Podcasting and Public Speaking True North Academy

FAQ’S

What will my child learn in this class—public speaking or podcasting?

Both! This course combines public speaking fundamentals with modern podcasting skills. Students will learn how to speak with confidence in front of a group and behind the mic—giving them skills that translate to school, careers, and everyday communication.

What kinds of projects will students do?

Students will complete a mix of short speeches, podcast segments, and group activities. These include elevator pitches, fun debates, podcast monologues, various types of speeches, and even fun improvisation games. By the end of the course, students will have created a digital portfolio they can proudly share.

My child is shy—will they feel comfortable in this class?

Yes! SpeakUP! is designed to be a supportive, low-pressure environment where students can grow at their own pace. Activities are fun, interactive, and gradually build confidence. Whether your child loves the spotlight or avoids it, they’ll find encouragement, community, and the tools they need to speak with clarity and courage

Does my child need special equipment to participate in the podcasting portion?

No fancy gear needed! A basic headset or built-in computer microphone works just fine. We’ll use easy-to-navigate tools for recording and sharing, and students will receive guidance on how to make the most of what they already have.

SpeakUP! Podcasting and Public Speaking

(1 customer review)

$409.00

Grade Level: High School (9th–12th grades)
Day and Time: Thursday, 10:15 AM CST (Fall 2026)
Credit: One Semester, 1/2 Credit

Help your teen find their voice! In SpeakUP! Podcasting & Public Speaking, high school students learn public speaking, podcasting, and persuasive communication skills in a fun online course from True North Academy.

Our Speak Up!  class fills quickly each semester. Join the waitlist now for early access when registration reopens — plus get updates on other English and writing courses your teen will love.

Beth Purcell, True North Academy

Teacher: Beth Purcell : With a degree in English and extensive teaching experience, Beth helps students master writing and speaking skills. She’s also an IEW-certified instructor, known for creating engaging, effective classes that build strong communication foundations.

COURSE OVERVIEW

SpeakUP! Podcasting & Public Speaking helps students master the art of confident, persuasive communication — on stage, on camera, and behind the microphone.

In this engaging, skill-based course, students learn how to craft powerful messages, deliver compelling presentations, and communicate clearly in a world full of noise. From Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” to today’s TED Talks and viral podcasts, this class explores what makes words matter — and how your teen can use theirs to inspire, inform, and influence.

WHAT YOUR STUDENT WILL LEARN

Key Focus Areas:

  • Develop confidence and poise in public speaking

  • Master persuasive and informative speaking techniques

  • Learn the basics of podcast creation, scripting, and audio editing

  • Analyze famous speeches and presentations from history and modern media

  • Practice storytelling, narration, and audience engagement

  • Deliver presentations that combine voice, visuals, and purpose

Each student will complete a final podcast or speech project to showcase their skills — perfect for digital portfolios, competitions, or college applications.

💡 Ideal for students in the Dual Degree or Leadership Tracks.

CURRICULUM SNAPSHOT

Students Will Explore:

  • The structure and power of great speeches

  • Rhetorical devices that make messages stick

  • Famous orators: MLK, JFK, Lincoln, and others

  • Modern communication platforms: podcasts, vlogs, and presentations

  • Storytelling techniques that move audiences

Required Tools:

  • A computer or smartphone with video/audio recording capability

  • Stable internet access for live participation

  • Basic computer and research skills

  • A willingness to speak up, share, and collaborate!

How We Use Technology to Amplify Student Voices

At True North Academy, technology empowers students to communicate with confidence and creativity. In SpeakUP!, your student won’t just learn to speak — they’ll learn to connect.

Here’s how:

  • Record and edit speeches or podcasts using accessible, real-world tools.

  • Collaborate live with classmates for peer feedback and encouragement.

  • Research and analyze influential communicators from past to present.

  • Create and share multimedia presentations that blend sound, visuals, and storytelling.

Students finish the course with tangible skills in public speaking, media literacy, and digital presentation — skills that serve them for life.

📘 Join the Waitlist for Early Access

🔗 RELATED PATHWAYS

Continue the Journey:
Round out your student’s communication and leadership skills with these complementary courses:

🎭 Scene Stealers: Acting & Performance → Develop stage presence and expressive delivery.
💼 Entrepreneurship Kickstart → Learn how to pitch ideas and present with confidence.
🧭 Leadership Fundamentals → Strengthen integrity, clarity, and influence in every conversation.
💻 Digital Portfolio & Presentation Skills (Self-Paced) → Showcase projects professionally online.


Ready to SpeakUP?

Your student’s voice matters.
In SpeakUP! Podcasting & Public Speaking, they’ll learn to inform, persuade, and inspire — whether they’re sharing a story, leading a team, or hosting their first podcast.

Want to See How This Fits Into a Bigger Plan?

This class can stand alone — or be part of a larger pathway at True North Academy.

From Core 4 foundations to Associate and Dual Degree options, we help families build a clear, customized plan for middle and high school.

Not sure what’s right for your student?

🎯 Schedule a free advising session and let’s map it out together.

You don’t have to figure this out alone.

1 review for SpeakUP! Podcasting and Public Speaking

  1. Vida Aromi- TNHA Student

    This class is phenomenal! I highly suggest it! Not only does this class prepare you for speech Competitions, starting a youtube channel or a podcast, or prepare a speech, it also teaches you life skills on how to speak in general. In this class we learn how to present ourselves with certain types of speeches, that include percussive, educational, demonstrative, narrative and more! Every highschool student should be required to or at least be suggested to take this class! Mrs Percell is by far the most amazing teacher! She is patient,exuberant, energetic and so fun! I looked forward to this class every week! I have learned so much and would take it all over again! I wish it was two semesters! Try it out! Mrs Percell is amazing and the way she teaches is incredible! True North is awesome and so is Speak Up! Public Speaking and Podcasting!

Add a review

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.