Angel N. Livas, renowned founder and CEO of the ALIVE Podcast Network, is revolutionizing the podcasting industry through a proprietary app (available for iOS and Android ) that’s empowering underrepresented voices and helping them maintain ownership and monetize their content.

Yusuf Henriques, esteemed founder and CEO of IndyGeneUS AI, a genomics company specializing in enhancing research and development capabilities through increased diversity in genetic and clinical research. These two have captured the attention of the entrepreneurial world with their innovative ventures. Henriques’ commitment to advancing genomics research aligns perfectly with Livas’ mission to uplift underrepresented voices and communities. This latest chapter in their lives, their engagement, promises to be as groundbreaking and inspiring as their respective careers.

Being raised by successful entrepreneurs, how did their influence prepare you for entrepreneurship?
My parents, Tyrone and Veronica Todd were very intentional about including me and my siblings in our family businesses. We didn’t merely watch on the sidelines and reap benefits – we had our own set of responsibilities, which taught me the importance of hard work at a young age. Whether it was restocking vending machines, sweeping the nail salon at the end of the day, or painting a newly renovated home for its next tenant – I understood the balance between the glitz and the grind.

What inspired your interest into media, specifically podcasting?
My interest in media, specifically podcasting, was inspired by my deep-seated passion for storytelling and my desire to amplify underrepresented voices. I can’t believe it’s been almost 25 years since I started on this path! Nonetheless, it’s been through my journey that I recognized the power of audio storytelling.
Podcasting, with its accessibility and ability to reach a wide audience, really resonated with me as a great way to elevate voices that were often overlooked in traditional media spaces. Through the ALIVE Podcast Network, I’ve created a space for Black storytellers to share their narratives, inspire others, and foster a
sense of community and connection. My vision for the ALIVE Podcast Network stemmed from a commitment to championing inclusivity, representation, and authenticity in the media landscape.

Could you share more about the mission behind ALIVE Podcast Network and how it aims to amplify Black voices while empowering creators to protect their content?
The mission of the ALIVE Podcast Network is to promote established and emerging Black voices in the audio space by offering content strategy, monetization, and distribution opportunities. We are amplifying Black voices through our proprietary app that’s available on iOS and Android. We diligently provide our hosts full transparency around their revenue and ownership. Before any podcast integrates into our system, an annual agreement is formed and signed by both hosts and distributor (ALIVE). This is key for ensuring everyone is on the same page before significant resources are exhausted.

You’ve had an illustrious career working with celebrity hosts like Larry King and Jane Pauley. How have these experiences shaped your approach to media production and content creation?
I love this question because it speaks to the very reason why the ALIVE Podcast Network was created. Up until about four years ago, I’d never created a show for a Black host. Now this never really mattered to me until I saw the disparities between hosts I was accustomed to creating shows for, like Larry King, Jane Pauley, etc, and people who looked like me. From my experience, Black hosts did not receive the same pay, marketing opportunities, or ownership of their Intellectual property (IP). When I witnessed this – I knew I had to do something. So, I created ALIVE. We can help Black creatives at whatever stage they’re at. Whether they need pre- or – post-production to bring their idea to life or merely a hosting site to distribute their show and monetize.

What challenges have you encountered in bridging the gap between Black creatives and mainstream networks, and how does ALIVE Podcast Network address these challenges?
The number one challenge we face is name recognition – people are most familiar with the mainstream alternatives – so that’s typically where they frequent. We are working hard to make the ALIVE Podcast Network a household name. Some of the things we’re doing to help us are adding new shows that are extremely compelling, as well as utilizing media outlets to spread the message around the work that we’re doing!

As a mother of two boys, how has parenting influenced your perspective on leadership and entrepreneurship?
The most important title I currently hold is ‘Mom.’ As a mom of two boys, it is incredibly important for me not only to be a leader within my house – but for it to radiate throughout the work that I do– both in the community and at work. The boys are 9 & 11, and they started googling me a few years back. When your kids can proudly talk about the impact your work has on the world, it feels good. But more importantly, it is about the example being set for them. The first question you asked about my parents’ entrepreneurial impact on me… it’s a legacy, it’s infectious!
What my boys see in me – they will know it is possible for them. What I love is that our household is all-around business ownership, as my fiancé is a scientist who also owns a start-up. However, the kids’ father is an engineer and works a traditional 9-5, so they can see that success can be garnered in multiple ways.

What advice would you give to aspiring media executives or entrepreneurs looking to make an impact in the industry, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds?
Here are three things that I believe media executives and entrepreneurs should remember:
· Be Authentic: Embrace your unique perspective and background. Authenticity can set you apart from others and attract audiences who resonate with your story.
· Take Risks: Don’t be afraid to take calculated risks and think outside the box. Innovation often comes from trying new approaches and pushing boundaries.
· Advocate for Diversity and Inclusion: Use your platform to advocate for diversity and inclusion in the media industry. By promoting diverse voices and perspectives, you can help create a more equitable and representative industry.

What exciting projects or initiatives can we expect from you and ALIVE Podcast Network in the near future?
I’m very excited to share that ALIVE is hosting several live events over the summer to help connect our hosts to their fans…and even new prospective fans!

What is your definition of a Pretty Woman Who Hustles?
A pretty woman who hustles is someone not afraid to get down and dirty – but, can always shine
like a diamond!

Connect Online: http://www.alivepodcastnetwork.com @alivepodcastapp