Directors' Choice

Each submission entered into the TC/RHDF Competition is automatically considered for the Director’s Choice (DC) award.

The staff of Third Coast listens to every submission entered into the Competition each year, and reserves the Directors’ Choice category to shine a light on an exceptional audio story that belongs in the year’s cohort of winners.

There is one award in this category, honored with a unique physical award and public recognition around the world. Third Coast also names Third Coast Finalists in this category, announced alongside the Winner.

Your last chance to enter the Impact category will be March 20, 2025 (Late Deadline). For a complete list of deadlines, see our Call for Entries homepage.

Full Category Description

We might be biased, but this is our favorite award! It's an incredible opportunity to share our values as judges ourselves at Third Coast, who have also listened to every single entry in the Competition.

Directors' Choice FAQ

How do I enter the Directors’ Choice category?
  • All entries submitted to the Competition are automatically considered for Directors’ Choice.

Previous Winners

Interested in hearing pieces that have won this category in prior years? Click on the play button next to some of our most recent winners below.

Past Recipients

2020 The Work Of Closing A Notorious Jail

Five years after Michael Brown’s death at the hands of a police officer galvanized criminal justice reform activists in St. Louis, they mounted a serious effort to shut down the notorious Workhouse jail.

2019 No Feeling Is Final

Usually when we talk about suicide we say those four magic words: "Just ask for help." But Honor Eastly knows it’s not that simple.

2018 Espera / Wait

Two lovers share an intimate conversation on the eve of their breakup, exploring loneliness and intimacy.