Black History Month 2025: 13 podcasts to dive into this month

When it comes to learning more about Black history, an abundance of resources are available, including films, TV programmes, books and events. But if you like to listen to something educational on your commute or while working in the office, then the medium of podcasts and audio series is for you. And there’s lots to bookmark and dig into for the rest of the month.

For Black History Month 2025, the theme this year is ‘standing firm in power and pride’ in tribute and recognition of the profound contribution that Black people, both in the UK and around the world, have made to pioneer or shape history for the better. From leaders to activists, it’s all about celebrating the people who have shown resilience and strength in their unwavering commitment to support the collective unity, courage and growth of the Black community.

Whether you’re looking to learn more about the Windrush generation, the history of the transatlantic slave trade or want to dive into contemporary conversations about politics, race and identity, these podcasts will allow you to delve into these worlds and much more.

Code Switch

Code Switch is an award-winning podcast that has candid conversations about race, ethnicity and identity across politics, pop culture, history and everything in between. Hosted by journalists Gene Demby, BA Parker and Lori Lizarraga, the NPR podcast features a host of guests from a variety of cultural backgrounds to deep dive into influential figures and exchange stories about culture and belonging in an ever-changing landscape. 

Human Resources

Hosted by journalist Moya Lothian-McLean, Human Resources looks into Britain’s involvement in the transatlantic slave trade and how it had lasting effects on the nation. The third season of the podcast focuses on the abolition period, including two episodes exploring the lives of women slave owners.

My Dad: Mr Brixton

Documenting the life of a leading figure in Britain’s Black community and a member of the Windrush generation, this podcast tells the story of Courtney Laws and his four decades of service to Brixton. His daughter, Claudette, tells his story over eight episodes.

Black History Year

As the name suggests, Black History Year champions the accomplishments and spotlights the struggles of Black history, all year round. It’s not one to miss and teaches listeners about the touchstones of Black history that have often been left out of the textbooks, with insights from experts, historians and activists shared in an accessible and engaging way. It charts back experiences to the 17th century as well as the reality of living as an African American in the US today. 

Objeks & Tings

Over 17 episodes, this podcast dives into the stories and objects that represent the heritage and history of Caribbean communities. A collaboration between Message Heard, Museumand and the National Caribbean Heritage Museum, Objeks & Tings looks into the significance behind each object featured and the role it played in the lives of hosts Catherine Ross and Lynda-Louise Burrell.

Colouring In Britain

Featuring the stories of important figures such as Benjamin Zephaniah, Claudia Jones, Paul Stephenson and Princess Campbell, this BBC podcast uncovers their lives and how they’ve influenced and shaped the UK.

The Nod

This pod may no longer be running, but it has an excellent archive of episodes to dive into. Hosted by Eric Eddings and Brittany Luse, The Nod dives into the innovation and resilience found in Black culture across music and art, as well as the politics of race and identity. 

The Museum Of Bad Vibes

Host Hanna Adan looks into the cultural significance of an Akan gold weight, Benin bronze, a Chinese ancestral tablet and a Papua New Guinean koi board, and asks how these objects came to be held in UK museums. It also asks: could or should they be returned to their countries or communities of origin?

1619

A New York Times podcast hosted by Nikole Hannah-Jones, 1619 is named after a ship carrying more than 20 enslaved people that arrived in one of England’s then colonies, Virginia. On the 400th anniversary of the ship’s arrival, the audio series tells the story of how America as a nation formed and how 250 years of slavery were integral to this.

Sista Brunch 

With over 130 episodes to tune into, Sista Brunch offers a rare insight into the careers of Black women in media and entertainment to inspire the next generation to pursue their dream creative careers. Hosted by Blackish director Anya Adams and film producer Fanshen Cox, the podcast also celebrates the game-changing Black women who are disrupting the industry and leaving a lasting legacy. 

Two Twos

Over hundreds of episodes, the Two Twos podcast covers a whole range of topics and is described as two Black lesbians living in London speaking their unapologetic truth while creating a safe space for people like them and bridging the gap between LGBTQ+ people and cisgender straight people.

Historically Black

Another limited run from the archives is the Washington Post’s Historically Black. The concise nine-episode series tells pivotal moments of Black history (such as the civil rights movement) through the lived experience of everyday people through their heirlooms. It’s a reminder that collective history can also be deeply personal. 

Busy Being Black

Hosted by Josh Rivers, this podcast explores and celebrates queer Black experiences with episodes covering everything from HIV/Aids activism to questions around Black masculinity. 

Images: Apple Podcasts; My Dad Mr Brixton; Message Heard; BBC