CODA, the Caribbean-focused, ad-based streaming platform showcases films, TV shows, documentaries, concerts, lifestyle, and culture, all in one place.
Founded in 2022, CODA has quickly become the premier Caribbean-focused streaming outlet, available in 178 countries with a growing audience and robust user base. Planet Reggae caught up with Lexi Chow to discuss her journey, dedication to Caribbean and Pan-African culture, and vision for CODA:
Tell us about your professional journey and how CODA started.
My career began in public relations in the early 2000s, where I built strong networks and relationships. These connections have supported me throughout my career. In 2011, I transitioned to film and television, moving from New York to Los Angeles to pursue a highly competitive field. This taught me resilience and the value of continuous learning.
Through years in entertainment, I noticed Caribbean content was underrepresented on mainstream platforms. I saw a need for a dedicated space to showcase the Caribbean’s rich stories and talent. This became the catalyst for CODA—a platform for Caribbean creators to amplify their voices globally.
CODA is more than a streaming platform; it’s a movement celebrating Caribbean diversity, culture, and creativity. We aim to give filmmakers and artists a space to thrive, beyond traditional media constraints.
What milestones has CODA achieved so far?
The past year has been full of pivotal moments. One highlight was our coverage of Vybz Kartel’s early steps toward freedom, which we livestreamed on Instagram. This moment connected the Caribbean with real-time, frontline coverage, reminiscent of “CNN for the Caribbean.” While we’re not a news outlet, it was a powerful example of CODA’s mission to deliver stories that matter.
Thanks to Isat Buchanan, who trusted us with exclusive access, we aired Kartel’s first interviews on Context Matters, one of our flagship talk shows. This event demonstrated CODA’s commitment to celebrating pivotal cultural stories.
What are your plans for CODA’s future?
We aim to position CODA as the premier destination for inclusive Caribbean and cultural content. Beyond packaged programming, we’re focused on live-streaming experiences that engage audiences. By 2025, we hope to be recognized among the top global streaming platforms, offering high-quality productions of Caribbean and diaspora stories.
Our roadmap includes expanding into original content, live sports, and African narratives. While we aggregate diverse voices, we’re also building full-scale production capabilities comparable to major studios like Netflix. This will ensure we deliver top-tier original shows and films reflecting Caribbean and diaspora cultures.
Who are some of your favorite reggae artists and why?
1. General Degree
His smooth, approachable style is timeless. Songs like Traffic Blocking resonate with wide audiences, offering a laid-back vibe without being overly raunchy—a hallmark of his enduring appeal.
2. Super Cat
The true “Don Dada” of dancehall, Super Cat’s swagger and crossover appeal paved the way for Jamaican artists in global markets. Tracks like Dem No Worry We with Heavy D broke barriers and defined a generation of reggae-hip hop collaborations.
3. Tenor Saw
Though his career was short, Tenor Saw’s impact was monumental. Songs like Ring the Alarm showcase his genius, blending raw emotion with infectious rhythms. His legacy remains foundational in reggae and dancehall.
What are some standout programs on CODA right now?
1. The Black Vegan Cooking Show
Hosted by Charlis Rookwood, this series explores vegan dishes inspired by Jamaican and Mauritian flavors while delving into conversations about food, identity, and lifestyle. It’s a perfect blend of education and entertainment, reflecting Caribbean and African diasporic cuisines in a contemporary light.
2. Premier Boxing Champions
Boxing has deep roots in Caribbean culture, and this show connects our audience with high-level boxing events from the U.S. Featuring fighters like Deontay Wilder and Andre Berto, it’s thrilling to see the region represented on a global stage.
What’s next for CODA?
We have an exciting slate planned for 2025, which will be unveiled soon. Our goal is to continue delivering content that entertains, educates, and connects the global Caribbean community. With a focus on storytelling excellence, we’re ready to take CODA to the next level.
Lexi Chow’s commitment to elevating Caribbean culture through CODA is reshaping how the world views and engages with the region’s stories. With ambitious plans and a clear vision, CODA is set to become a powerhouse in global streaming.
Check Out CODA: https://thecodanetwork.com/