POD STARS Magazine - Issue #1

pod starS

TM

MAGAZINE

ISSUE #1

FOUNDER and CEO Teresa B. Howell https://tbproductions.org EDITOR David R. Navarro CREATIVE design&print CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Teresa B. Howell David R. Navarro Angela Anderson ADVERTISING & PROMOTION TB Productions Media Group TeresaBProductions+ads@gmail.com Maurice Scriber COPYRIGHTS POD STARS Magazine is owned by Teresa B. Howell and Teresa B. Productions. The magazine, its staff and writers, has made sure that content is accurate on the date of publication. The views expressed in the articles reflect the author(s)’ opinions and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher or editor. The published material, adverts, editorials and all other content is published in good faith.

All rights reserved. Nothing can be partially or in whole be reprinted or reproduced without express written permission.

Teresa B. Howell - Founder & CEO National best-selling author and playwright Teresa B. Howell has several articles written about her literary works and stage play career. She has been featured in The Huffington Post, CEO Magazine, UBAWA Magazine, The Herald Sun, The News and Observer, The Carolina Times, Urban Tymes, Strawberry Lit Magazine, and STGN Magazine. Teresa has made several appearances on Fox 16, CBS, and over 150 major radio and pod shows across the country. Teresa B. Howell has also been listed as Diamonds Literary World’s top 20 books in 2016, Conversations Magazine’s top 50 books in 2017, Sistahs Place Magazine 2017 Author of the year, ACHI Magazine’s Author of the year 2018, Columnist of the year 2019, and Playwright of the year 2019. In October 2019 she was presented with a Gospel Image Award for the best inspirational author of the year. She continues to write captivating Christian fiction novels along with Stage Plays that will change your life.

Cover Feature

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CONTENTS 6

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Black Men Vent Too Un•Therapy Midnight Ace Book Bar Korrie’s Korner Romance in Colour

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Teresa B. Howell

Talk Show Host, Sony-Orchard Distributor, and Award Winning Writer/Producer. http://teresabhowell.com

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BLACK MEN VENT TOO Interview by Teresa B. Howell

Teresa B. Howell: Tell us about the father and son due for this remarkable podcast?

Johnathon Davis: My father and I have a relationship that I would say differs from the traditional “father and son” standard society sets. My pops, in all reality, is truly like my older brother and my best friend. We talk all the time just about life and the events thereof. One of our conversations just on a random summer afternoon was the leap we used to get our podcast started. We came together as father and son and within our conversation, we realized that there are so many black men not only in our city of Nashville, but in the world that don’t get a chance to vent. Black men by societal views are judged, ridiculed, and shunned not only due to the color of their skin, but even when they are vulnerable and in need of getting something off their chest. As a duo, my father and I wanted to change that narrative by providing a safe, welcoming, and inviting platform that allows black men to vent while giving back to our community by sharing various stories and information that will help people understand the fellow black men of our city and the issues they endure that go unnoticed.

TBH: Give us the demographics of your audience?

JD: As of September 3rd (only a month as an active podcast), The Black Men Vent Too Podcast has received listeners from the following states/countries: Tennessee, Georgia, Kentucky, Alabama, Ohio, Virginia, Missouri, Washington D.C., Colorado, Illinois, California, Pennsylvania, Indiana, Florida, Maryland, Texas, New York, and North Carolina. Internationally, we have gained listener(s) from France and the United Kingdom. According to our analytics, our audience consists of 46% men, 43% female, and 10% not specified. These demographics have accumulated in only a month’s time, which encourages my pops and I because we see that there are people all across the world who truly want to hear a black man vent. Just truly a humbling experience altogether, because again, this all started with a conversation in the driveway.

TBH: How long did it take you to put your idea and vision into a concrete concept?

JD: We won’t admit it, but sometimes, black men can be the truest definition of procrastination. The conversation in the driveway was literally just us catching up on life events with each other; which occurred roughly about 2-3 months ago this year. We toyed back and forth with the idea of creating a podcast, but we just didn’t know how we wanted to get it off the ground.

So after about months of procrastination and just sleeping on

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ideas, we finally put our best foot forward, threw some prayer in there and a bit of manifesting, and here we are today.

TBH: Why did you decide to focus on males only for your podcast?

JD: The idea behind our podcast being strictly geared towards black males really came about when we realized that black men in general never have had a platform to get things off their chest without being judged. In my opinion, women naturally are welcomed to express their emotions. But let’s be honest, if a man cries just because life has beaten him down, what does society immediately assume? “He’s weak, real men don’t cry, dry them tears up and be a man.” We decided to focus on males only because, unlike many other areas, our foundation is strong on giving black men just an opportunity to freely express themselves and vent about their issues without having to worry about being judged.

TBH: Who creates the topics being discussed?

JD: My pops and I both come together and put thoughts, prayer, and ideas on the table to seek out which topic is best not only for our podcast, but for the City of Nashville.

TBH: Will you continue this concept for multiple seasons?

JD: Definitely. Our concept is that with every month, we will present a new season/topic. For the month of August, our topic was depression. During this month, we were able to bring on four guests (two from the millennial age group, two from the older age group) who gave us a “new school” and “old school” stance on depression and its effects in their lives. Each episode starts with the title “BMI”: an acronym that stands for body mass index. The definition of body mass index basically is representation of your internal bodily make up. For example, the title of our first episode was “BMI: Depression In A Black Man”. This tells our audience that in that episode, we will discuss the body mass index of depression in a black man. This concept of new school/old school guests and monthly topic changes gives our audience a variety of stories on the topics we choose, while keeping them on their toes to wait for the next season/topic to be released.

TBH: What platforms do you use to get the word out to the public?

JD: To date, we are available on the following platforms: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Anchor, Google Podcasts, Breaker, Pocketcasts, and RadioPublic.

TBH: Who influences this show and why?

JD: Our podcast show would not be what it is without black men being able to be vulnerable, transparent, and honest in

their storytelling on our platform. Every episode we published in the month of August has given our audience a chance to hear about depression from four different viewpoints. Then there is the BMVT audience, which has grown in just a month’s time, but has also influenced us to keep going, keep positive manifestations present, while continuing to raise awareness to the struggles of black men.

your life to be treated carefully and with purpose. Don’t allow yourself to “think” you’re okay, when in all reality you’re bleeding out pain on everybody you come in contact with. Stop the bleeding, allow the wounds of your past time to heal, and step back out in the world knowing that the scar reminds you of the pain, but provides you with the confidence to know that you can make it through anything, if you try.

TBH: Where is the location of the recording?

JD: We do all of our recording at my parents house. As we grow, we will seek out audio assistance as well as a new location so that content can be crisp and provide us with ways to be better and better serve the community of Nashville.

TBH: What do women have to say about your show?

JD: In all reality, the feedback we have gotten from women has been very positive and informal. One of our episodes on depression was so powerful that a woman told me, “This has been long overdue and I am happy you and your dad are bold enough to stand firm on what really matters … getting to the heart of our black men”.

Women that I have talked to even mentioned how August’s depression season allowed them to gain knowledge on the symptoms/signs of depression and what to look for if they see it in their husband, kids, or fellow male friends. On The Black Men Vent Too Podcast, we present various facts from credible resources that correlate to the stories of our guests. So with the information we presented about depression, women were appreciative and gave us praise on how it has helped them be able to better understand the black men in their lives.

TBH: What advice can you give men when it comes to healing from past hurt or pain?

JD: I find it interesting how this is the last question only because our next season in September will focus on “Grievance” in black men. Naturally, not only just black men, but people in general never truly take the time to grieve. So that pain and hurt from failed relationships, loss of a loved one, or a job loss can fester throughout life with no true acceptance or understanding of what has happened. My best advice to all men is that pain is replaced with time. You truly have to be patient, but also be honest with yourself. Because just when you think you’ve gotten over pain from ten years ago, there could be one miniscuel thing that sets you right back in that depressive state you experience in that exact moment. Fellas, allow time to heal whatever wound it is that you may have. Look at it like this, a band aid is used to stop the bleeding of a wound. With time, that wound becomes a scab, the scab falls off, and the natural skin is restored. Take the time to allow the wounds of

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UN•THEREAPY

Honestly, all of the topics that are discussed are transferable throughout many stages of life and our goal is to impact every person who tunes in.

Life by itself is difficult enough. Imagine having to go through it without someone to talk to & share your most inner thoughts with. Here at UN•THERAPY, we understand that although we aren’t professional therapists, sometimes just talking it out with friends makes life a lot easier. Join in on our weekly UN•THERAPY THURSDAY sessions as we analyze + discuss life, love, happiness & how we can help each other mature into the best versions of ourselves.

TBH: How long have you worked on this particular concept?

UT: UN•THERAPY was more of a hit the ground running kind of thing. Once the concept was created, we began to record, and one week later the first episode was produced.

Interview by Teresa B. Howell

Teresa B. Howell: Tell us about your awesome podcast?

The UN•THERAPY: The UN•THERAPY journey is honestly a unique story by itself. Around July 2020, two things happened: I joined Clubhouse and began watching the newest season of Married at First Sight New Orleans. I know what you’re probably thinking. This is a super weird combo. So, as I began to watch Married at First Sight New Orleans, I would host Clubhouse rooms every Thursday after the show would premiere and act as a moderator for “live discussions” about what happened the previous night on the newest episode. Over time the Thursday night Clubhouse rooms would grow, and more people started joining in on the discussions consistently. After a while, we had a dedicated group of listeners which eventually migrated into creating a Facebook group to host mini discussions outside of the live discussions every week. About 12 weeks into hosting “live discussions,” someone said to me, “Jehan, you should start your own podcast.” At that moment in time, I was flattered, but I knew deep down, I knew absolutely nothing about podcasting.

Weeks later, I began doing research on the best streaming platforms for podcasters, how to distribute, and overall, how to make a podcast successful. One week later, after I began my research, I hosted another “live discussion,” and there, I was able to identify co-hosts for my podcast. And then boom, UN•THERAPY Podcast, was born. Every Thursday, a new episode is released, and the weekly discussions highlight trending topics in the news and media, pop culture, love, dating, mental health, and overall, strategies to become a better version of yourself.

TBH: Give us the demographics of your audience?

UT: UN•THERAPY podcast touches a wide range of audiences. Statistics show that we have listeners worldwide from the United States to Germany and even in Ghana, just to name a few. As well as our listener base is mostly Millennials. During every episode, we analyze + discuss life, love, happiness, and bring in relevant + current event discussions.

Honestly, being multi talented made an entire world of a difference as it pertains to podcasting. Creating my podcast was super simple because I started this journey already having vast knowledge of the media and communications industry, branding, marketing, graphic design, and most importantly, video and audio editing. Being able to complete all of those tasks myself eliminates needing a “middle man” and truly eliminates all start-up costs.

TBH: What is your focus for each show?

UT: The goal of each show is to bring an innovative and timely concept to our listeners that allows them to analyze the way that they currently think about certain aspects of life. More importantly, create a safe space for an environment to listen to dialogue that offers a worldview on a variety of topics.

TBH: Who makes the decisions on the topics discussed?

UT: As a weekly podcast, we record new episodes every week to ensure that all our content is fresh + relevant. Within doing so as a group we toss ideas back and forth throughout the week.

These ideas can come from social media, the news, anything pop culture, or situations that each of us is currently enduring.

Before recording each session we decide on a topic right before we begin so everything that is said during each episode is truly organic, authentic, and not premeditated.

TBH: Do you plan to create this podcast for multiple seasons?

UT: Absolutely! UN•THERAPY will become a household name.

We plan to continuously curate good content that illuminates our audiences for decades to come. My children will one day listen to UN•THERAPY and it will serve as a memoir of my life’s journey.

TBH: What platforms do you use to get the word out to the public?

UT: Social media has been the GOAT for UN•THERAPY. Currently, as our sole platform for advertising, we have been able to tap in and corner the market on ensuring that our brand is easily distinguished and recognized.

As UN•THERAPY continues to grow, so will our outreach.

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MIDNIGHTACE BOOK BAR Interview by Angela Anderson

MidnightAce is an award winning, book talking, reading, wine pairing, book loving connoisseur who lives by the principle of reading being a lifestyle, not a hobby. Eclectic with her reading palette, her genre of choice includes a vast range from romance to thrillers. Unbeknownst to her, this uncontrollable energy granted her the blessing of winning several awards and the title of Award-Winning Book Ambassador.

MidnightAce is the founder and CEO of MidnightAce Book Bar. The book bar was created to provide a comfortable, lounge type of environment to enjoy literary adventures, virtual wine tasting, book pairings, and more.

We caught up with MidnightAce to learn about the book bar experience and her podcast show.

Let’s Chat with MidnightAce Book Bar Angela Anderson: Tell us how you got started in podcasting.

MidnightAce: One of my favorite things to do is to connect with authors and readers to discuss books and the literary aspects of books. When the pandemic started it forced us all to adjust the way we communicated. I found that this adjustment worked out well for the Book Bar because it allowed me to use my platform to virtually connect readers and authors. As a blogger, I was able to continue to bring the same content with an added flare.

AA: Why did you start your podcast show?

MA: I saw an opportunity to enhance what I was already doing with my written content and turned it into a virtual online experience. Starting my show has allowed me to enjoy the best of two worlds. In addition to my live “Books & Booze” literary show, I co-host a radio broadcast, Iris Moments. It airs every Wednesday on CruzIncRadio (www.cruzincradio.com).

before it’s lights, camera, action. After our guest is scheduled, I go into research mode, preparing the graphics, and marketing for the actual show. It is important to me that the guest on the show feels comfortable and have everything needed for a positive experience at the book bar.

AA: Which aspect of your podcast show is the most fun for you?

MA: I actually like the entire process. As a creative, I enjoy seeing it all come together. Whenever I have the opportunity to speak with an author about their work, I am transcended into the world they’ve built.

AA: What can a viewer or listener expect when they tune into a MidnightAce Book Bar podcast show?

MA: A viewer or listener can definitely expect to be entertained as well as informed. It is an experience for both the author and those in the listening audience.

AA: Since it is the holiday season, what do you enjoy most about this time of year?

MA: The holiday season for me is a time for family and reflection, readjusting and preparation for the new year. I enjoy the additional time with family that this time of the year brings.

AA: Where and when can people listen to your podcast show?

MA: The Books and Booze show is Friday nights at 7:00 pm CST. Given the name of the show; “Books & Booze,” I think Friday night is an appropriate day and time to enjoy the book bar.

AA: How can people stay connected with you and find your show?

MA: I am very active on social media. They can find me on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter at MidnightAce Book Bar. They can also connect with me via my website at www.midnightacebookbar.com. The Books and Booze show can currently be viewed on Facebook via Facebook Live.

AA: What makes the “Books and Booze” show unique?

MA: At MidnightAce Book Bar our niche is pairing a good book with great wine. We believe “Wine Makes a Good Book Great.”

I mean, who does not like discussing a book with their favorite beverage and author?

AA: Share some of the behind-the-scenes of what is involved with making a book bar show.

MA: For someone watching a live show, they might not know that there are several things that happen behind the scenes

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Sober Awkward Podcast - Has Drinking Culture had its day?

Australia based Sober Influencer Victoria Vanstone has been logging her sobriety journey on her website www. drunkmummysobermummy.com for over three years and her new Podcast ‘Sober Awkward’ is fast becoming a tool for those stepping into an alcohol-free lifestyle.

Both platforms offer a quirky insight into parenting sober and everything sober curious. Her brutally honest way of delivering her message mean her audience get the full story behind recovery. Her hilarious way of writing is inspiring others to try a new way of ‘mumming’ and living an alcohol-free life in this booze drenched world.

Victoria believes that people are becoming more aware that binge drinking is affecting anxiety and mental health globally. Her blog urges readers to seek help for midrange drinking problems and her message is that, surprisingly, being sober is not boring at all…

It’s a better and more authentic way of living.

‘I think the world is starting to recognize that binge drinking, and any sort of over-drinking is having massive impact, not just on the individual but families and communities. We’re beginning to recognize a place between the pub and an AA meeting where some are falling through the cracks and even though they’re suffering are not getting the help they need.

After I had kids, I started to use alcohol to escape the mundanity of motherhood, but hangovers with a baby crying in the next room made me feel awful guilt and shame, but because I wasn’t passed out in the gutter (too often) I didn’t reach out for help. I carried on binge drinking and missed out on getting professional support because my problem didn’t seem bad enough. My drinking was clev-

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er, never alone and never before 6pm so I looked like I was just drinking like everyone else around me, so it got diluted, absorbed into the crowd and was missed for far too long.’

Victoria believes a lot of people get stuck in a place where they know their drinking is out of control, yet they don’t feel it’s severe enough to deserve intervention.

Victoria ended up getting therapy to find out why she couldn’t control her drinking and now, after being sober for three years, she has teamed up with her newly sober friend Lucy Good, the founder of the single mum network www.beanstalmums.com.au to record a podcast all about their personal journeys to sobriety.

‘We called the podcast ‘Sober Awkward’ because that’s how Vic and I feel a lot of the time. Learning how to be sober socially is really hard and there are some extremely awkward interactions that you have to navigate. Things like going to a bar for the first time, telling people that you’re choosing sobriety and even sober dating. Doing anything you used to do drunk, sober, can be very confronting which is why the motto of our podcast is - ‘Feel the awkward and do it anyway!’ We want our listeners to know that we find those things awkward too and it’s all part of this zig zaggy road to sobriety’ Says Lucy.

These two ex- binge drinking party girls bring humor and honesty to the sober scene. They both have a passion for helping people whose drinking is having negative repercussions on their lives and hope their insightful chats about being awkward will help others seek support.

‘Our podcast is aimed at anyone questioning their drinking habits, we want to reach people and let them know we’ve been there. We’ve both experienced shame and anxiety because of alcohol and we hope our positive and sometimes

thought-provoking conversations, reach people that feel ready to make some changes in their lives. We are both proof that there is life after alcohol and it’s not as awful and boring as some might think. I think Lucy and I would both agree that becoming sober in our 40’s was the best choice we ever made.’

So, things are changing. There are sober bars popping up in cities all over the world and people are starting to realize that getting so hammered they can’t walk most weekends might not be as fun as they used to think, especially when it’s making us so mentally unwell. So perhaps trying a new way of socializing might soak up all this mental anguish and being the imperfectly, perfect version of you just might be enough?

‘Just being you, without booze, is awkward, but those first interactions do get easier.’ Says Victoria, ‘I look forward to sober socializing now. I know I’m going to have fun, have real authentic conversations, no hangover and remember the whole entire night! It’s brilliant, I might even do some sober dancing occasionally, I’ve still got a few swan dives in me yet!’

Vic and Lucy’s podcast address’s a place that has been missed, a type of ‘socially acceptable alcoholism.’ A common sort of drinking habit that is cheered on from

the sidelines and feels so ingrained in us and in society, that imagining another way is unfathomable. But, as they have discovered, sobriety, with all its awkwardness, is so much better than drunk.

They are in the second series of Sober Awkward and it is not in the top 200 Society and Culture Podcasts on iTunes.

So, if you have ever woken up with anxiety or alcohol is affecting your life in a negative way…. this might be the time to get sober and feel the awkward and do it anyway!

Have a listen to their podcast on iTunes or Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. Sometimes just knowing that there are others out there feeling like you is enough to step out of a bad habit and into a new way of life. https://open.spotify.com/show/4qXlSc9lDGStYLeYIjrWPH?si=D5tlhPzPTmanfxOLP0Ujlw https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/sober-awkward/ id1565657975 Vic also runs a facebook group for women -Drunk Mummy Sober Mummy - The Group Just go to here website to find out more www.drunkmummysobermumm.com

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KORRIE’S KORNER Interview by Angela Anderson

Korrie Noelle is a book lover with a raving appetite for books varying in genres, just as long as there is romance and a happily ever after (HEA). There are mega points to be scored if it is a book with diverse characters. Korrie loves talking about all things books and advocating for diversity in romance. In addition to her love for books, she is a bonafide coffee drinker. Let’s just say if coffee were a blood type, Korrie would be a reliable donor. When she is not reading, you will most likely find her spending time with family, cooking, or watching amazing TV. Korrie is the founder of Korrie’s Korner, an online book nook experience where self-care is high on the priority list. This amazing environment built by Korrie is a space where you will find an entanglement of coffee, book recommendations and reviews, swoon-worthy character discussions, and entertaining live author interviews.

AA: What aspect of your show is the most fun for you as a creator?

KN: Real talk. The shenanigans. I don’t take myself too seriously. The shenanigans are actually a part of what makes the show so much fun.

AA: What can a listener or viewer expect when they tune into a Korrie’s Korner live show?

KN: Authenticity. What you see is what you get…a show with copious amounts of coffee, books, and self-care.

AA: Since it is a new year, share a little about what you are looking forward to in 2022. Are you a new year’s resolution kind of person?

KN: I’m not a new year’s resolution person, but I always have goals that I push for, and I’m a big fan of clean slates and fresh starts. I just want to spend more time living and be offline more. This year, 2022, is all about balance for me.

AA: How can people stay connected with Korrie’s Korner?

KN: They can find me on various social media platforms to include Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and Twitter.

Let’s chat with Korrie of Korrie’s Korner.

Angela Anderson: How did you get started vlogging and/or podcasting?

Korrie Noelle: I would have to say, The Outlander series is where it started. I discovered the TV show back in 2015. I later found out there were books and started vlogging my journey while reading. I quickly found out just how many fans there are of this beloved series.

AA: Why did you start your podcast or vlog show?

KN: I don’t really have a podcast, although I am looking into it.

However, I consider myself more of an instablogger. I actively vlog and post entertaining videos on various social media platforms.

AA: What makes Korrie’s Korner unique?

KN: Let’s just say I keep it 100 % real, authentic, and me. I don’t share things I’m not passionate about and I feel like I attract those that need me. I love helping and encouraging others, and Korrie’s Korner is a place for me to do just that.

AA: What are some of the behind-the-scenes of what is involved with making one of your live shows and author interviews?

KN: Believe it or not, I just roll with whatever I do. I jot down a few notes here and there, but for the most part, I love to just free-wheel it.

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ROMANCE IN COLOUR Interview by Angela Anderson

Romance in Colour is a podcast of two friends, Tatianna Richardson and Dr. Yakini Etheridge, who both share a genuine love for all things romance. Authentic, fun, and upbeat; the Romance in Colour podcast hosts talk movies, books, and the xennial Black experience with commentary that will for sure have you wanting to hear more.

Tatianna, a romance author and Yakini, a psychologist, both bring a remarkable experience to the listening audience of romance lovers everywhere. Jointly, they have created a podcast mastermind using the romance genre with a smooth entanglement with conversations of race, culture, and diversity inclusion. One cannot leave out the dynamic way in which they discuss the hottest news and topics in TV, media, books, music, and more, all while staying true to themselves and the Romance in Colour brand.

The Heat Seekers Magazine had the opportunity to speak with one of the podcast hosts, Tatianna Richardson. Check out what she had to say about the one-of-a-kind Romance in Colour podcast.

Angela Anderson: How did you get started in podcasting?

Tatianna Richardson: Initially, Yakini and I started this together as a way to reconnect. It was also a place for us to fangirl over Hallmark and Lifetime projects, especially at Christmas. The two of us are addicted to holiday movies. Fast forward to now…our podcast has evolved into a place to hear about real inclusive love, books, movies, and authors who embody those ideals.

AA: What aspect of your show is the most fun for you as a creator?

KN: Real talk. The shenanigans. I don’t take myself too seriously. The shenanigans are actually a part of what makes the show so much fun.

AA: What can a listener or viewer expect when they tune into a Korrie’s Korner live show?

KN: Authenticity. What you see is what you get…a show with copious amounts of coffee, books, and self-care.

AA: Since it is a new year, share a little about what you are looking forward to in 2022. Are you a new year’s resolution kind of person?

KN: I’m not a new year’s resolution person, but I always have goals that I push for, and I’m a big fan of clean slates and fresh starts. I just want to spend more time living and be offline more. This year, 2022, is all about balance for me.

AA: How can people stay connected with Korrie’s Korner?

KN: They can find me on various social media platforms to include Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and Twitter. of two Black women in their 40s. We have both been divorced.

I have since remarried, and Yakini’s now dating. Our moms definitely influence both of our perspectives. Though we have many similarities, our life experiences are different. Therefore, we have many different perspectives on things to bring to our listeners in our own creative way. Oh, in case you didn’t know, I am Tati (short for Tatianna), and she is Yaki (short for Yakini).

Yaki is also a psychologist. She will often break down the science behind romance and relationships. Which I would say is interesting and unique in itself.

AA: What inspired the name of your podcast, Romance in Colour (with a U)?

TR: Actually, we just wanted it to look refined, lol. There was also another website with a similar name; we wanted to set ourselves apart. So, there you have it, Romance in Colour, with a U.

AA: Tatianna, share with us some of the behind-the-scenes of creating one Romance in Colour podcast episode.

TR: Now, this is where things get interesting. I’m in Atlanta and Yaki is in New York; therefore, it takes the help of technology to make this happen. We record via the Anchor platform.

When we have author interviews, we pre-record those via conferencing apps. We are both busy moms with lives, so we try and work around our individual schedules. Therefore, we have a set day each week; usually, Tuesdays that we record. Then we edit the podcast the following day for a Friday release. It’s a process where we’ve managed to find our flow and make it work to bring our listeners great episodes.

AA: Besides the spelling of the name, what is unique about the Romance in Colour platform?

TR: Well, we try and approach looking at romance via the lenses

AA: What aspect of your podcast is the most fun for you?

TR: We absolutely love author interviews. Getting to know how people write and why they write is pretty cool! Also, our big

AA: Why did you start the Romance in Colour podcast?

TR: We felt like there wasn’t a space at the time for Black women to discuss all the things we liked in Romance. We also wanted to introduce the audience to some of our favorite movies, TV shows, and books.

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holiday episode where we talk about all the holiday projects coming out that feature BIPOC and diversity inclusion is a lot of fun too.

AA: What can a listener expect when tuning into a Romance in Colour podcast episode?

TR: Each show is structured with a flow that works for us.

We start the show with a recap of the previous week’s episode, followed by the hot topics in romance segment, where we talk about romance issues in pop culture. Then we have the topic or author interviews, followed by our watching romance (TV and film reviews), reading romance (book recommendations), and sometimes a listening romance (music) segment. The listener can expect a full show that is entertaining and fulfilling with a common theme of “romance”.

AA: Tatianna, let’s switch gears. It is February, the month of LOVE, so let’s talk romance. What do you enjoy about the idea of romance?

TR: For me, I would say that romance is the glue that holds a relationship together. It’s what draws you to a person.

AA: What does romance look like for you?

TR: What does romance look like for me? Romance isn’t always the grand gestures. Sometimes it’s the little things like random flowers or a personal foot massage. It’s the anticipation of fulfilling your partner and their needs.

AA: It has been a pleasure speaking with you. Please share how listeners can tune in to the Romance in Colour podcast.

TR: The Romance in Colour podcast is available on several podcast platforms, including Anchor, Spotify, Stitcher, Apple, and Google.

Stay connected with Romance in Colour via the podcast and on social media.

Podcast: www.anchor.fm/RomanceinColour Twitter: @RomanceNColour Instagram: @Romanceincolour

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Live Interviews, Regular Programming, and MORE! Amplified Exposure LIVE is a new innovative and entertaining talk show about legends. The guests vary from New York Times best-selling authors and Grammy Award-winning artists to CEOs and VIPs of major production companies. Industry notables such as Mathew Knowles, Tony Terry, Kimberla Lawson Roby, and Judge Joe Brown to name a few have made appearances. Watch on YouTube, Vimeo, and Roku.

Take a look at all our services at: www.tbproductions.org

Bailey Elora Photo by Ricky Zastrow @coloradophotoworks @baileyeloramusic