February Podcast Roundup: Celebrating Black Voices this Black History Month

Welcome to our February Podcast Roundup—a monthly check-in on hot opportunities for advertisers. 

This month, we’re celebrating Black History Month, which recognizes the vast contributions and profound influence of Black Americans on history, business, media and culture.

Did you know? According to Edison’s 2022 Black Podcast Listener Report, growth in monthly podcast listening among Black audiences is outpacing the overall 18+ population. What’s driving this upward trend? The tremendous increase in content created by Black storytellers, with Black audiences in mind. And when it comes to the brands supporting their favorite podcasts, over 80% of Black podcast listeners say they would consider a brand if they heard their ad on a podcast with a Black host.

That being said, brands who are interested in engaging with Black audiences must take the time to immerse themselves in Black stories and culture—and we have just the shows for you.

Explore the curiosities of the universe with Neil DeGrasse Tyson

Everyone's favorite astrophysicist, Neil DeGrasse Tyson, has been helping loyal listeners explore astronomy, physics, and everything else there is to know about life in the universe since 2009. In each episode, Neil and his hilarious co-host Chuck Nice delve into captivating conversations with guest celebrities and scientific experts. The podcast draws in highly educated listeners of all ages who over-index for reading books, listening to music and eating organic. 

Get inspired by today’s cultural trailblazers 

A production of the Oprah Winfrey Network, Trials to Triumphs, showcases the personal and professional hurdles faced by highly successful people. In these intimate and revealing conversations, Netflix star Ashley Blaine Featherson-Jenkins and a celebrity guest unpack moments that helped them become who they are today. Notable guests include Kelly Rowland, Robin Thede, Michelle Williams, Amber Riley, Danielle Brooks, Estelle, and many more of today’s cultural trailblazers. After each episode, the show’s audience of ambitious young women will feel inspired and empowered to keep going, no matter where they are in life.

Vibrant conversations on Gettin’ Grown

Keia and Jade are two happy and hard working Black women who are just trying to learn how to adult. Join them each week as they try to figure out life as 30-somethings through recurring segments like Kitchen Table Talk, Petty Peeves, and Lessons in Black Women Self Care. Gettin’ Grown reaches a 94% black audience of primarily women, and boasts a 4.9 star rating. Listeners praise Keia and Jade for their vibrant, honest, and intelligent content. The SiriusXM Podcast Network is an exclusive partner with The Loud Speakers Network which is dedicated to giving BIPOC creators a voice.

Dive into great stories with LeVar Burton

The best short fiction, handpicked by the best voice in podcasting and presented in 3D immersive audio. In every episode, host LeVar Burton, best known for Roots, Reading Rainbow, and Star Trek: The Next Generation, invites you to take a break from your daily life and dive into a great story. LeVar’s narration blends with gorgeous soundscapes to bring stories by Stephen King, Toni Morrison, Nnedi Okorafor, Kurt Vonnegut, Ken Liu and more to life. In fact, the show took home the 2023 NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Podcast. It's the perfect podcast for literary lovers, and the audience is highly educated, with 80% holding a bachelor's degree or higher. 

Reach diverse health & wellness enthusiasts

Explore mental health, mental wealth, and mental hygiene with host Francheska Medina, a healthy lifestyle expert known for her influential website Hey Fran Hey. She is joined by her co-hosts Dustin Ross and Assanté, who keep it funny while tackling serious subjects with the realness and familiarity of people you've known your whole life. This dynamic trio has been podcasting since 2015, cultivating a loyal fanbase that’s 85% African-American and majority female listeners. 

Dive into today’s news at the intersection of race, justice, and culture

Known for her tenacious interview style, Joy Reid conducts enthralling one-on-one conversations with politicians and newsmakers while addressing issues both in and out of Washington. A best-selling author and public speaker, Reid holds more than 10 years of experience as an MSNBC contributor. Drawing from her own unique experience, she kicks off MSNBC’s primetime lineup by delving into American politics as they unfold, incorporating meaningful commentary around race, justice, and culture along the way. 

Interested in advertising on one of these shows? 

Get in touch with us today.