Joy Reid, a prominent figure on MSNBC, is venturing into the world of podcasts after parting ways with the network. Despite her departure from MSNBC, Reid is not slowing down. She recently announced the launch of her new podcast, “The Joy Reid Show,” which will stream on YouTube and major podcast platforms starting June 9.
The debut episode of “The Joy Reid Show” will feature comedian Amber Ruffin and former South African ambassador to the U.S. Ebrahim Rasool. The show will be based in Washington, D.C. Reid’s foray into creator-based media comes at a time when MSNBC is also focusing on podcasts and expanding its reach through platforms like YouTube and TikTok.
In a statement, Reid expressed her excitement about the new show, emphasizing that it will allow her to provide viewers with unfiltered perspectives on important topics. She described the podcast as a platform where she can engage in real conversations, challenge power, and connect with the culture without the constraints of traditional TV.
Reid’s move to launch her own podcast is part of a larger trend in the media landscape, with well-known personalities like Don Lemon, Jim Acosta, and Chuck Todd also venturing into digital platforms after leaving mainstream networks. As audiences increasingly turn to digital outlets for content, popular personalities are finding new ways to connect with their followers and expand their reach.
With plans to expand the show to five days a week later in the year, Reid aims to engage with her audience through analysis, commentary, interviews, and interactive segments. The show is produced by Reid’s own company, Image Lab Media Group, which she co-founded with her husband. In addition to the podcast, the company is also working on producing documentaries.
As traditional media companies adapt to the changing landscape, Reid’s decision to launch her own podcast reflects a growing shift towards independent content creation and distribution. With a dedicated following of over 160,000 subscribers on Substack, Reid is poised to make a significant impact in the world of podcasting and continue to engage audiences with her unique perspective and insights.