Part of a trio of podcasters in the female-led Horror&Hooch show, Jade Astral has helped move the show from a sporadic gathering of friends discussing horror on Facebook Live to a more genuine podcast that looks to tackle the releases of the day. Now, in honor of both Black History Month and Women in Horror Month, I talk with her about the beginning stages of the show, how it's shaped over time and the future of their show.
Me: Hello and thank you for taking the time to do this. First off, when did you get into horror in general?
Jade Astral: I gained an interest in horror at the age of 4 years old.
Me: Were you into genre films growing up? What films specifically got you into watching horror movies?
JA: Yes, I was most definitely into horror growing up. I loved reading and viewing horror any chance I could get. I started with dissecting the Nightmare on Elm Street Movie Collection on VHS.
Me: Where did the initial concept and general format for your show Horror & Hooch come from? Has this changed much since you first started?
JA: My partner and I would call each other and reviewing horror movies and novels over a glass of wine or spirit of choice. We decided to share this experience with other horror lovers. The general format has not changed, but we make sure to collaborate and continue to provide fresh and interesting content.
Me: What did you initially want to do to make it stand out?
JA: Each member of Horror and Hooch is African American. We knew we were creating a new space for others in our community to embrace the horror genre. By making each episode fun and interesting, we knew we would stand out.
Me: Has the style of prepping and recording a new episode changed over time?
JA: Over time my format for prepping has changed. Instead of writing a 5 page paper of material to cover, I've learned to provide important and interesting details. Horror and Hooch also interchange between pre-recorded and LIVE shows.
Me: What is the usual strategy you employ for note-taking before a new recording?
JA: My usual strategy for note-taking is jotting down all the questions that first come to mind about the related topic after conducting research. I skim through those questions and select at least 2-3 that will be used during the podcast.
Me: Are there any pre-show rituals you perform before recording?
JA: Before each show, I make sure to meditate and focus in on my breathing. I also may have a crystal or two with me during the recording. They remind me to take deep breaths and try not to be so… serious. The audience likes to hear you have fun as well.
Me: How has your relationship with your co-host K.Bly changed over the course of recording the show?
JA: Over the course of recording 3 seasons of Horror&Hooch, K. Bly and I have become closer.
Me: What has been the most surreal experience doing the show has afforded you?
JA: The most surreal experience was interviewing THE GHOST BROTHERS. Being able to provide a space where others may share their paranormal experiences is another surreal experience that Horror&Hooch has afforded me.
Me: What is the overall goal of Horror & Hooch moving forward?
JA: The overall goal for Horror&Hooch is to continue to provide awesome and interesting content. We will continue to model that it is okay to have an interest or love for horror. It does not have to be so taboo.
Me: Outside of the show, you’re an owner of the company Vth Wall. Where did the concept for the company come from? What do you provide for your clients?
JA: The Vth Wall is a multimedia company. The concept came from the fact that the members of The Vth Wall would love for there to be more diversity in every genre. We provide comics, short horror stories, short horror films, podcasts, poetry, and interviews.
Me: What else are you working on that you'd like to share with our readers?
JA: I am currently starting an IGTV series titled LATE NIGHT WITH JADE. I share information on weird, strange and taboo topics while providing positivity as well. My goal is for this platform to provide an outlet for others to express their concerns and interest even if it may seem strange to others. "STRANGENESS" is and will always be welcomed.
Me: Lastly, being that this is Women in Horror Month, what special message do you have for any women out there looking to join in the industry in any capacity as you are one yourself?
JA: Never give up on YOUR DREAM. Don't allow others or situations to sway you away from your visions. Try not to get overwhelmed, and continue to create and produce even if you are your only support or fan. The more exposure the bigger your audience will grow over time. Stay focus on the main goal!!!
Me: Thank you again for your time!
To check out a potential episode of the show:
This interview ran as part of our Women in Horror Month celebrations. Click the banner below to check out all of our reviews and interviews about the occasion:
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