This story was originally published on Passionfruit.
We’re reaching out to some popular creators to get their best tips and tricks for success and better understand the ups and downs of life as a trailblazer on the internet.
Celebrating the excellence of Black authors has long been a priority for podcaster, writer, and creative Audra Russell (@betweenthereadspodcast). With a passion for reading and a deep love and appreciation for all things Black culture, the Hampton University graduate and New Jersey native has taken an active approach to address the disparities that exist in the literary world by creating a lane for Black independent authors to showcase their work. This support and solidarity can be heard on her podcast Between the Reads, which highlights the work and stories of Black independent authors.
Launched in 2020, the independently-produced podcast also promotes Black-owned bookstores, which play a critical role in the elevation of Black authors. Russell, who made a vow to read after watching Alex Haley’s 1977 TV series Roots, was inspired to create her podcast when she noticed how Black authors were only celebrated during Black History Month. After taking inventory of her own bookshelf, she also realized that her collection of books was comprised of white fiction writers and prominent Black authors like Toni Morrison, Zora Neale Hurston, and Richard Wright.
