“My definition of mental fitness is when my thoughts, ideas and actions all align.” Jenn welcomes Elizabeth Burns, a rising senior in journalism at Texas Christian University and host of the “Bubble Wrapped” podcast, to the show.
She discusses what brought her to this major and how that pursuit connects to her personal mental fitness journey. As a part of Gen-Z and future member of the media, Elizabeth also examines how the younger generation is shaping the progression of reporting and communication around mental health.
SHOW NOTES/”KEY TAKEAWAYS”:
00:00 Jenn introduces Elizabeth Burns, a rising senior at Texas Christian University and host of the “Bubble Wrapped” podcast
1:45 Elizabeth explains the title of her podcast, discussing her roots in St. Louis and living in a “bubble”
4:12 Jenn asks Elizabeth, “what led you to decide to study journalism”?; they go on to discuss the importance of writing in modern times
6:45 As a part of gen-z, Elizabeth explains how her approach to journalism is different from that of journalists in previous generations
9:11 The discussion shifts to the legitimacy of “street” journalism versus mainstream media, and the role of mental health in future journalism
14:58 Elizabeth defines mental fitness on her terms
18:36 Jenn and Elizabeth discuss how exposure to mental health and mental fitness themes much earlier in life has affected gen-z journalists
22:21 Jenn talks about how current audiences gravitate toward smaller, “micro” news outlets for authenticity, rather than large news corporations
27:04 Elizabeth leaves parting words for the PMM audience – how journalists can provide positive mental health content
QUOTES MENTIONED:
“I like to do things that make me happy.” – E
“Everything I do, I try to have it aid in my mental fitness journey.” – E
“Being able to set yourself up for success… [and] be really in tune with yourself is important.” – J
“Once I became passionate about journalism, I realized that was something I thought would be fun for me for the rest of my life; which was really important to me.” – E
“…writing is something that a lot of folks don’t really have these days.” – J
“We just need to smash the generational stereotypes.” – J
“Journalists aren’t just competing with news organizations down the street, anyone can be a journalist these days.” – E
“How can we bring authenticity and authority back to the media as well?” – J
“I think the future of journalism in the way we’re taught is very unpredictable.” – E
“My definition of mental fitness is when my thoughts, ideas and actions all align…” – E
“Alignment is where a lot of us get caught up…. Having the alignment of all your senses is important.” – J
“…understand how to quiet the voices that are out of alignment.” – J
“We’re aware of so much and we’re exposed to so much information… it can feel so disconnected…” – E
“Protecting your own light throughout your journey is like the most important thing.” – J
