Five years ago, Charlamagne Tha God and iHeartMedia joined forces to create something that hadn’t been done before: a podcast network solely dedicated to amplifying Black voices and stories.
On Wednesday, The Black Effect Podcast Network stands as a powerhouse of culture, conversation, and creativity, celebrating half a decade of influence and impact.
Since its inception, The Black Effect has become home to over 60 shows, including major hits like The Breakfast Club, Drink Champs, 85 South Show, and R&B Money.
The network has amassed over 11 million monthly downloads, ventured into new genres like true crime and parenting, and expanded its brand with new partnerships like The Drink Champs Podcast Network and the forthcoming All The Smoke Podcast Network.
“Our mission has always been to build a dedicated platform where Black voices can thrive,” said Charlamagne Tha God. “We’ve accomplished that and more. The past five years have been extraordinary, and the future of The Black Effect excites us. We’ll keep inspiring, empowering, and creating culture and opportunities for all.”
The anniversary celebration in New York brought together some of the network’s leading voices, Gizelle Bryant and Robyn Dixon (Reasonably Shady), Will Lucas (Black Tech Green Money), Carlos King (Reality with The King), and Jay Barnett (Just Heal with Dr. Jay), for an evening of reflection and conversation moderated by The Breakfast Club host Loren LoRosa.
Throughout the night, creators shared personal stories about how the network transformed their careers and redefined representation in media.
Carlos King, the reality TV veteran behind Reality with The King, reflected on the power of storytelling and authenticity:
“My podcast opened doors for reality stars to be seen as human. I don’t write down questions — I pray for every interview and let the conversation flow. When you’re walking in purpose, the stories tell themselves.”
Will Lucas, host of Black Tech Green Money, emphasized the importance of using the platform to educate and empower.
“My life’s purpose is to create opportunities that help Black people realize entrepreneurial success beyond their wildest dreams,” he said. “Through this network, we’re showing what’s possible in tech, business, and culture — and that’s how change happens.”
And for Dr. Jay, whose podcast Just Heal continues to lead honest conversations around mental health, the platform has opened a vital space for healing.
“As Charlamagne shared his own mental health journey, the Black Effect allowed me to expand the conversation,” he said. “It’s redefining what healing looks like, especially for Black men. Every episode grows me as much as it grows the listeners.”
Dollie S. Bishop, President of The Black Effect Podcast Network, captured the spirit of the milestone best:
“The Black Effect Podcast Network is a testament to what happens when talent meets opportunity. We’re shaping the future for Black creators and leading boldly into the next era of culture and creativity.”
You can listen to The Black Effect Podcast Network on the iHeartRadio app, iHeart.com, and wherever you get your podcasts.
Photo Credits: @Calligrafist
