Welcome to Youth Beat! We’re a program about youth ideas, youth creativity, and youth leadership in Columbus, Ohio. We believe that youth can make a difference for themselves and for their community through their voices! That is why our slogan is “Voice to empower,” because speaking out feels good and motivates change! Youth Beat airs every Monday at 7:30 p.m. on community radio station WCRS LP 102.1 and 98.3 FM.


Youth Beat includes:

  • Feature stories of youth leadership, community involvement, and action
  • Current trends and issues affecting youth
  • Youth perspectives
  • Music and poetry
  • Youth news, events, and other special features

Every day youth are taking the lead and making a difference in improving their schools, neighborhoods, communities, and the environment.  Learn from their experiences and be inspired.  Tune in to Youth Beat to hear what’s happening!


Youth Beat is written and produced by youth from Central Ohio universities, high schools and youth organizations. It is supported by the School of Environment and Natural Resources at The Ohio State University, Ohio State University Extension and local sponsors. Youth Beat Radio is under the direction of assistant professor, Kristi Lekies, PhD.

Youth news, events, and other special features