Shows
The BLACKCASTFood for the Soul: The cultural significance, roots of soul food
You can’t go wrong with a delicious plate of soul food– not only does it live up to its name as comfort on a plate, but it’s also a cornerstone of Black culture. Join hosts Kennedy Chow (‘25) and Sydney Curry (‘25) as they explore the roots, cultural significance, and discourse surrounding iconic soul food dishes, both sweet and savory.2025-04-1610 min
The Publisher And The Writer13. Writing Journeys & Publishing NewsWe are back for 2025. In this episode we cover a lot of ground, with insights into the writing and publishing journey of successful authors, plus Aussie publishing news and a catchup on how 2025 has started for Seana's writing and for Ventura Press.Join Jane Curry and Seana Smith for a candid insight into how to write and to publish your book.00:00 Introduction and Ventura Press author Katherine Johnson's wins inaugural HarperCollins Australian Fiction Prize.01:24 Katherine Johnson's publishing journey and the impact of literary prizes for authors.05:53 Australian publishing news: Tex...2025-02-1630 minThe BLACKCASTRights, Resistance, and Reactions: The history of Black voting rights, reactions to the 2024 election
From the Black Codes that followed Reconstruction to the 2013 Shelby v. Holder ruling, Black voters have often been hindered from exercising their constitutional right. Despite this, Black voters have insisted on getting involved civically and making political impact. Join hosts Kennedy Chow (‘25) and Sydney Curry (‘25) as they discuss this topic along with their reactions to the candidacy of Kamala Harris and the outcome of the 2024 election.2024-12-1818 minThe BLACKCASTNot just a “sorority party”: The origin and salience of the Divine Nine organizations
Joining sororities and fraternities are often rites of passage and greatly anticipated in college. Join hosts Kennedy Chow (‘25) and Sydney Curry (‘25) as they discuss the origin, purpose, longevity, and more about the Divine Nine.2024-10-1215 minThe BLACKCASTBlack & Coming Of Age: Black Prom, Debutante Balls, & Sweet Sixteens
**Whether it's quinceaneras or bat-mitzvahs, almost every culture has some form of coming of age celebration. Join hosts Kennedy Chow (‘25) and Sydney Curry (‘25) as they examine coming of age ceremonies in the Black community and share their own coming of age experiences. **2024-05-2114 minThe BLACKCASTReese and Richardson: Black athletes and sports cultureEpisode Notes
Episode five of “The BLACKCAST” was recorded April 17 following March Madness 2024.
Without a doubt, sports are one of the biggest parts of American culture. Outside of its standard programming, due to huge broadcasts such as the Superbowl, Olympics and March Madness, the sports industry elicits millions of viewers annually. Like many large industries, sports has had a complicated relationship with its Black participants. There have been ridiculous double standards, instances of lack of recognition and color barriers. Join hosts Kennedy Chow (‘25) and Sydney Curry (‘25) as they examine this topic.2024-05-0713 minThe BLACKCASTAnd the award goes to: Black creatives and award shows
Episode four of “The BLACKCAST” was recorded March 4 in the midst of award show season.
Across the world, families tune in annually to watch ceremonies like the Grammys and Oscars. These broadcasts were designed to showcase the hard work of artists across various industries including music, film, and theater. Despite this, Black artists are often left unacknowledged and unappreciated. Join hosts Kennedy Chow (‘25) and Sydney Curry (‘25) as they examine this issue and the complex relationship between Black creatives and award shows.2024-04-1017 minThe BLACKCASTGood luck & good fun: Traditions and superstitions in the Black community
For many people, superstitions and traditions are integral to who they are as a person. There’s important traditions, as well as superstitions that one may look forward to at every event and/or festivity, many of which being cultural. Join hosts Kennedy Chow (‘25) and Sydney Curry (‘25), as they delve into the traditions and superstitions embedded in Black culture.2024-02-1516 minThe BLACKCAST‘DYNOMITE’ and ‘DWAYNE’: The history and influence of Black television
The TV we watch undoubtedly shapes our view of the world. In the Black community, the fight for proper and inclusive representation has been ongoing. Join hosts Sydney Curry (‘25) and Kennedy Chow (‘25) in a discussion on the history of Black television, monumental Black TV moments and more.2024-01-1920 minThe BLACKCASTFrom Ella Fitzgerald to the King of Pop: The History and Influence of Black Music and MusiciansEpisode Notes
Music is inarguably one of the most important facets of culture, especially in the Black community. Join hosts Sydney Curry (‘25) and Kennedy Chow (‘25) as they discuss its history, the experiences of many Black legends in music and more.2023-12-1117 min