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The 2026 Black Effect Podcast Festival Presented By State Farm showcased numerous stars who created shocking moments that thousands of fans will never forget.
On Saturday, April 25, the Black Effect Podcast Network held its 4th annual podcast festival at Pullman Yards in Atlanta. Hosted by The Breakfast Club's Charlamagne Tha God, DJ Envy, and Loren LoRosa, the event began with live episodes of shows such as the Grits & Eggs podcast and Club 520. It also featured panel discussions like "Gen X to Gen Z: Bridging the Gap" and "AI: The Evolution & Future," which put talent and podcasters from various shows in the spotlight.
"Each year we return to Atlanta with purpose and intention to amplify storytelling, champion community, and celebrate excellence in podcasting with thousands of our cousins from around the world," Black Effect founder Charlamagne Tha God said.
"We celebrate and uplift the power of Black voices, creating space for creators to inspire, connect and shape culture," Dollie S. Bishop, President of The Black Effect Podcast Network added. "From conversations on AI and investing to the future of audio, we’re bringing the culture together for connection, innovation and a few surprises."
The lineup also featured live episodes of Reality With The King with Carlos King, Don't Call Me White Girl with Damona Love, Keep It Positive, Sweetie with Crystal Renee Hayslett, and Drink Champs. There were a few surprise guests who pulled up throughout the day including boxer Claressa Shields, Sheryl Underwood, Yung Miami, CeeLo Green, K. Michelle and more.
In addition to the lineup of podcasts, fans also had a chance to cook up their own show at the "Pitch Your Podcast" Booth and shop for merch at The Black Effect Marketplace. The day was full of jaw-dropping moments and exclusive updates from the Black Effect Podcast Network. Scroll below to see the best moments from the 2026 Black Effect Podcast Festival.
Yung Miami on new music, religion and more
Yung Miami was the special guest during the live taping of Crystal Renee Hayslett's Keep It Positive, Sweetie. The Miami native discussed her views on religion and her upcoming album.
Claressa Shields and Papoose pop out
The GWOAT herself and her man Papoose were in the building. Claressa Shields made a surprise appearance during one of the panel discussions while Charlamagne Tha God was onstage. She stepped up in a pair of white, platform heels, which had people buzzing. Later on, she took to Instagram to address those who criticized her look and said she blocked over 50 people.
Lil Duval delivers a surprise performance
Lil Duval pulled up to support the Black Effect Podcast Festival. The Florida native performed his hit "Smile (Living My Best Life)" as thousands of fans sang along with him.
CeeLo Green and K. Michelle join Drink Champs
Drink Champs' N.O.R.E. and DJ EFN hosted a live taping of their latest episode featuring CeeLo Green and K. Michelle. During the episode, CeeLo Green discussed the possibility of him ever making another Goodie Mob album after the group announced their plans to bow out of the industry. Meanwhile, K. Michelle opened up about breaking barriers as a Black woman by pursuing yodeling while she was in college.
Mimi Brown & Doug Melville join the Black Effect Podcast Network with new podcasts
The Black Effect family just got bigger! During the "AI: The Evolution & Future" panel discussion, guest Doug Melville and host Mimi Brown announced that their new podcasts will be released on the Black Effect Podcast Network. DM me w/ Doug Melville and Mimi Brown's Front Page will debut in May.