On today’s airways in New York we can look forward to listening to a select few women during primetime radio spots. Often the dialogue spans the routine questioning of new projects, love life, and beef. Presently, we seldom get opportunities to hear the perspective of millennial women on radio, so naturally listeners hunt for new content on the internet. While searching through different podcasts we came across a young woman with depth, awareness of culture, and unique vantage point, Alexa Leighton.

Most are immediately stricken by Leighton’s beauty, but in under 30 seconds her podcast clips have seduced viewers to listen in to touchy subjects that we definitely won’t catch on radio. Leighton challenges her guests to be transparent with direct questioning. She understands how to maintain an engaging dialogue without caution towards being politically correct. Leighton has also brought back raw journalism that isn’t offensive but more so informative. We got the chance to sit down with the young visionary and get a better understanding of her vision.

How does your podcast stand apart from others?

Alexa: I pride myself on making sure whatever conversation I’m having on my podcast, it’s one that hasn’t been had before or at least a new take on the subject. I have no problem asking questions that might seem crazy or too “taboo.” Especially in regards to my latest episode in which I interviewed my ex-boyfriend’s “side chick.” I think the taboo aspect is what sets me apart the most.

Do you believe your podcast is impacting culture?

Alexa: My podcast is fairly new, but I think it is impacting the culture by facilitating conversations that others are too scared to have, especially coming from a female. There are significantly less amounts of successful female podcasts compared to podcasts hosted by males, so I hope to be one that gives the boys a run for their money.

You discuss topics that effect women through your own personal experience what inspired you to uplift women in this way?

Alexa: I’ll always be a woman – women are always being shunned, downplayed, underestimated, sexualized and everything else under the sun so the inspiration is innate. There are a few women in the industry that I look up to but rarely do they share their own personal experiences in detail. I know other women can relate to my experiences and I want to let them know we are all on this journey called life together.

Would you define yourself as a feminist?

Alexa: Absolutely. Everyone should consider themselves a feminist male and female alike. The definition of feminism is the advocacy of rights on the basis of the equality of the sexes is it not? So if your not a feminist that’s extremely alarming.

When did you decide that a podcast would be the best platform for you to discuss these topics?

Alexa: I love to talk. Lol. I don’t have Oprah money to be able to fund my own TV talk show, so I’m starting with tools that are more accessible. The TV show will come though. Soon.

Do you think the future of radio is in the rear view now that podcast exist?

Alexa: The future of radio, as is is shaky, some major changes need to be made but I don’t think it will disappear completely.

What do you think is lacking most from radio today? Podcast?

Alexa: Women, honesty, creativity and innovation. There are a lot of rules in radio. Can’t say this, can’t do that, etc etc… Podcasts definitely provide a place for more freedom of expression. Radio can’t play certain songs or just wont for a number of reasons in regards to music politics.

When receiving feedback about your podcast what is the most common thing your listeners enjoy?

Alexa: They loved my most recent “ A Conversation with my Ex-Boyfriends Side Chick” episode, ha ha, but they like my honesty the most. My honesty and frankness is what I get the most compliments on.

Is there a bigger mission behind your podcast?

Alexa: The bigger mission is to educate and inspire in any way possible and tell peoples stories. High profile interviews are great, they garner a lot of attention, but it’s often the story being told by my homeboy down the street that is the most fascinating. People tend to forget that there are a lot of interesting people in this world, people that don’t have 30K [followers] on [Instagram] or rap or sing. I want to bring their stories to life and use my platform to make the world a more…. Open minded and accepting place.

What legacy do you hope to leave with your podcast?

Alexa: I’m trying to be the next Oprah. The podcast is a stepping-stone. My legacy will lie in what I do as a media mogul. I want to produce content, documentaries, act, direct, and open the eyes of my audience to new perspectives on life, not solely the ones set by society and social media. I want to showcase the plight of black women and push the variations of our culture to the forefront. We are so multifaceted and strong! We are innovative as hell! There’s an entire world of creative’s out there that have ideas for novels, movies, documentaries, plays, and movements that are underrepresented. I want to bring those to light, inspire people, and facilitate acceptance and change.