Today we’d like to introduce you to Simone Maxwell, Elise Richardson and Jordan Floyd.
“Kinda Adulting” podcast was born from a conversation between Elise and Simone. During the conversation, they discussed their frustrations and how they longed to see a platform that accurately reflected their journey through post-college life.
Life after college can be a confusing and stressful time. However, few media outlets showcase this less glamorous side of your early 20s. Most of the shows they loved, like Issa Rae’s Insecure or Lena Waithe’s Twenties, focused on black adults in their late 20s and early 30s, a time where typically you’re more secure in life. That wishful discussion sparked the idea for a podcast that depicts Elise and Simone’s own real-life struggles and funny moments of their early 20s. They decided to recruit Jordan, their high school friend, to add a different perspective to the mix, and together they agreed “Kinda Adulting” would be a space for young black women like them navigating the rocky waters of life after graduation.
The podcast features the girl’s almost decade-long friendship but also dives into other major aspects of your 20s, such as money, men, and more. All three castmates moved to big cities following their college graduation and are working to grow a life for themselves. As they each attempt to “adult,” the “Kinda Adulting” cast faces new challenges and adventures every week. Each episode is centered around an experience or lesson that is common in your early 20s, and the cast has touched on topics ranging from online dating to navigating the workplace as a recent grad. The “Kinda Adulting” podcast displays three black women in their early twenties, having fun, making mistakes along the way, and learning how to “adult” together.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
With the completion of their first season, they have settled into their roles and progressed past initial growing pains. Early on, there were challenges trying to align schedules and adjust to the frequency of posting weekly. Creating a brand from the ground up and promoting listenership consistently to grow followers is time-consuming. When paired with full-time jobs and many miles in between them, it can be even more challenging, however, what keeps them inspired to stay the course are other black women in their twenties conquering every obstacle one day at a time.
Kinda Adulting Podcast – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
“Kinda Adulting” is a podcast for young black women who’ve recently graduated and are transitioning into their adult life. The podcast uses real-life experiences and trending topics to discuss the various themes related to their demographic. Some of their most common topics include dating in big cities, developing new friendships, finding housing, and any other subjects that relate to this transition into adulthood.
As they reflect on their first season, they are proud of the overwhelming support and positive feedback they’ve received on a global scale. As with any new podcast, hosts never really know how they will be perceived. It’s scary putting yourself out there, and sometimes you just have to make the decision to share, regardless of the possible criticism. Through this last season, they have truly explored themselves by sharing personal stories with their listeners and providing an authentic glance into their lives. The podcast hosts hope that by remaining genuine, they will continue to build connections with listeners old and new and achieve their overall goal of providing a voice for black girls in their early twenties who are “kinda adulting”.
What were you like growing up? Personality wise, interest wise, etc.
Elise – I was definitely the nerdy type. I invested a lot of time learning facts and making sure I excelled academically. I was shy for a large part of my childhood but started to open up more in middle and high school. I credit my late social blooming for much of my present awkward nature, however, as I always tell my coworkers, my awkwardness makes for a lot of hilarious moments and stories.
Jordan – Growing up, I was shy but very creative. I studied many different dance styles, learned three instruments, led step teams, and was able to sew my own clothes by the time I had finished high school. I have pretty much stayed in the same circles, so all my friends now are friends that I’ve known for years. I’ve always been the type to try something new, so deciding to host a podcast when I’ve never even listened to them prior was very on-brand for me.
Simone – Growing up, I was always pretty outgoing and super involved. I played three instruments, two sports, and took part in various extracurricular activities. However, despite that, I was never able to identify what was of true interest to me. Being involved in a podcast has truly shown me how much I enjoy interacting with people and using my voice to relate to other women like me. I love the podcast and am really excited to be a part of “Kinda Adulting.”
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/kindaadultingpod
- Phone: 678-629-4730
- Email: kindaadultingpod@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kindaadultingpod/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=kindaadultingpod
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/kindadultingpod
Suggest a story: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
