August is Children’s Literacy Month, and in this episode of Voices Beyond the Pages, Shaunie dives deep into the heart of Black children’s literacy why it’s more than academic, why it’s ancestral, and why it’s revolutionary.

From alarming statistics to the rich tradition of oral storytelling in Black culture, this conversation explores how reading, listening, and imagining connect our children to their roots while shaping their futures. Shaunie shares practical tips for nurturing young readers, the genres that spark curiosity, and why embracing different learning styles—like audiobooks—is key.

Whether you’re a parent, educator, mentor, or simply someone who cares, this episode will inspire you to help create a world where every Black child feels seen, affirmed, and empowered through story.

Connect with me

• Instagram: @voicesbeyondthepages @audreyshaunice

• TikTok: @voicesbeyondthepages @audreyshaunice

• Email: [email protected]

• Work with Me (Voices Beyond Media): [email protected]

As a creative, it’s easy to get caught up in deadlines, expectations, and the constant pressure to produce. In this episode, I’m opening up about where I am in life right now, the boundaries I’ve had to set, and the lessons I’ve learned about protecting my peace both personally and professionally. Whether you’re an artist, entrepreneur, or just someone trying to hold onto your sanity, this is your reminder that you don’t have to give every part of yourself away to be successful

To open Children’s Literacy Month, Shaunie is joined by two very special guests ,her sons , for a heartfelt conversation about the power of reading. Together, they share their own experiences as young readers, from favorite books and genres to the role of audiobooks and imagination.

This episode explores the impact of the pandemic on literacy, why embracing different learning styles matters, and how the village parents, educators, mentors, and community members can support the next generation of readers. With warmth, honesty, and encouragement, Shaunie reminds us that raising readers is about more than books it’s about connection, representation, and creating space for kids to see themselves in stories.

Because when we nurture a child’s love of reading, we nurture their future.

In this special episode of Voices Beyond the Pages, Shaunie welcomes DonDon—also known as @audiobookgirly—for a raw, heartfelt, and affirming conversation about access, identity, and the importance of claiming space in the audiobook world.

Whether you’re a narrator, listener, author, or industry pro, this episode is a reminder that everyone deserves a seat at the audio table and that creating space for others doesn’t take away from yours.

Representation isn’t optional. It’s vital.

Today I share why diverse voices and even our “imperfect” ones matter so deeply in audiobooks, and how supporting new talent helps keep the industry vibrant and inclusive.

In this episode of Voices Beyond the Pages, we are pulling back the curtain on the industry side of things. Diversity and inclusion aren’t just buzzword they’re responsibilities.

This episode is both a love letter to the art of narration and a call-to-action for publishers, producers, and listeners alike. Because every voice deserves to be heard and to be heard accurately.

In this solo episode, I’m diving into a conversation that comes up way too often: “Audiobooks aren’t really reading.”

We’re unpacking why that mindset is rooted in ableism, classism, and gatekeeping, and how it erases the experiences of so many listeners who rely on audiobooks for access. Whether it’s because of disability, busy schedules, learning differences, or simply personal preference—listening is reading. Period.

I’m also sharing what “access is power” means to me as a narrator, a creative, and a Black woman in this industry. Because stories are meant to be heard, felt, and experienced in whatever way feels most authentic to you.

If you’ve ever felt judged for how you read—or if you’re ready to dismantle old narratives around literacy and storytelling—this episode is for you.

💛 Listen, reflect, and share with someone who needs this reminder today.

#VoicesBeyondThePages #AudiobooksAreReading #AccessIsPower #Gatekeeping #RepresentationMatters #AudiobookNarrator #PodcastEpisode

In this heart-centered solo episode, I’m reflecting on what Black romance has taught me—not just as a narrator, but as a woman. From desire and safety to voice and self-worth, these stories have shaped me in ways I never expected.

I’m also sharing a little about my recent experience at Black Romance Book Fest, how this community has poured into me, and why these stories continue to hold me when life feels heavy.

If you’re a lover of Black romance—or just someone figuring out how to love yourself through your own healing—this one’s for you. 💛

#BlackRomance #AudiobookNarration #VoicesBeyondThePages #RepresentationMatters

Let’s talk about what it really looks like to build something beautiful when you don’t have much but the vision.

In this solo episode, I’m sharing the behind-the-scenes of showing up for my narrator dreams—while broke, tired, and still figuring it all out. From preparing for Black Romance Book Fest to investing in myself without a safety net, this is a love letter to the ones who keep showing up with big dreams and empty pockets.

You’re not alone. You’re not behind. You’re building something real.

Let’s get into it.

#VoicesBeyondThePages #BigDreamsEmptyPockets #AudreyShaunice #NarratorJourney #CreativeEntrepreneurship #BlackRomanceBookFest

This episode is for the authors—especially those showing up and showing out at Black Romance Book Fest. In between the signings, panels, and celebration, I wanted to take a moment behind the mic to say: thank you.

Your words have given us voices to stretch, stories to embody, and characters to carry. This love note is filled with deep appreciation for the way you keep telling our stories boldly, beautifully, and Black on purpose.

Let this serve as a soft reminder that your words matter. That we see you. And that your voice deserves to be heard—just like the ones you write.