Podcast · Leisure & Travel

On Our Minds

by Student Reporting Labs · English · Leisure & Travel

On Our Minds is an Edward R. Murrow award-winning podcast about teen life, produced by teens for teens in collaboration with PBS News Student Reporting Labs. Season 6 is an audio road trip exploring what’s unique about teen life in every corner of the country through hyperlocal stories about citi

New episodes: Weekly
Typical length: 13 min
Latest: 24 Jun 2026
Language: English

Latest episode

24 Jun 2026 · 8 min

What makes a place feel like home?

In the final episode of this season, student producer Joslyn shares her journey of moving from place to place and always finding herself drawn back to Las Vegas. From snowy Michigan winters to the bright lights of the Strip, Joslyn reflects on identity, belonging, and the moment she realized where home truly was. Today’s segment was produced by Joslyn Rakes. Lead Producer Becky Wandel produced this episode with editing and mixing by Wyatt Mayes Theme song composed and performed by Emilson Orellana Juarez and Jerick Romero Ciprian.

Play episodeWhatsApp Download

Earlier episodes 29 most recent

19 Jun 2026 · 13 min
What a VW Bus Can Teach You About Life
Recorded as a special collaboration between Teacher Reporting Labs and On Our Minds, this episode brings educators and student hosts together for an unexpected conversation sparked by a community thread about VW buses. What begins with nostalgic memories of iconic road trips quickly expands into a reflection on freedom, identity, risk, and connection— through stories ranging from childhood van rides in Puerto Rico to cross-country adventures and near-miss highway moments. As teachers and teens swap travel memories, the conversation becomes less about vehicles and more about the journeys that…
S6 · E10 · 17 Jun 2026 · 13 min
Why getting around without a car in California can be surprisingly nice
In suburban California, getting around often means getting in a car. But for Keerthi in San Ramon and Padma in Fremont, walking, running, and riding the bus opened up a different view of their hometowns. Along trails, sidewalks, and bus routes, they discovered hidden neighborhoods, unexpected connections, and the small moments that make a community feel alive. This episode explores what happens when we stop rushing to our destination and start paying attention to the journey. Today’s segments were produced by Keerthi Eraniyan and Padma Balaji. Lead Producer Becky Wandel produced, edited and…
S6 · E9 · 10 Jun 2026 · 7 min
How food brings cultures together in El Paso
What does it mean to live in a city where cultures, languages, and traditions meet every day? In this episode of On Our Minds, we travel to El Paso, Texas, where student journalists Marium and Aruja explore life in one of America's most unique border communities. Along the way, hosts Zack and Helena share the foods that connect them to their cultures—from tacos to pernil—and reflect on how food can bring people together across differences. Today’s segment was produced by Marium Zahra and Aruja Misra. Wyatt Mayes produced, edited and mixed this episode. Theme song composed and performed by…
S6 · E8 · 3 Jun 2026 · 9 min
How one San Juan street reflects Puerto Rico’s culture, community and change
This On Our Minds episode heads to San Juan, Puerto Rico, where hosts Zack and Helena reflect on belonging, culture and the small details that make a place feel like home. The episode explores Calle Loíza, a vibrant street long shaped by generations of residents from around the globe, now facing an uncertain future as it becomes a tourist destination. Today’s segments were produced by Miranda Jatib and Emilio Solé. Lead Producer Becky Wandel produced, edited and mixed this episode. Graphics by Anurag Papolu. Special thanks to KUT, Jake Perlman, and WETA. Theme song composed and performed by…
S6 · E7 · 27 May 2026 · 8 min
Teenage beekeeper in New York buzzes about native species
This week on the On Our Minds Roadtrip, hosts Zack and Helena take us to the city that never sleeps. Jess, the president of her university’s beekeeping club, walks us through what it means to be a young beekeeper in New York City. She shares that New York City’s diversity doesn't stop at just people and culture. The city is home to over 200 species of bees. Special thanks to K.U.T., Jake Perlman, and W.E.T.A. as well as Bee U NYC and Pratt Beekeeping Club. Theme song composed and performed by Emilson Orellana Juarez and Jerick Romero Ciprian. Tune in next week when our road trip takes us to…
S6 · E6 · 20 May 2026 · 12 min
Finding warmth in the wicked cold Massachusetts weather
Take a road trip to Massachusetts with hosts Zack and Helena in this episode of On Our Minds. It can be cold and confusing, but also surprisingly warm and welcoming. Shane from Attleboro takes us inside his apartment building, filled with colorful neighbors who’ll dig your car out of the snow and give you some great advice along the way. Then, middle schoolers who hail from all over the world explain how they felt about ending up at a school together in western Massachusetts — learning English, making friends, and finally finding “a place to chill.” Today’s segments were produced by Shake…
S6 · E5 · 13 May 2026 · 13 min
The power of public art and Dunkin Donuts in New Jersey
Take a road trip to New Jersey in this episode of On Our Minds. Hosts Zack and Helena discuss what in their surroundings sparks curiosity. Student producer, Abigail Kim in Leonia, New Jersey takes you to a scuplture garden at the heart of her town. While, Libby Peckman in Highland Park, New Jersey talks about the small ways she finds community and wonder in the mundane. Special thanks to KUT, Jake Perlman, and WETA. Theme song composed and performed by Emilson Orellana Juarez and Jerick Romero Ciprian.
S6 · E4 · 6 May 2026 · 8 min
How a small art shop built a community in the Midwest
Take a road trip to Richmond, Indiana, in this episode of On Our Minds. Hosts Zack and Helena explore what “community” really means—from hometown sports teams and small-town festivals to unexpected spaces that bring people together. At the center of this story is Oblivion, a local art store turned creative haven, where strangers become collaborators, and a fading town finds new life through art, storytelling, and connection. Special thanks to KUT, Jake Perlman, and WETA, as well as the Lake of the Isles Pencil Festival. Theme song composed and performed by Emilson Orellana Juarez and Jerick…
S6 · E3 · 29 Apr 2026 · 8 min
How drag queens are creating safe spaces in Missouri
This episode of On Our Minds Road Trip takes us to Columbia, Missouri, where drag performers are building community, creating joy, and challenging stereotypes. Student producer Maggie LeBeau takes us inside the local drag scene, introducing us to performers like Alexxa Pro and Artemis Gray. They’re creating spaces of belonging, especially for young queer people who don’t always have one. Maggie LeBeau produced the story in this episode. Lead Producer Becky Wandel produced this episode with editing and mixing by Wyatt Mayes. Additional production support was provided by Emily Hope Dobkin,…
S6 · E2 · 22 Apr 2026 · 8 min
Inside Minneapolis’ giant pencil festival
Why does Minneapolis celebrate a giant pencil every year? In this episode of On Our Minds: Road Trip, hosts Zack and Helena head to the “Land of 10,000 Lakes” to explore one of the city’s most delightfully weird traditions: the Giant Pencil Festival on Lake of the Isles. From dancing pencil costumes to a dramatic annual “sharpening” ceremony, this story highlights how creativity, humor, and community spirit turn a fallen tree into a beloved public art celebration. Plus, the hosts share their own quirky stories, including some about Helena’s pet turkey, Juanita. Divya Thamman produced the…
S6 · E1 · 15 Apr 2026 · 8 min
Driving through Colorado changed how I see my childhood
On Our Minds is produced by teens with PBS News Student Reporting Labs. For our sixth season, hosts Zack from Southern California and Helena from North Carolina head out on a road trip across the U.S. This first episode takes us to Winter Park, Colorado. Student journalist Theo shares a personal story about growing up, drifting from childhood traditions, and what it feels like to rediscover memories you didn’t even realize you’d forgotten. Along the way, hosts Helena and Zack reflect on their own ideas about nostalgia. Theo Bonavita produced the story in this episode. Lead Producer Becky…
S6 · 10 Apr 2026 · 1 min
On Our Minds: Road Trip Official Trailer
On Our Minds is a teen life podcast from PBS News Student Reporting Labs, produced by teens, for teens. Hosted by Zack from Southern California and Helena from North Carolina, this season takes you on an audio road trip across the United States. From Indiana to Minneapolis and beyond, hear real stories from young people about identity, growing up, mental health, creativity, and finding your place in the world. Every week, episodes will feature voices from across the country, sharing honest, personal moments that reflect what it’s like to be a teen today. First episode out April 15, 2026
S5 · 4 Jun 2025 · 18 min
How to overcome imposter syndrome and find a sense of belonging
Have you ever felt doubt and insecurity about your abilities or accomplishments? It's a normal feeling but it can be hard! Who can help? A mentor in your community who believes in you and helps you find a sense of belonging. Click here for this episode's transcript. Segments were produced by Alia and Ginger from New York City. Lead Podcast Producer Briget Ganske produced this episode with editing and mixing by Wyatt Mayes and help from Genesis Magpayo. Ryan Janes is the camera and audio operator.
S5 · 28 May 2025 · 16 min
Author Bryan Stevenson on grace, grit, and growing up
You are more than your grades, your struggles, or your past, says Bryan Stevenson (author of Just Mercy and founder of the Equal Justice Initiative). Stevenson shares his journey defending the wrongly accused and why he's hopeful about the next generation. Click here for this episode's transcript. The conversation was produced by Kiran Bhatia from Brookline, MA. Lead Podcast Producer Briget Ganske produced this episode with editing and mixing by Genesis Magpayo and help from Wyatt Mayes. Ryan Janes is the camera and audio operator.
S5 · E6 · 21 May 2025 · 18 min
Finding yourself through books with Nic Stone and Mychal Threets
How can you figure how what kind of person you want to be? Through books, says YA writer Nic Stone and viral-librarian Mychal Threets. Nic and Mychal share their wisdom about finding yourself and finding joy through reading. Click here for this episode's transcript. Segments were produced by Beatrix and Katherine from Austin, Texas. Lead Podcast Producer Briget Ganske produced this episode with editing and mixing by Wyatt Mayes and Genesis Magpayo. Ryan Janes is the camera and audio operator.
S5 · E5 · 14 May 2025 · 19 min
How these teachers use humor and stories to connect with their students
What makes school fun? An inspiring teacher! Stories of gratitude for the people who devote their lives to helping students learn and grow: classroom teachers, librarians, and principals. Click here for this episode's transcript. Segments were produced by Jay from Southlake, Texas; Marium and Aruja from El Paso, Texas; and Connor and Jay from Clinton Township, Michigan. Lead Podcast Producer Briget Ganske produced this episode with editing and mixing by Wyatt Mayes, with help from Genesis Magpayo. Ryan Janes is the camera and audio operator.
9 May 2025 · 9 min
Teacher Appreciation: More Than A Week
To wrap up Teacher Appreciation Week, we present this special BONUS episode where we flipped the mic and gave space to educators who reflected on the small moments that make it all worth it—student shoutouts, surprise gifts, and memories that linger. This episode is an audio love letter to the people who keep showing up: one student, one story, one rubber duck at a time. Click here for this episode’s transcript . Featured educators: AJ Chambers, Columbia, South Carolina Evan Andre, Meadville, Pennsylvania Jared Agard, Beaverton, Oregon Jennifer Wax, McKeesport, Pennsylvania Jen Chaffman,…
S5 · E4 · 7 May 2025 · 19 min
Voices across cultures: Viet Thanh Nguyen and the teen search for belonging
Pulitzer Prize-winning author Viet Thanh Nguyen joins student reporter Khadeejah Khan for a thoughtful discussion on identity, memory, activism, and the role of art in "abolishing the conditions of voicelessness." In addition, Annalise shares a conversation with her father about growing up Chinese in Ecuador and how he embraces his multiple cultures. Click here for this episode's transcript. Segments were produced by Annalise from Danville, CA and Khadeejah from Santa Clara, CA. Lead Podcast Producer Briget Ganske produced this episode with editing and mixing by Genesis Magpayo, and help…
S5 · E3 · 30 Apr 2025 · 16 min
Why family matters in shaping teens’ passions and identity
Family bonds shape who we become and what dreams we have for our lives. Teens open up to their parents and siblings about what matters most: their passions, identity, and culture. Click here for this episode's transcript. Segments were produced by Ava from Black River Falls, WI; Priscilla from Danville, CA; and Denver from Orlando, FL; and Dylan from Boston, MA. Lead Podcast Producer Briget Ganske produced this episode with editing and mixing by Wyatt Mayes, with help from Genesis Magpayo. Ryan Janes is our camera and audio operator.
S5 · 28 Apr 2025 · 46 min
Bonus: NPR’s 1A features On Our Minds students: Ava, Jay, and Michelle
It’s a special episode! Hear 1A host, Jenn White, interview On Our Minds students, Ava (from WI), Jay (from TX), and Michelle (from VA) about who inspires them. 1A is produced by WAMU and distributed by NPR.
S5 · E2 · 23 Apr 2025 · 15 min
Real Talk on Friend Groups with Dr. Joy Harden Bradford of Therapy for Black Girls
Therapist Dr. Joy Harden Bradford discusses her book Sisterhood Heals: The Transformative Power of Healing in Community. Dr. Joy (host of the podcast, Therapy for Black Girls) talks with Bree Campbell (On Our Minds, Season 4 co-host) about sisterhoods, how to create a friend circle, and why boys and young men need supportive friend groups as well. Click here for this episode's transcript. This interview was produced by Bree Campbell, and this episode was produced by Lead Podcast Producer Briget Ganske with help from Associate Producer Wyatt Mayes. SRL intern Genesis Magpayo edited and mixed…
S5 · E1 · 16 Apr 2025 · 11 min
How friends shape who we are
How do your friends influence and inspire you? Our friends change us, for better or for worse. The best friendships inspire us to become better versions of ourselves. Staying in touch is key, which is why pen pals and phone calls are important. Click here for this episode's transcript. Segments were produced by Sakeenah and Tanya from Aurora, Illinois, and Michelle from McLean, Virginia. This episode was produced by Lead Podcast Producer Briget Ganske with help from Associate Producer Wyatt Mayes. SRL intern Genesis Magpayo edited and mixed this episode.
S5 · 14 Apr 2025 · 1 min
On Our Minds Season 5 Trailer
Listen to the official trailer for the fifth season of On Our Minds from PBS News Student Reporting Labs. This season will feature teenagers in conversation with people they admire and look up to — in their families, local communities, and the literary world.
15 Jan 2025 · 24 min
What do the 2024 election results mean?
The 2024 election brought about sweeping changes. Donald Trump's victory gave Republicans a majority in the U.S. Senate and maintained their control of the U.S. House of Representatives. How are young people feeling, and what might these results mean? Click here for this episode's transcript. This episode was produced by Lead Podcast Producer Briget Ganske, with help from Associate Producer Wyatt Mayes. Youth perspectives were collected by Yasmeen Sakr, Grace Go, Bree Campbell, Josephine Murphy, and Poojasai Kona. Segments were produced by Olivia Brandeis, Keely Crawford, Miranda Jatib,…
30 Oct 2024 · 21 min
How is fake news affecting the election?
With the increasing capabilities of AI, it can be extremely hard to tell what information is real or not these days. In this episode, students get insights and tips from experts and teen fact-checkers about how misinformation affects this election. Check out Samuel Larreal's Teen Vogue article here and click here for this episode's transcript. This episode was produced by Lead Podcast Producer Briget Ganske, with help from Associate Producer Wyatt Mayes. Segments in this episode were produced by Simran Gupta from Georgia and Sophia Ortiz from Texas. Special guest Samuel Larreal from Teen…
23 Oct 2024 · 26 min
NPR's 1A features On Our Minds students, Grace and Reesa!
It's a special episode! Hear 1A host, Jenn White, interview On Our Minds students Grace Go (from WA) and Reesa Venterea (from MN) about what issues matter most to them as first-time voters, and their thoughts on misinformation. 1A is produced by WAMU and distributed by NPR.
16 Oct 2024 · 20 min
Are young people being heard?
Young people speak up about issues they care about…but are their voices heard? Students report on how the Israel-Hamas conflict is affecting young voters and activists, the story of Georgia students trying to voice opposition to a state education bill, and how schools often teach about political parties in a polarizing way. Click here for the episode's transcript. This episode was produced by Lead Podcast Producer Briget Ganske, with help from Associate Producer Wyatt Mayes. Segments in this episode were produced by Khadeejah Kahn from California, Harrison Tran from Georgia, and Imania…
2 Oct 2024 · 18 min
Why do we have the Electoral College?
The Electoral College determines the outcome of the U.S. presidential election. But why does the U.S. have this system? What's the history? Why is it so hard to change the Electoral College? And what could possibly improve it? This explainer episode gives you everything you need to know. Click here for this episode's transcript. This episode was produced by Lead Podcast Producer Briget Ganske, with help from Associate Producer Wyatt Mayes. Segments in this episode were produced by Rebecca Kunze from California, Allison Pope from Idaho, and Carlos Guo from California. Research and…
18 Sep 2024 · 19 min
Meet some of America's youngest politicians
Members of Gen Z are running for office this November! Student reporters interview Averie Bishop (D-TX) and Wyatt Gable (R-NC) both running for a seat in their state legislature. Also hear from one of the country's youngest mayors, Jaylen Smith from Arkansas, about the impact he's had in his small town. Click here for this episode's transcript. This episode was produced by Lead Podcast Producer Briget Ganske, with help from Associate Producer Wyatt Mayes. Segments in this episode were produced by students Poojasai Kona from Texas, Olivia Brandeis from California, and Aidan Booker from Ohio.…

About On Our Minds

On Our Minds is a English leisure & travel podcast from Student Reporting Labs. Melo plays each episode straight from the publisher's own feed — no ads added, no account needed — and remembers where you stopped, in this browser only.

Publisher: Student Reporting Labs
Language: English
Category: Leisure & Travel
New episodes: Weekly
Typical length: 13 min
Latest episode: 24 Jun 2026
Feed: RSS — paste into any podcast app
Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1567253248

RSS feed Apple Podcasts

More English leisure & travel

Take it with you

The Melo app keeps playing with the screen off, works in the car and on your watch, wakes you to your station, and browses the whole catalogue offline. Free, no ads, no account.