Zakiya is a charismatic podcast and live show host known her humor, curiosity, and uncanny ability to establish genuine connections with guests and facilitate vulnerable, in-depth conversations no matter the guest or topic. As a seasoned audio producer, reporter, and story editor, Zakiya’s hosting style is not only personality-driven, but informed by years of experience as an audio journalist who has worked at the top shops in the audio industry. She knows how to stay in the moment of an interview while maintaining an aerial view of the story, getting the best tape possible, and she knows how to work with a team in a non-hierarchical, collaborative way.

Zakiya story edits and hosts the breakout hit podcast “Hang Up” that was voted one of the best podcasts of 2023 and 2024 by Vulture Magazine, Vogue Magazine, CBC, Tink Media, and WNYC’s “All of It”.

Zakiya hosts “Outside Voice”, a B2B Spotify podcast where Zakiya sits down with creative and advertising-industry leaders whose work amplifies marginalized voices and the importance of diversity and inclusion.

Zakiya narrates “Hatch Classics: Love Letters” for Hatch+.

Zakiya co-produced and hosted Kickstarter’s podcast “Just the Beginning”.

Zakiya co-hosted an episode of ICYMI and breaks down the Skibidi Toilet craze taking over Gen Alpha

Zakiya was a guest on “Normal Gossip”, becoming a fan-favorite and joining the Normal Gossip live tour for a sold-out 5,000 person show.

Zakiya hosted a live “Hang Up” show for On Air Fest 2024, dubbed “the hit of On Air Fest.”

After the smash hit Hang Up live show at On Air Fest 2024, she was asked to MC the big finale of On Air Fest 2025, introducing big names like Seth Meyers and Bon Iver.

Zakiya MC’d The Big Sho’, a circus-themed music festival celebrating hip-hop and creativity with big artists like Zack Fox and Chuck Strangers.

Zakiya is also a fun, energetic, and thoughtful guest on a range of shows:

Zakiya joins SNL alum Punkie Johnson and Dicey on “Love Thang” to dish about reality tv dating shows.

Zakiya discusses the art of conversation on “Adult ISH”, and her signature hosting style of humor plus vulnerability.

Zakiya chats about the season 20 finale of The Bachelorette on “Love To See It”.

Zakiya appears on Vogue’s “Women Who Travel” podcast to talk solo travel.

Zakiya talks RuPaul’s Drag Race with comedian Mano Agapion on “Drag Her”.

Zakiya joins “Because the Boss Belongs to Us” to help determine whether or not Bruce Springsteen is a queer icon.