When we discuss Black excellence in media, Chesley Maddox-Dorsey is a name that stands out. As the President of AURN, the largest Black woman-owned radio network in the U.S., she isn’t just making history—she’s shaping the future of Black media. Recently included in the U.S. Black Chamber of Commerce’s Power 50 Women of Influence, Maddox-Dorsey’s journey is a guide for Black entrepreneurship, ownership, and leadership.
Building a legacy in black media
Maddox-Dorsey didn’t begin her career in media—she started in finance. Working as a banker focused on radio investments, she learned the ins and outs of broadcasting. Instead of just supporting media financially, she wanted to own it.
In 2018, she made a bold move by buying AURN and Superadio Network, key players in audio content. This wasn’t just about investing—she was making sure Black voices stayed prominent.
The opportunity to lead a buyout of two well-known but neglected B2B brands was too good to pass up. Maddox-Dorsey recognized the chance not only to renew these companies but also to support Black stories on radio, streaming, and digital platforms.
In today’s media world, big companies often decide what gets shown. Black media ownership makes sure our stories are told truly and honestly without being changed.
In the past, Black-owned media has been key in telling our stories, from the civil rights era to today’s fights for justice. But Black ownership in media is still low, with big companies taking over many smaller outlets. Maddox-Dorsey is changing that, showing that Black business owners can and should own our stories.
Maddox-Dorsey knows that success isn’t just personal—it’s about helping others. She focuses on guiding young pros and entrepreneurs to create strong teams.
The power of black-led media
Black ownership in media is about more than just being seen—it’s about having power, influence, and lasting impact. Maddox-Dorsey’s work shows that Black entrepreneurs can lead and shape their stories while growing successful businesses.
By supporting Black-owned media through subscriptions, ads, and partnerships, we can build a media world that highlights our voices. Investing in these platforms makes our influence stronger, not just in media, but in shaping culture and policy.
Key Takeaways
Chesley Maddox-Dorsey, President of AURN, emphasizes the importance of Black media ownership in ensuring authentic representation and influence.
- Maddox-Dorsey transitioned from finance to media ownership, acquiring AURN and Superadio Network to promote Black voices.
- She highlights the historical and current significance of Black-owned media in accurately telling and shaping Black stories.
- Supporting Black-owned media through various means can strengthen cultural and policy influence.
