In this episode of Afros & Audio Interview Series, host Talib Jasir engages in an in-depth conversation with Keisha "TK" Dutes, founder of Philo's Future Media, a seasoned audio producer and storyteller. TK shares her journey from working in terrestrial radio since 2005 to creating and managing her own projects like Bondfire Radio and the upcoming podcast 'Secret Life of TK.'

They explore the challenges of transitioning from radio to podcasting, the evolution of audio storytelling, and the significance of community and collaboration in independent audio production. TK also highlights her role in the Association of Independence and Radio (AIR) and the importance of peer-to-peer education in shaping the future of black podcasting. The discussion emphasizes the need for authenticity, the balance between creative freedom and operational challenges, and the vital role of mentorship and collaboration in sustaining the podcasting industry.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:14 Reflecting on Past Collaborations
01:16 Transition and Evolution in Audio Storytelling
02:39 Honoring Achievements and Recognitions
04:10 Challenges and Changes in Podcasting
12:05 Mentorship and Peer-to-Peer Education
14:36 The Future of Black Podcasting
21:10 Introducing 'Secret Life of TK'
28:43 The Power of Collaboration
29:15 Sustaining Podcasting Efforts
32:25 Challenges Faced by Independent Podcasters
36:36 Lessons from Major Podcast Productions
45:22 Equity and Sustainability in Audio
52:17 Final Thoughts and Reflections

To learn more about Keisha "TK" Dutes visit: https://www.tastykeish.com/letswerk

Listen to The Secret Life of TK podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/lt/podcast/the-secret-life-of-tk/id1796520216

Follow Keisha: https://www.instagram.com/tastykeish

https://www.instagram.com/philosfuturemedia

Learn more about the 7th Annual Afros & Audio Podcast Festival, October 17-19, 2025 in Baltimore, MD: https://www.afrosandaudio.com

Visit https://linktr.ee/afrosandaudio for additional information and opportunities!

DISCLAIMER: The views expressed by guests of Afros & Audio’s Black History Month interview series are their own and do not reflect the values, mission, or business of Talib Jasir, Afros & Audio, Black Podcasters Association, Vanguard Podcast Network, or any other names, podcasts, events, businesses, or organizations mentioned in the video or audio of this series unless explicitly stated.

In this episode of the Heard! Afros & Audio interview series, the host sits down with Armel Kembe, the founder of Trebble FM, to discuss his journey and innovation in the audio space. They explore Armel's background in software engineering and his frustrations with traditional content editing, which inspired him to create Trebble FM.

The platform leverages AI to simplify audio and video editing for nonprofessionals, making it easier and more efficient for a diverse range of users including solo creators, entrepreneurs, and small business owners. Armel shares insights on the role of AI in democratizing content creation, the importance of understanding user needs, and the challenges and successes of leading a tech startup.

They also touch on the future possibilities of AI in content creation and Armel's motivations driven by positive user feedback. Lastly, Armel invites the podcasting community to try Trebble FM, provide feedback, and spread the word.

00:00 Introduction to the Interview Series
00:26 Inspiration Behind Trebble FM
01:56 Challenges in Content Creation
05:34 Previous Ventures and Lessons Learned
12:13 AI's Role in Simplifying Editing
15:49 User Feedback and Future Innovations
18:59 AI's Future in Content Creation
23:32 Meeting the Needs of Solo Creators and Entrepreneurs
24:13 Understanding Long-Term Vision in Content Creation
25:07 Empowering Creators Through Innovation
27:40 Challenges and Successes in Leading a Tech Startup
29:11 The Importance of Persistence and Patience
31:25 Lessons for Aspiring Tech Innovators
37:10 The Rewards of Impacting Lives
38:42 Future Goals for Trebble
41:23 How to Support Trebble FM

To learn more about Trebble visit: www.trebble.fm

Follow Armel: https://x.com/armelbeaudry

Learn more about the 7th Annual Afros & Audio Podcast Festival, October 17-19, 2025 in Baltimore, MD: https://www.afrosandaudio.com

Visit https://linktr.ee/afrosandaudio for additional information and opportunities!

DISCLAIMER: The views expressed by guests of Afros & Audio’s Black History Month interview series are their own and do not reflect the values, mission, or business of Talib Jasir, Afros & Audio, Black Podcasters Association, Vanguard Podcast Network, or any other names, podcasts, events, businesses, or organizations mentioned in the video or audio of this series unless explicitly stated.

In this episode of the Afros and Audio Interview Series, Talib Jasir converses with DeMarcus Brewster, the creator of the Seeking Knowledge podcast. DeMarcus shares insights into what inspired him to start his podcast, how it reflects his personal journey of growth and transformation, and the significant change in his life and podcasting approach over 23 seasons.

He discusses the valuable feedback from his wife, the evolution of his format, and the impact of his life experiences, including foster care, on his storytelling. DeMarcus emphasizes the importance of vulnerability and authenticity in connecting with his audience and shares highlights from his career, including a recent nomination for an award. He also touches on future aspirations, seeking sponsorship, and offers advice to aspiring podcasters about perseverance and starting with minimal resources.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:19 Inspiration Behind the Podcast
00:49 Personal Growth and Podcast Evolution
02:17 Podcast Format and Content Strategy
04:27 Impact and Listener Engagement
05:48 Spirituality and Podcasting
13:21 Balancing Life and Creativity
16:59 Personal Background and Overcoming Challenges
18:55 Sharing My Foster Care Experience
20:02 The Power of Vulnerability
20:56 Connecting with the Audience
23:32 Inspirational Conversations
26:09 Overcoming Challenges in Podcasting
28:28 Advice for Aspiring Podcasters
32:01 Seeking Sponsorship and Future Goals
34:28 Final Thoughts and Contact InformationI

Listen to Seeking Knowledge podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/2EcFy81vgC2xbrAIiNmmgu

Follow DeMarcus: https://www.facebook.com/demarcus.brewster.338?mibextid=ZbWKwL

Learn more about the 7th Annual Afros & Audio Podcast Festival, October 17-19, 2025 in Baltimore, MD: https://www.afrosandaudio.com

Visit https://linktr.ee/afrosandaudio for additional information and opportunities!

DISCLAIMER: The views expressed by guests of Afros & Audio’s Black History Month interview series are their own and do not reflect the values, mission, or business of Talib Jasir, Afros & Audio, Black Podcasters Association, Vanguard Podcast Network, or any other names, podcasts, events, businesses, or organizations mentioned in the video or audio of this series unless explicitly stated.