Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Audra Russell. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Alright, Audra thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.
In January 2020, I found myself standing at the edge of uncertainty, contemplating a daring leap into the realm of podcasting. I was driven by a burning desire to amplify the voices of Black Indie authors, and I embarked on a journey that promised both fulfillment and trepidation. With no prior experience in podcasting, doubts clouded my vision—would these talented authors even consider stepping onto my untested platform? And beyond that, would anyone truly tune in to hear their stories? With a heart fueled by passion and a belief in the power of representation, I took that risk, carving out a space where these remarkable voices could flourish. Little did I know that my plunge into the unknown would happen right before a worldwide pandemic. It was such a unique moment in time. My podcast grew quickly because people were looking for things to do while the world was in quarantine. Once the world opened back up, I wasn’t sure if my listener base would still be there. I thought maybe it was a fluke. But here we are three years later, and Between the Reads not only resonates with the authors I sought to champion but also resonates deeply with a growing audience eager to celebrate diversity and narratives that have long been overshadowed.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
I’m a native Jersey girl living in Maryland. Reading and writing are the loves that have been with me almost all of my life. I’ve also been called a pioneer woman because I have been growing my own food for sixteen years and also hunt and fish. I’m a wife to an amazing husband, a mom to three amazing young adults, a very proud HBCU alum (shout out to my Home by the Sea—if you know, you know), and am unapologetically Black and proud.
Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?
Navigating the world of podcasting, let me tell you—it’s been a real journey, full of twists and turns that could make your head spin. Some weeks, those download numbers would shoot up, and I’d be on top of the world, feeling like I’m really making waves. But then there were other times when things got tough, like real tough, and I’d be sitting there wondering if I should just throw in the towel. This podcasting game can really mess with your head sometimes.
There were also times when I couldn’t even record for weeks, and I was just praying that I wouldn’t lose all the ground I’d gained with my listeners. But you know what? I was transparent with my listeners and let them know what was going on and that let them see ME, you know? That I’m a real person and that sometimes life happens and it puts things on pause. And you know what happened? They encouraged me to take care of myself, they checked on me, and they continued to support me. That was a real learning moment for me.
Looking back now, three years down the road, Between the Reads stands tall. It’s not just a podcast—it’s a testament to the resilience of a Black woman who kept pushing forward even when folks told me “no,” even when they doubted my vision (or even when *I* doubted my vision). I love this thing!
Is there mission driving your creative journey?
My unwavering mission is to provide a resounding platform for Black Indie and traditionally published authors. When I get in front of that microphone I’m kicking open doors for these authors, shining the spotlight on voices that have yearned for their stories to be heard and celebrated.
Giving them space to talk about their stories provides a sense of validation for Black authors who are marginalized in mainstream publishing. Their experiences, creativity, and perspectives enrich not only my platform but also enrich the literary community by bringing awareness to the truth that Black authors write in EVERY genre and there is more to our stories than struggle and trauma. Much more.
I’m fostering dialogues that reshape perceptions, break stereotypes, and challenge norms and biases, all while building a community of engaged listeners who appreciate the nuance tapestry of Black stories.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.betweenthereads.com
- Instagram: betweenthereadspodcast
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/audrarussell/
- Twitter: readitblacktome
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/betweenthereads