Today we’d like to introduce you to The Unmuted Podcast.
Hello The Unmuted Podcast, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
The podcast began during a project-based course at the University of St. Thomas. In partnership with No Trafficking Zone, communications students were given the opportunity to work closely with the organization to research and uncover the dark realities of sex trafficking. As the course continued students, having learned the prevalence of human trafficking in our own community, felt an urgency to do something to raise awareness and make a change. As primarily communications students, we decided to use our skills. We have interviewed experts in the field, including non-profit leaders, and consulted survivors of human trafficking. We have also covered a wide range of topics, including parental advice, common misconceptions, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on trafficking. This semester has been incredibly successful for our team. We established ourselves on social platforms and raised awareness about student voices. Not only has the University of St. Thomas students become increasingly aware of our presence, but we’ve had our first visit to the University of Houston campus to talk to their students. Our team has spoken at federal press conferences with Sheila Jackson Lee, presented to the University of St. Thomas’ Board of Directors, hosted Communication Program-related events, and testified for No Trafficking Zone’s HB3553, a bill protecting college students from sexual exploitation. Highlighted team members this semester are Giovanna Ramirez, Chaney Chiasson, and Rebecca Alcozer (team lead), all communication majors.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
As we started the course, we were focused on research and building a strong partnership with No Trafficking Zone, so we had not had an online presence. We felt informed but knew there had to be action. When we officially launched our podcast this January, we conquered our objective to do something about the sex-trafficking in our community and spread awareness.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
“Unmuted” is a powerful and thought-provoking podcast that brings awareness to the issue of human trafficking on college campuses and in the surrounding communities. The podcast’s objective is to prevent harm and contribute to the healing of abuse. Hosted by a group of dedicated college students, the show delves into the personal stories of survivors, the challenges faced by anti-trafficking organizations, and the actions individuals can take to make a difference. “Unmuted” is more than just a podcast; it’s a movement. The hosts are committed to using their platform to educate, empower, and inspire listeners to take action against human trafficking. Our vision is to build a sustainable podcast that strives to educate the public, especially students, about the prevention of abuse.
Here’s what sets us apart: It is not unlike college students to feel drawn to a cause, but unlike multiple podcasts, we’re supported by passionate organizations, like No Trafficking Zone and the University of St. Thomas, who are committed to an honorable outreach, absent of selfish ambitions or corruption. We trust the motives of our partnerships and have developed a strong team of fearless individuals ready to combat sex trafficking.
We love surprises, fun facts, and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
We’re big on optimism. Human trafficking is intimidating. Some working against trafficking may fall into the trap of feeling hopeless or defeated, but it won’t be us. Here, we keep our punches strong and our heads up. Every person we educate COUNTS!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theunmutedpod/
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@theunmutedpod
