Five Standout Podcasts That Connect To Black Excellence & Cultural Impact

Stefan Embry was recognized by PRWeek’s 40 Under 40, The Global SABRE Awards, and The Shorty Awards. Stefan has also served as a featured judge at The One Show and The One Club for Creativity. 

He holds a B.A. in History with a focus on Cultural and Intellectual Movements from the University of Maryland, College Park, and a Change Management certification from Cornell. His philosophy is audience-first and fully integrated—connecting strategy to storytelling with an eye toward emerging media, online communities, and the creator economy.

Mr. Embry has assisted Ear Worthy by selecting five standout podcasts, along with select episodes that connect directly to Black history, Black excellence, and Black cultural impact. 

C’Mon Son! — hosted by hip-hop and media legend Ed Lover. It is a cultural staple from one of the original voices of Yo! MTV Raps, C’Mon Son! blends Black music history, social commentary, and pop culture from a first-person perspective.
LISTEN TO: Ep. #164: We’re Honoring Black History Month with Emmy Winner Sam Pollard | Episode #108 Pt. 2: The Progression of Black Film.

Behind the Mask is hosted by NFL legend Takeo Spikes and explores the personal journeys, resilience, and identity of Black athletes beyond the field, with a focus on mental health, legacy, and leadership.

LISTEN TO: Ep. #221: ATHLETES & PHILANTHROPY

Mama’s Den is focused on modern Black motherhood. It is a community-driven podcast centering Black motherhood, generational wisdom, and navigating systems that have historically underserved Black families.

LISTEN TO: Ep. #80: Churrrch 

The Kenny Burns Show is focused on Black pop culture and entertainment and is hosted by entertainment executive and cultural connector Kenny Burns. The show covers Black excellence across music, business, and media.

 LISTEN TO: EP. 148: “BLACK ENTERTAINMENT TERMINATED” - examining the media industry | EP. 161: “I DO I DO I DO ” - the history of Outkast 

Black Girls Texting is focused on Black women, digital culture, and modern relationships. 

It is a cultural commentary podcast that explores dating, identity, mental health, and social media through the lens of Black millennial women.

LISTEN TO:  Ep. 441: “What Is a Black Dandy?” 

The Black Podcasting Awards (BPAwards) (or BPA) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, volunteer-run organization established to celebrate, uplift, and spotlight the excellence, creativity, and impact of Black podcasters globally. Founded in 2020, it provides a platform for independent, niche, and established Black voices across over 40 categories, culminating in an annual ceremony.

To discover the best in podcasting and Black podcasting specifically, check out the nominees and winners of the 2025 Black Podcasting Awards (BPAwards).