connection is created through collaboration, community outings, and exploring New Orleans with a fresh lens. “One of the biggest things we can do for kids is to make them feel connected,” Turner says. “To each other, to adults, and to their city.” And then there’s choice. Be Loud gives young people agency over what they create, where they go, and what they talk about, whether that’s haunted houses, mental health, or climate change.
(Sound)Waves of Support
Be Loud’s programming is as rich and dynamic as the kids it serves. The core radio program runs year-round, bringing together middle school “DJs” and high school “Junior Producers” every Saturday to write, record, and edit real radio shows. Their work airs on WHIV-FM and is expanding to WWNO, giving young voices a literal platform across the airwaves.
Their Pass the Mic teacher fellowship trains educators to bring podcasting into their own classrooms, equipping them with gear, funding, and coaching. This year alone, 12 fellows helped 400 students across the city create classroom-based media projects, from science explainers to creative writing performances, all culminating in a Youth Voice Festival at Baldwin & Co. Bookstore.
Through community partnerships, Be Loud extends its reach even further. From ongoing collaborations with Son of a Saint to projects with youth-led climate initiatives, they are always on the move recording, amplifying, and celebrating kids doing incredible work.
Turning Up the Volume
Be Loud is not just a space to talk; it’s a space to be fully seen and heard. It’s a place where teenagers can swing between topics like mental health and TikTok trends, tackling both with curiosity and courage.
So how can you support Be Loud’s mission? Start simple: Follow them on Instagram @beloudstudios, listen to the Be Loud Radio Hour on Spotify (or your preferred listening platform), or check out their latest youth-made podcasts. Want to do more? “Whatever profession or skill you bring, there’s probably a way we can connect with you,” Turner says. From donating gear to offering mentorship, volunteering, or contributing financially through their website (beloudstudios.org), every bit helps amplify the youth voice in New Orleans.
With each passing year, Be Loud Studios’ impact grows louder and so does their commitment to empowering young voices. Whether you’re a parent, a teacher, a neighbor, or simply someone who believes in the next generation, Be Loud is calling. Let’s listen.
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