Friday Newsflow: You Don’t Have to Do This Alone
When I launched my first podcast, I didn’t know a single other podcaster in real life.
I learned how to edit from a friend who walked me through the basics of Audacity.
Googled “what is an RSS feed?” at least ten times.
Stayed up late trying to figure out how to write show notes that didn’t sound awkward.
And every time I’d hit publish, I’d feel a mix of pride... and panic.
Was I doing this right? Did anyone care?
What I really needed back then wasn’t another how-to guide or fancy mic recommendation.
I needed a space to talk to people who got it.
People who understood the work, the worry, and the why behind the mic.
That’s what we’ve built with WOC Podcasters.
And next week, we’re inviting you into that space. No strings. No sales pitch. Just real talk with other Black and brown women in podcasting who are figuring it out too.
What’s Happening
On Tuesday, May 20th at 3:30 PM ET, we’re hosting a WOC Podcasters Open House—a casual, come-as-you-are space to meet other Black and brown women in podcasting.
No pitch. No pressure.
Just honest connection and community.
Whether you’re just getting started, feeling stuck, or looking for people who actually understand what you’re building—this is your space to explore what being part of this community could look like.
🎟️ RSVP here.
Why It Matters
Podcasting can be isolating—especially when you’re a woman of color navigating an industry that wasn’t built for us.
You feel like you’re constantly proving yourself.
Like your show has to be “perfect” to be taken seriously.
Like you have to do everything on your own.
But here’s the thing: you don’t.
This community was created specifically to disrupt that experience. To give us a space where we don’t have to over-explain, translate, or shrink ourselves just to belong.
Because we’ve always belonged here.
We just needed the room.
Your Move
✅ If you’re already a member—invite someone who needs this space.
✅ If you’ve been watching from the sidelines—join us, no expectations.
✅ If you’ve been feeling discouraged or disconnected—come get reminded that you’re not alone.
And if you can’t make it live? Reply to this post or DM me. I’ll make sure you still feel connected.
Bottom Line
You don’t have to have it all figured out. You don’t have to be the most polished or the most followed. You just have to show up—as yourself.
Because this community isn’t about competition. It’s about connection.
And we’re saving a seat for you.
💬 What would it mean for your podcasting journey to be surrounded by people who actually get it?
Help Us Grow WOC Voices in Podcasting
Our growth fuels access, equity, and sustainability.
Right now, less than 3% of our Substack audience are paid subscribers. But even a small shift would mean a lot:
🟣 At 5% paid, we could offer free memberships to Black and brown women who can’t afford to join the community
🟣 At 10%, we could fund monthly workshops, templates, and resources for indie creators
🟣 At 20%, we could offer microgrants, bring on contributors, and expand the directory
We’re building something community-driven, creator-led, and deeply intentional.
If you believe in this work, support it.
$5/month or $50/year. Subscribe here.
Catch up on our shows
The ladies of Are You Free for Coffee dive into the season finales that left us cheering, crying, or totally confused. From shocking twists to satisfying wrap-ups, we’re spilling all our thoughts on recent TV show endings.
On Grad School Femtoring, Yvette answers one of the most common questions that comes up when applying to graduate school, “"how do I find the right grad programs for me?”. She shares essential factors to consider when choosing a grad program, emphasizing five core dimensions of program fit: academic fit, funding, identity-affirming environment, accessibility and energy needs, and personal and professional alignment.
On The Growth Mindset Gal, Allie interviews the amazing Maiah Hollander. Maiah is an American, certified Expat Life Coach and solo traveler who’s made a career out of embracing the challenges—and the joys—of life abroad. After dreaming of living in London and writing for Rolling Stone as a ten-year-old, Maiah took a slightly different path, but the goal of international adventure never left her.
The ladies of Wining About Herstory celebrate Mother’s Day! Emily tells the story of Phoebe 'Febb' Ensminger Burn, a proud, intelligent Southern woman who wrote a letter to her son and changed the course of history. Then, Kelley covers Mary Burrill, a queer black writer and playwright who tackled issues such as systemic racism, the cycle of poverty, access to birth control, bodily autonomy and MANY other issues that we DEFINITELY don't still scream about today.
Network and Learn at these Upcoming Events
*Inside the Circle: A WOC Podcasters Open House - May 20th at 3:30pm ET
Your invited inside WOC Podcasters! Experience what makes WOC Podcasters so powerful: the support, the resources, the real talk—and each other.
✨ What to Expect: A behind-the-scenes look at our workshops, events, and community perks; A chance for guests to ask questions, share their podcast dreams, and connect; Honest stories from members about how the community has helped them grow; Space to celebrate our wins and support each other’s next chapter {Add this to you calendar here}
The Podcast Show 2025 - May 21st - May 22nd, London, UK: The Podcast Show at London Islington’s Business Design Centre is the biggest International festival for the business of podcasting. [Paid tickets]
Launch, Host & Grow: Podcast Success Training for Online Service Providers - May 22nd at 11am CT: Are you…Tired of chasing leads and struggling to grow your audience? Frustrated with social media algorithms limiting your reach? Want a proven system to attract high-quality leads without burnout? This is for you!
In this comprehensive masterclass series, we’ll cover everything you need to know to launch and grow a successful podcast for your coaching, consulting, or service-based business. [Free]
Virtual screening of an award-winning Black Canadian film - Village Keeper and a Q&A session with the Writer and Director, Karen Chapman: Hosted by former Atabey & Co. Network show But What Do I Know? - May 29th at 7pm ET: Interested in supporting the podcast and learning more about Black Canadian stories and cinema? Attend this free virtual screening! [Free - Registration required]
Doors are open to join the WOC Podcasters community!
WOC Podcasters is an inclusive podcasting community for Women of Color podcasters, audio creators, and professionals to connect, learn, and share resources. From esteemed podcasting leaders to aspiring podcasters looking to get started, this community will help you find the resources to prosper along your creative journey. Join with a 30-day free trial here.
Want to Submit Your Content to The Podcaster’s Digest?
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