From student to storyteller: When hosting a global podcast changed a student's view

While opportunities don't always come with clear instructions, those willing to take the leap often find themselves on a journey filled with unexpected lessons and meaningful connections.

Phuong Linh – a Professional Communication student and recipient of the RMIT Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship in 2023 – never imagined herself behind a podcast mic until she was invited to host a podcast episode with a distinguised guest. What began as a one-time challenge soon turned into an adventure of self-discovery.

How My Journey Started is a podcast series spotlighting the global career journeys of RMIT alumni across industries. In this season, each episode is uniquely hosted by one of three current RMIT students: Hong Ngoc, Khanh Linh, and Phuong Linh.

While Hong Ngoc and Khanh Linh paved the way with episodes in Paris, Barcelona, and London, Phuong Linh’s hosting experience in Ho Chi Minh City brought a fresh perspective. Let’s explore how this unique opportunity not only shaped her own journey but also transformed her view of her potential.

Check out Hong Ngoc and Khanh Linh's journeys

“How My Journey Started” is a podcast series that spotlights the global career journeys of RMIT alumni across a wide range of industries.

One yes, a whole new journey

When asked about her first thoughts on the podcast hosting role, Phuong Linh admitted she hadn’t seen it coming. The opportunity arrived during her time collaborating with the University Communications team. Knowing the episode would be part of RMIT Vietnam’s 25th anniversary celebrations made it even more special. It was her first time working on a large-scale production, from scripting to the studio. “To represent the student voice during such a meaningful milestone for RMIT made me feel incredibly proud and grateful,” she shared.

Meanwhile, Hong Ngoc and Khanh Linh, recording episodes in Paris, Barcelona, and London, jumped at the chance to join the project despite it being during the assessment season. “This was the perfect opportunity to dive into both my interests – fashion and entrepreneurship – by uncovering the journeys of RMIT alumni making an impact worldwide,” said Hong Ngoc, hosting two episodes in Paris and Barcelona later on.

“To represent the student voice during such a meaningful milestone for RMIT made me feel incredibly proud and grateful,” Phuong Linh shared.

More than just on the script

With thorough preparation and strong support, Phuong Linh stepped into the role with confidence. However, the true test came during the actual shoot – especially as she and guest speaker Angela Ngan Nguyen were meeting in person for the first time that day. Phuong Linh had to set the tone for the conversation and ensure the guest felt comfortable sharing her story. But her ability to listen actively and attentively allowed her to create a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.

Through mindful listening, Linh was able to connect with Angela, making her gradually feel at ease and open up about her real story. Linh quickly learned that true hosting means more than asking questions—it’s about building trust and really listening. “I discovered that slow, intentional conversations provide the most genuine insights—even in today’s fast-paced world,” she recalled.

To Hong Ngoc, the experience also came with a valuable lesson. As someone who always strived for precision, she initially put immense pressure on herself to perfect every line of the script. “I put so much pressure on myself to perfect the script and nail every line,” she shared. But as the episodes unfolded, Hong Ngoc discovered an insight far more powerful than perfection: authenticity. She realised that the heart of a great podcast isn’t in delivering rehearsed lines, but in embracing spontaneity and allowing space for real, human conversation. Letting the dialogue breathe, with its natural pauses and raw emotions, brought the stories to life in a way no script ever could.

Through mindful listening, Linh was able to connect with Angela, making her gradually feel at ease and open to share her real story.

Real growth happens between takes

While recording, under the glow of studio lights and surrounded by the quiet hum of a professional set, Phuong Linh recognised her own growth through Angela. She shares, “As a student, listening to her lived experiences felt like receiving wisdom passed down through time: raw, real, and unforgettable.”

For Phuong Linh, one of the most memorable moments didn’t happen during the recording, but over lunch, away from the cameras. That was when Angela opened up about the passion and purpose fueling her work, and how every project she takes on is deeply meaningful. But it was something Angela shared during their recorded conversation that truly stayed with Phuong Linh: “I saw my younger self in you.” Those words were both humbling and empowering. “I was speechless,” she recalls. “How could someone so accomplished see herself in me?” In that moment, Phuong Linh realised that the uncertainties, dreams, and questions she carries as a student aren’t signs of inexperience – they’re the beginnings of something bigger.

Khanh Linh had a similar experience: “Some of my favorite moments happened off-camera. Whether it was sharing a meal with Paul or figuring out the London tube system, those unfiltered interactions were when the real connections blossomed.”

For Phuong Linh, one of the most memorable moments didn’t happen during the recording, but over lunch, away from the cameras.

You never know how far a simple 'yes' can take you

The incredible podcast hosting experience since has shifted Phuong Linh’s idea of what’s possible as a student. “Opportunities don’t happen. You create them,” she recalled. For her, a simple yes opened the door to something she would otherwise never think it could be possible.

For anyone hesitating to step out of their comfort zone, Phuong Linh gives a piece of advice: “If fear or embarrassment is holding you back, remember – you’re doing this for your own growth, not for anyone else’s validation. If you try, you’ll move closer to your goal. If you never try, your chance is zero.”

Khanh Linh also summed it up: “Treat every opportunity as a door. You never know which one will lead to your next big step.”

Now, even when our student hosts are off the mic, the insights they’ve gained continue to motivate them to push forward. The beauty of starting with that little first step is that it’s not about impressing the world. It’s about discovering what you’re truly capable of when you take that leap. With the podcast set to launch, the biggest lesson remains: growth often begins the moment you decide to try.

Check out How My Journey Started and other series

Story: Pham Thanh Thao

28 April 2025

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From student to storyteller: When hosting a global podcast changed a student's view