Powerhouse in Media: A Conversation with Chesley Maddox-Dorsey

In the ever-evolving world of media, few leaders have made as significant an impact as Chesley Maddox-Dorsey.

As the CEO of A Wonder Media Company, which includes American Urban Radio Networks (AURN), she has played a pivotal role in amplifying Black voices, innovating within the industry, and shaping the future of Black-owned media.
Recently named to the U.S. Black Chambers Power 50 Women of Influence list, Maddox-Dorsey continues to be a driving force for change and progress.

In this exclusive interview, she shares insights on leadership, the growth of A Wonder Media Company, and her commitment to community and culture.

Chesley, congratulations on being named to the U.S. Black Chambers Power 50 Women of Influence list. What does this recognition mean to you personally and professionally?

I’m excited and beyond grateful. Being recognized as the CEO of a Black-owned media company, AURN, that’s been in business for over 50 years, is very meaningful. In a dynamic and ever-changing media landscape, we have increased our relevancy, which is both personally and professionally rewarding.

You’ve had an impressive career trajectory from banking to becoming the CEO of A Wonder Media Company. Can you share how your experiences in the financial sector helped shape your approach to leadership in the media industry?

My years working in the financial sector gave me the skills to handle the many different financial facets of running a company. They also afforded me the opportunity to work closely with and test-drive many different leadership styles.

A Wonder Media Company has grown significantly under your leadership. What do you attribute this growth to, and what key strategies have been essential in expanding the reach of your radio networks?

My senior managers are committed, connected, and unafraid to push boundaries. Collectively, we decided to invest in top talent and key technology and expand by working with strategic partners. We went from having no partners to working with multiple key partners, which allowed us to grow more quickly and expand the reach of our radio networks.

As the leader of the largest Black- and woman-owned radio network in the U.S., you’ve played a pivotal role in amplifying Black voices in media. How do you see the role of Black-owned media evolving in the digital age?

Though radio continues to reach nearly 90% of Black listeners each month, we must be available in multiple digital formats. In this digital era, technology can provide tools to create deeper connections with our audience. Black-owned media has a responsibility to amplify purposeful, authentic, trusted sources who have an emotional connection to our culture. Staying innovative means evolving with the landscape.

You often speak about the importance of building a strong team. What advice would you give to young entrepreneurs and hiring managers on attracting and retaining top talent?

It's really important to attract additive talent instead of duplicative. Don’t be afraid to work with big personalities or challenging creatives who push you to think outside the box. I prefer to work with people who are always thinking and curious.

Outside of your professional success, you’re passionate about causes related to children and women. How do these causes influence your leadership and business decisions, and why are they important to you personally?

It is about paying it forward and creating opportunities for our children, which is both rewarding and fun. We have a responsibility to our children, who are our future.

Chesley Maddox-Dorsey’s leadership exemplifies innovation, resilience, and a commitment to uplifting Black voices in media. Her journey from the financial sector to media powerhouse speaks to her versatility and strategic vision. As she continues to push the boundaries of Black-owned media in the digital age, her influence is not only shaping the industry but also inspiring the next generation of leaders to build, innovate, and create impact.