The Blk Powerhouse Podcast

Welcome to The Blk Powerhouse Podcast, where we explore the publishing industry through the lens of Black voices. Whether you’re a writer, author, publisher, bookseller, librarian, or book influencer, this podcast is for anyone navigating the world of books—from the page to the bookshelf and beyond. We’ll tackle everything from how to break into the industry, to building lasting careers, to making meaningful connections in an ever-evolving field—and, most importantly, how we, as Black people in this space, can work together to create the equitable changes we need to see.

The Blk Powerhouse Podcast is a arts podcast hosted by Leah Hernandez, with 10 episodes on record and a Required Pod Score of 80. PitchCentric scores this show on Booking Probability, Listen Score, and live audience signals refreshed every 24 hours.

Leah Hernandez hosts The Blk Powerhouse Podcast, a arts show with 10 episodes published.

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  Episode #10

  Taking the Ghost Out of Ghostwriting with Leah Latkins

  Jun 9, 202645 minS1

  <p>What does it really take to build a successful career as a ghostwriter?</p><p>In this episode of The Blk Powerhouse Podcast, Leah Hernandez sits down with ghostwriter, editor, and author Leah Lakins, whose clients include Steve Harvey, Pinky Cole, Roland Martin, and Van Lathan.</p><p>Leah pulls back the curtain on the ghostwriting industry and shares practical advice for writers, editors, freelancers, and publishing professionals.</p><p>In this episode, we discuss:</p><p>• How Leah got her start in publishing and ghostwriting<br/>• Why she's stepping out from behind the scenes after years as a ghos...

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  Episode #9

  The Patreon for Books? How Bookum Is Changing Publishing

  May 19, 202632 minS1

  <p>In today’s episode, I’m joined by my friend Kyle Colley, Co-Founder & CEO of Bookum — a social reading app and virtual book club platform connecting authors, readers, and book influencers all in one place.</p><p>We discuss how bestselling authors like S.A. Cosby, Cebo Campbell, and Wallo have used the platform to host live conversations and connect directly with readers. This episode dives into why book influencers, bookstores, book club hosts, authors, and publishing professionals should be paying attention to platforms like Bookum. </p><p>In this episode you'll learn: </p>How book influencers and content creators...

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  Episode #8

  🎬 Inside the Business of Book-to-Film Adaptations with Cebo Campbell

  Nov 3, 202557 minS1

  <p>In this episode, filmmaker, author, and brand builder Cebo Campbell takes us behind the scenes of how stories move from the page to the screen. He shares how he used his background in hospitality and brand development to build his identity as an author and creative entrepreneur — leading to powerful partnerships, including a book-to-film deal with Laurence Fishburne. </p><p>Listeners will gain insight into the creative and business sides of film adaptation — and what it really takes to position your story, your brand, and yourself for the big screen.</p><p>In this episode, you’ll learn:</p>How Ceb...

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  The Blk Powerhouse Podcast

  The Truth About Bestseller Lists (and Why We Need Our Own)

  Oct 20, 202551 minS0

  <p>Everyone in publishing talks about bestsellers—but few people actually know how those lists are made.</p><p>In this episode, I’m joined by <b>Troy Johnson</b>, Founder of the African American Literature Book Club (AALBC), and <b>Linda Duggins</b>, longtime publishing executive, to unpack what really goes into making a book a “bestseller.”</p><p>Together, they created <b>The BLK Bestsellers List</b>—a list spotlighting the top-selling Black authors across all genres. We talk about why it matters, how it challenges traditional systems, and what it reveals about the power of the Black book commu...

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  Episode #6

  Building an Award Winning Press with Valerie Brandes Founder of Jacaranda Books

  Aug 18, 202548 minS1

  <p>I had the pleasure of interviewing <b>Valerie Brandes</b>, Founder & CEO of <b>Jacaranda Books</b>, a Black-owned independent publishing company based in London.</p><p>In our conversation, Valerie shares her journey of starting and growing her press, how she’s overcome challenges like distribution, publishing 20 books during a pandemic, and the ways indie publishers can connect with their audiences to grow sales.</p><p>✨ Check out Jacaranda’s incredible, award-winning books here: https://jacarandabooksartmusic.com/<br/><br/></p>

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