At EarBuds, we have a strong relationship with curiosity and exploration, and podcasts are our love language. We love listening to stories and hearing the accounts of folks all over the world through audio. Like many other audio communities, we wanted to put together a list that celebrates Black storytelling — whether it be in the form of a podcast that shares the side of American history you never learned, elevates Black experiences (like radical acceptance in the form of natural hair), or takes you on an audio adventure about Black cowboys, which, we’d never heard of prior.

As host of the Naked Stranger Podcast, I have the unique experience of interviewing anonymous strangers who come on the show agreeing to be an open book. The goal of each week’s episode is to facilitate the guest reaching somewhere vulnerable and authentic in our hour or so conversation. While no two “strangers” and by extension, no two episodes are alike, I’ve learned a great deal from these honest, open conversations.

For the cost of renting professional space a few times, you could invest in your own studio that you can use any and every time you’re feeling inspired.

WHY THIS THEME? Let’s face it, brand messaging is everywhere – from traditional ads, listicles, movies, and yes, podcasts. As someone who works in at the intersection of creative advertising and podcasts, I’m here to relieve you of any lingering apprehension towards branded podcasts you might have.