Walmart Partners With Pod Digital Media’s HBCU-Targeted ‘Talk Of The Yard’ Program.

The nation’s biggest retailer is recommitting to podcasting. Walmart has formed a new partnership with Pod Digtial Media, the multicultural podcast agency network representing more than 400 shows hosted by Black and Latino podcasters. Walmart will continue to support Talk of the Yard, the year-old platform that aims to connect the brand with HBCU students and alumni by providing them with opportunities to have conversations with podcasters and talent. Talk of the Yard launched in October 2023 with Nike as an inaugural partner.

“We are excited to partner with Walmart and support its efforts and commitment to connecting with the HBCU community,” said Gary Coichy, founder and CEO of Pod Digital Media. “This important partnership will allow our podcasters and other talent, along with current and former HBCU students, to communicate directly with the Walmart brand, sparking impactful discussions, promoting diversity, and empowering future generations.”

The partnership got underway with three activations at three HBCU campuses last week, including North Carolina Central University featuring the podcast Black Girls Texting; Hampton University, featuring the podcast ElevatHers; and Morgan State University featuring the Say Less with Kaz, Lowkey and Rosy podcast.

At each stock, Walmart was able to connect with students and help them in their HBCU journeys by providing tangible educational resources and giveaways and encouraging student discussions on various live podcast recordings with key personalities. In addition, Walmart promoted its forthcoming “We’re Getting to It” internship program, which is fusing ambition with real-world opportunity by connecting the next generation of HBCU innovators with entrepreneurial leaders. At each HBCU stop, three or four standout student entrepreneurs were selected to connect with successful alumni from their alma mater. From there, paid internships will be arranged with these alumni-run businesses for the summer of 2025.

Students will also learn about an internship in advertising and marketing with Pod Digital Media.