"This is Home": Des Moines Woman Shares Her Story on New Podcast

Embracing Identity and Storytelling in Iowa

Emili Johnson, a 39-year-old native of Des Moines, has always been aware of how people perceive her. “I feel like when you're Black and you're from here,” she explained, “the first question everyone asks is, 'There are Black people in Iowa?'” This sentiment reflects the broader challenge many Black individuals face in being seen and understood in regions where their presence is often overlooked.

Johnson took to the stage at the Iowa State Conference on Race and Ethnicity early last year, sharing her journey as a Black woman raised in the heartland of America. At that time, she wasn’t entirely sure how to express her identity in a way that would resonate with others. “I want to create a space for Black women to share their stories,” she said. “I just don’t know what that looks like.”

Her vision found its voice through a podcast. “I was in the car driving home. I thought, 'Podcast, that's it.' I'm going to do a podcast.” That idea became “Black. Girl. Iowa,” a platform dedicated to telling the life stories of Black women across the state, including Johnson’s own experiences growing up in Des Moines.

The podcast has grown significantly since its launch. With nearly 12,000 social media followers and 4,500 website views, Johnson has created a space where Black women can share their narratives. “This is home,” she said. “I really want people to know about my experience and the experience of other Black women and Black people here, because there's so much to be proud of here.”

Johnson’s conversations have taken her across various communities in Iowa, from interviewing Black educators in Cedar Rapids to speaking with the executive director of the state's African American Festival in Clive. She hopes to expand her reach this season, connecting with women as far west as Sioux City.

For Johnson, the diversity of Des Moines has played a significant role in shaping her appreciation for her home. “It’s something that people who aren't from Iowa might take for granted,” she said. “I couldn't imagine growing up only around people that looked like me or only around white people. I don't think I would've had such an appreciation for another culture.”

Being vulnerable is one of the hardest parts of sharing her story. “You always have in the back of your head, 'What's someone going to think about this? What if I say the wrong thing? What if someone doesn't like what I say?'” she shared. “It doesn't get easier, but there is satisfaction when I know that, in that episode, my true, 100% authentic self is showing up.”

“Black. Girl. Iowa” is available on several platforms, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon Music. Through her work, Johnson continues to highlight the importance of storytelling and representation, ensuring that the voices of Black women in Iowa are heard and celebrated.

Expanding the Conversation

Johnson’s podcast has become more than just a personal project; it's a movement that encourages dialogue and understanding. By featuring diverse perspectives, she aims to challenge stereotypes and foster a deeper connection between communities. Her work highlights the need for more avenues through which Black individuals can share their experiences, emphasizing the value of authenticity and visibility.

As the podcast gains traction, Johnson remains committed to her mission. She believes that every story matters and that by amplifying these voices, she can help reshape the narrative around Black identity in Iowa. Her journey serves as an inspiration to others, proving that even in the most unexpected places, there is power in storytelling.

Through her efforts, Johnson not only celebrates her own heritage but also creates a legacy of empowerment for future generations. Her work reminds us that no matter where we come from, our stories have the potential to impact and inspire those around us.