A national podcast festival centered on Black voices and culture is returning to Atlanta later this month, bringing a mix of live shows, panel discussions and audience engagement to Pullman Yards.
The Black Effect Podcast Festival will be co-hosted by Charlamagne Tha God and DJ Envy of the nationally syndicated radio show, “The Breakfast Club,” on April 25 from noon to 7 p.m. The morning show, which recently expanded its reach with episodes streaming on Netflix, has also seen a surge in ratings among listeners ages 18 to 54, according to InsideRadio.
Loren LoRosa, a regular contributor on “The Breakfast Club,” will also serve as a co-host. LoRosa hosts “The Latest with Loren LoRosa” and has appeared as a commentator on programs including CNN’s “Laura Coates Live.”
Now in its fourth year, the festival will feature live, on-stage conversations with hosts of popular shows from iHeartMedia’s Black Effect Podcast Network. The audience is a part of the lively experience.
Live tapings of “Drink Champs,” “Keep It Positive Sweetie,” “Reality with the King,” and “Don’t Call Me White Girl” are planned.
The Black Effect Podcast Network, a joint venture between Charlamagne Tha God and iHeartMedia, launched in 2020 and has since developed more than 60 shows featuring both emerging and established creators.
The festival will also include panel discussions on topics such as artificial intelligence, the influence of Gen Z in media, and an audio and media development panel.
“Each year we return to Atlanta with purpose and intention to amplify storytelling, champion community, and celebrate excellence in podcasting …,” Charlamagne said in a statement.
Dollie S. Bishop, president of The Black Effect Podcast Network, said the festival is designed to highlight the influence and reach of Black creators.
“We’re celebrating and uplifting the power of Black voices, creating space for creators to inspire, connect and shape culture,” Bishop said. “From conversations on AI and investing to the future of audio, we’re bringing the culture together for connection, innovation and a few surprises.”
The podcast festival will take place at Pullman Yards, 225 Rogers Street N.E. General admission tickets are priced at $47.57 for adults and $30.48 for students.
