Michelle Joseph is a Toronto-based blogger, podcaster, and now author of “Words with Michelle: Inspirational Conversations with Today's Black Canadian Changemakers.” Her journey as a storyteller is inspiring, authentic, and filled with wisdom for anyone looking to amplify community voices and pursue creative passions.
Podcast episode title: Amplifying Black Canadian Voices: A Conversation with Michelle Joseph
Guest: Michelle Joseph (Blogger, podcaster & author of Words with Michelle: Inspirational Conversations with Today’s Black Canadian Changemakers)
Episode summary
In this episode of Afropolitan Dialogues, we sit down with Michelle Joseph, a passionate storyteller dedicated to uplifting Black Canadian voices. Michelle shares her journey from blogging in 2014 to launching her podcast in 2020 and now publishing her first book.
Through Words with Michelle, she compiles powerful conversations with changemakers like Tracy Moore, Jill Andrew, and Trey Anthony, offering not just their insights but also her reflections on how these dialogues shaped her. Michelle discusses the importance of authenticity, the challenges of podcasting, and why she believes storytelling is vital for preserving Black Canadian history.
Tune in to hear Michelle’s thoughts on:
- The inspiration behind her book and how she selected the 21 featured changemakers
- The evolution of her podcast and the lessons she’s learned along the way
- How art and storytelling serve as tools for healing and empowerment
Key topics & timestamps
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[00:00] Introduction – Michelle’s journey from blogging to podcasting to authorship
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[05:30] The Spark Behind the Book – How post-surgery reflection led to Words with Michelle
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[12:45] The Podcasting Journey – From accidental beginnings to intentional storytelling
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[20:10] Challenges & Growth in Podcasting – Editing woes, technical learning curves, and staying consistent
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[28:50] The Changing Landscape of Black Canadian Creativity – Gentrification, cultural resilience, and the role of art
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[35:40] The Book’s Impact – Why Michelle’s work is a love letter to Black Canadian history
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[42:15] Future Goals & Staying Motivated – What’s next for Michelle in 2025
Impactful quotes from the conversation
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On overcoming fear & taking action
"It was now or never. I had surgery. I gotta do it." – Michelle Joseph -
On the power of storytelling
"Art is a reflection of culture. We’re talking about history as it happens." – Michelle Joseph -
On representation & legacy
"I felt like we knew about these changemakers, but not enough people did. Now you know who they are." – Michelle Joseph -
On Creative Resilience
"There will always be challenges, but art will always find a way." – Michelle Joseph -
On personal growth
"The book validated me. I never thought this was possible, but seeing it happen is mind-blowing." – Michelle Joseph
Where to find Michelle Joseph
- Book: Words with Michelle (Available at major retailers)
- Blog & Podcast: wordswithmichelle.com
- Social Media: @wordswithmichelle (Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn)
Connect with Afropolitan Dialogues
- Website: AfroToronto.com
- Follow Us: @AfroToronto (Instagram, Twitter, Facebook)
- Subscribe: Click the green follow button under the comments section to get our latest stories straight to your inbox.
Listen to the full episode now! 🎧
Final thought: "We have to tell our own stories—because if we don’t, who will?" – Michelle Joseph
