Amplifying Black Queer Voices: How Anna DeShawn is Transforming Media and Activism

Welcome back to My Most Authentic Life! In today’s episode, we dive into the transformative power of storytelling, media, and activism with Anna DeShawn, a passionate advocate for amplifying Black queer voices. Anna is the founder of The Cube, a platform dedicated to uplifting the stories of underrepresented communities, especially within the Black LGBTQ+ community.

In a conversation full of insight and inspiration, Anna shares her journey from corporate America to becoming a leader in Black queer media. She opens up about the challenges of entrepreneurship, the importance of self-care for activists, and how her mission to give a voice to those who are often overlooked has helped create real change.

Join host Fede Vargas as they discuss:

• The power of media and storytelling in shaping narratives for marginalized groups.
• How to balance activism and self-care to avoid burnout.
• The challenges and rewards of amplifying Black LGBTQ+ voices through podcasting.
• Why history provides valuable lessons in resilience and hope for today's activists.

Episode Timestamps:
00:00 – Fede's Philosophy: Creating Real Change by Taking Action
02:19 – Guest Introduction: Anna DeShawn’s Journey from Corporate America to Black Queer Media Leadership
06:45 – How Storytelling and Media Can Empower Marginalized Communities
12:11 – Balancing Activism and Mental Health: Anna’s Self-Care Practices
18:45 – Finding Strength Through History: Lessons for Today’s Activists
23:30 – The Cube: Amplifying Black Queer Voices in Media
27:50 – Rapid-Fire: Anna on Gratitude, Resilience, and Authenticity

Key Points:

• Anna DeShawn’s transition from corporate America to leading the charge for Black LGBTQ+ media representation.
• How storytelling in media can serve as a tool for social justice and promote mental health in marginalized communities.
• The importance of balancing activism and self-care to foster resilience.
• Learning from historical context to stay hopeful and continue fighting for social equity.
• Anna’s platform, The Cube, and its mission to amplify Black queer voices in podcasting and media.

Memorable Moments:

• “Storytelling invites us into someone’s humanity, giving Black LGBTQ+ voices the platform they deserve.”
• “Rest isn’t optional—it’s critical for activists balancing mental health and social change.”
• “History repeats itself, and we will emerge stronger by fighting for equality, just like generations before us.”

More to Come:
If Anna’s powerful journey inspired you, make sure to subscribe to My Most Authentic Life for more impactful stories and authentic conversations. In upcoming episodes, Fede explores the personal journeys that reshape who we are and how we navigate the world. Stay tuned for more stories on activism, resilience, and the power of authenticity.

Focus Topics:

• Amplifying Black LGBTQ+ voices through media and storytelling.
• Building resilience and authenticity as an activist.
• Self-care strategies for social leaders and entrepreneurs.
• Learning from historical social movements to inform today’s activism.

Social Media Handles:

Anna DeShawn:
Website: annadeshawn.com