From Patient to Intern: Isaiah’s Full-Circle Journey with Seacrest Studios

From a young age, Isaiah faced serious health challenges that brought him in and out of hospitals across the Southeast. But amid the stress and uncertainty of frequent ER visits, he always found comfort in one thing — media. Whether through YouTube videos, TV shows or movies, stories became his escape, his distraction and ultimately his inspiration.

“I didn’t know how the industry worked yet,” Isaiah shared, “but I knew it made me feel less alone, and I wanted to give that feeling to someone else.”

During one of his routine visits to Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, Isaiah noticed a sign advertising an upcoming visit from Imagine Dragons. He wouldn’t be there for the performance, but that small poster led him to something that would change his life. Through the windows of Seacrest Studios, he caught a glimpse of microphones, cameras and a space alive with energy.

He and his mom returned after his appointment to explore the studio. Although Isaiah was 16 and unsure if he was too old to join in (note for any teens reading – you’re not!), a warm welcome from a team member named Mamie pulled him into the experience. Country artist Teddy Rob happened to be visiting that day, and Isaiah found himself behind the mic for the first time.

“It wasn’t just fun — it was inspiring,” Isaiah said. “That experience lit a spark in me that confirmed what I already felt deep down: I wanted to pursue a career in media to bring people joy.”

Years later, Isaiah followed that spark to Ithaca College, where he began studying Television and Digital Media. While discussing internship ideas with his mom, he remembered that pivotal moment in the Nashville studio. Discovering that the Ryan Seacrest Foundation offered college internships, he didn’t hesitate — he applied right away.

Interning with Seacrest Studios brought his journey full circle.

“I’ve had the opportunity to connect with patients and families — some with stories similar to mine, and others completely different — and give them the same kind of joy and distraction that helped me years ago,” Isaiah said.

From filming hot dog eating contests to hosting games, editing footage or simply chatting with patients, Isaiah has embraced every task with heart. And while his professional skills have grown, the personal impact has been just as meaningful.

“I’ve learned to lead, to listen and to care more deeply,” he said. “I’ve laughed with patients, families and staff, and I’ve seen the true power of kindness and creativity.”

Now a two-time Summer intern with Seacrest Studios, Isaiah is one of many young adults who first encountered the Foundation as patients — and have since grown into leaders ready to inspire the next generation.

“The Ryan Seacrest Foundation has shaped who I am and what I aspire to become,” he said. “It’s more than an internship — it’s part of my story.”

For Isaiah, the opportunity to make the world smile — just like Seacrest Studios did for him — is a privilege he shared he will carry for life.