Mahogany Books Launches The Mahogany Books Podcast Network

 I love books. I love reading. Last year, 54 percent of Americans read at least one book. The reading heroes are those who read more than 10 books, which is 18 percent of all Americans. 

Authors and podcasters have a long-running symbiotic relationship. Podcasters need authors when specific expertise on a subject is needed. The author is the ideal person to fit the bill. After all, authors are credentialed by virtue of their published works, and they can provide heft to the discussion brewing in any podcast.

For podcasts, authors provide legitimacy to any topic, and their insights – based on the wisdom mined from their book research – can make for an enlightening and lively discussion.

"Of course, many authors want a podcast interview to lead to increased book sales," says marketing consultant Maggie Hammerstein. "But they also want to develop a brand and a media presence. Podcasts are an ideal way to accomplish both goals."

Surveys of podcast listeners have found that they tend to read more than the general population and listen to audiobooks at a much higher rate.

Hammerstein explains that podcasts enable authors to cherry-pick the exciting parts of their book and entice the podcast audience to buy the book or follow the author on social media, leading to a future sale.

Perhaps due to their close relationship with authors, podcasters in increasing numbers are now becoming authors. As podcasts have increased in popularity, cultural visibility, and listener loyalty, podcasters have begun writing, and publishing books based on their podcasts.

 Here is an example of the confluence of podcasting and book selling.

 Mahogany Books has one of the largest online inventories of books for, by and about people of the African diaspora, and was started in a one-bedroom apartment in Alexandria, Virginia.

The Anacostia Art Center store opened in 2014. Its bookstores have hosted a wide range of African American authors, including well-known names such as President Barack Obama, Spike Lee and Marion Barry.

 Mahogany Books has locations at National Harbor, Maryland and Reagan National Airport in Arlington, Virginia.
 
The Mahogany Books Podcast Network, launched in January 2024, is already home to Real Ballers Read, which encourages young people to embrace the joy of reading.

Coming in October 2024, the Readers of Black Genius podcast will further expand the network’s commitment to amplifying Black literary voices.

The iconic Black-owned bookstore, known for elevating African American literature, now wants to elevate Black Books through podcasting.

Tune in to “Black & Published” and other Mahogany Books podcasts on major streaming platforms, or visit www.mahoganybooksmedia.com to become part of this growing literary movement.

You can also join the Black Podcasters Association and connect with a vibrant community of Black podcast creatives and professionals. Gain access to exclusive resources, events, networking opportunities, and tools to help you grow your podcast and elevate your voice in the industry. Become a member now and take advantage of 50% off your membership with code BPA50OFF

Maya Angelou once said about the power of books: "When I look back, I am so impressed again with the life-giving power of literature. If I were a young person today, trying to gain a sense of myself in the world, I would do that again by reading, just as I did when I was young."