Automated media programming (AMP) systems and methods are provided. The systems and methods allow independent users to summit, edit, rate, and watch video content (preferably, although not necessarily, from other users) over a broadcast media channel or network. In one embodiment, among others, the AMP system a topic generator means for determining one or more topics that will be used for identifying one or more videos to be broadcast; an upload means for receiving uploads of one or more user videos relating to the determined topics; a prescreening means for allowing users to view the uploaded user videos; a rating means for rating the uploaded user videos, their respective producers, or both; a pre-production means for scheduling the uploaded videos for transmission based upon the ratings; and a broadcast means for enabling broadcast of the videos, hi preferred embodiments, the AMP system is controlled by independent users, and the settings, procedures for operation, and procedures for evaluations of the AMP system are user controllable.