What gets amplified
In mainstream podcasting, there’s a pattern that’s hard to ignore.
White voices, especially white men, are consistently given platforms, visibility, and credibility, even when what they’re saying lacks depth or understanding. It’s become almost trendy to pick up a mic and share “woke” opinions, but so often those perspectives come from a distance, disconnected from the realities of the communities they’re speaking on.
And it matters. Because the voices we hear most often start to feel like the default, while so many others remain just out of reach.
Data and trends continue to reflect this. Top-charting podcasts are overwhelmingly hosted by white creators, while POC-owned podcasts make up only a small portion of what gets pushed forward. At the same time, POC and queer podcasters are creating work that is thoughtful, intentional, and deeply engaging, yet it often goes unseen. One show can ramble into a mic and reach millions, while another spends months crafting meaningful, well-researched episodes and struggles to be discovered.
This isn’t just about numbers. It’s about visibility.
When the same kinds of voices are amplified again and again, we’re left with a narrow version of culture, one that overlooks the people who have always been creating, questioning, and contributing in meaningful ways.
As a POC woman, I know how much incredible work exists just beneath the surface. The next time you’re scrolling, pause for a second. Look past the familiar names. There are voices out there offering something real, something intentional, something worth sitting with.
At the same time, male-led podcasts continue to dominate charts, deals, and media attention. There’s been a noticeable rise in content built around hot takes and unfiltered opinions, where being loud or controversial is often enough to build an audience. And while having opinions isn’t the issue, the problem is how quickly these platforms are treated as credible, even when they lack research, care, or genuine understanding.
Even outside of male-led spaces, this pattern shows up. Podcasts like Call Her Daddy, hosted by Alex Cooper, have reached massive success through branding, virality, and accessibility more than strong interviewing or storytelling. From brand deals to celebrity guests, the platform continues to grow despite ongoing criticism around depth and preparation. It reinforces the idea that visibility is often valued over substance, while creators who approach their work with intention are left overlooked.
Because of this, it becomes important to be more intentional about what we listen to and who we support. There are so many POC and queer creators building spaces that feel honest, creative, and necessary.
Some of my personal favorites include Upstairs Neighbors, Emergency Intercom, and Queer Collective Podcast. These shows bring personality, perspective, and conversations that feel lived-in, not performative.
Expanding what you listen to doesn’t mean letting go of what you already enjoy.
It just means making room for voices that have always deserved to be heard.
