iHEART BLACK PODCAST NETWORK PLOTS FALL LAUNCH

iHeartMedia and Charlamagne Tha God are launching The Black Effect Podcast Network with the goal of becoming the world’s largest podcast publisher dedicated to black listeners.

Besides the replay podcast of Charlamagne’s “The Breakfast Club” radio show, the network will debut with 18 podcasts this fall on iHeartRadio and elsewhere. Among the podcast creators are comedian/actress Jess Hilarious, social justice activist Tamika Mallory, and attorney/TV host Eboni K. Williams.

The Black Effect Podcast Network will also produce limited series podcasts with musical artists, actors, actresses, sports and literary stars to support films, music releases and related projects. All shows on The Black Effect Podcast Network will be distributed through the iHeartPodcast Network.

“We have both the responsibility and the opportunity to give new voices a massive audience platform for creativity and innovation—and for important ideas that need to be heard,” said Bob Pittman, Chairman and CEO of iHeartMedia. “Charlamagne Tha God is an unparalleled multi-platform creator whose impact extends across radio, digital, social, TV, events and podcasts. He is uniquely qualified to bring The Black Effect Podcast Network to life, and we are lucky and honored to be his chosen partner and to continue our successful partnership of over a decade in this exciting and fast-growing arena.”

Charlamagne said, “The vision for The Black Effect is to amplify, elevate, and empower emerging and established talent. Our goal is to shift the narrative from black creators signing transactional deals, to instead forming legacy partnerships that build generational wealth while allowing each creative to have an equitable stake in their future. As a long-time partner of iHeart, it’s an honor to make history with them."