Ever since broadcast radio ushered in a new era of mass media, audio storytelling has been a force of social power and persuasion. Radio– and now, podcasting– has the ability to transmit messages across huge geographic areas, reaching those without formal literacy and at a lower cost than television or film. On the one hand, the low barriers to entry and lack of formal media gatekeepers has allowed the circulation of misinformation and even outright bigotry in the podcasting space. Yet podcasting also has the potential to allow marginalized people to tell their own stories, directly into the microphone. In this class, we'll build audio stories that can push back on established norms, unsettle mainstream formats and genres, and bring new voices into the mix. As we learn together how to build podcasts from scratch– building skills in storytelling, scripting, interviewing, field recording, digital audio editing, sound design, scoring, and distribution– we’ll also ask critical questions about how and why certain genres and formats of audio production are more valued in the contemporary podcasting landscape. Guest audio producers, editors, and designers will join us throughout the semester as we grapple with how to understand, and maybe even join, this changing industry. Assessment will include written reflections and production of a short fiction or nonfiction podcast series. No prior production experience is required or expected, but students should have access to basic digital audio recording and editing tools (i.e a cellphone and laptop). Students with hearing or audio processing disabilities are welcome; please reach out in advance if you have specific access questions or suggestions. Our listening syllabus will center audio stories by queer and trans people, people of color, indigenous people, disabled people, and others who have been historically marginalized within the audio industry.