Spotlight Sunday: Hillary LeBlanc
Spotlight Sunday: Hillary LeBlanc
Co-hosts of BlackLantic, a podcast that amplifies Black voices in Atlantic Canada, tackling social justice and stereotypes. Producing weekly episodes on diverse, relevant topics.
" My business partner Clinton and I saw a need to amplify Black/Visible Minority voices on the East Coast of Canada." ~Hillary LeBlanc
As we start the preparation for The Soundwave Summit 2025, I'd like to introduce you to an incredible talent who graciously co-hosted a live podcast of their show back in June 2024 at our inaugural event, bringing together creators making waves in podcasting in Toronto. It was by far the most diverse podcast summit in Canada for independent podcasters. Hillary shared this historic and inaugural moment with us by performing on stage at Moonlight Lounge (TacoTaco) co-hosting her podcast in front of an audience and I believe their first live show, BlackLantic. First, let me tell you a little about their show.
BlackLantic aims to amplify Black voices and share stories about Black Atlantic lives. Their purpose is to connect Black communities across Atlantic Canada, reducing segregation and isolation.
Their goals:
Contribute to the economic well-being of content creators.
Reduce hatred, misinformation, stereotypes, and negative biases toward BIPOC through education and engagement.
Create safe spaces in the Atlantic region.
Use storytelling as an educational tool.
Strengthen connections within Black Atlantic communities.
Alright, Let’s get to know Black Canadian Podcaster, Hillary!
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About Hillary:
Born and raised in New Brunswick though now a Toronto transplant, Hillary LeBlanc works in communications and media. She is passionate about social justice issues ranging from feminism, equality, racial equity, the LGBTQ+ community and the lower-income community. She also co-owns the BlackLantic podcast.
Could you share a brief bio about you and give an overview of the podcast you co-host/produce?
HL: BlackLantic is a social purpose organization focused on providing platforms of perspective towards the diversity of being Black in Atlantic Canada while challenging common stereotypes. We record weekly alternating between topics and guests.
What inspired you to start or be part of the podcast and; how did the concept come up?
HL: My business partner Clinton and I saw a need to amplify Black/Visible Minority voices on the East Coast of Canada after we both independently experienced racism in New Brunswick. We wanted to rectify this while also filling a niche and providing Black media to the community.
Can you share insights into your creative process for producing an episode?
HL: We research guests that we think are inspirational or impactful to the Black Atlantic community while also combing social media, the news, and attending events to bring relevant content to our listeners.
Super curious about the tech behind your podcast? The software and gear you use for recording.
HL: Blue Yeti, Sony EZ-V10 camera, iMovie editing, Publer.io Scheduler, and ring lights.
Do you have any favourite listener feedback or interactions that stand out?
HL: We always appreciate being told that our guests have been impacted by our episodes and have grown their business, outreach or connected to the community. We have also been complimented many times on our work and told we continue to impact the community.
Alright, the final and fun question: What sport do you find silly and have trouble understanding why others enjoy it?
HL: All sports are challenging to me as I am a klutz!
SJ: I relate, I’m a klutz as well.
If you’re looking to connect with a podcaster and journalist who’s a go-getter, Hillary is certainly one of them. She’s a brilliant host and writer and you can read her work at ByBlacks.com or Addicted.
Follow Hillary to stay updated on her latest projects and to join the conversation:
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Stay creatin'!
With cooperation from the Black Podcaster's Association and The Chonilla Network, Sherley Joseph, Pod host and Community founder at Black Canadian Creators, brings you this article.