In November we reported a partnership of iHeartRadio and Pushkin Industries, the audio production company founded by Malcolm Gladwell and Jacob Weisberg in 2018. The relationship made iHR the exclusive rep for Pushkin podcasts, and brought a promise of co-produced ventures.
Now we learn of the first jointly produced show: Be Antiracist with Ibram X. Kendi, which will drop on June 9. Hosted by Kendi is a historian and Founding Director of the Boston University Center for Antiracist Research. The podcast will build on his extensive body of antiracist work, challenging listeners to consider what an antiracist society might look like and how we individuals and communities can play an active role in building it. It’s planned as a weekly interview show.
“After a year that laid bare the pervasive racial inequity that continues to plague our nation, we must continue the difficult but necessary conversations that will allow us to imagine and erect a truly antiracist society,” Kendi said. “I look forward to exploring these topics with guests whose work I deeply admire and digging deep with them and with listeners.”
“Be Antiracist with Ibram X. Kendi’ will bring Dr. Kendi’s essential insights to millions of listeners around the world,” said Will Pearson, Chief Operating Officer for the iHeartPodcast Network. “The show speaks to many of the deeply-rooted issues the past year has brought to light and enables listeners to benefit from the perspectives of some truly unparalleled guests.”
“Over the past few years, Ibram X. Kendi has emerged as America’s most influential thinker on race, racism, and anti-racism,” said Pushkin Industries CEO Jacob Weisberg. “Pushkin is thrilled to help Dr. Kendi expand the conversation his books have ignited. We hope the show will empower listeners to effect change in their own communities and beyond.”
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