Mia Thornton: A Role Model for Hope Students
In December 2025, Media & Communications students at Liverpool Hope University were treated to an inspiring talk from alumna Mia Thornton. A 2019 graduate of the English Language programme, Mia has since carved out a notable career that spans the BBC, CBBC, and her own award‑winning podcast series, Instrumental: Black British Trailblazers. Her journey demonstrates how a student‑run project can evolve into a professional platform that celebrates Black artists’ contributions to Britain’s music scene.
During her visit, Mia highlighted the nine‑month process of creating the podcast, from initial recordings at the university’s student radio station to acceptance into the BBC Sounds Audio Lab – the BBC’s accelerator programme for emerging podcasters and audio creatives. She also shared the practical steps that helped her secure the Rising Star award at the British Podcast Awards earlier this year.
Building a Podcast from the Ground Up
For students looking to launch their own audio projects, Mia’s experience offers a clear roadmap:
- Start with a clear concept. Define the niche, target audience, and core message before recording.
- Leverage campus resources. Use the university’s student radio station, audio labs, and faculty expertise to refine technical skills.
- Iterate quickly. Produce short pilot episodes, gather feedback, and adjust content and format.
- Seek mentorship. Engage with industry professionals through events, workshops, and accelerator programmes like the BBC Sounds Audio Lab.
- Promote strategically. Build a social media presence, collaborate with other creators, and use SEO‑friendly titles and descriptions.
Students can apply these steps to any media project, whether it’s a podcast, video series, or interactive digital content.
Actionable Tip: Create a 30‑Day Podcast Sprint
Set a deadline for the first episode. Allocate 2–3 hours each day to research, script, record, and edit. By the end of the month, you’ll have a polished episode ready for distribution.
Key Skills for Success in Media & Communications
Beyond technical proficiency, the media industry rewards a blend of creative and analytical abilities:
- Storytelling. Craft narratives that resonate with listeners and viewers.
- Audio Production. Master editing software, sound design, and mixing techniques.
- Digital Marketing. Understand audience analytics, SEO, and cross‑platform promotion.
- Project Management. Coordinate timelines, budgets, and stakeholder expectations.
- Networking. Build relationships with peers, faculty, and industry contacts.
Liverpool Hope’s Media & Communications curriculum integrates these skills through hands‑on projects, industry‑partnered assignments, and access to professional‑grade equipment.
Career Paths in Podcasting and Audio Production
The podcasting sector is expanding rapidly, offering diverse roles such as:
- Podcast Producer / Showrunner
- Audio Editor / Sound Designer
- Content Strategist / Social Media Manager
- Broadcast Journalist / Reporter
- Audio‑Tech Consultant for brands and events
Students who combine creative output with business acumen can pursue freelance opportunities, join media houses, or launch their own production companies.
How Liverpool Hope Supports Your Journey
Hope’s Media & Communications faculty provides:
- Industry‑aligned coursework that mirrors current media practices.
- Access to the university’s student radio station and audio labs.
- Mentorship from senior lecturers and visiting professionals.
- Opportunities to participate in national competitions and accelerator programmes.
- Career services that connect students with internships and job placements.
Senior Lecturer Salman Al‑Azami noted that Mia’s success is a testament to the hard work and creative mindset fostered at Hope. “Our current students can take inspiration from her story that, through hard work and having a creative mind, the whole world is open for them to explore when they finish their studies,” he said.
Next Steps for Aspiring Podcasters
1. Explore the Media & Communications programme and see how it aligns with your goals.
2. Schedule a free consultation with our admissions team to discuss your interests and potential pathways.
3. Submit your application today and start building the foundation for a media career.
4. Have questions? Write to us! Our team is ready to support you.
5. Explore our related articles for further reading and stay updated on industry trends.
By following these steps and leveraging the resources at Liverpool Hope University, students can transform their creative ideas into professional media projects that resonate with audiences worldwide.
