Glory Edim

Glory Edim is the founder of the reading network Well-Read Black Girl and the host of the podcast Well Read Black Girl. Follow her on Twitter here. Follow Well Read Black Girl on Twitter here.

How many years were people begging you to start a podcast?
I mean, FOREVER! The podcast is the natural evolution of the Well-Read Black Girl community. The book club was totally ready to hear directly from authors and learn more about their individual journeys to become writers.

What’s your relationship with your voice and how would you describe it?
I'm still learning my voice. I do my best to lean into the uncomfortable parts and be authentic. I'm driven by curiosity! I want individuals to listen and respond with their own stories. Whether they share their admiration or frustration with the books they're reading or the creative process of writing! Hopefully, they'll exclaim, “Hell yeah, I’ve been there, too.” The vibe is similar to the book club; it's about reflecting on all of the ways literature offers us courage and inspiring us to try our best.

You sounded like such a podcast natural on your first episode. Congratulations! Was it easy to get on the mic for the first time?
Wow! Thank you. Honestly, the mic can sometimes feel intimidating. I'm learning so much about how to be a podcaster. For example, writing a book is completely different from developing a script that needs to be narrated. I have to inject enthusiasm into my voiceover and capture the listener's attention. It's a lot of hard work but it's worth it.

I have heard you talk about learning to be vulnerable as a writer. Is sharing vulnerability different for a podcaster?I’d like to think I’ve done a few daring things in my life; starting a podcast is one of them! Although I love reading & talking to authors, I entered a whole new realm as a podcast host. It requires a specific type of vulnerability. You have to listen deeply and step-up your interview skills. I find myself feeling more present in my conversations and looking for connections in my own life. I'm in awe of authors I chat with; I want them to understand I value their craft. It's a really special exchange with every episode.

How has The Well-Read Black Girl changed your life?
Well-Read Black Girl has completely changed my life! I mean, I've published two whole BOOKS and I host a podcast! The platform has become part of my larger legacy. I take a lot of pride in my work and pay homage to the writers that have come before me. I envision a future for the platform in which we become a cultural institution. The podcast allows me to introduce audiences to creative work developed by Black artists and writers.

How do you expect the podcast to further your mission?
Well-Read Black Girl's mission is to educate the public on the presence, meaning, and value of Black literature through programming that highlights its beauty, and promotes diversity in cultural expression. The podcast is one more valuable asset to our mission. With each interview I'm encouraging listeners of all backgrounds to use storytelling as a tool for activism and connecting audiences with Black literary works and authors.

Thanks, Glory!