This dynamic duo had a mood board, mics, and a dream of success for their podcast. What started as an idea rocketed them into success. Do you want to know the crazy part? They’re just getting started! The Cocktails and Culture podcast, hosted by Brigethia Arai and Benjamin Coy, hosted its first live show only after being on the air for two years of podcasting.
Who Are the Faces of Cocktails and Culture?
Meet Brigethia
Brigethia Arai (she/her) is a seasoned creative brand strategist, culture expert, content creator, and podcaster. She brings over a decade of expertise to the dynamic realm of public relations and communications. With a passion for cultivating authentic narratives, Brigethia has become a driving force in the industry, leaving an indelible mark on multicultural storytelling.
Beyond her strategic prowess, Brigethia is a respected content creator and podcaster. Through her creative endeavors, she continues to carve out spaces for meaningful conversations, shedding light on stories that matter. Her podcast serves as a platform for thought-provoking discussions around Black/pop culture, Black LGBTQ representation, television, fashion, and music. While bringing together influencers, experts, and voices that shape the narrative of our diverse world.
With a vision transcending conventional boundaries, Brigethia Arai stands as a beacon of inspiration in the public relations landscape. Her work not only reflects a profound understanding of the power of storytelling but also a commitment to making the communications industry a more inclusive and vibrant space. In a world where diversity and authenticity are paramount, Brigethia emerges as a leader, advocate, and storyteller, leaving an indelible legacy in the ever-evolving tapestry of public relations.
Meet Benjamin
Benjamin Coy (he/they) is a charismatic fashion creative and digital strategist with a strong academic and tactical background in digital communication management, event logistics, content strategy, and brand development.
Through collaborations with both private and nonprofit entities, Coy’s expertise is centered on pivotal issues such as Black queer liberation, representation, intersectionality, and education equality. Currently serving as the communications marketing campaign manager for the National LGBTQ Task Force, Coy’s professional portfolio includes notable partnerships with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), the National Black Justice Coalition, the Anacostia Arts Center, Harlem’s Fashion Row, as well as other prominent political and entertainment figures.
As a thought-leader, Coy has been featured in publications such as Vogue Club by Vogue, Fashion Bomb Daily, BlaqueOUT Magazine, Voyage Baltimore, and on-air with “Living Local DMV” on The CW. Along with being a co-host/moderator with Team Rayceen Productions, Coy is the co-host of the “Cocktails and Culture Podcast” and host of The National LGBTQ Task Force’s Instagram Live series “X is a Queer Issue” discussing intersectional topics that hinder queer folx ability to thrive.
Coy holds a B.A. in mass communication (PR/Advertising) from Bethune-Cookman University and an M.A. in strategic communication (digital communication strategies and analytics) from American University. In 2024, Benjamin was added to PR Week’s Pride in PR list of 30 inspirational LGBTQ PR practitioners worldwide.
The Birth of Cocktails and Culture
Benjamin and Brigethia met in 2020 and quickly bonded for their shared adoration of all things pop culture, entertainment news, Real Housewives, and Beyoncé. Fast forward to 2022, when Brigethia approached Benjamin with the idea of taking their shared adoration of these topics and creating candid conversations in podcast form. And so, the Cocktails and Culture podcast was born! The two collaborated to make their weekly podcast a space where they offer themselves and the listeners relief from the troubles of everyday life. The variety of topics discussed on the podcast ranges from the latest seasons of the Housewives franchises, sparking queer and BIPOC voices and even shedding light on the importance of mental health.
Started From the Bottom Now They’re Here
I remember the day I first tuned into the Cocktails and Culture podcast. Life became better on June 4, 2022. I opened my Spotify app and tuned into episode one, “Who’s your favorite housewife?” I wasn’t that interested initially, especially since I only watched The Real Housewives of Potomac. I wasn’t too fond of the other franchises. Benjamin and Brigethia had me hooked, but not even five minutes in. The adoration and care they bring to the discussions and their natural charm for witty banter kept me. Listening and watching their platform grow over the years allowed them to break barriers unbeknownst to them.
The dynamic duo began booking guests, building their brand, taking their podcast to events such as New York Fashion Week, and working their way to their first live show not even three years in the game! They officially reach professional “yapper” status (you should put that in the bio). Being this far ahead of the game early into their podcasting careers was a moment for them.
We did not anticipate on having a live podcast as early as we did, but we are so grateful to all of our listeners, subscribers and followers who have supported us in this journey.
Our first live show was in partnership with the DC bloggers organization who meet every month to discuss a new topic, connect with other content creators, and establish a community of online support. When we approached the chapter officer, Liz Strom, with the idea to collaborate on a live show, she was so supportive and really helped us bring this to life.” – Benjamin and Brigethia
I attended their first live show at La Cosecha, and it was as good—if not better, than their digital platforms. Seeing Brigethia and Benjamin effortlessly glide through the discussion, making us laugh, dropping gems, and even a meme bingo was fun to watch unfold. Their infectious personalities increased their stage presence. Not only did the audience have so much fun, but hosting the live podcast reinvigorated their spirits, allowing them to push to the forefront via live stream, audio and video recording, and more.
What’s Next For Cocktails and Culture?
When I asked what was next, Benjamin and Brigethia lit up with joyous curiosity and reminiscence. For them, 2024 has been an exciting year for the Cocktails and Culture podcast! They opened season three with Summer House: Martha’s Vineyard Bravo star Preston Mitchum; they hosted the After Party of New York fashion week in February 2024; they also interviewed B.Monét, a talented film producer, and many others.
With season three nearing its end, the duo is prioritizing rest and rethinking how the podcast can keep up this momentum of engagement and connectivity. Once season three wraps up, Benjamin and Brigethia will set the stage for what’s to come in season 4.
You’re doing yourself a disservice by not tuning in to the Cocktails & Culture podcast, so do yourself a favor and tune in for good vibes and clear skin. You can follow Cocktails and Culture here, as well as Benjamin and Brigethia. Be sure to tune in! They’re currently streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcast, and YouTube. Also, follow Liz Strom and DC Bloggers for allowing the duo to host their live show and liven the culture.
Signing off,
Michael