Urban One, the largest Black-owned and Black-targeted media company, has quietly been building a network of podcasts, and its efforts are paying off. The company says it has seen a 381% increase in downloads and a 313% jump in unique listeners since the Urban One Podcast Network launched less than two years ago.
Dre Smith, Senior Director of Podcasting for Urban One, credits a growing roster of shows that span a range of genres.
“I couldn’t be more excited to be leading the Urban One Podcast Network and expanding its portfolio with a variety of titles that directly engage, entertain, and relate to Black America,” Smith says in the announcement. “Our recent signings and new original podcasts mark a huge step forward for our growth and showcase our vibrant culture. It’s also a privilege to partner with some of the most talented content creators in the game. We look forward to seeing all our shows thrive under the Urban One Podcast Network umbrella and to seeing the incredible opportunities our portfolio will bring.”
The update comes as the Urban One Podcast Network says it has formed an exclusive partnership with Mick Unplugged, a self-improvement and education podcast that launched in February and has already seen strong showings on the Apple Podcast charts. The show has reached as high as No. 1 in the Self-Improvement category, No. 3 in Education, and No. 54 overall across all podcasts.
As part of the collaboration, the Urban One Podcast Network will distribute multiple weekly episodes of Mick Unplugged and provide promotional content across Urban One’s audio platforms, including Reach Media and Radio One. The network will also exclusively manage all sales and sponsorships, which encompass a diverse range of opportunities.
“Joining the Urban One Podcast Network is an honor that speaks to both the legacy of leadership and the power of voice. Urban One has set the gold standard in media for amplifying diverse stories, and I’m thrilled to be a part of a network that represents strength, authenticity, and cultural impact,” host Mick Hunt commented. “For me, this partnership is about more than just content — it’s about carrying forward a tradition of excellence and purpose-driven conversation. Together, we’re empowering the next generation of leaders, entrepreneurs, and change-makers.”
Other recent signings to the Urban One Podcast Network include Dear Future Wifey, a relationship podcast hosted by Laterras R. Whitfield; The Fun House with hip-hop legends Kid N’ Play; She Said It First, hosted by comedian and actress Lynee’ Monee and entertainer Jerrilyn Lake; Small Doses, a self-improvement podcast hosted by Amanda Seales; and Boyz N The Barn, a new sports podcast hosted by NFL Superbowl Champion Vernon Davis.
The Urban One Podcast Network also consists of the on-demand version of several radio shows, such as The Rickey Smiley Morning Show, The Morning Hustle, and The DL Hughley Show, among others.
ความคิดเห็น