AudioDiaspora

Well, hello, hello!

Thank you for the great feedback on last week’s episode—the conversation with Charlene Campbell. I loved it, too. She’s so generous with her time and talents. 

Speaking of sharing time, this weekend, I’m talking about interviewing authentically and finding historically under-recognized voices with student journalists for an online forum presented by the Youth Media Forward initiative by The Center for Sports Human Rights. I’ll be supporting their work over the coming months, too. 

As part of my prep for the event, I've created a set of tips to help you have a successful, nuanced, and authentic interview. I’m sharing a version of them with you here, too. These tips are not just for creating clickbait or garnering social media likes. They're designed to help you create what NPR producers call ‘driveway moments’-interviews so compelling, they’ll make you stop in your tracks or even stay in your car until they're over. 

But back to this week’s show - my team has compiled a list of content and events that have piqued our interest. I can't wait for you to discover what these are! Tune in now to stay updated.

In the meantime, look out next week for my interview with the up-and-coming screenwriter Shaznay Martin. She has gone from highlighting and critiquing movies that center the Black woman’s gaze to producing one herself! I can’t wait for you to hear it.

Christabel

Charlene Campbell – Embracing the Unpredictable: Behind the Scenes of  Reality TV 

Ever been kicked to the curb on a date? Imagine that happening live on a reality TV show! This week, Charlene Campbell, the mastermind behind Renaissance Studios' hit concept "The Dating Pool," pulls back the curtain on the alchemy of blending speed dating with shared car rides. As we chuckle over the show's quirky elimination antics, Charlene also gives us a front-row seat to the casting mayhem and the logistics of producing a broadcast TV show and shooting in 8K, reminding us that for every laugh on-screen, there's a frenzy of activity behind it.

Charlene recounts the rollercoaster of emotions, from the sting of skepticism to the sweet triumph of seeing her vision realized on Channel 4. Her journey is a testament to the power of persistence and belief in one's creative spark. This candid discussion illuminates the less seen but deeply impactful side of entertainment — and why we, as creators and consumers, must always tune in with care and compassion.

Do You Like What You Heard?

Have you ever listened to a podcast episode and just needed more? We do. That’s why we want to share exclusive BONUS content from our guests with you! It's exclusively available when you become a paid subscriber to our Substack.

Connect with Christabel:

IG: christabelnsiahbuadi

Drop us a line on IG at @audiodiaspora, and let us know what's on your mind. You can also tell us what topics you’d like us to explore or who you’d like to hear more from.

Christabel Can Help You Take Control of Your Editorial and Audience Strategies

Sign up for a coaching session with Christabel to discover the tools you can use to build a relationship with your audience through editorial development. 

Subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive advice from our guests and get our newsletter directly in your inbox.

FOLLOW US

Remember, follow us on Threads, Instagram, and TikTok: @audiodiaspora

Click here to get full access to AudioDiaspora. 

A WORD FROM OUR HOST

AD Fam!

I had a hard time developing a good title for this week's newsletter. Then, just as I was about to give up, my producer, Nancy Kwamboka, pinged me to check out this week’s social media artwork she’d put together. Then, *cue angel chorus!*

The phrase, a quote from Charlene Campbell of London’s Renaissance Studios -  jumped out at me. The full quote is this: 

“Never underestimate the power of a good title and the conviction to keep pushing, even when others don't believe in it.”

GAAAH, I love it! I agree with all of it. But coming up with that title and that conviction  - aka the clarity - requires internal and external work. Charlene and I get into that in this conversation. Don’t worry, we get very specific, and she provides tips and tools for you to 

So—THANK YOU, Nancy—and Charlene Campbell, who is also the brains behind Channel 4's show, 'The Dating Pool,' which is jam-packed with outrageously hilarious moments. Listen to the episode to learn about the seemingly mundane experience that inspired the show in the first place!

This week’s episode:

Charlene Campbell – Embracing the Unpredictable: Behind the Scenes of  Reality TV 

Ever been kicked to the curb on a date? Imagine that happening live on a reality TV show! This week, Charlene Campbell, the mastermind behind Renaissance Studios' hit concept "The Dating Pool," pulls back the curtain on the alchemy of blending speed dating with shared car rides. As we chuckle over the show's quirky elimination antics, Charlene also gives us a front-row seat to the casting mayhem and the logistics of producing a broadcast TV show and shooting in 8K, reminding us that for every laugh on-screen, there's a frenzy of activity behind it.

Charlene recounts the rollercoaster of emotions, from the sting of skepticism to the sweet triumph of seeing her vision realized on Channel 4. Her journey is a testament to the power of persistence and belief in one's creative spark. This candid discussion illuminates the less seen but deeply impactful side of entertainment — and why we, as creators and consumers, must always tune in with care and compassion.

Connect with Charlene Campbell:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlene-campbell

Connect with Christabel:

IG: christabelnsiahbuadi

Drop us a line on IG at @audiodiaspora, and let us know what's on your mind. You can also tell us what topics you’d like us to explore or who you’d like to hear more from.

Christabel Can Help You Take Control of Your Editorial and Audience Strategies

Sign up for a coaching session with Christabel to discover the tools you can use to build a relationship with your audience through editorial development. Sign up for a coaching session here.

Subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive advice from our guests and get our newsletter directly in your inbox.

FOLLOW US

Remember, follow us on Threads, Instagram, and TikTok: @audiodiaspora

Click here to get full access to AudioDiaspora.

AD Fam!

It was Labor Day in the US, so we’re dropping our episode on Tuesday! That means that Autumn (or Fall) is just around the corner. Don’t worry; I’m not ignoring the family members in the Caribbean, South America, or Africa (and yes, we have listeners there - I know this is a season of change for you, too!

This third quarter of the year signals new things for all of us. In a previous edition of this newsletter, I talked about this being a season where we enjoy our harvest. I know we used gardening metaphors last week. I promise I’ll switch it up next week! That feels right for me - especially for AudioDiaspora, the business, and the podcast.

Building this business has been a long game. I've intentionally tested my idea, and it is an ongoing process of talking to people and testing again. This process never ends, but today, the vision is sharper, and I’m thrilled about what I can offer creators like you. 

In the next few months, not only will you discover new and vital work by my guests, but you’ll also understand what it looks like to stay the course when people tell you your idea is crazy. You’ll feel the tension as you hear how one creator took opportunities despite being petrified. All of these stories will inspire you. Learn who some of our guests are when you read below.

As we move forward, I'm grateful for your support and excited to be back, engaging with people whose stories will excite and empower you.

This week’s episode:

Christabel is back from her break, and ready to go! In this edition of the AudioDiaspora RoundUp, she previews some upcoming interviews with exceptional guests who offer thought-provoking perspectives that will inspire you.

Dr. Shaun M. Anderson, the John S. and James L. Knight Chair of Sports, Race, and Media for the Hussman School at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, discusses the history of athletes using their platform to fight injustice. You'll also hear how his work teaches the importance of sticking to your idea, even when people say you'll never pull it off.

TV writer and comedian on the rise, Nikki Fabgemi, talks about how she went from working in London’s finance industry to becoming a successful TV writer who focuses on stories that only she can tell. Her key to success was embracing the thing she thought would pigeonhole her.

Journalist and filmmaker Shaznay Martin isn’t just examining portrayals of Black women in film; she’s changing those narratives by making her own content.

Journalist Fritznel D. Octave reveals his mission to reclaim old narratives about his native Haiti by dedicating his career to telling the stories of resilience and beauty from his nation.

Charlene Campbell of Renaissance Studios talks about her eclectic career and how to pitch an inclusive TV show.

Connect with Christabel Nsiah-Buadi on IG

* @christabelnsiahbuadi

Drop us a line IG at @audiodiaspora, and let us know what's on your mind. You can also tell us what topics you’d like us to explore or people from whom you’d like to hear more.

Connecting with your audience in this sea of content doesn’t have to be a grind! Christabel empowers creators to do just that. Sign up for a coaching session with hr to discover the tools you can use to build a relationship with your audience. In August, Christabel is offering FREE coaching sessions.  Sign up for a coaching session here.

FOLLOW US

Remember, follow us on Threads, Instagram, and TikTok: @audiodiaspora. 

A WORD FROM OUR HOST

AD Fam!

I’m back in the US and still processing the crazy ups and downs of my world(s.)

In the UK, while the riots may have quelled, people of colour around the country are still dealing with the effects. Writer Poorna Bell wrote this week that people are DMing her stories of being spat at in the street and afraid to leave the house. I dearly hope Britain doesn’t return to business as usual because we can’t move past this without an honest, open conversation.

Speaking of the fight for progress, let’s talk about the Democratic Party Convention, which took place on August 19-24. It’s fair to say that this week’s convention was, uh, more energetic - and entertaining than the Republican offering (and yes, I’m a political junkie, so I watched them both, (and took notes, lol.) 

I cackled a LOT. The party has taken its gloves off, and its message is clear: ain’t nobody got time for that. Remember back in the day when Michelle Obama said ‘when they go low, we go high”? We’re not doing that any more. Now, “There is simply no time for that foolishness.” We’re making suggestive jokes about size, inviting L’il Jon to the roll call (which was genius), and talking about staying out of grown folks’ business. It’s even publicly embracing communities and narratives it once kept at arm's length.

As we Brits say, “Could you imagine?!” And let me tell you, I was here for every moment.

The question is whether the party planted enough seeds this week to inspire America to vote for Vice President Harris, the first woman of color on a major party's presidential ticket, and the nation’s favourite coach, Gov. Tim Walz. I guess we’ll find out.

This week’s episode:

Speaking of seed planting and nurturing - I want to talk about this week’s episode of AudioDiaspora. Media multi-hyphenate and advocate Cherotich Kibet told me about finding inspiration in the most surprising places, to me at least: her family farm. When I learned where she was, I was immediately drawn to do something with my hands. I tried to stop myself from asking her a gazillion questions about what farming looked and felt like - although a few slipped into the episode! She gave a beautiful answer - that she related to her creative process:  

“The way you tend to a garden is the way you tend to a story. You have to be patient, allow it to lead you to where it’s going…When you rush it, your farm [gets] overcrowded…you [will] not be able to get a harvest ‘cause you have to undo the whole thing.”

Mull on that as you listen to her episode, and then tell us what you loved about it on our IG page (@audiodiaspora). I’d also love to know how communities can encourage and support multicultural knowledge-sharing and collaboration.

Do You Like What You Heard?

Have you ever listened to a podcast episode and just needed more? We do. That’s why we want to share exclusive BONUS content from our guests with you! It's exclusively available when you become a paid subscriber to our Substack.

Connect with Cheriotich Kibet

* Instagram: @c_bargoiyet

YOUR VOICE MATTERS: at the heart of AudioDiaspora’s mission is empowering diverse content and sparking meaningful conversations. And guess what?! 🌟

Drop us a line IG at @audiodiaspora, and let us know what's on your mind. You can also tell us what topics you’d like us to explore or people from whom you’d like to hear more.

Connecting with your audience in this sea of content doesn’t have to be a grind! Christabel empowers creators to do just that. Sign up for a coaching session to discover the tools you can use to build a relationship with your audience.

In August, Christabel is offering FREE coaching sessions. Sign up for a complimentary session here. 

FOLLOW US

Remember, follow us on Threads, Instagram, and TikTok: @audiodiaspora. 

This week, we’re replaying our conversation with Howard J. Davis, which first aired on May 15, 2024. 

Read a NEW reflection from Christabel about this episode:

When I first talked to Howard J. Davis, aka HAUI, in May, I reflected on how, as a child, I felt compelled to fight against media portrayals of my community in the UK and found the courage to chase my dreams from American TV shows.

Three months after my conversation with HAUI, I have new reflections. At the time of my writing, Britain experienced riots that broke cities and communities. The racist riots were sparked by the brutal murder of children in an English town. The exploitation of this tragedy by Britain’s far-right has brought to the surface deep-seated racial tensions that many Britons told themselves didn’t exist.

I say many Britons, but the reality is the racist violence - and the anemic media coverage of it - yanked Black and Brown Brits like me back to terrifying childhood memories that we had pushed down so far that we had almost forgotten them. Mine include ducking and running as kids my age threw stones at me as I walked to my dance class. Each missile was punctuated with a verbal note to ‘go back to where I came from.’ I’d tell them I was born in Scotland.

This July, I spent much time listening to too many people lamenting the violence and expressing confusion. ‘This isn’t Britain!’ They’d tell us. Desperate to manage the tensions, leaders stumbled to find the appropriate descriptors. Prime Minister Kier Starmer called the violence ‘disorder’ and ‘thuggery,’ and the media called the riots ‘anti-immigration rallies.’ I found myself gulping down hot fury at their failure to call the riots what they were.

Yet, we all failed to ask critical questions: How did we get here in the first place?

And who is looking after the families who have lost their children?

My silent seething was a familiar feeling. It was the same one I got whenever a white adult (and later a peer) told me to ignore someone who had slapped me with a racial slur because ‘they were stupid’ or ‘just drunk.’

Despite this mess, the July riots forced me to confront my complicated feelings toward the UK.

Once upon a time, I thought the only way to get over my hurt and anger – and to find peace – was to find communities that accepted me. As I loved to travel, I sought them out in the Caribbean and eventually the United States.

My family and some friends understood my move. Many people didn’t. And on this side of the Atlantic, some Americans asked me why I’d choose to move to a country that is actively hostile toward Black people. My answer? I figured it was better to live in a country where people could tell you they hated you to your face. That way, you knew where you stood. Knowing where to avoid also meant you could find places where you were safe. Those places where people had the language to fight hate loudly.

And then a funny thing happened. Years after I found the ability to identify and use the language of anti-racism, I started to understand my relationship with Britain a little better. I began to understand what she meant to me. Like Ghana, Britain shaped me. But in Britain, I laugh louder and cry harder. People appreciate my shorthand.

UGH.

It’s always the people and places that you love the deepest that hurt you the most. So today, I think I’m learning to embrace - not tolerate - my uneasy relationship with Britain again.

Take another listen to the conversation that inspired this reflection. Then, share your thoughts on the @audiodiaspora IG page.

This captivating episode of AudioDiaspora takes you on a journey to Canada and introduces you to Howard J. Davis, also known as HAUI, a mixed-media artist and director. 

Based in Canada, HAUI's work delves deep into the intersections of race, queerness, myth, and identity. His film ‘Private Flowers’ is set against the backdrop of that nation’s Civil War and explores themes of masculinity and queerness through the medium of dance, offering viewers a unique perspective on queer storytelling.

Join us as we explore HAUI's experiences growing up as a mixed-race person in Britain and the US, his transition from acting to mixed media, and the inspiration behind ‘Private Flowers’ and its reception.

Do You Like What You Heard?

Have you ever listened to a podcast episode and just needed more? We do. That’s why we want to share exclusive BONUS content from our guests with you! It's exclusively available when you become a paid subscriber to our Substack.

Connect with Howard J. Davis

* Instagram: @woweehaui

YOUR VOICE MATTERS: at the heart of AudioDiaspora’s mission is amplifying diverse voices and sparking meaningful conversations. And guess what?! 🌟

Drop us a line IG at @audiodiaspora, and let us know what's on your mind. You can also tell us what topics you’d like us to explore or people you’d like to hear more from.

Producing your podcast doesn’t have to be a grind. Christabel can help you create the impactful podcasts you’ve always wanted to build sustainably. 

In August, Christabel is offering FREE coaching sessions. Sign up for a complimentary session here. 

FOLLOW US

Remember, follow us on Threads, Instagram, and TikTok: @audiodiaspora.

A WORD FROM OUR HOST

It’s my last week in the UK, and what a week it’s been.

For me, this time was consumed by the inspiring highs of familial reconnection and Olympic superheroism. On the other end of the scale, I’ve had to process my anger and fear as I watched the UK riots first-hand.

Watching the public conversation avoid having honest discussions about British racism had been hurtful.

And in all of this, the country seems to have forgotten that all of this started because of misinformation spread about the murder of schoolchildren.

Who is thinking about these grieving families?

I’ve watched in horror as fake news about immigration got conflated with the (mostly unspoken) racism that exists in the nation. And I sat there remembering why, even as a child, I didn’t feel like I belonged in the country I was born in. If you follow me on IG, you will have seen my reflections via my stories.

That said, my family, my Ghanaian, and profoundly multicultural community, which shaped me as a kid, kept me grounded as the events of the summer unfolded in our backyards (in some cases, almost  literally.)

But I’m thankful that I have the superpower of seeing through the noise and that I’m still not so entirely jaded that I can connect cultural dots and build cultural bridges.

I look forward to sharing more of those reflections with my guests later in the year.

But in the meantime, we’re dropping our final Summer Book pick. I’ll hand it over to the rest of the team.

Christabel

AD Fam!

We’re excited to welcome back the ever-insightful Priscilla Owusu from 'Just Read It’  for our final ‘Summer Book Pick’ episode! This week, she helps us explore the truths behind a captivating collection of short stories called “Nearly All The Men In Lagos Are Mad” by Damilare Kuku.

In this episode, we explore the ups and downs of dating and marriage in Lagos, touching on how African storytelling often blends humor with pain.

Priscilla also shares a simple trick for enjoying short stories and shaking up your reading habits. Her take on one particular story about a pastor’s wife is guaranteed to leave you both laughing and reflecting.

Keep listening as Christabel and Priscilla explore the amazing world of Black literature and suggest writers from the Black diaspora to check out, such as Ingrid Persaud, Bolu Babalola, Brit Bennett, Tia Williams, Percival Everett, Derek Owusu, and Ashley Hickson.

Listen now and be part of the conversation!

Then, tell us how you think “Nearly All The Men In Lagos Are Mad” adds to the rich collection of Black literature and represents the complexities of relationships and identity in African storytelling. 

Do You Like What You Heard?

Have you ever listened to a podcast episode and just needed more? We do. That’s why we want to share exclusive BONUS content from our guests with you! It's exclusively available when you become a paid subscriber to our Substack.

Connect with Priscilla:

* Website: https://justreadit.co.uk

YOUR VOICE MATTERS: at the heart of AudioDiaspora’s mission is amplifying diverse voices and sparking meaningful conversations. And guess what?! 🌟

Drop us a line IG at @audiodiaspora, and let us know what's on your mind. You can also tell us what topics you’d like us to explore or people you’d like to hear more from.

Producing your podcast doesn’t have to be a grind. Christabel can help you create the impactful podcasts you’ve always wanted to build sustainably. 

In August, Christabel is offering FREE coaching sessions. Sign up for a complimentary session here. 

FOLLOW US

Remember, follow us on Threads, Instagram, and TikTok: @audiodiaspora.

Welcome Back, AD Fam!. 

For the third part of our Summer Picks series, we're super excited to welcome back Priscilla Owusu from 'Just Read It.' This week, Priscilla takes us through the powerful novel “How the One-Armed Sister Sweeps Her House” by Cherie Jones.

The book, which was shortlisted for the Women's Prize, follows the lives of Lala, Mira, and Wilma. Priscilla gives us a great overview, highlighting the themes of survival, loss, and resilience that make this story unforgettable. 

This episode promises an engaging discussion that will make you think about the meaning of survival.

We’ll explore how each character deals with their challenges and triumphs. If you're looking for a thought-provoking book to enjoy during your summer downtime, this conversation is perfect for you.

Tune in to this enriching episode and deepen your appreciation for stories that reflect women's resilience and survival. Listen now and join the conversation!

Share your thoughts on how historic you find “How the One-Armed Sister Sweeps Her House” and how the characters contribute to the diverse and complex depiction of strength and perseverance.

Do You Like What You Heard?

Have you ever listened to a podcast episode and just needed more? We do. That’s why we want to share exclusive BONUS content from our guests with you! It's exclusively available when you become a paid subscriber to our Substack.

Discover how to grow your podcast authentically.

Christabel Nsiah-Buadi helps audio creators and businesses connect with their audience through editorial development and strategy. In August, Christabel is offering FREE coaching sessions. Sign up for a free session here. 

YOUR VOICE MATTERS: at the heart of AudioDiaspora’s mission is amplifying diverse voices and sparking meaningful conversations. And guess what?! 🌟

Drop us a line IG at @audiodiaspora, and let us know what's on your mind. You can also tell us what topics you’d like us to explore or people you’d like to hear more from.

Discover how to grow your podcast authentically.

We help independent podcasters find the tools to develop their voices and grow their podcast audience through 1:1 coaching. Book your free session with Christabel here.

Sign up to receive our show newsletter to get our latest shows directly in your inbox and exclusive access to our guests' editorial and audience growth tips.

FOLLOW US

Remember, follow us on Threads, Instagram, and TikTok: @audiodiaspora.

What’s good, AD Fam?!

For the second part of our Summer Picks series, our special guest, Priscilla Owusu from ‘Just Read It’ takes a deep dive into the legacy and representation of “Queenie,” written by Candice Carty-Williams.

For anyone who hasn’t read it yet, the novel centers around Queenie Jenkins, a 25-year-old Jamaican British woman living in London. It explores her journey to self-understanding, love, and forgiveness as she struggles through a difficult breakup. The book, which many called groundbreaking when it was released in 2019, tackles the impact of being ‘the strong Black girl, discusses mental health challenges, and explores the complexities of the Black British identity.

In this episode, Priscilla confronts Queenie’s character criticism, particularly regarding her relationships with white men, and argues for the importance of portraying Black female characters with complexity. Listen to a few thoughts on the changed ending — of the recent TV adaptation, which came out earlier this year.

Tune in to this enriching episode and deepen your appreciation for stories that reflect Black women's diverse experiences and challenges. Listen now and join the conversation!

Then tell us how groundbreaking you think “Queenie” is and where the character, Queenie, fits in the spectrum of diverse and complex representations of Black women in media.

Do You Like What You Heard?

Have you ever listened to a podcast episode and just needed more? We do. That’s why we want to share exclusive BONUS content from our guests with you! It's exclusively available when you become a paid subscriber to our Substack.

Connect with Priscilla:

* Website: https://justreadit.co.uk

Discover how to grow your podcast authentically.

Christabel Nsiah-Buadi helps audio creators and businesses connect with their audience through editorial development and strategy. In August, Christabel is offering FREE coaching sessions. Sign up for a free session here. 

YOUR VOICE MATTERS: at the heart of AudioDiaspora’s mission is amplifying diverse voices and sparking meaningful conversations. And guess what?! 🌟

Drop us a line IG at @audiodiaspora, and let us know what's on your mind. You can also tell us what topics you’d like us to explore or people you’d like to hear more from.

Discover how to grow your podcast authentically.

We help independent podcasters find the tools to develop their voices and grow their podcast audience through 1:1 coaching. Book your free session with Christabel here.

Sign up to receive our show newsletter to get our latest shows directly in your inbox and exclusive access to our guests' editorial and audience growth tips.

FOLLOW US

Remember, follow us on Threads, Instagram, and TikTok: @audiodiaspora.

Happy Friday, AD Fam!

In the first episode of our Summer Reads series, special guest Priscilla Owusu of ‘Just Read It’ walks us through a story that resonates deeply with the themes of self-discovery, resilience, and the pursuit of one's true identity.

The captivating tale of ‘Maame,’ officially called Maddie Wright, reveals the challenges of a 25-year-old British-Ghanaian woman navigating the demands of family, ambitions, and personal growth. While her elder brother is out pursuing his own goals and desires, her mother is away in Ghana managing the family business, and she is left at home to take care of her sick father with very little support, both emotionally and financially. Maddie finds herself at a crossroads where familial responsibilities and her own ambitions collide. Her journey is about breaking free from societal expectations and embracing the courage to redefine herself on her own terms.

One of the most touching parts of Maddie's journey is her relationship with her dad. They share a connection but struggle to communicate their reservations in a way that makes sense to each other. It's a reminder that balancing the weight of family responsibility can be daunting, and we sometimes hope to just pray them away. So, for this very reason, Maddie's openness to seeking professional help is a brave step toward improving her emotional and mental well-being.

Let Maddie's Journey Inspire You!

Maddie's journey isn't just about her—it's about all of us finding the courage to be true to ourselves and chasing our dreams, no matter the obstacles we face at every step of the way. Lastly, finding strength in the support of friends who genuinely care about us truly makes all the difference.

Now, a little exercise: 

Take a moment to reflect on your own life’s journey. How can Maddie's experiences inspire you to embrace yourself and pursue what you love?

Discover how to grow your podcast authentically.

Christabel Nsiah-Buadi helps audio creators and businesses connect with their audience through editorial development and strategy. Email us to learn more.

YOUR VOICE MATTERS: at the heart of AudioDiaspora’s mission is amplifying diverse voices and sparking meaningful conversations. And guess what?! 🌟

Drop us a line IG at @audiodiaspora, and let us know what's on your mind. You can also tell us what topics you’d like us to explore or people you’d like to hear more from.

Discover how to grow your podcast authentically.

We help independent podcasters find the tools to develop their voices and grow their podcast audience through 1:1 coaching. Book your free session with Christabel here.

Sign up to receive our show newsletter to get our latest shows directly in your inbox and exclusive access to editorial and audience growth tips from our guests.

FOLLOW US

Remember, follow us on Threads, Instagram, and TikTok: @audiodiaspora. 

A WORD FROM OUR HOST

Happy Friday, AD Fam!

First, I’m taking a break from interviewing folks for the next few weeks because I will be on my summer break! But worry ye not! Over the next four weeks, Priscilla Owusu of ‘Just Read It’ will share her Summer Book Picks with us! Tune in—listening to our ‘fabulous auntie vibes’ will be worth the listen, lol.

That said, I’m leaving you all with a banger of an interview before my break. I’m speaking with the founder of Doc Hearts and the Director of the MULTIPLE award-winning film, “White Nanny, Black Child,” Andy Mundy-Castle. His documentary reveals a piece of relatively hidden British and Diaspora history: Tens of thousands of children of West African heritage were fostered to white families in the mid-late twentieth century. Those practices shaped their identities and what modern Britain looks like today. 

The film has touched audiences everywhere, including audiences in Nigeria, where it opened people's eyes to the fact that for many people, ‘living abroad’ didn’t mean easier access to money or an easier life. Some sacrifices were made.

So I was excited to speak to the person who took such care in telling these stories and people, and Andy did not disappoint. We talked about his process, we talked about how he has managed to protect these stories from people who might see it only as' trauma porn,’ and he talked about why it’s SO important to understand if YOU are the right person to tell a story.

Enjoy the show, 

Christabel

On today’s Episode, Christabel sits down with BAFTA-winning creator Andy Mundy-Castle to discuss his groundbreaking documentary "White Nanny, Black Child." This intimate documentary shares the hidden stories of the 70,000 West African children who white British families fostered. 

Andy reveals the deeply personal inspiration behind his film and offers a fresh perspective on West African immigration, often overshadowed by the Caribbean Windrush generation. We uncover how these historical fostering practices have left an indelible mark on Black Britons' sense of identity and belonging.

We explore the critical importance of telling culturally rich stories that move beyond trauma and ensure they reflect the full spectrum of experiences. The conversation also dives into the challenges of breaking into the TV and audio industry, particularly the issues of classism and racism that persist even today.

Andy shares his journey, from winning a BAFTA to achieving a grand jury prize at the Afrif Festival in Nigeria, and the emotional impact of presenting his film there. We reflect on the importance of authenticity, the balance between artistic integrity and commercial realities, and the need to tell stories that resonate deeply with creators and audiences. Tune in for a compelling conversation that celebrates creativity, authenticity, and the enduring influence of historical migration patterns on Black identity.

Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF):

https://www.afriff.com/

Do You Like What You Heard?

Have you ever listened to a podcast episode and just needed more? We do. That’s why we want to share exclusive BONUS content from our guests with you! It's exclusively available when you become a paid subscriber to our Substack.

Where to connect with Andy Mundy-Castle

* Instagram: @andymsee

* X:@andymundycastle

YOUR VOICE MATTERS: at the heart of AudioDiaspora’s mission is amplifying diverse voices and sparking meaningful conversations. And guess what?! 🌟

Drop us a line IG at @audiodiaspora, and let us know what's on your mind. You can also tell us what topics you’d like us to explore or people you’d like to hear more from.

Discover how to grow your podcast authentically.

We help independent podcasters find the tools to develop their voices and grow their podcast audience through 1:1 coaching. Book your free session with Christabel here.

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