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Our Black Boys Read Podcast is an innovative literacy initiative from Seein' is Believin' that uses podcasting as a powerful new medium for reading instruction, confidence-building, and youth leadership. Designed for Black boys ages 8–14, the program transforms reading from a classroom assignment into an engaging media experience that inspires a lifelong love of books.
Over six weeks, participants work alongside literacy coaches to strengthen reading fluency, comprehension, vocabulary, and critical thinking by reading a diverse collection of age-appropriate, culturally relevant books featuring adventure, history, STEM, social-emotional learning, biographies, and stories that reflect the brilliance and potential of Black boys. They then step behind the microphone to record professional podcast episodes where they discuss what they've read, share their perspectives, and encourage other young people to discover the joy of reading.
Podcasting gives reading a purpose. Instead of reading only for a grade, participants read to inform, inspire, and influence others. Every episode becomes a celebration of literacy, allowing boys to hear their own voices, build confidence, and become positive role models for children who may be struggling with reading themselves.
Our work is built on three guiding principles:
Literacy – Using podcasting as an innovative literacy medium that motivates boys to read aloud, think critically, communicate effectively, and fall in love with books.
Legacy – Creating a generation of young Black readers whose voices inspire families, classrooms, and communities while building a culture where reading is celebrated.
Transformation – Changing how Black boys see themselves—and how the world sees Black boys—through authentic stories that showcase them as readers, thinkers, creators, and future leaders.
Our Black Boys Read Podcast is more than a reading program—it's a literacy movement that leverages the power of media to make reading visible, exciting, and culturally relevant. Every episode creates new readers. Every voice inspires another child. Every investment helps build stronger students, stronger leaders, and stronger communities for generations to come.

Demancea “Dee Star” Star is an award-winning podcaster, media producer, author, and community storyteller who believes every person has a story worth telling—and every child deserves the opportunity to discover their own voice. As the founder of Star Media Group and host of the OuttaDeeBox Podcast, Dee has spent years using storytelling and meaningful conversations to educate, inspire, and strengthen communities. His work has highlighted stories of resilience, leadership, history, and second chances, earning recognition across Wisconsin while preserving important community stories for future generations.
Through Our Black Boys Read, Dee is combining his passion for storytelling, education, and youth mentorship to create a space where Black boys can build confidence through reading, discussion, and podcasting. He believes that when children see themselves as readers, they begin to see themselves as leaders, and that literacy is one of the most powerful tools for creating opportunity and changing lives.
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