In this episode of Heard! Afros & Audio Interview Series, host Talib Jasir speaks with founder and media strategist Kenneth Groom, creator of Beyond Normal Media, about podcasting, storytelling, and supporting small business owners and founders through audio.

Kenny shares his transition from data analytics and banking into media and storytelling, and how Beyond Normal Media grew from a podcast into a full-service media company. The conversation explores why audio remains a strong foundation for content strategy, how founders can tell authentic stories without chasing trends, and what gets lost when businesses prioritize polish over meaning.

This episode also covers podcasting for founders, B2B storytelling, sustainability in podcasting, the role of AI in creative workflows, and why everyday businesses often hold the most overlooked stories. It's a grounded conversation for founders, creators, and service providers thinking about long-term value and clarity in their content.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction to the Interview Series
00:12 Meet Kenneth Groom and Beyond Normal Media
01:14 From Data Analytics to Storytelling
03:02 The Mission Behind Beyond Normal Media
04:10 Supporting Black and Brown Founders
07:20 Why Audio Still Matters
10:06 Podcasting Opportunities and Evolution
15:48 The Birth of the Beyond Normal Podcast
19:53 Untold Stories of Founders
22:55 Storytelling and Brand Identity
23:40 AI, Convenience, and Creativity
26:59 The Future of Podcasting
33:28 Authenticity Over Perfection
38:01 Sustainability and Creator Burnout
43:01 Reflections on Afros & Audio
44:52 Closing and Where to Connect

To learn more about Kenny Groom and Beyond Normal Media visit: https://www.beyondnormalmedia.com

Follow on Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/beyondnormalmedia/

https://www.youtube.com/@beyondnormalmedia/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/beyond-normal-media/

https://beyondnormalmedia.substack.com/

In this episode of Heard! Afros & Audio Interview Series, host Talib Jasir speaks with award-winning podcaster, educator, and founder Dr. Asia Lyons about wellness, sustainability, and creative possibility for Black educators.

Dr. Lyons shares her journey from classroom teaching to building Liberated Educators Lab, a platform centered on care, permission, and collective support. The conversation explores the challenges Black educators face, podcasting as a healing and reflective practice, and how creative work can function as both personal restoration and community infrastructure.

This episode also covers live podcasting, audience connection, balancing preparation with flexibility, sustaining multiple initiatives, and integrating creative practice into academic and professional spaces. It's a grounded conversation for educators, podcasters, and creatives navigating growth, burnout, and long-term impact.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:17 Dr. Asia Lyons' Background and Work
01:01 Challenges in Education and the Exit Story
05:53 Podcasting as a Healing Practice
13:15 Live Podcasting and Audience Impact
16:28 Balancing Preparation and Flexibility
21:53 Sustaining Multiple Initiatives
24:06 Understanding Emerge Genetics
26:14 Influence of Family and Lineage
27:56 Possibility, Permission, and Creative Choice
28:39 Reflecting on the Teaching Journey
32:56 Supporting Black Educators
35:04 Community, Creativity, and Care
40:50 Future Directions and Academic Integration
42:43 Closing Reflections and Where to Connect

To learn more about Dr. Asia Lyons and The Exit Interview podcast visit: https://www.exitinterviewpodcast.com

Follow on Social Media: Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/hellodrasia/?next=%2F

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/asia-lyons/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theexitinterviewpodcast

To learn more about Talib Jasir and Afros & Audio visit: www.afrosandaudio.com follow us on Instagram: @afrosandaudio

In this episode of Heard Afros Audio Interview Series, host Talib Jasir opens Season 4 with podcast producer, musician, and creative architect Mike Brown for a conversation about vulnerability, creative sustainability, and knowing when it's time to let go.

Mike reflects on building The Art of Letting Go from personal therapy conversations into a long-running podcast with over 200 episodes. He shares how authenticity shapes sound, why podcasting remains a powerful medium for self expression, and what consistency reveals about a creator's relationship to their work.

This episode explores podcast evolution, audience shifts, adapting formats without losing integrity, and closing a creative chapter on your own terms. It's a grounded conversation for podcasters, audio producers, and creatives navigating growth, burnout, and what comes next.

Timestamps:

00:00 Season 4 Introduction
00:30 Who Mike Brown Is and His Audio Origins
00:55 Childhood Recording and Early Creative Curiosity
02:21 The Art of Letting Go and Therapy as a Catalyst
08:14 Podcasting as Self Expression
12:24 Consistency, Repetition, and Growth
14:26 Authenticity and the Mike Brown Touch
17:45 Creating Safety and Vulnerability on the Mic
19:38 Adapting to Industry and Audience Shifts
21:14 The Evolution of Podcasting Formats
28:23 Support Systems and Creative Sustainability
31:18 Closing a Chapter and What Comes Next

To learn more about Mike Brown visit:

lnk.bio/theartoflettinggo

Follow Mike on Social Media:

Instagram: @theartoflettinggopodcast
LinkedIn: justmikebrown

This trailer introduces a series created for people who study this medium as much as they love it. Heard sits with indie creators, engineers, editors, producers, and studio owners who built their skill the long way, project by project. These conversations get into how they think, how they work, and how they keep showing up when the industry shifts around them.

Podcasters will hear the kind of insight you only get from someone who has lived through late edits, stalled momentum, equipment failures, client wins, and creative breakthroughs. Listeners get to peer into the rooms where their favorite shows take shape, learning what it takes to keep a story alive in audio. Industry professionals will meet creators who understand the craft beyond trend cycles and have the discipline to sustain it.

The series reflects the diversity of people who make podcasting possible and the many paths that led them here. If you want a clearer picture of the work behind the mic and the minds shaping the future of this medium, press play and step inside.

In this episode of Afros & Audio Interview Series, host Talib Jasir engages in an in-depth conversation with Keisha "TK" Dutes, founder of Philo's Future Media, a seasoned audio producer and storyteller. TK shares her journey from working in terrestrial radio since 2005 to creating and managing her own projects like Bondfire Radio and the upcoming podcast 'Secret Life of TK.'

They explore the challenges of transitioning from radio to podcasting, the evolution of audio storytelling, and the significance of community and collaboration in independent audio production. TK also highlights her role in the Association of Independence and Radio (AIR) and the importance of peer-to-peer education in shaping the future of black podcasting. The discussion emphasizes the need for authenticity, the balance between creative freedom and operational challenges, and the vital role of mentorship and collaboration in sustaining the podcasting industry.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:14 Reflecting on Past Collaborations
01:16 Transition and Evolution in Audio Storytelling
02:39 Honoring Achievements and Recognitions
04:10 Challenges and Changes in Podcasting
12:05 Mentorship and Peer-to-Peer Education
14:36 The Future of Black Podcasting
21:10 Introducing 'Secret Life of TK'
28:43 The Power of Collaboration
29:15 Sustaining Podcasting Efforts
32:25 Challenges Faced by Independent Podcasters
36:36 Lessons from Major Podcast Productions
45:22 Equity and Sustainability in Audio
52:17 Final Thoughts and Reflections

To learn more about Keisha "TK" Dutes visit: https://www.tastykeish.com/letswerk

Listen to The Secret Life of TK podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/lt/podcast/the-secret-life-of-tk/id1796520216

Follow Keisha: https://www.instagram.com/tastykeish

https://www.instagram.com/philosfuturemedia

Learn more about the 7th Annual Afros & Audio Podcast Festival, October 17-19, 2025 in Baltimore, MD: https://www.afrosandaudio.com

Visit https://linktr.ee/afrosandaudio for additional information and opportunities!

DISCLAIMER: The views expressed by guests of Afros & Audio's Black History Month interview series are their own and do not reflect the values, mission, or business of Talib Jasir, Afros & Audio, Black Podcasters Association, Vanguard Podcast Network, or any other names, podcasts, events, businesses, or organizations mentioned in the video or audio of this series unless explicitly stated.

In this episode of the Heard! Afros & Audio interview series, the host sits down with Armel Kembe, the founder of Trebble FM, to discuss his journey and innovation in the audio space. They explore Armel's background in software engineering and his frustrations with traditional content editing, which inspired him to create Trebble FM.

The platform leverages AI to simplify audio and video editing for nonprofessionals, making it easier and more efficient for a diverse range of users including solo creators, entrepreneurs, and small business owners. Armel shares insights on the role of AI in democratizing content creation, the importance of understanding user needs, and the challenges and successes of leading a tech startup.

They also touch on the future possibilities of AI in content creation and Armel's motivations driven by positive user feedback. Lastly, Armel invites the podcasting community to try Trebble FM, provide feedback, and spread the word.

00:00 Introduction to the Interview Series
00:26 Inspiration Behind Trebble FM
01:56 Challenges in Content Creation
05:34 Previous Ventures and Lessons Learned
12:13 AI's Role in Simplifying Editing
15:49 User Feedback and Future Innovations
18:59 AI's Future in Content Creation
23:32 Meeting the Needs of Solo Creators and Entrepreneurs
24:13 Understanding Long-Term Vision in Content Creation
25:07 Empowering Creators Through Innovation
27:40 Challenges and Successes in Leading a Tech Startup
29:11 The Importance of Persistence and Patience
31:25 Lessons for Aspiring Tech Innovators
37:10 The Rewards of Impacting Lives
38:42 Future Goals for Trebble
41:23 How to Support Trebble FM

To learn more about Trebble visit: www.trebble.fm

Follow Armel: https://x.com/armelbeaudry

Learn more about the 7th Annual Afros & Audio Podcast Festival, October 17-19, 2025 in Baltimore, MD: https://www.afrosandaudio.com

Visit https://linktr.ee/afrosandaudio for additional information and opportunities!

DISCLAIMER: The views expressed by guests of Afros & Audio's Black History Month interview series are their own and do not reflect the values, mission, or business of Talib Jasir, Afros & Audio, Black Podcasters Association, Vanguard Podcast Network, or any other names, podcasts, events, businesses, or organizations mentioned in the video or audio of this series unless explicitly stated.

In this episode of the Afros and Audio Interview Series, Talib Jasir converses with DeMarcus Brewster, the creator of the Seeking Knowledge podcast. DeMarcus shares insights into what inspired him to start his podcast, how it reflects his personal journey of growth and transformation, and the significant change in his life and podcasting approach over 23 seasons.

He discusses the valuable feedback from his wife, the evolution of his format, and the impact of his life experiences, including foster care, on his storytelling. DeMarcus emphasizes the importance of vulnerability and authenticity in connecting with his audience and shares highlights from his career, including a recent nomination for an award. He also touches on future aspirations, seeking sponsorship, and offers advice to aspiring podcasters about perseverance and starting with minimal resources.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:19 Inspiration Behind the Podcast
00:49 Personal Growth and Podcast Evolution
02:17 Podcast Format and Content Strategy
04:27 Impact and Listener Engagement
05:48 Spirituality and Podcasting
13:21 Balancing Life and Creativity
16:59 Personal Background and Overcoming Challenges
18:55 Sharing My Foster Care Experience
20:02 The Power of Vulnerability
20:56 Connecting with the Audience
23:32 Inspirational Conversations
26:09 Overcoming Challenges in Podcasting
28:28 Advice for Aspiring Podcasters
32:01 Seeking Sponsorship and Future Goals
34:28 Final Thoughts and Contact InformationI

Listen to Seeking Knowledge podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/2EcFy81vgC2xbrAIiNmmgu

Follow DeMarcus: https://www.facebook.com/demarcus.brewster.338?mibextid=ZbWKwL

Learn more about the 7th Annual Afros & Audio Podcast Festival, October 17-19, 2025 in Baltimore, MD: https://www.afrosandaudio.com

Visit https://linktr.ee/afrosandaudio for additional information and opportunities!

DISCLAIMER: The views expressed by guests of Afros & Audio's Black History Month interview series are their own and do not reflect the values, mission, or business of Talib Jasir, Afros & Audio, Black Podcasters Association, Vanguard Podcast Network, or any other names, podcasts, events, businesses, or organizations mentioned in the video or audio of this series unless explicitly stated.

In this episode of the 'Heard Afros and Audio' interview series, host Talib Jasir welcomes Kay Wilkes, the creator of 'Pondering Thoughts Podcast.' They discuss her journey from aspiring on-air personality to podcast creator, the diverse career experiences that shaped her, and the passion for curiosity that drives her podcast.

Kay shares insights into the themes she explores, the importance of being authentic, and the influence of literary works on her storytelling. She also offers advice for aspiring podcasters and highlights a standout episode to understand her show's essence. Special mentions include the impact of Afros & Audio, her favorite authors, and her mantra 'Do it afraid.'

00:00 Introduction to the Interview Series
00:26 Kay Wilkes' Journey to Podcasting
02:50 Exploring Diverse Topics on Pondering Thoughts
06:08 The Impact of Podcasting on Personal Growth
09:24 Crafting Engaging and Thought-Provoking Content
11:22 Balancing Personal and Professional Life
14:51 The Role of Curiosity in Podcasting
19:09 Diverse Career Background and Its Influence
20:31 Navigating Different Situations
20:59 Life Lessons and Shifts
22:36 The Power of Literature
24:24 Influential Authors and Books
28:42 The Courage of Our Ancestors
29:58 Embracing Authenticity
34:08 Advice for Aspiring Podcasters
35:06 Dream Guest and Final Thoughts

Listen to Pondering Thoughts podcast and learn more about "Kay": https://linktr.ee/ponderingthoughtspodcast

Follow K. Wilkes: https://www.instagram.com/ponderingthoughtspodcast

Learn more about the 7th Annual Afros & Audio Podcast Festival, October 17-19, 2025 in Baltimore, MD: https://www.afrosandaudio.com

Visit https://linktr.ee/afrosandaudio for additional information and opportunities!

DISCLAIMER: The views expressed by guests of Afros & Audio's Black History Month interview series are their own and do not reflect the values, mission, or business of Talib Jasir, Afros & Audio, Black Podcasters Association, Vanguard Podcast Network, or any other names, podcasts, events, businesses, or organizations mentioned in the video or audio of this series unless explicitly stated.