Young voices shaping Dénia: Podcast tackles mental health and important isues

For many young people today, the biggest conversations are not about celebrities or social media trends but about the realities of growing up. Finding an affordable home, looking after mental health, securing stable employment and feeling heard by decision-makers have become defining challenges for a generation. In Dénia, those conversations are no longer happening behind closed doors. Instead, they are taking centre stage through a podcast created by young people, for young people.

The second season of Pòdcast Jove has now come to an end after 15 episodes, establishing itself as an important platform where local teenagers and young adults can discuss the issues affecting their daily lives while helping shape conversations across the town.

A platform for young voices

Led by Dénia’s Youth Department and coordinated by journalist Kevin Carrió, the project brought together seven young presenters, Thomas, Julia, Ainhoa, Nuria, Rosalinda, Brenda and Diego, who spent the season interviewing guests and debating topics that resonate with their generation.

Rather than focusing purely on entertainment, the podcast encouraged honest and thoughtful discussions around the issues that matter most to young people, creating a space where opinions could be shared openly and without judgement.

Tackling real-life challenges

Mental health featured prominently throughout the series, alongside conversations about education, bullying, vocational training, public transport, housing, leisure opportunities in Dénia and the differences between generations.

The season opened with musician Artur Martínez from Valencian band La Fúmiga, who joined the presenters to discuss music, creativity, the band’s farewell tour and the role young people play in today’s cultural scene. His appearance helped set the tone for a series designed to explore meaningful topics rather than simply entertain.

As the weeks progressed, the podcast also introduced listeners to local organisations and initiatives supporting young residents. Programmes including Dissabtes Joves, the Escola de Joves Emprenedors, No + Bullying and Corresponsals Joves all featured during the season, helping listeners discover opportunities available within their own community.

Community support and local initiatives

The series also highlighted the work of organisations including TDAH+16 and Monbloc, while students from IES Sorts de la Mar shared details of their own youth-led podcast project, demonstrating the growing enthusiasm among young people to create media that reflects their own experiences.

By showcasing these initiatives, the podcast not only raised awareness of available support but also encouraged greater participation in community life.

Taking questions to the mayor

The final episode welcomed Dénia mayor Rafa Carrió, who answered questions on employment opportunities, education, public transport, local businesses and one of the biggest concerns facing many young adults today: housing.

During the discussion, he encouraged young residents to continue expressing their views and becoming involved in shaping the city’s future, recognising that today’s young generation will play a vital role in Dénia’s development.

The podcast has also reached audiences beyond its recording studio at the Casal Jove, with several episodes broadcast on Dénia FM as part of its weekend programming. Every episode from both the first and second seasons remains available on Spotify and iVoox, allowing listeners to revisit the discussions whenever they choose.

At a time when many young people feel their concerns are overlooked, Pòdcast Jove has shown the value of giving them a platform. By encouraging open conversations about the challenges they face, Dénia has created more than just a podcast. It has created a space where the next generation can feel listened to, understood and empowered to help shape the future of their community.