It’s no secret that our nation feels more divided than ever. As the political discourse is strained, it’s easy to forget we’re all part of the same human family. This year, TPR is joining with StoryCorps to open the lines of communication with “One Small Step.” We’re bringing together folks on opposite sides of the aisle to have a conversation to learn more about each other, and our hopes for the future.
StoryCorps founder Dave Isay says, “Our dream, which is lofty, is to try and convince the country that it’s your patriotic duty to see the humanity in people we disagree with. StoryCorps stokes trust, stitches us together, and brings out our best and highest selves.”
You’re invited to participate in this exciting new project. If chosen, you’ll be paired with another person to record a StoryCorps-style conversation that will be later archived at the American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress. Select interviews will broadcast on Texas Public Radio this fall.
Ready to sign up? CLICK THIS LINK TO FILL OUT OUR FORM
TPR has welcomed StoryCorps into our community on three previous occasions. Over the years, StoryCorps has perfected a method for helping people feel more connected and for reminding us of the inherent worth of every person and every story. People come together and the microphone gives them license to talk about things they otherwise might not discuss. With “One Small Step,” we are seeking to counteract intensifying political divides, by facilitating and recording conversations that enable people who disagree to listen to each other with respect.
Each of the one-hour long “One Small Step” recording sessions will be conducted by trained facilitators, either at the Texas Public Radio studios, or at an off-site (but quiet!) location.
“One Small Step” on Texas Public Radio is made possible by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. Additional support is provided by Monterrey Iron & Metal.
FAQ
WHOM SHOULD I BRING TO THE INTERVIEW? TPR will use a screening survey to find a partner for you for the interview, unless you have been instructed otherwise. Fill out the survey here!
HOW CAN I PREPARE FOR MY INTERVIEW? StoryCorps sessions are not scripted and are intended to be natural conversations. It is a good idea to spend some time before your interview thinking about what questions you want to ask or topics you want to explore. While we will provide some suggested questions, you are welcome to consider bringing your own list questions. Don’t over-prepare though. Just come ready to be yourself.
HOW LONG IS THE INTERVIEW? The interview itself is approximately 40 minutes long. There is some paperwork you will need to fill out before and after the interview, so the entire process takes about one hour.
IS STORYCORPS STAFF PRESENT DURING THE RECORDING SESSION? A local Facilitator (a TPR employee who has been trained by StoryCorps) is present throughout the entire interview process and handles all technical aspects of the recording. Facilitators also help ensure that you have a comfortable and meaningful experience.
WHAT WILL HAPPEN TO MY INTERVIEW AFTER THE RECORDING SESSION? With your permission, a copy of the interview will be archived with the American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress in Washington, DC. Within a few weeks of your interview, you will receive a digital download link of the audio. We encourage you to make copies of your interview to share with your friends, family, and colleagues.
WILL MY STORY BE EXCERPTED FOR THE PUBLIC TO HEAR? With permission from participants, TPR or StoryCorps may choose to edit your conversation for broadcast. However, only a very small percentage of recordings are ever broadcast on the radio.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO PARTICIPATE? You may participate free of charge.
WHAT IF I DO NOT WANT MY INTERVIEW TO BE ARCHIVED? If you do not sign the release form, you will receive the audio, the interview will not be archived, and we will not keep a copy. Regardless of whether or not you sign the release form, each interview participant will receive the audio of the conversation to share with family and friends.
