About the project
I Am a Rural Teacher is an initiative from the Rural Schools Collaborative, originally created to document the lives and experiences of rural teachers across the United States. When the COVID-19 pandemic halted in-person fieldwork, the project shifted into a virtual format, opening the door to a more accessible, audio-driven approach.
The podcast adaptation continues the mission by capturing the voices of educators working in rural communities, sharing their challenges, triumphs, and deeply personal stories. Each episode highlights the resilience, creativity, and dedication of teachers who help shape the heart of rural America.
My role
I joined the Rural Schools Collaborative team in September 2020 as an audio consultant to guide the transition from visual storytelling to a fully realized podcast format.
- Helped translate the original multimedia project into a sustainable audio storytelling structure
- Managed the full workflow and production timeline for Episodes 1–6
- Coached the host in narration delivery, interviewing, and foundational podcasting techniques
- Wrote episode scripts to support narrative clarity and emotional resonance
- Mixed, edited, and finalized each episode for a consistent, high-quality listening experience
- Provided ongoing technical and creative guidance throughout the production process
Services
Podcast production: audio consulting, scriptwriting, host coaching, editing, mixing, workflow management, and episode preparation for a multi-episode launch.
Results
- Successfully transformed a visual storytelling initiative into an engaging narrative podcast
- Delivered a polished first season that elevated rural teachers’ stories during a critical moment in the pandemic
- Equipped the host with sustainable podcasting skills and narration confidence
- Established a clear production workflow and structure for future episodes
- Helped broaden the reach and impact of the Rural Schools Collaborative’s mission through audio
Listen on Spotify: I Am a Rural Teacher
Visit the network: Rural Schools Collaborative