Urban One Reports Massive Growth in Podcast Downloads

Urban One, the largest Black-owned media company, has seen significant growth in its podcast network with a 381% increase in downloads and a 313% rise in unique listeners over two years. The network recently announced an exclusive partnership with Mick Unplugged, a successful self-improvement podcast that reached top positions on Apple Podcast charts. In addition to several new additions to their lineup, the Urban One Podcast Network also includes on-demand versions of popular radio shows like The Rickey Smiley Morning Show and The DL Hughley Show.

Indie Podcasters Honored at Annual Awards in London

The Independent Podcast Awards 2024 took place in London, with It's a Continent being named the overall Independent Podcast of the Year. The awards were established to recognize independent podcasts without financial backing from major brands or celebrity endorsements. Other winners included 101 Part Time Jobs for Best Music Podcast and Best Jingle categories, The Apocalypse Players for Best Gaming Podcast, and Wrestling with the Champ for Best Sports Podcast.

Law & Order Podcast Explores 1975 LaGuardia Bombing

The first original podcast of Law & Order: Criminal Justice System is shifting its focus to American terrorism in its second season, starting with the 1975 LaGuardia airport bombing. The show, which will return next summer, is hosted by ex-Brooklyn homicide prosecutor Anna-Sigga Nicolazzi. The infamous 1975 bombing event sparked national concern about terrorism and led to the formation of the Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF).

Johnny Manziel Launches Podcast, Names Drake as Dream Guest

Johnny Manziel, a former NFL player, has started his own podcast "Glory Daze". He hopes to invite famous people on his show and one of his dream guests is rapper Drake. This comes as Drake is involved in a major feud with Kendrick Lamar that led to a series of diss tracks, including "Not Like Us" which has reached over one billion listens.

Spotify Adds New Auto-Moderation Tool for Podcast Comments

Spotify has introduced a new tool to help podcasters manage and moderate comments on their episodes. The auto-moderation tool can be set at different levels to filter out sensitive or inappropriate comments, hold all comments for approval, or automatically post all except those that break Spotify's rules. Creators also have the option to add specific words or phrases to a blocklist, turn off comments entirely for certain episodes, and the platform plans to expand language support in the future.

Meet Sheena Yap Chan, the empowering voice behind The Tao of Self-Confidence podcast. A Wall Street Journal bestselling author, Sheena is on a mission to inspire women worldwide through her insightful interviews and personal stories. These narratives delve into the transformative journey towards self-confidence that every woman can relate to. With each episode, she sparks a new conversation about overcoming struggles and embracing personal growth. So tune in as Sheena guides you on your own path to self-discovery with wisdom, compassion, and authenticity.

How did you come up with the name of your podcast?

It’s funny because the name I have now wasn’t my original choice. I initially planned to call it "The Stripper," with the tagline "strip your limiting beliefs." When I shared the title & podcast artwork with a group of seasoned podcasters, 9 out of 10 advised me that it would attract the wrong audience. So, I went back to the drawing board, and gained clarity, & that’s how the current title came to be

What is the main focus or theme of your show?

The show’s primary goal is to highlight that we all face challenges in life, though we often don’t discuss them openly. Through interviews with numerous women who have navigated their own struggles and found ways to overcome them, the show demonstrates what’s possible for others. It empowers listeners to build the confidence to create their own path and embrace their authentic selves.

Have there been any particularly memorable moments during the recording that stick out to you?

There have been countless memorable moments, but one that stands out is when I interviewed the world’s first armless pilot. Yes, you read that correctly. Listening to her story of how she accomplished so much using her feet, including flying a plane, made me realize how incredibly capable we all are when we have the confidence to pursue our goals.

Who has been one of your favorite guests so far, and why?

I love each and every woman who has been a guest on my show because they were able to showcase vulnerability as a strength.

What's next for your show – any exciting plans we should know about?

Right now, I have an upcoming book that will be released in May 2025 called Closing the Confidence Gap: How Empowered Women Change the World. I'm really excited for this book and this wouldn't have happened if I didn't start podcasting. The podcast is also on Season 10 which is wild to say.

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