The show delivers much needed information, context, and entertainment for a new generation of changesmakers

NEW YORK (September 29, 2020) — iHeartMedia, the No. 1 podcast publisher globally, today announced “The Ten News,” an iHeartRadio Original Podcast hosted by comedian and storyteller Bethany Van Delft. Intended for kids ages 8-12, “The Ten News” premieres today and presents topical news stories in a brief, informative, and entertaining ten minutes. The podcast is produced by Small But Mighty Media and Next Chapter Podcasts and is distributed by The iHeartPodcast Network.  

“I’m excited to be part of a show that’s not only cool and fun to listen to, but speaks to kids as smart and curious people,” said Van Delft. “‘The Ten News’ helps amplify kids’ voices and empowers them to take action.”

Publishing every Tuesday and Thursday, “The Ten News” will explore topics kids care about including current events, sports, science, gaming, pop culture, entertainment, and more. Episodes will highlight stories from kids who are driving positive change around the world—from 15-year-old LGBTQ activist Ewan Barker Plummer to teen activist and founder of Earth Uprising, Alexandria Villasenor—and include interviews with experts as diverse as James Carville, American political consultant, and Caron Butler, NBA champion and author. From the Black Lives Matter Movement to the impact of COVID-19 on the climate, “The Ten News” breaks down complex topics and makes them accessible to kids.

“There shouldn’t be such a glaring gap when it comes to news for kids that gives them context about what’s going on in the world and is still entertaining,” said Tracy Leeds Kaplan, Founder of Small But Mighty Media. “I needed something that my kids would love to listen to—but I could enjoy too. That’s why I developed ‘The Ten News’ and I’m thrilled to be working with iHeartRadio to bring this podcast to life.”

“We’re excited to reach a new audience—and generation—through this podcast,” said Conal Byrne, President of the iHeartPodcast Network. “As we create new kinds of innovative content to engage younger listeners, ‘The Ten News’ podcast empowers kids with information in a way they understand so they can form their own opinions and participate in larger conversations. We’re happy to partner with Next Chapter Podcasts and Small But Mighty Media to help shape the next generation of leaders and decision-makers.”

Listen to “The Ten News” for free on iHeartRadio.com, on the iHeartRadio app and everywhere podcasts are available.

About Bethany Van Delft

Bethany Van Delft’s “hip and grounded, laid back delivery” has earned her the honor of performing stand-up comedy at the prestigious Just for Laughs Festival in Montreal, SF Sketchfest, and All Jane Festival, among others. She produces award-winning comedy and storytelling shows, her monthly show “Artisanal Comedy” was named “one of the top indie nights to check out". Boston Magazine named her "Best Comic" in 2019 and 2020. She regularly hosts The Moth storytelling events and her mainstage story is included in The Moth's book, All These Wonders. She also co-hosts "PARENTAOLGIC", Nova's new docuseries from PBS Digital Studios. For more information visit bethanyvandelft.com

About Small But Mighty Media

Small But Mighty Media is a development and production agency focused on creating non-fiction audio and video programs that inform and inspire audiences of all ages. Founded by Tracy Leeds Kaplan to promote understanding and engage kids during the pandemic, Small But Mighty Media aims to address underserved audiences with bespoke content and tell stories that need to be told. For more information, visit thetennews.com

About Next Chapter Podcasts

Next Chapter Podcasts is a production company dedicated to telling unique stories featuring bold, authentic voices across categories including politics, comedy, music, and sports. Next Chapter’s podcasts include the Spotify Original “The 500 with Josh Adam Meyers”, “The 2020 Politics War Room” with political strategist James Carville, and “The Tuff Juice Podcast” with NBA champion, entrepreneur, and activist Caron Butler, amongst others. For more information, visit ncpodcasts.com