We recently connected with Sonja Keeve and have shared our conversation below.

Sonja, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Let’s talk legacy – what sort of legacy do you hope to build?

I aspire to build a legacy where women, empowered by the transformative potential of podcasting, create narratives that echo across generations, changing lives, communities, and the world. I want to be remembered as a tireless advocate, inspiring others to amplify their voices, speak boldly, and carve out amazing spaces in the podcasting realm. My work aims to leave behind a tapestry of generational wealth, ensuring a brighter future for my children and the many generations that follow.

As a pioneer, my legacy will be defined by the safe and inclusive spaces I cultivated for women of color in the podcasting landscape. I hope to be the catalyst that inspires individuals across the globe to be bold and courageous, drawing strength from the consistency with which I created an ecosystem where diversity not only thrived but propelled thought and purpose forward. And through it all, I want to be remembered for doing it with a smile – a symbol of joy, resilience, and the unwavering belief that through unity and diversity, we can create a better world.”

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

In 2018, I ventured into podcasting through a social media challenge, inspired to create a space where amazing women worldwide could share their stories. The response was overwhelming, with 50 women eagerly joining the Inspiring Nations Podcast show. Within three months, the show resonated across the United States and three countries, leading to sold-out guest appearances and a partnership with an internet radio show that reached 164+ countries.

Witnessing the impact of these women boldly sharing their stories sparked an idea. In 2020, I founded Sistas with a Voice Podcast Network, dedicated to teaching and training women entrepreneurs to launch and monetize their podcasts in just 30 days. What sets me apart is the simplicity of my approach and a genuine connection that meets clients where they are, bridging the gap between ideas and profitable platforms.

With a mission to challenge the podcasting narrative, especially for women (who represented only 22% of podcasters in 2018), I embarked on a journey to amplify voices globally. Podcasting, an intimate medium, allows for impactful conversations from the comfort of one’s home. Sistas with a Voice Podcast Network became a catalyst for changing perceptions about podcasts, showcasing the power of voices from diverse backgrounds, nationalities, and social classes.

Through coaching and strategy sessions, I help clients bring their podcast ideas to life and navigate setbacks. Every success story, every fully flushed-out podcast born from my guidance, reaffirms the purpose behind the work. The satisfaction of helping others launch meaningful shows is immeasurable.

For those discovering Sistas with a Voice Podcast Network, it’s an invitation to join a greater purpose. Connecting with the mission and vision means learning to magnify your voice, maximize your reach, and monetize your message. The world needs your unique perspective, and launching a podcast becomes the bridge between your next lead and a paying client.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

In 2015, facing the devastation of my first corporate layoff, I grappled with the loss of identity tied to my job titles. Seeking purpose, I embarked on a 40-day spiritual fast, a journey that led to unexpected revelations. This period of reflection became the catalyst for my first-time authorship in the anthology “Women Inspiring Nations,” where I shared how a corporate layoff guided me toward my purpose.

Emerging from my comfort zone, I launched a tee-shirt line, “Walk in Love to Creations,” inspired by the biblical message of demonstrating love to others. Wearing the #WalkinLove shirts sparked conversations, providing an opportunity to share my story of finding hope and purpose amid job loss. Acts of kindness to strangers became a powerful vehicle for redirecting my focus from personal loss to the potential for helping others.

In 2018, the Inspiring Nations Podcast Show emerged, providing the platform to extend my mission. Unexpectedly laid off two more times, seven years apart, I persisted in building my dreams. Despite setbacks, I birthed two podcast shows, co-authored anthologies, became an Amazon international best-selling author, and wrote my first solo book, “Beyond the Mic – The Game Changing Guide to Podcasting.” I now speak on stages at conferences, host my own annual conference, “PodcastersRock,” and teach and train women to find their voices through podcasting.

The resilience forged during those challenging days in 2015, as I fell to my knees feeling helpless, unveiled a purpose-driven path. The setbacks in corporate America were stepping stones to a life where I no longer fit into predefined boxes. Born to inspire a nation, I realized that becoming a podcaster not only saved my career but also transformed my life into one I absolutely love.

We’d love to hear the story of how you built up your social media audience?

In 2020, as I embarked on the journey of building Sistas with a Voice Podcast Network and offering courses to teach others how to start a podcast, I encountered challenges. Many expressed interest but hesitated due to fears of inadequacy or awkwardness. Despite efforts on social media, engagement was low. Seeking guidance, I enrolled in a coaching program that focused on tying biblical references to entrepreneurship and purpose. This decision proved transformative.

The coaching program emphasized getting crystal clear on identity, services, and transformation offered. A key strategy was consistent and clear messaging: Who I am, What I do, How I serve, and the transformation clients get. Through consistent daily efforts, including Facebook Lives and strategic messaging, I persevered. Despite days with minimal response, I kept showing up, confident in the value I had to offer.

Over two years, my confidence strengthened, and I became coined as “The Podcast Queen.” Consistency paid off, and people started reaching out. Messages flooded my inbox from those interested in podcasting, wanting to be guests, or expressing gratitude for inspirational posts. I realized that my impact was more significant than initially perceived.

This journey led to the creation of a thriving community group on Facebook, “Monetize & Magnify: Powerhouse Podcasting Circle,” and the establishment of PodcastersRock, a conference for both aspiring and seasoned podcasters.

Advice for Building a Social Media Presence:

Clarity is Key:

Start by answering fundamental questions about yourself and your brand. Clearly define Who You Are, What You Do, How You Serve, and the Transformation you provide. This clarity forms the foundation for effective communication.
Consistency and Persistence:

Consistently show up on social media, even on days when engagement seems low. Consistency builds trust and establishes your presence in the minds of your audience.
Confidence in Your Message:

Speak confidently and authentically about your offerings. Even when it feels like no one is listening, maintain the belief that your message is valuable, and the right audience will show up.
Connect and Amplify:

Focus on connecting with your audience. Use your platform to amplify your voice and provide valuable content. Genuine connections lead to a community that resonates with your message.
Lead with Purpose:

Answering fundamental questions about your identity and purpose enables effective leadership. Once you know who you are and what you stand for, others will be drawn to your authenticity.
Your journey exemplifies the transformative power of consistent and purposeful social media engagement. It’s a testament to the impact one can make when driven by a clear message and a commitment to serve and inspire.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.sonjakeeve.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sonjakeeve
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sonjakeeve
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sonjakeeve

Image Credits
Vincent Russell