Since 2004, Podcasting has emerged as the world’s premier platform for online news, social commentary, and personal audio blogging. Prior to the launching of Apple’s iPod in the early 2000s, audio journalism was limited to talk radio and syndicated news platforms. Today, Podcasting has become an essential part of daily life.
Johnson Publications’ staple magazine, Ebony, recognized the growing trend of podcasting and has committed to building the Ebony Podcast Network. Internet influencers and public figures are slated to release weekly shows highlighting Black Culture and issues concerning Black America.
Monroe resident, Walter Jones, was recently named Senior Vice-President of Ebony Magazine Publishing. Jones, former Monroe Fire Marshal, and Sports Agent, has continued to climb ladders to represent the Monroe Community around the world. He is a managing partner for The Groovy Mango, a digital marketing firm, as well as One Haven Sports Marketing and Branding. His most familiar recent accomplishment is managing Dallas Cowboys Quarterback, Dak Prescott.
Jones built a loyal relationship with Lavaille Lavette, President of Ebony Magazine Publishing. The two constructed a plan to energize the Ebony brand by tapping into platforms that directly target this new generation of voices and influencers.
Ebony was started in 1945 by John H. Johnson. In 2021, the company was purchased by former NBA Player, Junior Bridgeman, and Businessman Charles Alexander. Since then, Lavette and Jones, have been working hard to push the brand into the 21st Century, an era that is largely consumed by Digital Media. “The brand needs to reflect the needs of today’s digital culture,” said Jones. Lavette and Jones set out to do just that by launching the Ebony Podcast Network.
There are only 28 Podcasters or “Hosts” on the network. Well-known figures such as Pat Mahomes, Sr (Father of NBA Superstar Pat Mahomes, QB for the Kansas City Chiefs) and Tad Prescott (Father of NFL Superstar Dak Prescott) both have Sports related podcasts. Award-winning Radio Personality, Angela Yee, has a show called “Lip Service,” among many others. Monroe native Reaux Fareal is slated to launch a new show called “Crown Talk In The Parlay Room”.
Reaux Fareal (Roosevelt Wright, III), commonly known in the Monroe area as “Daddy Ro” due to his success as a former radio personality in this area, will host “Crown Talk” with a focus on HBCU Culture and perspectives which concern young Black America.
“Reaux has maintained a healthy influence in Mass Communication spanning more than three decades. His voice and his views on today’s issues are supported by thousands daily on social media. He is a perfect fit for Ebony,” said Jones.
Crown Talk will feature Award Winning Personal Trainer and Actor Thad Pugh as a resident featured guest on the show. Corporate Consultant Bobby Ray Ballard will join Reaux on the show as well. Both Ballard and Pugh are also Monroe natives.
“Crown Talk is a dope discussion for young Kings and Queens about issues we feel are plaguing our progress in America. Expect some laughs, Spoken Word, and more on each episode,” said Reaux.
All of Ebony’s Podcasts can be found on all digital media platforms, including Spotify, Apple, and Youtube. Reaux Fareal’s Podcast is Ebony’s newest addition. It will be available on Memorial Day. For more information, go to www.ebonymagazinepublishing.com
