When it comes to moving the culture forward, podcasters have become an integral part of the conversation. In a media landscape that often leaves Black voices out of the discussion, podcasts have created a space for the community to take control of the narrative and reclaim their stories, one episode at a time. That mission echoes this year’s Power 100 theme, “The Stories We Shape,” which is about ensuring Black people remain at the center of storytelling while defining our collective future.
Reports show there are over 4.58 million podcasts worldwide, and in the US alone, around 158 million people listen to podcasts every month. What started out as a simple form of entertainment to keep people company during the most mundane parts of their lives has turned into a prominent medium to share perspectives and even cause plausible changes within the community. This year’s honorees represent a range of podcasts: “Baby, This Is Keke Palmer”; “Questlove Supreme”; “Outlaws With TS Madison”; “Please Explain,” hosted by Aria Hughes; “The Jason Lee Show”; “Higher Learning”; “Clock It With Symone & Eugene”; NPR’s “Fresh Air”; and “The Vic Mensa Show.” These respective programs have been selected for their impact and presence within the industry.
In an era where people are begging retailers to stop selling mics, these platformed individuals are an anomaly. Not only do they transcend within the digital ecosystem, but they also operate within the thesis of the Power 100 — capturing the true essence of narrative ownership while simultaneously molding the culture, driving economic impact, and expanding representation in real time. So, whether that’s through discussing the latest scandal, dissecting political affairs, exchanging deep thoughts with public figures, or even recounting the discography of your favorite artist (with said artist) — the podcast nominees from EBONY’s Power 100 list are surely worth the listen.
Baby, This is Keke Palmer
The multi-hyphenated Keke Palmer has taken her creative chops to the podcast world and has brought many moments of joy, laughter, and, of course, answers to all our burning questions. She has sat down with the biggest names shaping pop culture, interviewing notable guests like Usher, Oprah, Olandria, and even former Vice President Kamala Harris. Palmer’s podcast focuses on creating honest conversations about identity, relationships, reinvention, success, and growth.
Questlove Show
Playful, profound, and curious are just a few ways audiences describe “The Questlove Show.” But above all, QLS, hosted by Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson, offers a fresh and unpredictable listening experience from a trusted and entertaining musical source. Listeners are invited to intimate conversations with his peers — offering special insight into the minds of leaders in music, film, literature, and beyond.
Outlaws with TS Madison
The world first fell in love with TS Madison on “RuPaul’s Drag Race” and has been drawn to her infectious spirit ever since. Aside from being a dynamic podcaster, Madison is an entertainer, actress, and LGBTQ+ activist. Every week she brings her bold and charismatic energy to “Outlaws,” interviewing living legends like Jenifer Lewis and Mathew Knowles while cultivating a space for fellow queer peers like Laverne Cox, Silky Nutmeg Ganache, and Durand Bernarr.
Please Explain Hosted By Aria Hughes
For a deeper look at culture, fashion, and music — Complex’s Editor-in-Chief Aria Hughes hosts the “Please Explain” podcast. The enthralling series acts as an explainer, bringing insight, clarity, and context in a world full of confusion. They’ve covered topics like Black Dandyism, the rise of the WNBA, and Black ownership in streetwear — all in the hopes of cutting through the noise and providing essential context to the budding trends and impactful movements happening right before our eyes.
The Jason Lee Show
“Hollywood Unlocked” founder Jason Lee doesn’t hold back on the internet, and listeners can expect nothing less when it comes to his uncensored podcast series. Recognized for its unfiltered conversations, “The Jason Lee Show” allows fans to see their favorite celebrities in a new light through his engaging topics and bold interview style. Lee pulls back the veil of Hollywood, unlocking new perspectives intended to push the culture forward.
Higher Learning
Journalist Van Lathan and media personality/attorney Rachel Lindsay’s joint podcast “Higher Learning” breaks down the biggest topics in Black entertainment, politics, and sports. Airing twice a week, the duo discusses timely subjects — often inviting special guests to share their opinions — while shedding light on the various aspects of society.
Clock It with Symone & Eugene
Two Washington power players once at odds have transformed their rivalry into a lively friendship and an equally exciting podcast series. Featuring Symone Sanders Townsend and Eugene Daniels, “Clock It”, invites listeners to their very public group chat, discussing everything from ICE to the Oscars. The duo sees exactly what’s going on in society, culture, and politics — and they want listeners to “clock it” as well.
NPR’s Fresh Air
Hosted by journalists Terry Gross and Tonya Mosley, “Fresh Air” is a 45-minute interview segment featuring intimate conversations with today’s leading writers, musicians, actors, and historians. The weekly show has received multiple honors for its refreshing take on the biggest headlines shaping the world. In a media landscape filled with clickbait snippets and combative commentary, “Fresh Air” brings well-researched and thought-provoking dialogue to the forefront during a time when it’s needed the most.
The Vic Mensa Show
What began as a short and provocative series of hot takes in a backyard full of oranges has blossomed into a fruitful show. Rapper and activist Vic Mensa’s video-forward weekly podcast brings artists and cultural figures alike to discuss politics, personal confessions, and music. This isn’t the average Hip-Hop-led interview series platform; it’s quite the opposite, actually. Mensa’s podcast is rooted in having authentic conversations with real cultural thinkers.