WHRO Public Media is dedicated to showcasing compelling stories from our region. We welcome completed works from filmmakers and audio content creators in Virginia and North Carolina that reflect the diversity, history, and voices of our communities. Selected works will be featured across WHRO’s broadcast and streaming platforms.

Who Can Submit

•  Independent filmmakers and audio content creators based in Virginia, North Carolina as well as stories from accross the US that hold local relevance for our community.  
•  Submissions must be completed projects — we do not accept works-in-progress.  
•  Eligible content includes:  
•  Short or feature-length films  
•  Documentaries  
•  Short-form or long-form audio productions  
• Podcast & Radio series 
•  Other audio/visual storytelling formats suitable for public media

Submission Requirements

 Completed Work 

•  Film submissions must be in broadcast-quality video format.  
•  Audio submissions must be in high-quality, uncompressed formats (e.g., WAV, MP3).  

Synopsis & Creator Bio 

•  A short synopsis (150 words or fewer) and creator biography.  

 Technical Specifications 

•  Must meet WHRO’s technical delivery standards for broadcast and streaming (to be provided upon acceptance).  

Editorial Standards 

•  Content must adhere to WHRO Public Media’s Editorial Standards (see below).  
•  No commercial advertising or sponsored content.  
•  Content should be factually accurate, respectful of diverse viewpoints, and appropriate for public audiences.

Editorial Standards

WHRO’s editorial guidelines are based on PBS and NPR standards for fairness, accuracy, and independence. Content must:

•  Be factually accurate, with credible sourcing.  
•  Avoid defamatory statements or unverified claims.  
•  Represent diverse voices and perspectives where possible.  
•  Refrain from obscene, indecent, or profane material.  
•  Disclose any conflicts of interest or funding sources influencing content.  
• No advocacy content. 
•  Respect copyright laws and secure rights for all material (music, footage, images, etc.).  

Selection Process

•  Submissions are reviewed by WHRO’s Local Content Committee for quality, relevance, and alignment with our mission.  
•  Creators will be notified by email within 6–8 weeks of submission.  
•  Due to high volume, we cannot provide detailed feedback on all submissions.

Agreement & Compensation

•  Selected creators will receive a small stipend as an honorarium.  
•  WHRO will license selected works under a three-year, non-exclusive rights agreement for both broadcast and streaming distribution on WHRO platforms.  
•  Creators retain full ownership of their work and may distribute it elsewhere.

How to Submit

1.  Complete the WHRO Local Content Submission Form [link to form/portal].  
2.  Upload your completed project file (or provide a secure download link).  
3.  Attach all required documentation (synopsis, bio, rights clearances).

This three-part “Moth-Hour” style series invites members of our community to explore and share personal narratives around themes central to our collective experience. Each event will center on a guiding question, encouraging deep reflection, dialogue, and connection. 

Event details: Thursday, February 26th, 2026, 7:00 p.m., Kimball Theater in Williamsburg

Story Theme: 

Love has a way of showing up everywhere we are — in the friendships that feel like family, in the bonds we’re born into, and in the spark of romance. This three-part series explores the many ways love shapes our lives, reminding us that love is not just one story, but many.

Romantic Love

Prompt: Share a moment when vulnerability deepened your connection with someone. Description: Romance often asks us to risk honesty. Recall a moment when opening up — with your heart, your fears, or your truth — transformed a relationship, bringing you closer in unexpected ways.

Story Submission Criteria:

Theme Alignment: The story should reflect the theme of The Story Exchange: 757 Together, focusing on community, connection, diversity, or overcoming challenges. The Theme for each event may change, so ensure the story aligns with the current topic. 

1. Personal Experience: The story must be based on the teller.'s personal experience. It should be authentic, with the teller being the central figure of the narrative. 
2. Originality: The story must be original and not previously published or presented in other major storytelling forums (unless otherwise specified by the event organizers).
3. Emotional Impact: The story should evoke an emotional response, whether it’s humor, inspiration, empathy, or reflection. The teller must be able to convey the personal significance of their experience. 
4. Time Limit: Stories should be between 5 to 7 minutes long when spoken. Written submissions should be a maximum of 1,500 words. 
5. Clarity and structure: The story should have a clear beginning, middle, and end. It should demonstrate a journey or transformation that the teller experienced, with a resolution or takeaway. 
6. Respect and Sensitivity: Stories should be respectful of diverse audiences. Sensitive topics (e.g., trauma, violence) should be handled with care, ensuring the teller is mindful of the impact on listeners.
7. No props or Notes: Storytellers should deliver their story without the use of props or notes, allowing for a more natural and engaging performance. 
8. Consent to Record: By submitting their story, storytellers agree to have their performance recorded and potentially shared across social media, the Emerging Leaders website, and other promotional platforms.
9. Submit an audio/video recording AND/OR text of the story for consideration. Include a brief bio (100-150 words) and explain how your story aligns with the theme
10.  By completing and submitting an application, you agree to the above guidelines and are available February 26th to perform your story onstage. 

SUBMISSION CUTOFF IS February 13th, Storytellers will be notified by February 17th.