The Interludes Podcast: Entrepreneurs and DJ Culture

Creativity knows no borders — and in this episode of Interludes, it flows from London to Chicago and beyond.

Host Valarie “The Voice” Johnson welcomes Andrew L. Boyd, an innovative poet from London, England, to discuss his new book of poetry, Birchmere, a collection that explores identity, emotion, and the human experience through vivid verse.

Also joining the celebration is Parrish “P-Dubb” Williams, host of the It’s Like That podcast on Anchor FM/Spotify, as Executive Producer Michael Wamble and Valarie continue to honor Black Music Month with reflections on artistry, influence, and the rhythm that connects us all.

A rich conversation blending poetry, music, and meaning — a true tribute to the voices that move the culture forward.

The rhythm behind Interludes takes center stage as we celebrate Black Music Month.

In this episode, host Valarie “The Voice” Johnson welcomes super producer and recording artist Kendall Nesbit, the creative force who composed the Interludes theme music. Kendall debuts his inspiring new track, “Show the World,” and shares insights into his creative process and what drives his sound.

Music critic Parrish “P-Dubb” Williams also joins the conversation, offering his take on today’s R&B scene and the contemporary artists who deserve a spot on your playlist.

A celebration of music, creativity, and the artists shaping the next chapter of Black sound.

She's more than a trainer. Dre Nichols Everett is an "exercise habit coach." This entrepreneur's business not only survived Covid, it thrived. Her message to you is getting fit for Summer is a state of mind.

Through the pandemic and the civil unrest after the untimely death of George Floyd, a sense of normalcy has returned with so much change happening in around around the Midwest town of Minneapolis.  We return to Minneapolis to check in with Chicago-native Ms. Arnise, as she prepares to return to a live concert stage near you, honoring Ms. Gladys Knight.

Phil Fox is a warrior from birth. And what wasn't there from the beginning came to be with his rebirth, his rededication to defend his faith as an urban apologist. Fox explains his Drops of Hope ministry. Also, hear Part Two of Becoming, our ValaREADS Book Club selection.

Sure Broadway’s been brought to the big and small screen before, but seldom - if ever - like this. So when the NYC-based Hand Forged Fiction launched a graphic audio drama called Brother, Mine, during live theater’s dark days, it was an achievement. Meet the writers and cast of Brother, Mine. Also, hear the first (of three) installment(s) in our VALAreads Book Club focus on Michelle Obama’s Becoming.

Comedy is all about perspective — and Jori O’Neale proves that humor and hustle can go hand in hand.

In this lively episode of Interludes, host Valarie “The Voice” Johnson welcomes back the podcast’s very first guest: comedian, producer, and NYC working mom Jori O’Neale. Together, they share laughs, stories, and reflections on balancing creativity, family, and purpose.

The two funny ladies also preview “Yo Momma Got Jokes 2,” an online Mother’s Day variety show celebrating comedy, community, and the joy of laughter that connects generations.

A spirited reunion that reminds us—sometimes the best way to honor life’s challenges is to laugh right through them.

Judging by the smoke signals sent up from backyards and porches, it’s Barbeque Season. Food scholar Adrian E. Miller shares his new book, Black Smoke, a history and guide to BBQ in America. Meanwhile Mr. Wamble and I eat our way through BBQ joints.

In a world where radio stations play the same songs, over and over, a podcast emerges: This one. We love new music. We love new music, too - The Sequel. And just like the movie or music industries, we’re not afraid to milk a good thing ‘til it’s dry. Meet international artist Kubo Sensei and Brooklyn vocalist, Lissa Millien on this episode of Interludes.

Vaccination hesitancy appears to be growing in America. At the start of the week, there were three companies the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) were relying on to present vaccines to combat COVID-19. And then, due to troubling trials, there were two. Hear both sides of the vaccination debate from wellness coach Agustin Rodriguez and internist Dr. Aunita Hill-Jones sway Valarie to decide whether to vax or not to vax.