Podcasting, Media Literacy, and Black Voices: A Chat with J. Stokes

Talib Jasir, founder and CEO of Afros & Podcast Festival and the Vanguard Podcast Network, interviews J. Stokes in Afros & Audio's Black History Month series. J. Stokes is the host of the AVIOT podcast, which provides atypical perspectives on everyday news. The podcast is intended to challenge mainstream narratives, promoting honesty, thoroughness, and diversity of thought. Alongside his work on the podcast, Stokes is passionate about media literacy within the African diaspora, particularly for the youth, and is dedicated to promoting informed opinions rather than simply echoing popular stances. The interview covers Stokes' journey from aspiring doctor to health educator and media educator, the positive impacts of creating the podcast, and his mission toward instigating critical thoughts and engaging people on social justice issues. Stokes also discusses his future plans for the AVIOT podcast, including developing more content for YouTube, inviting more guests, and offering continued support for social justice movements. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:31 Discussing the Atypical Voices in Our Time Podcast 00:52 The Inspiration Behind the Unique Approach 03:18 The Journey to Media Literacy and Health Education 08:29 The Impact of Media Consumption on the Black Community 11:32 The Evolution and Growth of the Podcast 17:13 The Power of Podcasting in Social Justice Movements 20:07 The Importance of Being Informed and Opinionated 20:25 The Power of Words and Opinions 20:41 Applying Research and Facts to Podcasting 21:19 Discussing Interracial Dating within the African Diaspora 22:10 Addressing Misconceptions and Stereotypes 22:33 The Importance of Context in Statistics 23:40 Challenging Narratives and Promoting Unity 26:02 The Role of Chemistry Productions and AVIOT Podcast 27:43 Contributing to Black History and Culture 29:48 Future Plans for AVIOT and Chemistry Productions 39:28 Navigating Negative Comments and Criticism 42:29 Closing Remarks and Acknowledgements To learn more visit:  linktr.ee/AVIOT_Podcast linktr.ee/K3mistryProductions AVIOT on Spotify Join Black Podcaster's Association: bit.ly/BPACommunity  Learn more about the 6th Annual Afros & Audio Podcast Festival, October 18-20, 2024 in Baltimore, MD: www.afrosandaudio.com DISCLAIMER: The views expressed by guests of Afros & Audio's Black History Month interview series are their own and do not reflect the values, mission, or business of Talib Jasir, Afros & Audio, Black Podcasters Association, Vanguard Podcast Network, or any other names, podcasts, events, businesses, or organizations mentioned in the video or audio of this series unless explicitly stated.