A new podcast is hitting the internet with the goal of amplifying important commentary on pressing social issues and sparking meaningful discussions. Unmuted, launched by Jordan Suisala, seeks to engage listeners in conversations about race, class, activism, policy changes, and environmental justice, among other timely topics.
“I started the Unmuted podcast in hopes to break the silence on controversial issues that divide our nation, ultimately relating them to our community and people who may also be affected,” Suisala said. “With the many changes happening around us, especially changes surrounding new policies, I hope to bring it back home a little and provide a sense of relatability. These issues deserve conversation, and Unmuted does just that.”
Unmuted aims to create healthy spaces for discourse that lead to action, inspiring listeners to use their voices on societal challenges. By focusing on trending issues and their local impact, the podcast intends to create a space where underrepresented voices are heard.
“I want Unmuted to be the type of podcast that brings forward conversations that matter, ending the quietude on topics that demand attention and action,” Suisala explained.
Podcasts are one of the biggest forms of digital media and have continued to surge in popularity in recent years. Due to their ability to offer an accessible and engaging format for in-depth storytelling and discussion, Suisala believes that what sets a successful podcast apart in today’s media landscape is its ability to move its audience to action.
“I think a successful podcast is one that tells stories that can inspire hope and change. Anyone can report on the flaws of our society, but a successful story will ignite readers and listeners to think big and outside the box when it comes to creating a hopeful future,” Suisala said. “I hope Unmuted can be just that—bold ideas spark change, and I know our community is full of them!”
Christina Goff, a guest on the podcast and a librarian at Los Medanos College, shared insights on the growing popularity of podcasts and what sets them apart from other forms of media.
“My sense is that people who enjoy podcasts prefer listening or watching discussions about topics they are interested in, possibly it is easier to relate to the content and—it makes the listener feel a sense of belonging that can be hard to cultivate with the written word,” Goff said. “The rise of short-form video content being shared through TikTok and YouTube also brings podcast content to more people, which can help increase followers and audience. I would guess we will see an increase in podcast productions and audience in the future.”
Recalling the recording process, Goff said, “I was interviewed by Jordan for the first episode and it was a really enjoyable experience. Her questions were thoughtful, and I appreciated the opportunity to talk about my own personal experience and the LMC Library’s values. A standout moment for me was realizing that this podcast will reach students in a new way and will hopefully generate connections that might not otherwise have happened. Listening to the episode also let me hear my own words in a new context, woven in with the other perspectives presented, and that was cool to hear.”
Goff also highlighted what makes Unmuted stand out among student-led media. “I love that it is another example of student-led media at LMC, similar to the Experience. What makes it unique is the focus on a singular topic and the specific mission of amplifying voices that aren’t represented in the mainstream.”
With its commitment to tackling important social issues and fostering dialogue, Unmuted is positioning itself as a must-listen for those looking to stay informed and engaged.
Anyone who is interested in listening to Unmuted can find episodes on the LMC Experience website and YouTube. Make sure to follow updates on the fresh new podcast through our Instagram @lmc_experience.
