[Go Awf] Kennedy Ryan on Why Publishing Keeps Underestimating Black Women

[Go Awf] Kennedy Ryan on Why Publishing Keeps Underestimating Black Women

July 14, 2026 · 6 min · Season 4 · Episode 18

About this episode

Kennedy Ryan discusses the importance of centering Black women in publishing and challenges the industry's assumptions about their market potential.

Kennedy Ryan knows exactly who she’s writing for, and she refuses to let publishing’s outdated assumptions shrink that vision. In this segment, Kennedy opens up about centering Black women on the page, on the cover, and in the audience, even when the industry suggests that doing so could limit sales or mainstream appeal. She breaks down why Black women are not a niche market, but a powerful readership with their own economy, cultural influence, and buying power. From sold-out theaters to New ...

People in this episode

Hosts: Jeannette, Mona

Guest: Kennedy Ryan

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: publishing, Black women

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