Urban One Inc., based in Silver Spring, MD, announced the launch of the Urban One Podcast Network. According to a release, this “groundbreaking effort expands the company’s already extensive audio entertainment options for BIPOC audiences, as well as for advertisers who want to connect with the Black community authentically and culturally.”

Spearheading the network and its launch is Sierra Reed, above, Senior Director of Podcast Operations for the Urban One Podcast Network. Reed, states the release, “is an accomplished media veteran with over 14 years of experience as a content creator, published writer, journalist, and senior business strategist whose passion-driven expertise and experience in audio broadcasting make her a perfect fit for the role. Through the launch of her own podcast almost 10 years ago and her own experience for storytelling, Reed understands the opportunity to service the multifaceted community that the network supports.”

“Powered by Black stories, continues the release, the network “is a curated slate of premium content across diverse genres enriched in information, insight, and entertainment. The network launches with more than 10 original shows plus exclusive partnerships with other Black-owned podcasts and networks.”

From crimes and comedy to music, health and sports, the lineup includes The Undressing Room Podcast presented by Macy’s, Small Doses with Amanda Seales, The Amanda Seales Show, Fatal Attraction, Black Health 365, Rickey Smiley Morning Show Podcast, I Hate the Homies, Mind Body and Business with Maria More, Mompreneurs, Adult’Hood, Dead End Media, SZN Opener, Back Story with Colby Colb and more. The network, which has an average of more than 1.5 million downloads per month at launch, will continuously be adding additional original shows and partnerships.

“Given Urban One’s history and legacy in creating premium audio content for Black audiences and the growing level of Black podcast listeners, this was a natural step to continue exemplifying our mission of “Representing Black Culture”” said Josh Rahmani, Urban One’s Chief Revenue Officer, Audio Division. “The network provides a natural partnership destination for BIPOC creators and presents advertisers the opportunity to connect with a niche audience that over-indexes for their response to brands that show up in podcasts, particularly podcasts with Black creators and hosts.”

The Urban One Podcast Network has teamed up with Katz Digital as its exclusive third-party sales partner. “Katz Digital is both proud and excited to expand upon our exclusive partnership with Urban One, now adding their premium, culturally relevant podcast content to our current industry leading podcast offerings,” said Scott Porretti, President, Katz Digital. Additionally, the new network is supported by a partnership with Publicis Media’s APX Content Ventures and funding via its Inclusion Investment Fund.