In this episode of Voices Beyond the Pages, we are pulling back the curtain on the industry side of things. Diversity and inclusion aren’t just buzzword they’re responsibilities.

This episode is both a love letter to the art of narration and a call-to-action for publishers, producers, and listeners alike. Because every voice deserves to be heard and to be heard accurately.

In this solo episode, I’m diving into a conversation that comes up way too often: “Audiobooks aren’t really reading.”

We’re unpacking why that mindset is rooted in ableism, classism, and gatekeeping, and how it erases the experiences of so many listeners who rely on audiobooks for access. Whether it’s because of disability, busy schedules, learning differences, or simply personal preference—listening is reading. Period.

I’m also sharing what “access is power” means to me as a narrator, a creative, and a Black woman in this industry. Because stories are meant to be heard, felt, and experienced in whatever way feels most authentic to you.

If you’ve ever felt judged for how you read—or if you’re ready to dismantle old narratives around literacy and storytelling—this episode is for you.

💛 Listen, reflect, and share with someone who needs this reminder today.

#VoicesBeyondThePages #AudiobooksAreReading #AccessIsPower #Gatekeeping #RepresentationMatters #AudiobookNarrator #PodcastEpisode

In this heart-centered solo episode, I’m reflecting on what Black romance has taught me—not just as a narrator, but as a woman. From desire and safety to voice and self-worth, these stories have shaped me in ways I never expected.

I’m also sharing a little about my recent experience at Black Romance Book Fest, how this community has poured into me, and why these stories continue to hold me when life feels heavy.

If you’re a lover of Black romance—or just someone figuring out how to love yourself through your own healing—this one’s for you. 💛

#BlackRomance #AudiobookNarration #VoicesBeyondThePages #RepresentationMatters

Let’s talk about what it really looks like to build something beautiful when you don’t have much but the vision.

In this solo episode, I’m sharing the behind-the-scenes of showing up for my narrator dreams—while broke, tired, and still figuring it all out. From preparing for Black Romance Book Fest to investing in myself without a safety net, this is a love letter to the ones who keep showing up with big dreams and empty pockets.

You’re not alone. You’re not behind. You’re building something real.

Let’s get into it.

#VoicesBeyondThePages #BigDreamsEmptyPockets #AudreyShaunice #NarratorJourney #CreativeEntrepreneurship #BlackRomanceBookFest

This episode is for the authors—especially those showing up and showing out at Black Romance Book Fest. In between the signings, panels, and celebration, I wanted to take a moment behind the mic to say: thank you.

Your words have given us voices to stretch, stories to embody, and characters to carry. This love note is filled with deep appreciation for the way you keep telling our stories boldly, beautifully, and Black on purpose.

Let this serve as a soft reminder that your words matter. That we see you. And that your voice deserves to be heard—just like the ones you write.

In this episode of Voices Beyond the Pages, we’re talking about blooming softly, bravely, and on your own timeline. If you’ve ever felt behind, too late, or unsure whether it’s “your season” to start something new—this is your sign.

Audrey reflects on what it means to grow in softness and gives space to those starting (or restarting) creative dreams later in life. Then, she’s joined by special guest and narrator Gigi Reeds, whose story is a beautiful reminder that it’s never too late to follow what lights you up.

Whether you’re finding your voice, learning to trust your timing, or just need a little encouragement—this one’s for you.

Topics covered:

• Redefining timelines and growth

• Why softness is a form of strength

• Starting narration later in life

• Letting go of comparison and moving at your pace

You are not late. You are right on time.

This bonus episode is a soft, soulful love note to the Black indie authors who write with courage, care, and unshakable heart. From behind the mic, I wanted to say thank you—for trusting narrators like me with your words, your characters, and your worlds.

Whether we’ve worked together or not, this message is for you. You’re building legacy, one story at a time—and we feel it. We see you. We honor you.

Let this love letter be a reminder: your voice matters, and we’re grateful to help carry it.

With love,
Audrey Shaunice
Host of Voices Beyond the Pages

This week on Voices Beyond the Pages, Audrey Shaunice sits down with her sister, best friend, and powerhouse storyteller Author Nastee.

They dive into the creative mind behind the Brothers Unholy series, exploring how she bends time in her storytelling, builds supernatural worlds rooted in Blackness, and redefines representation in paranormal and urban romance.

It’s a raw, real, and inspiring conversation about closing creative chapters, honoring our history through fiction, and why Black voices belong in every genre.

Get ready to feel seen, heard, and inspired.

follow Author Nastee on all social medi a platforms @authornastee