Maurice Cherry is an award-winning creative visionary who works as a writer, designer, strategist, voice actor, and storyteller. As principal and creative director of Lunch, the award-winning multidisciplinary studio he founded in 2008, he empowers creative brands to craft resonant narratives and forge meaningful connections with diverse audiences, particularly underrepresented communities. Lunch has collaborated with industry leaders such as Facebook, Mailchimp, Vox Media, NIKE, and The City of Atlanta, among others.
Maurice is a pioneering digital creator, best known for Revision Path, the groundbreaking podcast that made history as the first podcast inducted into the permanent collection of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC). His innovative projects also include the Black Weblog Awards, 28 Days of the Web, The Year of Tea, and the design anthology RECOGNIZE, each reflecting his commitment to amplifying diverse voices and fostering creative communities.
His design work, advocacy, and projects have garnered acclaim from leading organizations and publications, including Apple, Adobe, NPR, Forbes, and Fast Company. Most recently, in 2025, he was honored as one of the Eames Institute’s Curious 100, recognizing his innovative contributions to reframing perspectives, amplifying voices, and inspiring action. He served as the Maryland Institute College of Art’s 2021 William O. Steinmetz designer-in-residence, and in 2018, he received the Steven Heller Prize for Cultural Commentary from AIGA, was named one of GDUSA’s “People to Watch,” and was included in The Root 100, their annual list of the most influential African-Americans ages 25 to 45. That same year, Creative Loafing Atlanta recognized him as one of their Influentials in the fields of business and technology. Earlier in his career, Maurice was named one of Atlanta’s “Power 30 Under 30″ in Science and Technology by the Apex Society and was selected as one of HP’s “50 Tech Tastemakers” in collaboration with Black Web 2.0. He is also a valued executive member of the International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences.
Maurice’s approach to design strategy, problem solving, and his foundation in analytical thinking stems from his studies at Morehouse College, where he earned a degree in Mathematics.
How many years have you worked in podcasting or audio?
10+ years
What is your current role, in your own words?
I consult with companies on their content strategy, including podcasting. I also work as a podcast coach for independent podcasters and mission-aligned brands.
What types of projects do you typically work on?
Podcast consulting, content strategy, 1:1 coaching, podcast development for brands and individuals
How many years have you been a Signal Awards judge?
3+ years
What excited you about joining the Signal Awards Judging Academy?
I’ve been an active podcaster for over 20 years, so I’m excited about being able to be a part of the podcast community and lend my skills and expertise to help the next generation of podcasters.
What is one recent podcast you’ve loved and would recommend?
Tough Cookie: The Wally “Famous” Amos Story
What separates good audio storytelling from great audio storytelling?
Respect for the listener.
What project are you most proud of and why?
Revision Path, for sure. Aside from it being the largest archive of interviews with Black designers from around the world, it’s also the first podcast to be part of the Smithsonian Institute’s permanent collection for the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
What podcasting trend, challenge, or opportunity has your attention these days?
It’s probably a bit obvious to mention AI, but it’s become a part of production and marketing for a lot of podcasts these days. It’s made it easier than ever to start a podcast. Doesn’t mean the podcasts are good, but AI tools in production and marketing certainly flatten that learning curve with getting started.
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to emerging creators?
Get crystal clear on what your show is about and who your show is for (your ideal listener). Even with all the advances in technology and other changes in the industry, authenticity is still key.
What are you currently listening to? (podcasts, music, anything)
Lately, I have been listening to a lot of Internet culture-type podcasts: 404 Media, Never Post, Close All Tabs, etc.