In this episode of the Sparkbuddies Podcast, host Esther interviews Anika Shinde, founder of MYC Uncensored. MYC Uncensored is a podcast hosted by the all-female team at Merrylands Youth Centre (Sydney, Australia), which brings together young women to discuss real issues openly.
From mental health and relationships to confidence, school, and growing up in today’s world, every episode creates a safe space for honest stories, shared experiences, and listener-submitted discussions.
Starting with zero listeners, Anika and her co-founder worked towards a $5,000 community grant and built MYC Uncensored into a youth-led movement with 4,800+ listeners across 63 countries. Along the way, she launched a "Women in STEM" series to spotlight female scientists and engineers, inspiring girls who often feel isolated in male-dominated spaces.
In this inspiring conversation, Anika shares:
How she turned an idea into a global podcast empowering thousands of girls.
The process of recruiting 30 volunteer podcasters and managing episodes with authenticity.
The tools and grants that helped her launch professionally on Spotify and beyond.
How MYC Uncensored helps teens talk openly about identity, self-discipline, and mental health.
Her advice to young founders: start early, stay consistent, and know your “why.”
I was so inspired by hearing how Anika turned empathy and conversation into impact. I hope you will be too!
Watch the interview below:
Links and resources mentioned:
Sparkbuddies: sparkbuddies.ai
MYC Uncensored (Spotify): https://open.spotify.com/show/6MnF6AWB39qhwQsGBHB3th
MYC Uncensored (Podbean): https://mycuncensored.podbean.com/
MYC Uncensored (iTunes): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/myc-uncensored/id1686032683
GarageBand: https://www.apple.com/mac/garageband/