The Interludes Podcast: Entrepreneurs and DJ Culture

In an age dominated by online retail giants, independent bookstores continue to fight for their place — and their purpose.

In this episode of Interludes, host Valarie “The Voice” Johnson speaks with Nzingha Nommo, founder and owner of AfriWare Books in Evanston, Illinois, about the challenges and triumphs of sustaining a Black-owned bookstore in a post–COVID-19 world.

From a local lawsuit that echoes a David and Goliath struggle to the spirit of Ujamaa — cooperative economics — Nzingha shares her mission to preserve culture, build community, and keep the power of books alive.

A powerful reminder that every story we buy helps another voice be heard.

When opportunity didn’t knock, he built the door himself.

In this inspiring episode of Interludes, host Valarie “The Voice” Johnson introduces Dre Blaze Rodgers, a Chicago actor who grew tired of the one-dimensional “drug dealer” and “gang banger” roles offered to him — and chose to write, direct, and star in his own film instead.

His debut feature, The Mysterious Mr. Wizdom, created and released during a global pandemic, is now streaming worldwide on Amazon Prime. Valarie speaks with Rodgers and his cast about their journey, their creative resilience, and how they’re carrying on the legacy of independent Black filmmakers like Oscar Micheaux, Robert Townsend, and Shelton “Spike” Lee.

A testament to self-determination, storytelling, and the unstoppable drive to redefine representation.

What exactly is “Struggle Love”? It’s the kind of romance that too often plays out in film — full of conflict, pain, and endurance disguised as passion. But does it really deserve to be called love?

In this bold and insightful episode of Interludes, host Valarie “The Voice” Johnson welcomes Joy and KC the Alchemist, co-hosts of the podcast 3BC (Three Black Chicks), for an honest conversation about the portrayal of Black love in film and the seductive myths that shape how we see relationships on screen.

Val also celebrates the birthday of the Queen of Soul, whose life and artistry are honored in her own Genius mini-series.

A sharp and soulful discussion about storytelling, self-worth, and reclaiming the narrative of love — beyond the struggle.

After a long pandemic pause, the lights are dimming, the screens are glowing, and the magic of the movies has returned.

In this episode of Interludes, host Valarie “The Voice” Johnson and Executive Producer Michael Wamble take a lively look at the Academy Awards — from the groundbreaking nominees to the inevitable snubs. They break down the major categories, share their personal picks, and discuss why representation in Hollywood remains as crucial as ever.

A cinematic conversation about storytelling, visibility, and the power of film to both reflect and reshape the world we live in.

The Minneapolis Sound — crafted by legends like Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis and Prince — reshaped music and gave a city its rhythm. Decades later, that spirit of creativity and resilience still soars.

In this episode of Interludes, host Valarie “The Voice” Johnson speaks with Ms. Arnise, an artist and educator using music as a force for restoration in a city still healing from deep turmoil. Together, they explore the legacy of the Minneapolis Sound, the cultural pulse of the moment, and the power of song to mend both hearts and communities.

Valarie also shares reflections on Derek Chauvin’s trial and the vital role of women songwriters, connecting past and present through music, meaning, and hope.

Grief is often misunderstood — but as Charlie Brown once said, it’s not all bad. In fact, it can be good.

In this heartfelt episode of Interludes, host Valarie “The Voice” Johnson and Executive Producer Michael Wamble explore the power of grief as both a personal and collective experience. Debut filmmaker Kevin Urquhart joins the conversation to discuss his short film Grief, which follows a family’s journey through the five stages of loss.

Valarie shares her own reflections on navigating personal grief and offers insights on healing and hope, while Michael examines how movies like Nomadland and series like WandaVision have become cultural spaces for processing sorrow.

A tender and thought-provoking look at how storytelling helps us face what hurts — and find meaning on the other side.

As Black History Month comes to a close, Interludes celebrates the power of music to uplift, inspire, and transform.

Host Valarie “The Voice” Johnson welcomes Speech Thomas, Grammy Award–winning artist and founder of the pioneering hip-hop group Arrested Development, for an intimate conversation about creativity, faith, and purpose.

Speech shares insight into his latest project, Expansion, and the timeless messages woven through his music — reflections on growth, unity, and the ongoing journey of Black expression in sound and spirit.

A soulful close to the month, and a powerful reminder that inspiration doesn’t end when February does

The story of food in America begins with the story of Black people in the kitchen of the plantation house, our family’s house and even The White House. America was built on a fusion cuisine called Soul Food. Author Adrian E. Miller shares his journey researching soul food’s history in his two award-winning books. Valarie goes into her kitchen to make a very special pound cake found in her family reunion cookbook.

In the first installment of the Interludes “Soul Food” series, host Valarie “The Voice” Johnson explores how food connects culture, community, and history.

The episode begins with Andrew and Janique Edwards, the visionary couple behind EatOkra, the groundbreaking app that helps users discover and support Black-owned restaurants. It ends by tracing the journey of okra itself — a humble vegetable that crossed oceans from Africa and became a staple of African American culinary tradition.

A flavorful reflection on innovation, legacy, and the stories that live in every dish.

From the $20 bill that may one day bear her image to the woman who brought her story to life in “A Woman Called Moses,” this episode honors the enduring spirit of Harriet Tubman as Interludes kicks off Black History Month.

Host Valarie “The Voice” Johnson blends history, reflection, and music in a powerful mix that feels like a modern seat on the Underground Railroad — a journey through courage, freedom, and faith.

An episode that reminds us how one woman’s legacy continues to inspire generations to rise, resist, and move forward.