In a groundbreaking moment for the deaf community, Shaping Tomorrow, a video podcast led by a 90% deaf production team, officially launched today. This unique platform offers a voice to deaf professionals in various industries while exploring their challenges, triumphs, and personal stories. Co-founded by UK social enterprise Hear Art, alongside Academy Award-winning actress Rachel Shenton and Cindy Sasha, this podcast marks a milestone for deaf representation in the media.
The podcast’s debut on YouTube is part of a broader effort to engage both deaf and hearing audiences, utilizing British Sign Language (BSL) to tell the stories of deaf professionals in the creative, sports, and entertainment sectors.
What Makes Shaping Tomorrow Stand Out?
Shaping Tomorrow is more than just a video podcast—it’s a space for conversation and education around the struggles and successes of deaf individuals. The production team, consisting of mostly deaf professionals, ensures authentic representation. From the choice of subjects to the way the episodes are crafted, every element is carefully tailored to immerse both deaf and hearing viewers alike.
Co-founder Cindy Sasha emphasized the significance of this podcast, stating:
“We wanted to create a platform where deaf professionals could share their journeys authentically, using BSL and breaking down barriers in industries that have historically overlooked deaf talent.”
Rachel Shenton, well-known for her advocacy of deaf representation, said:
“This is about more than just storytelling—it’s about providing opportunities and creating an inclusive space for deaf individuals.”
Episode Highlights: A Closer Look at the Deaf Experience
Episode 1: Wayne Hemingway MBE & Christopher Laing
The first episode features British designer and entrepreneur Wayne Hemingway MBE, who engages in a candid conversation with Christopher Laing, a deaf architect. Together, they compare their experiences in the design industry, delving into the obstacles faced by deaf professionals.
Christopher Laing speaks about his role in founding the Deaf Architecture Front (DAF), an initiative designed to support young deaf people pursuing careers in architecture. Laing passionately stated:
“Advocating for deaf people means providing support from those who understand their challenges, allowing them to focus on their skills and education without unnecessary distractions.”
Episode 2: Caroline Barnes & Nicky Weir
In the second episode, celebrity make-up artist Caroline Barnes joins deaf make-up artist Nicky Weir for a discussion on overcoming the hurdles in the beauty industry. Nicky, who is profoundly deaf, shares how her unique visual skills helped her navigate the profession. She recalls early struggles, saying:
“People used to laugh at the way I spoke and would mockingly tell me to answer the phone, knowing full well that I couldn’t hear. This was a major obstacle, and it made an already difficult industry feel even more isolating.”
Nicky goes on to discuss the urgent need for greater inclusion and understanding in the beauty world:
“We need more support and encouragement for deaf individuals who want to break into this field, without the hurdles that have traditionally held us back.”
Episode 3: Michael Woods & James Aiken
In the third episode, deaf mountaineer Michael Woods sits down with adventurer James Aiken to discuss his dream of climbing Mount Everest. Michael opens up about the unique challenges he faces as a deaf climber, such as navigating using BSL in difficult conditions like fog or low visibility.
He explains:
“When you’re in the mountains, communication is key. But for deaf people, signing with a headlamp on or in fog presents real challenges. Yet, my goal remains to show the world—and especially the deaf community—that we can achieve anything.”
Michael also emphasizes the need for extensive preparation:
“Climbing Everest is not something you can do on a whim. It requires years of training, dedication, and a commitment to proving that deaf climbers can achieve the extraordinary.”
Episode 4: Maxine Peake & Sophie Stone
The final episode of the season features British actress Maxine Peake in conversation with deaf actress Sophie Stone. Sophie discusses her frustrations with being typecast into roles that solely focus on her deafness rather than her acting talent. She shares her longing to play dynamic, fully developed characters:
“I was constantly offered roles that portrayed me as weak, vulnerable, or pitiable. I wanted to play roles full of life—characters who fall in love, face thrilling challenges, or even gun down the bad guys!”
Despite the odds, Sophie Stone has continued to break down barriers, working twice as hard as her peers to achieve recognition in the industry.
Behind the Scenes: A Deaf-Led Production Team
A key aspect of Shaping Tomorrow is its majority-deaf production crew, led by Sam Arnold, who recently worked on the award-winning film Name Me Lawand. Arnold is passionate about using this project to elevate deaf voices:
“For too long, talented deaf individuals have been overlooked. This podcast is an opportunity to create an engaging, immersive experience for both deaf and hearing viewers. Cindy Sasha and I share the vision of giving these voices the platform they deserve.”
Arnold’s direction brings together a talented crew, creating episodes that are not just visually engaging but also meaningful for deaf viewers, who have historically been excluded from many podcasts that are audio-only.
Accessibility at Its Core
One of the most important aspects of Shaping Tomorrow is its focus on accessibility. Episodes are designed with deaf viewers in mind, featuring BSL interpreters, clear visuals, and thoughtful pacing to ensure the content is easy to follow. The team wanted to create a video podcast that was equally engaging for deaf and hearing audiences alike.
Arnold emphasizes:
“Many podcasts cater only to hearing audiences, which leaves deaf people at a disadvantage. We wanted to change that by creating content that is accessible, engaging, and meaningful for everyone.”
Future of Shaping Tomorrow: Expanding Its Reach
The first episode is already available exclusively on YouTube, with new episodes set to release every two weeks. In early November, the podcast will also be available on platforms such as Spotify, Audible, and Apple Podcasts, expanding its reach to a broader audience.
Cindy Sasha remarked:
“We’re excited about the future of Shaping Tomorrow. This is just the beginning, and we hope to continue pushing the boundaries of deaf representation in the media.”
Key Takeaways: Why Shaping Tomorrow Matters
- Representation: Shaping Tomorrow offers a platform for deaf professionals to share their stories, many for the first time.
- Accessibility: With a focus on BSL and a deaf-led production team, the podcast ensures that its content is accessible to both deaf and hearing viewers.
- Industry Insights: Episodes dive into the challenges faced by deaf individuals in industries like architecture, beauty, mountaineering, and acting, offering valuable insights and inspiration.
- Breaking Barriers: The podcast challenges stereotypes and misconceptions about what deaf people can achieve, showing that with the right support, they can excel in any field.
