This week, four teens: three boys and one girl, joined us for a hands-on casting training session at Podio Studio. Ranging in age from 12 to 17, these young participants didn’t just show up they leaned in. Over the course of the afternoon, they toured the studio, learned about the equipment, and got a crash course in what it means to show up on mic and on camera with confidence.

Studio Tour and Equipment 101

The session started with a quick walkthrough: lights, cameras, mics, buttons, lots of buttons. We kept things simple and fun. Facts were shared. Questions were asked. The goal wasn’t to overwhelm, but to make the space feel less intimidating and more theirs.

Group Discussion and Comfort Check-In

After the tour, the group sat down with Mark to talk through the project and get a feel for where everyone was nervous, excited, or somewhere in between. The vibe was open, casual, and surprisingly honest.

From there, Clinton and Siska invited participants into the studio one by one for a visual and sound check. This wasn’t just “press record” they were coached on how to sit, where to look, and what angles worked best on camera. Sometimes the tiniest posture shift made all the difference.

Podcast Barbie: She Doesn’t Talk, But She’s Got Presence

Oh, and we introduced them to our new co-star: a doll perched quietly in the corner of the room. Weird? Maybe. Effective? Absolutely. It gave the teens something consistent to look at while talking, which made managing eye contact way easier especially when nerves kicked in.

We are ready for pairing up!

Everyone got a turn. Everyone tried. Everyone improved. By the end of the session, you could feel the energy shift from “this is scary” to “okay… I got this.”

This wasn’t a final audition. It wasn’t about being perfect. It was about making space for learning, stumbling, adjusting, and laughing through the awkward bits. The goal was simple: get comfortable enough to connect. And now? They’re ready to be paired up with our senior participants and bring those intergenerational conversations to life.

That’s it for today

We say it often, but it’s worth repeating great storytelling starts with people feeling seen, heard, and supported. That’s what training days like this are for.

And yes, the doll is staying.

If you’re interested in being part of the cast, fill out our casting form.
For studio bookings or inquiries, get in touch with us.