Meet Leigh LaRie | Podcaster & Community Advocate

We had the good fortune of connecting with Leigh LaRie and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Leigh, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Starting Dirty Roses Podcast was a natural evolution of my passion for storytelling and community engagement. For years, I had been collecting hilarious, heartwarming, and sometimes heartbreaking stories from friends and colleagues about their dating experiences. Initially, I envisioned (and still do) turning these stories into a book, but as I shared them on social media, the idea of turning these stories into podcast topics formed. After several years of research, planning and preparation, I embarked on creating a platform for open and honest discussions about love, lust, and perception.

The unexpected ending of my 21-year marriage, coinciding with the launch of Dirty Roses Podcast, brought a new dimension to the show. Suddenly, I was navigating the dating world myself, alongside my co-host and childhood friend, who had never been in a long-term relationship. This shift created a unique dynamic, allowing us to explore the complexities of love and relationships from vastly different perspectives.

As a former radio personality, hosting a podcast felt like a natural progression. The platform not only allowed me to indulge my passion for storytelling but also provided a space to connect with a broader audience and delve into topics that are often considered taboo.

Beyond the steamy stories and humorous mishaps, Dirty Roses Podcast is also a platform for healing, growth, and empowerment. We share personal journeys, discuss the challenges of trauma recovery, and explore ways to foster healthy relationships. Through transparent conversations and insightful guest interviews, we aim to create a safe space where listeners can connect with their own experiences and expand their understanding of love, intimacy, and self-discovery.

As Black entrepreneurs, it was essential for us to use this platform to celebrate and uplift our local Black and minority-owned businesses. We actively feature and promote these businesses on the show and through our social media channels, fostering a vibrant network of support and collaboration within our community.

Ultimately, Dirty Roses Podcast is about embracing the messy, beautiful, and sometimes dirty aspects of love, while fostering a sense of community, connection, and personal growth.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
It’s funny, I’ve always been a bit of a career chameleon. I’ve worked in so many different fields—from legal secretary to radio personality, even bartender! But the thread connecting all of it has been my deep commitment to community. That’s where my heart is.

Aside from hosting my podcast, Dirty Roses Podcast, which is a space for healing and growth, I’m the Community Outreach & Resource Manager for a local nonprofit here in Portland called Black Parent Initiative. Our mission is to uplift Black families and individuals through culturally specific services. We understand that the lived experiences of Black people are unique and our support reflects that.

This role has been a lifetime in the making. My journey as a social servant started in high school, and continued through college and beyond. I’ve always been drawn to creating programs focused on mentorship and community wellness. I know the power of having a strong support system, a village you can lean on.

My main goal in life is to leave people feeling a little better than before our interaction. We all know what it feels like to be overlooked or undervalued. Even small acts of service can make a difference.

In my current role, I organize large-scale community events focused on everything from Black literacy to micro-enterprises, cultural identity, and just bringing our community together. I’m proud of the partnerships I’ve built with local organizations and businesses, pooling resources to expand our reach. My creative and marketing background has definitely come in handy!

Being in Portland, a city known for its whiteness, this work is crucial. Creating a sense of belonging, a sense of family—that old-school kind of community—means everything to me. It not only feeds my soul but also helps me raise strong men in my sons. By building a village for others, I’ve gained a village of my own. It’s a beautiful exchange.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my bestie was rolling through town, you know we’re doing it Blackity Black! First, I’ll give a little history with a deep dive into Vanport and the Albina district, paying homage to my community roots!

Next, we’re feasting our way through the city. Joe Brown’s Lounge for some drinks, popcorn and good eats, Le Bontemps for Cajun goodness and daiquiris, Norma Jean’s for a little soul food, and DB Dessert Company to satisfy that sweet tooth. We’re washing it all down with cocktails at Mermosa, Olive or Twist, and Alberta Street Pub – gotta support those local spots!

Of course we’ll do some retail therapy hitting up Stackin Kickz, Chadowboxx Salon to stock up on Mylani Vegan Haircare, and Black Mannequin for unique finds. And we can’t forget Third Eye Books for that Black literary fix!

Before they leave, I’m sending them home smelling like heaven with candles from Scent 2 Be – my absolute favorite. And we gotta catch a Blazer game at the Moda Center, take a stroll along the waterfront, and maybe even hike to a waterfall or two. If time allows, a quick drive up to Seattle wouldn’t hurt!

Depending on the time of year, we might stumble upon a festival or two, but trust me, Portland always has something going on. No matter what, we’re gonna have a time!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There are so many people I could shout out who have been instrumental in my personal and professional growth. But honestly, I have to dedicate this shoutout to my kids. They literally keep me going – I live for them in a way that’s both selfish and selfless.

Selfish because they push me to achieve my own goals, to be the best version of myself. They motivate me to show them what it means to take care of yourself so you can take care of others. And selfless because, at the end of the day, everything I do is ultimately for them. Their well-being and happiness are my top priority.

It’s a constant push and pull, a beautiful dance of mutual support and motivation. I am eternally grateful for their presence in my life, for the lessons they teach me every single day, and for the unconditional love they give.

Website: https://www.dirtyrosespodcast.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dirtyrosespodcast/

Twitter: https://x.com/dirtyrosespod

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083351798496

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@dirtyrosespodcast?si=oMsnxWNOZ8yO7kXe

Other: Personal:
https://www.instagram.com/leighlarie/
https://x.com/leighlarie
https://www.facebook.com/leighlarie

Image Credits
Sims Photography