What is it about podcasts that make them so interesting? For me, it's the feeling that every week, I have a scheduled session with a different group of friends to talk about what's going on in my life. Whatever topic you can think of, I'm almost sure that there is a podcast for it. Whether that be pop culture, mental wellness, health, sex or music, there's a podcast for it. Even cooler is that there are so many black millennials doing the damn thing in the podcast world. A few you've probably heard of and some that are on the rise. Either way, here's a list of 12 podcasts by black millennials everyone should check.

It's no secret that "hoe culture" has taken the internet by storm. With public figures like Cardi B describing herself as a "stripper hoe," and the concept of sexual liberation finally being understood, being a "hoe" isn't really an insult anymore. Hosts Sam and Shanika are 20-somethings that explore the world of polyamory, dating and sex while living in NYC. This podcast is so funny and whenever I listen to it, I feel like I'm having girl talk. If you're looking for a fun podcast that gets down to the nitty-gritty of sex and relationships, this is the one.

Rich Friend: The Elevated Conversation

For starters, this podcast is sponsored by Avion Tequila. Tequila plus conversation automatically equals entertainment. I love this podcast because it touches on so many different subjects: dating, style, music and culture. Although the podcast is hosted by two men, Mark Anthony Green and Matthew Trammell, they often have guests and interviews from both men and women allowing multiple perspectives. Truly, they are just chilling and talking about stuff, but it's great.

Melanin Millennials

This UK based podcast is hosted by Imrie and Satia, two black women from London who keep it real and give a different perspective on the black experience. Their distinct British accents and perspective are what drew me into this podcast. Along with the awesome accents, you realize that although things are a bit different culturally, the black experience is universal. Gentrification, racism, misogynoir and homophobia are not just affecting us here in what will soon be Trump’s America.

The Combat Jack Show

The Combat Jack show is the #1 hip-hop podcast around. Topics on the show include race, news, and culture, however, music is always at the forefront of the conversation. So many hip-hop legends have graced the show with their presence, and the Combat Jack Show brings exclusive perspectives to the conversation. I’m in no way a hip-hop connoisseur, but even I enjoy the Combat Jack show. All music junkies and hip-hop heads need to check it out if you haven’t already.

Rantin’ and Ravin’

Rantin’ and Ravin’ with Yamaneika and Friends is a hilarious podcast hosted by Yamaneika Saunders. If you need a good laugh, a pick me up or just good vibes, you’ll love this podcast. Straight clowning while also keeping it real, how you do that? That’s what this podcast entails.

2 Dope Queens

Phoebe Robinson and Jessica Williams kill it on their podcast 2 Dope Queens. I’ve been a fan of Jessica Williams for a while now, and since this podcast came out, I love her even more. Both Phoebe and Jessica have such fun personalities, and it shows on every episode. Topics include everything from sex, hair journeys, relationships, and the responsibilities of adulting.

Ignorant Philosophy

I love this podcast because it’s based out of the Midwest. As a Midwestern native, you don’t see too many podcasts based out of the region, but believe me, we have a lot to say. The vibes of the show are just friends kicking it and talking about what’s going on in the world. They're funny, they’re silly and they’re real. Whatever it is you want to talk about ranging from paying bills to sex, I’m sure they’ve touched on it.

Tax Season

Famous for his signature phrase “be safe tho,” as well as his love of Dusse, Tax Stone is also a leader in the black podcast game. His sultry voice and ability to book amazing guests from hip hop Legends like Beanie Sigel to Astrologists like MysticxLipstick; is what makes this show so amazing to listen to.You never know what you’re going to get. Tax Stone’s unique, and sometimes a bit problematic perspective adds to the experience. Check it out, beloved.

Another Round

Another cool black girl podcast, Another Round is hosted by Heben Nigatu and Tracy Clayton. When I say they are hilarious, sometimes I’m literally in tears. In the same way, they touch on topics related to race and gender that are serious and deep. There’s just enough seriousness and joking to have the perfect mix of fun realness. Another Round is the intellectual clowning that I love having in black spaces.

The Friend Zone

A podcast that explores all things mental wellness and mental hygiene, because who in the hell wants a musty brain? Fran, Dustin and Assante work weekly to discuss topics that many other podcasts aren’t discussing dealing with the mental spectrum. This show is filled with great discussion, self-care tips, and laughs. The podcast promotes not only mental health but spiritual and physical health as well. I recommend taking a break, grabbing a glass of Pinot Grigio and sitting back and relaxing while listening to this podcast. It’s like weekly therapy.

Bodega Boys

Desus Nice and The Kid Mero may be two of the funniest dudes ever, in my opinion. I’m not even from New York and I don’t get half of the things they make reference to, but their delivery is so great that it doesn’t even matter. This isn’t just a podcast, this is art. Believe me and bodega hive when we say that the brand is strong. The pair has even landed a show on Viceland called “Desus and Mero” because they are hilarious. If you’re from New York, or you just need a good laugh, you’ll love Bodega Boys.

The Read

The Read is definitely running the black podcast scene right now. This is the first podcast I ever listened to, and three years later, I’m still here. Kid Fury and Crissle’s chemistry is amazing, and they have a way of saying the things we didn't even know we were thinking. Their infamous “read” section leaves my edges snatched weekly as they tell someone or something about themselves. They’re funny, they’re smart, they’re high, and they’re well spoken. They also may be two of the only people I know that stand for Beyonce and Blue Ivy harder than me. Kid Fury and Crissle are who I want to be when I grow up.

dustin ross

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