In a world awash with media giants and echo chambers, one network is quietly carving a different path. Founded to give young voices a platform and permission to lead the conversation, Be the change. Media Network (BtCMN) stands out not through glitzy campaigns but through purpose and clarity of mission.
Beginnings and mission
The network identifies itself as “the only podcast network in the world dedicated to amplifying the voices of young people.” Based in the UK and built on a youth-led model, BtCMN was founded by Lily Mott, whose LinkedIn profile describes her as “Founding Director … on a mission to build the UK’s largest network of ethical content creators.” According to the network’s websites, the aim is simple: “sharing stories, creating meaningful conversations, and making change through multimedia content.”
What this looks like in practice is a suite of podcasts = more than 18 shows and counting – hosted by young people around the world, tackling topics from activism and sport to politics and mental health.
Why this matters
For a generation grappling with rapid change, climate anxiety, political upheaval, and the shifting nature of work and identity, the opportunity to be heard is not a luxury; it’s a necessity. BtCMN responds to this need by providing a platform from young people for young people. The network’s ethos rests on the belief that those closest to change are often best placed to lead it.
By handing the mic over to young hosts: who question, critique, create and connect – BtCMN not only amplifies stories but also builds capacity and agency. Through hosts like Troy Njenje-Mbanga (The Forgotten Generation) and Eden Byrne (Sports for All) the network brings depth, relevance, and authenticity.
From idea-to-podcast: how it works
The process is refreshingly straightforward:
- A young host identifies a topic they care about—say, the barriers to sport participation for people with disabilities (as Eden Byrne does).
- They craft episodes, interview peers and experts, and publish through BtCMN’s network channels.
- Each show becomes a hub for conversation, driven by both passion and editorial support.
In their “About” section, the network emphasises “youth-led” and “meaningful conversations” as core. And importantly, while podcasts dominate, the network also links to Instagram, live series and other multimedia content.
Achievements & structure
- Over 18 podcasts, spanning sport, politics, mental health, history, and more.
- Hosts and contributors drawn from a global pool of young changemakers – from the UK, Africa, the Middle East, Asia.
- Recognition such as the Facebook/BIG Change Spark Awards highlighting Lily Mott and the network’s youth-led media academy.
Why the model is promising
Several reasons make BtCMN’s approach compelling:
- Authenticity. Young people speak to young people. The topics emerge from lived experience rather than top-down curation.
- Scalability. The podcast format is flexible and global. A host in Ghana, a guest in the UK, an audience worldwide.
- Skill-building. Hosts gain media production experience, content creation skills and public-voice training.
- Diverse issue-coverage. From “Sports for All” (inclusion and sport) to “The Imperfect Activist” (mental health & social justice), the spectrum is wide.
Challenges and considerations
No model is without hurdles. For BtCMN:
- Sustainability. Running a network, supporting many hosts, maintaining quality—all require resources.
- Visibility. In a crowded podcast ecosystem, standing out demands strategy, marketing and partnerships.
- Impact measurement. Beyond downloads and listens, how does one assess change-making? Are voices being amplified into action?
- Host retention & support. Young hosts may juggle studies, jobs, and their podcasts. Structures must be in place to support them.
What’s ahead
Looking forward, BtCMN might expand in these areas:
- Partnerships with educational institutions (to integrate podcasting into youth curricula)
- Live events and global summits for young content creators
- Cross-regional collaborations (e.g., hosts from different continents co-producing episodes)
- Further monetisation models allowing hosts to earn (via sponsorship, grants) without compromising editorial integrity
Why you should care
If you’re a founder, writer, or creative exploring the “what’s next” space, BtCMN offers lessons:
- Give voice rather than just a platform.
- Design systems that empower rather than dictate.
- Younger voices are not just future-facing, they are now facing.
- The intersection of media + youth + purpose is potent.
Final word
In an era where many media models feel stale, centralized, or adult-led, Be the change. Media Network flips the script. It’s not just about broadcasting youth voice, it’s about owning it, shaping it, and unleashing its power. As the founders say: “Be the change.” It’s not a slogan – it’s a production brief.
