Podcasts have risen in popularity in recent years. According to a survey from Edison One and Triton, more than one-third (38%) of Americans listen to at least one podcast monthly. The rise in podcasting has seen much success, with many famous podcasts earning awards from notable platforms like iHeartRadio and People’s Choice. And nowadays, it can seem like everybody and their mama either has a podcast or is looking to start one.
A Brief History Of Podcasting
Adam Curry and Dave Winer ushered in the podcast era as the creators of podcasting. The duo developed iPodder, a program that allowed users to download online radio broadcasts to their iPods. Soon, podcasting would become a part of popular culture, with companies like Apple introducing iTunes 4.9, the first update with native podcasting support.
Women In The Podcasting Industry
Currently, Adam Curry hosts “The Daily Source Code,” considered one of the most popular online podcasts today. But he isn’t the only famous podcaster. Marc Maron of “WTF with Marc Maron” is another popular podcaster whose show amasses approximately 55 million downloads annually. And “The Joe Rogan Experience,” hosted by Joe Rogan, brings in an estimated 11 million listeners per episode.
One thing that these podcasts have in common is that they’re all hosted by men. According to a 31-day study by The Wrap, out of 109 podcasts studied, women hosted only 23. But women make up nearly half of podcast listeners. In a 2022 report from Statista, women compromised a whopping 46 percent of listeners.
Black Girl Podcasts
Podcasts were once considered something that mostly men enjoyed. But fortunately, perspectives are changing, making space for more women creators. There are plenty of podcasts hosted by Black women to listen to. Even better, many of them are created FOR Black women with topics meant to inform, encourage, and uplift. Because of this, more and more Black women are finding community, support, and even healing in unlikely places. Let’s take a look at five popular Black girl podcasts that you should download right now:
1.
Triggered AF Podcast
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“Triggered AF Podcast” is an informative program that provides knowledge and insight on mental health. Hosted by Transformation and Health coaches Alechia Reese and Dani Foster, the podcast encourages healing and restoration through healthy, positive conversations.
Unafraid to “go there,” “Triggered AF Podcast” dives deep into sensitive subject matters like intimacy, religion, and forgiveness. You can also find tips and techniques on parenting, dealing with toxic loved ones and manifesting your goals.
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The community-minded podcast is a sanctuary for women (and men!) to learn and be inspired. Its focus on growth and transformation helps Black women expel their triggers to start living freely.
2.
Money Moves
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“Money Moves” is a weekly podcast hosted by money and finance expert Lauren Simmons. At age 23, Simmons became the youngest person to trade on the New York Stock Exchange. She also sat down for an interview with “Good Morning America” and has even been featured in a number of Forbes articles. Now, she shares her knowledge and expertise with others searching for answers.
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“Money Moves” provides tips for financial literacy to people of all economic backgrounds. From discussions surrounding increasing gas prices to debunking common money myths, the podcast is a source of knowledge and insight for its many listeners.
3.
Scam Goddess
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“Scam Goddess” is a highly entertaining podcast that discusses all things related to fraud. The show’s host, Laci Mosely, educates listeners on the latest and greatest hijinx happening all over the world.
The podcast covers everything, from deceptive doctors to hijacking housewives. Even better, “Scam Goddess” features a number of celebrity guests, including Yvonne Orji, Amanda Seales and Dawn Richard.
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And even though the subject matter isn’t exactly comedy, it’s hard not to laugh at the fun and entertaining banter between Mosley and her guests. The “Scam Goddess” podcast is informative, hilarious, and everything we didn’t know we needed and more.
4.
Why Won’t You Date Me?
“Why Won’t You Date Me?” is a wildly funny podcast hosted by the talented comedian Nicole Byer. As a long-time single woman, Byers has made it her mission to find out WHY. So every week, fans tune in to listen to her hysterical takes on dating and relationships. The podcast is comedy gold with featured guests including famous actors and actresses, comedians and even some of her personal friends.
One of the best things about the podcast is its raw relatability. Byers is far from shy when sharing personal details about sex and relationships. Because of this, “Why Won’t You Date Me?” is a hilariously open and honest discussion with listeners about the highs and lows of modern dating.
5.
The Black Girl Bravado Podcast
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“The Black Girl Bravado Podcast” is a fun and informative safe space for “home girls” of all colors. Hosted by best friends Germani Manning and Brittany Lackey, it covers a wide range of topics, from friendship red flags to mental health and wellness.
The duo is seriously committed to their friendship, and they encourage others to cultivate a healthy sisterhood as well. Their new series “Unlocking Sisterhood” educates and inspires women to create positive friendships with each other through proactive and solution-based discussions.
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“The Black Girl Bravado Podcast” is the perfect mix of fun, sass, laughter and healing. It gives new meaning to the phrase “finding your tribe.”