Calling all storytellers! Apply for $12k in funding and support through STORYHIVE’s Video Podcast program
Katie interviews a guest for her podcast, Her Love of Sports. Katie Hamilton.
Do you have a story to tell? Since 2013, content creators across B.C. and Alberta have been exploring their passions, telling local stories from their communities and sharing unique perspectives through support from TELUS STORYHIVE. These stories have sparked conversations, changed narratives and transformed the careers of emerging content creators.
TELUS STORYHIVE just announced their new Video Podcast program and is asking aspiring podcasters to apply and take their skills to the next level! They want you to share unique stories and inspire community conversations through candid discussions and deep dives on topics that inspire you.
“It’s an exciting time at TELUS STORYHIVE. We are proud to be launching a new Video Podcast program,” says Erin Shaw, STORYHIVE Vancouver Island Territory Manager. “Video podcasts are proving to be an impactful medium that provide space to share local stories and facilitate meaningful discussions.”
Your Mic, Your Platform. Apply by January 31, 2024 to be a part of this amazing new program!
Meet Katie Hamilton, a B.C. storyteller whose creativity has thrived with support from TELUS STORYHIVE programs
TELUS STORYHIVE 10 year anniversary celebration. Pictured - Katie Hamilton.
Through a past STORYHIVE program, Katie Hamilton, a sports broadcaster and professional soccer coach-turned content creator, has created a place where young athletes can find support, listen and feel inspired by each other to pursue their dreams.
Katie first applied to TELUS STORYHIVE while taking classes at BCIT, where one of her teachers shared the information about STORYHIVE’s 2020 Podcast Edition.
“I had always wanted to create a project that highlights the voices and stories of women in the sports industry (athletes, coaches, etc),” Katie says. “STORYHIVE seemed like the perfect opportunity to do just that. I applied on the very last day applications were open, and little did I know, but it would be one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.”
Katie’s Her Love of Sports video podcast has been selected four times since her initial application to STORYHIVE in 2020, helping launch her content creation career in ways she’d never dreamed possible.
“With help from STORYHIVE I was able to interview local coaches, referees and volunteers who’ve dedicated their time to making a positive impact on youth sports. Her Love of Sports has also created a free introductory program to coaching sports programs for youth girls,” Katie says. “These programs not only promote physical activity, but also teach important life skills such as teamwork, leadership and sportsmanship.”
STORYHIVE doesn’t just fund opportunities for content creators, it also offers unique training and community connection opportunities as well, which Katie says were incredibly helpful.
“While the funding provided by STORYHIVE was instrumental in helping me bring my ideas to life, the mentorship and training sessions offered provided me with the tools and skills necessary to create compelling stories,” Katie says.
Photo courtesy of Katie Hamilton.
Today, Katie’s video podcast continues to grow, working toward its original goal of being a trusted platform for listeners wanting to encourage women and girls in sports, and creating positive experiences for youth.
“Since starting Her Love of Sports I feel we’ve made a positive impact in our community,” Katie says. “I hope that my content has inspired others to get involved and make a positive impact in their own way. I’m excited to continue creating content that makes a difference in people’s lives.”
For prospective new podcasters and content creators interested in STORYHIVE’s new Video Podcast program, Katie suggests they take their time on the application and be as descriptive as possible in their project plan.
“STORYHIVE is committed to helping storytellers bring their projects to life, so pour your heart and soul into it and give it your all, but most of all make sure you enjoy the journey. This is the opportunity of a lifetime!”
Tell your own stories through STORYHIVE’s Video Podcast program
Successful applicants selected for this program will receive $12,000 in production funding, gain access to more than one million viewers on TELUS Optik TV and TELUS STORYHIVE’s YouTube channel, join a community of like-minded creatives in B.C. and Alberta, share resources, and learn and grow with each other. They can also look forward to customized online training sessions.
The Create or Die Podcast, produced by Indy Mandhar. TELUS STORYHIVE.
Making an impact in B.C. and Alberta for the past decade
Over the past decade, TELUS STORYHIVE has distributed more than $59 million in production funding, supporting 1,200+ screen-based projects, with over 117,000 hours of robust training and one-on-one mentorship. STORYHIVE has also supported 270+ communities across B.C. and Alberta. Through innovative programs they provide production funding, training, mentorship and distribution on TELUS Optik TV and online platforms. STORYHIVE remains committed to supporting and empowering the next generation of Canadian content creators and storytellers.
“At STORYHIVE, we are continuing to expand our program offerings to support all kinds of content creators to tell the stories of their communities,” says Shaw. “We are really looking forward to the projects that come through the Video Podcast program and to hearing some amazing local stories. We’re looking for new and emerging video podcasters from all backgrounds and encourage the people of Vancouver Island to apply!”
TELUS STORYHIVE’s new Video Podcast program is open to new and emerging podcasters and STORYHIVE alumni. Applications for the Video Podcast program must be submitted online at storyhive.com/apply by Jan. 31, 2024.
Stay connected with STORYHIVE and learn about future funding opportunities on their social media channels Facebook, Instagram, X (formally known as Twitter), TikTok and YouTube.