As much as Black History Month is a time to look back, celebrate our achievements, and keep pushing for a future built on justice and equity. Black history. herstory or theirstory isn’t just about the past—it’s happening right now, present in our voices, our stories, and the platforms we use to share them, including podcasts.

Despite the increasing influence of Black Canadian content creators, independent Black Canadian-hosted or co-hosted podcasts and videocasts are often overlooked. 

Since 2021, Signal Hill Insights has tracked podcast listening trends in the U.S. using Triton Digital Podcast Metrics, combining survey and download data to create profiles for thousands of podcasts. However, no similar research exists for Black Canadian listeners or podcasters.

As the industry waits for accurate representation in podcast analytics, audiences can take the initiative by discovering and supporting Black Canadian creators. 

This list highlights a selection of independent Black Canadian podcasts that offer diverse perspectives, meaningful conversations, and engaging storytelling. The goal is not only to showcase excellent content but also to encourage deeper engagement with the voices shaping today's discussions.

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Black People Check In

Hosts: Mandela & Jermaine‍

Description: This podcast explores mental health topics within the Black community. Mandela and Jermaine engage in candid discussions on Black life, addressing challenges related to mental health while analyzing how pop culture, politics, and current events impact Black well-being.

Why you should listen:

• Honest discussions that break down mental health stigmas within the Black community
• Insightful perspectives on how cultural and societal factors influence mental wellness
• Engaging hosts who blend authenticity and humor to foster meaningful conversations

Listen and Follow: Black People Check In

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Les Chroniques des Alcooliques

Hosts: Hollywood & Gardillac‍

Description: A French-language podcast that features dynamic and unfiltered discussions with guests from various backgrounds. The show embraces a casual, humorous style while tackling a broad range of topics.

Why you should listen:

• Candid conversations with a diverse lineup of guests, including media personalities and entrepreneurs
• A bold and humorous approach to everyday issues and cultural discussions
• Representation of French-language content that reflects vibrant Black Canadian voices

Listen and follow: Les Chroniques des Alcooliques

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What’s Up With the Internet? (CIRA Presents)

Host: Takara Small‍

Description: This podcast explores Canada’s internet landscape, highlighting issues such as broadband accessibility, affordability, and online safety. Through interviews, the show sheds light on how unreliable internet access affects daily life, education, and work.

Why you should listen:

• Insightful discussions on digital inequality and the impact of poor broadband access
• Real-life experiences from individuals affected by Canada’s digital divide
• Essential content for those interested in technology policy and digital rights

Listen and follow: CIRA - What's Up With the Internet

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QOMM - Qu'est-ce qu'On Mange à Midi?

Hosts: Four bilingual women‍

Description: A bilingual French and English podcast where the hosts discuss how daily choices shape lives, from career paths to community building. The show aims to create meaningful conversations that bridge cultural gaps.

Why you should listen:

• Bilingual content that blends French and English to reach a diverse audience
• Thought-provoking discussions on decision-making and personal development
• A focus on fostering community and intergenerational conversations

Listen and follow: QOMM Podcast

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Extra Gravy

Hosts: Marlon, Alicia, Norm & Duke‍

Description: A pop culture podcast that provides commentary on entertainment, current events, and internet trends. The hosts bring an energetic and humorous approach to dissecting cultural phenomena.

Why you should listen:

• A mix of humour and analysis on trending pop culture topics
• Engaging discussions that feel like conversations with friends
• Weekly episodes that keep audiences up to date with cultural commentary

Listen and follow: Extra Gravy Show

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Hustle Over Everything

Host: Alex Whitfield‍

Description: A podcast focused on entrepreneurship, featuring interviews with business owners who share their experiences, challenges, and insights on success. The show provides practical strategies for business growth.

Why you should listen:

• Valuable advice for entrepreneurs looking to develop their businesses
• Motivational stories of success and resilience in business
• Practical tips on branding, marketing, and scaling a business

Listen and follow: Hustle Over Everything

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Black Girls From Laval

Hosts: Naï (Aïcha Black), LauToTheRey & Christle Gourdet‍

Description: A podcast addressing social issues and cultural diversity from the perspective of three Afro-descendant women in Quebec. The show aims to create conversations around topics often considered taboo.

Why you should listen:

• A fresh and necessary perspective on Black identity and cultural diversity in Quebec
• A combination of humor and advocacy to explore critical topics
• A safe and open space for unfiltered discussions

Listen and follow: Black Girls From Laval

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But What Do I Know?™

Host: Chidinma Azubuike‍

Description: An award-winning bi-weekly podcast that explores personal growth, wellness, relationships, and cultural discussions. The show provides a space for healing and self-reflection.

Why you should listen:

• Meaningful conversations on life challenges and self-improvement
• A supportive space for reflection and personal development
• Engaging topics on finance, wellness, and navigating relationships

Listen and follow: But What Do I Know?™

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Teachers Like Us

Hosts: Alyssa & Andre‍

Description: A podcast discussing the challenges and rewards of teaching, viewed through the lens of equity and social justice. The show provides insight into modern education and Black educators’ experiences.

Why you should listen:

• Unique insights into the education system from two Black teachers
• A focus on social justice and representation in schools
• Honest conversations about the evolving role of education

Listen and follow: Teachers Like Us

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Dear Content Creator

Host: CharisMaggie‍

Description: A podcast dedicated to content creators, offering advice and real-life experiences from the industry. The show provides support and inspiration for creatives navigating their careers.

Why you should listen:

• Honest conversations about the challenges of content creation
• Actionable strategies to grow and sustain a creative career
• A community-focused approach to supporting independent creators

Listen and follow: Dear Content Creator

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The Mitchell Report Unleashed

Host: Rory Mitchell‍

Description: A diverse show that features conversations with celebrities, influencers, and professionals from various fields. The podcast aims to provide direct and engaging discussions on a wide range of topics.

Why you should listen:

• Wide-ranging discussions on business, relationships, self-development, and mental health.
• A mix of education and entertainment covering social insights, relationships, and gaming.
• Consistent new episodes every Wednesday at 4 PM ET with fresh perspectives.

Listen and follow: The Mitchell Report Unleashed

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Black Canadian Creators

Host: Sherley Joseph

Description: This show (part of The Chonilla Network) is your gateway to exploring the intersection of creativity and culture. Get into the vibrant world of content creation from the perspectives of Afro-Canadian, Carib-Canadian, Afro-Metis and Mixed Canadians who create within Canada and abroad.

Why you should listen:

• Explore the creativity and culture of Black Canadian content creators.
• Interviews, discussions, and insights from diverse creatives in this country or expats.
• Inspiration and lessons for creators at any stage of their journey.

Listen and follow: Black Canadian Creators

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Supporting Black Canadian creators

The Black Canadian creative space is thriving, but more recognition and support are needed. Discovering and listening to these podcasts is one way to amplify Black voices and contribute to a more inclusive media landscape.

For more Black Canadian content, check out the Black Canadian Creators podcast and join the community on Facebook or Instagram. These platforms connect creators and audiences, fostering meaningful discussions and networking opportunities.

By supporting independent Black Canadian podcasters, audiences help ensure that these important conversations continue to reach and impact wider communities not just during Black History Month but the year and beyond.