Narrative Storytelling in Podcasts: Enhancing Student Resilience and Wellbeing in Pune’s Higher Education

Abstract

Mental health and wellbeing have become urgent concerns in Indian higher education. From IITs to state universities, students often face intense academic pressure, competitive environments, and social isolation. Recent reports of stress‑related dropouts and tragic incidents on campuses highlight the need for innovative approaches to resilience and wellbeing. This paper explores how narrative storytelling in podcasts can serve as a fresh, accessible medium to support students in higher education.

Narrative storytelling is the practice of sharing lived experiences in a structured, relatable way. When students hear peers talk about exam stress, hostel life challenges, or overcoming anxiety through personal stories, they connect emotionally and feel less alone. Podcasts, unlike formal counseling sessions, provide a low‑cost, flexible, and stigma‑free platform for these conversations. For example, student‑run podcasts at Delhi University and wellness initiatives at IIT Madras have begun experimenting with audio storytelling to normalize mental health discussions.

This study adopts a qualitative approach, using interviews with student podcasters and focus groups with listeners to understand how personal narratives influence resilience. Early insights suggest that podcasts help students build coping strategies, foster empathy, and strengthen community belonging. They also encourage students to seek institutional support when needed, bridging the gap between policy and practice.

The implications are significant: universities can integrate podcast initiatives into orientation programs, wellness curricula, and student affairs strategies. Policymakers can recognize podcasts as complementary tools alongside counseling services. Researchers can further explore the long‑term impact of podcast engagement on academic performance and psychological wellbeing.

By situating narrative storytelling in podcasts within the Indian higher education context, this paper argues that authentic student voices can become powerful instruments of resilience, empathy, and holistic wellbeing.