About

I’ve been a listener all my life. As a teenager in the ‘90s, community radio became my outlet and medium for deep listening and getting curious about the world around me. I learned that holding space, asking thoughtful questions, and documenting stories are powerful acts. That remembering where we come from and digging into history can offer a path forward. That amplifying stories outside of dominant narratives can be tools for change-making.

After many years in media-making and youth media education fields like Chapter 510, Women’s Audio Mission, YR Media (Youth Radio), outLoud Radio, ZUMIX Radio, Prometheus Radio Project, The National Radio Project and more, I am drawn to oral history because it sits at the intersection of history, journalism, and community. It’s a way to map and own our narratives.

GEMS is an ode to my family—the JEMS—who nurture me with deep love and tell truly fabulous stories. I live in California with my wife, the best person I know, who is a constant source of inspiration and support. I am glad to be an active member of the Oral History Association and look forward to sharing stories with you. 

Elena Botkin-Levy