Spotlight Sunday: Chidinma Azubuike
Shining a light on Canada's Black podcasters and media minds, including those making waves internationally! About the host of the 'But What Do I Know?' Podcast.
“I wish I had known the amount of work, energy, and learning that it takes to produce and sustain a successful podcast.” ~Chidinma Azubuike
Happy Easter! Whether you're dodging kitchen duties or eagerly hovering by the stove hoping someone—be it your mom, auntie, or grandma— as they declare dinner is ready, here's a read to keep you informed of a podcaster you need to know (and out of the way of any flying spatulas).
Featured in Vol.1 of the Northern Voices Podcast List, The "But What Do I Know?" podcast, hosted by Chidinma "Chid Suzan" Azubuike, blends pop culture and current affairs with deep dives into personal growth, relationships, wellness, and finances. Airing every other Wednesday, it encourages listeners to embrace learning and self-discovery through discussions with guest experts. It's a space for both staying informed and overcoming self-doubt.
I've got to tell you about Chidinma. Back in October 2022, we teamed up to bring some awesome Black Canadian podcasters to Philly at the Afros and Audios which is the first multi-day conference for and by Black independent podcast creators and audio professionals. If you didn’t know, now you know! It was Chidinma, Nana aba Duncan from Media Girlfriends, and the hosts from Hustle Over Everything—Alex & Owen and me representing Canada.
Her podcast? It’s something special. It's like this perfect mix of personal stories, big cultural vibes, and super helpful tips that make you feel ready to take on whatever life throws at you. If you’re looking for a podcast that feels like catching up with a friend who’s got some wise words to share, you’ve got to check out Chidinma’s work. Alright, let’s get into her creative process and get to know Chidinma better.
Please Chidinma, introduce yourself:
I, Chidinma Azubuike, am an Urban Planner, as well as the Founder and Host of the But What Do I Know? Podcast. With these two paths, I merge my love for Community Building/Development and my passion for writing and facilitating conversations. As a Podcaster, I created the show to be a community where BIPOC individuals can feel affirmed, listen to uplifting conversations not often heard in the mainstream, and receive information and tools to help overcome those life moments that make them say, 'Damn... But What Do I Know?' Currently, I serve as the Founder, Host, and Editor for the podcast content and subject matter. (Whew, I'm wearing A LOT of hats with this podcast... LOL) In addition to this, when I’m not working on city-related projects or podcasting, I love to relax by watching TV shows such as Insecure or Run the World, which follows the lives and journeys of Black women, as well as discovering new R&B and Afrobeats music.
What sparked you to launch/be part of the podcast? How did the concept take shape?
CA: I was inspired to start the 'But What Do I Know?' Podcast in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the bittersweet nature of that year, the events surrounding the pandemic and the heightened discussions about race compelled me to tell myself, 'It's time to begin this podcast and engage in these vital conversations for our community’.
How do you come up with ideas for your episodes and/or find interesting guests?
CA: When coming up with ideas for podcast episodes, I typically brainstorm topics that interest me, compile a list of current events, reflect on conversations I've had with my friends, and create subtopics and questions around these themes. Through this process, I gain a deeper understanding of certain topics and explore their interconnections. As I develop each topic, I also consider its relatability to listeners and its potential usefulness.
What valuable insights do you wish you'd known before getting into creating a podcast like this?
CA: OOF! I wish I had known the amount of work, energy, and learning that it takes to produce and sustain a successful podcast.
Super curious about the tech behind your podcast? The software and gear you rely on for recording!
CA: I record my in-person episodes using an audio interface such as the Scarlett 2i2 or the Focusrite Scarlett Solo. For virtual episodes, I utilize the recording platform Riverside. Additionally, I edit all my episodes using Adobe Audition software.
Do you have any favourite listener feedback or interactions that stand out to you?
CA: One of my favourite podcast episode reviews is noted below from the 'But What Do I Know?' Podcast Episode: 'Humanize Me' Feat. Cristal Hines. A listener said: "I truly enjoyed the candid comments and honest self-acceptance that Cristal emphasized. I've adopted a 'don't dehumanize me' attitude since my breakup with a narcissist. She has confirmed that I am definitely on the right track, not seeking someone else to identify or define me”.
Alright, the final and fun question for you: What sport do you find silly and have trouble understanding why others enjoy them?
CA: American Football - Girl, I have no idea what is going on and when I watch the Superbowl, I'm watching for the halftime show.
SJ: That is the most typical African answer! 😄 I love it! Thank you Chidinma.
Reflecting on Chidinma Azubuike's insightful interview about her "But What Do I Know?" Podcast, I’m deeply inspired and thankful. Chidinma's commitment to amplifying BIPOC voices and fostering impactful conversations showcases her dedication to community and dialogue. I’m grateful to Chidinma for not only being an inspiring friend, and fellow podcaster but also for her openness in sharing her experiences plus creating a platform where empathy and affirmation are within everyone's reach.
You can find Chidinma Azubuike here:
Website: bwdikpodcast.com
Pod.Link: But What Do I Know?™
IG: @bwdikpodcast
TT: @bwdikpodcast
YT: @BWDIKPodcast Channel
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This article is brought to you by Sherley Joseph, Pod host and Community founder at Black Canadian Creators (via The Chonilla Network) in collaboration with the Black Podcaster's Association.