Teen's disability podcast an 'incredible journey'

Hosting a disability awareness podcast which helps people overcome adversity has been "an incredible journey", an award-winning teenager has said.

Recorded in the back of her drama classroom at Douglas High School, Talking in the Dark is hosted by 15-year-old Evie Roberts, whose achievements have been recognised with a Young Hero of Mann award.

Stephen Fry, Chris McCausland and Ferne Cotton - as well as the Isle of Man's Lieutenant Governor Sir John Lorimer - are among 67 guests who have so far featured in Evie's podcast.

The teenager, who is blind, said she was "shocked" by how much her podcast had evolved over the 18 months it has been running, adding "it feels like I am dreaming".

Evie has a rare condition called Bilateral Anapthalmia, which meant her eyes did not develop.

"Being blind since birth means it is the only thing I have ever experienced," she said.

Many people wrongly think that "because I am blind I can't take part in certain activities", Evie said.

Some do not always consider adaptations that can be made to help people who are visually impaired, she added.

Evie said she had been encouraged to start a podcast by her drama teacher Stephen Craige, who suggested she had "a voice for radio".

"What I find special about the podcast is that I have spoken to people from all walks of life," she said. "And there is something to be learnt from all of my guests.

"A lot have had really significant life challenges and I think the resilience they have shown to get through those challenges is something I try to incorporate into my life."

Evie said interviewing Stephen Fry had been an amazing experience.

"I have known about him since I was about six - he narrates the Harry Potter books, so his voice has been such a big part of my life," she said.

"It felt surreal to talk to him!

"I think there is more awareness being raised on disability in general and I would love to - in the future - play a part in that.

"I am really excited to keep going and see what 2025 holds."

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