The Reader of Black Genius Podcast

The Reader of Black Genius Podcast

The Reader of Black Genius podcast is a bi-weekly show, hosted by Derrick A. Young, Co-Owner and founder of MahoganyBooks, where we explore the transformative power of literature in our personal journeys. In each episode of the podcast, Derrick interviews inspiring writers, entrepreneurs, artists, and cultural influencers. He aims to discover their origin story as well as highlight the books by Black authors that they've read, which have shaped their thinking and lives.

The Reader of Black Genius PodcastFebruary 02, 2026x
2
02:21:22

Blood at the Root: LaDarrion Williams on Black Heroes and Storytelling

Derrick Young is back at it again, diving deep into the creative journey of bestselling author LaDarrion Williams. Right from the jump, we're talking about how LaDarrion's unique background and the Bl...

The Reader of Black Genius PodcastJanuary 15, 2026x
1
01:59:42

The Power of Storytelling: Nikisha Elise Williams Talks Books and Life

Nikesha Elise-Williams is in the house, and we're diving deep into her journey as an author and the host of the Black & Published podcast. As she gears up for the release of her highly anticipated...

The Reader of Black Genius PodcastOctober 28, 2025x
13
01:42:00

Kids, Books, and Black Identity: A Chat with Derrick Barnes

In a lively and engaging conversation, Derrick Barnes shares his remarkable journey from aspiring writer to celebrated author of children’s books that center on Black boys and girls. Derrick’s mission...

The Reader of Black Genius PodcastSeptember 26, 2025x
12
01:29:56

Black Power Beyond Symbolism: A Conversation with Dr. Andre Perry

The conversation with Dr. Andre Perry is a profound exploration of the intersections between Black Power, economic justice, and community empowerment. Dr. Perry articulates a vision of Black Power tha...

The Reader of Black Genius PodcastSeptember 05, 2025x
11
01:43:11

The Business of Being Black: Dr. Gina Paige on Heritage, Resilience, and Black Excellence

In this engaging episode featuring Gina Paige, co-founder of African Ancestry, we explore the intersection of business, culture, and identity. Gina's journey is a testament to the power of understandi...

The Reader of Black Genius PodcastAugust 22, 2025x
10
02:09:44

A Sky Full of Elephants: Cebo Campbell on Pushing Boundaries in Literature

Derrick Young, the super blerd host of The Reader of Black Genius Podcast, has a thrilling conversation with Cebo Campbell, the brilliant mind behind the groundbreaking novel 'Sky Full of Elephants.' ...

The Reader of Black Genius PodcastAugust 07, 2025x
9
01:52:07

The Readingest Brother: Conversations on Black Literature with Panama Jackson

Today, we dive deep into the world of reading, writing, and the remarkable journey of Panama Jackson, my partner-in-crime and fellow book lover. Right off the bat, we explore how Panama cultivated his...

The Power of Community: Mayor Derrick Wood on Leading with Purpose

We're diving deep into the journey of Mayor Derrick Wood today, who’s not just a dude with a fancy title but a visionary leader making waves in Dumfries, Virginia. He’s all about transforming his comm...

Kwame Mbalia: Crafting Heroes for Little Black Boys and Girls

Kwame Mbalia joins us today, and let me tell you, this dude is a powerhouse of creativity and humor! Seriously, he’s the kind of guy who can drop a dad joke like a pro, and we kick things off with a l...

Unpacking Black Genius: Paul Coates and the Books that Shaped Him

Listeners of the Reader of Black Genius podcast are in for a treat as Derrick Young chats with Paul Coates, a pivotal figure in black publishing and the founder of Black Classic Press. Coates takes us...