
Behnke Holdings serves as the strategic architect behind a diverse portfolio of industry-leading subsidiaries — from publishing to private credit, we foster excellence through disciplined capital allocation.
All narrator applications lock permanently on July 11, 2026 · 11:59 PM ET. After that, the portal will not accept new narrator submissions.
Thank you to everyone who has applied for the Before 21 narrator roles. Our hiring team is actively reviewing submissions. New submissions are still being accepted for the Lead, Featured, and Guest Voice Narrator positions.
A curated collection of operating companies across publishing, broadcasting, and finance.
The publishing arm of Behnke Holdings producing books, stories, and media that challenge perspectives and inspire readers across generations.
View →02An independent bookstore curating contemporary literature and academic works that challenge perspectives and inspire readers.
View →03A podcast hosted by real people exploring raw human experience and entrepreneurial journeys.
View →04Credit repair and financial solutions to help individuals and businesses restore and build strong credit profiles.
View →05Boutique talent management handling sponsorships, appearances, collaborations, business opportunities, and media inquiries for a curated roster.
View →06New divisions and strategic ventures on the horizon. Our 2026 portfolio marks the foundation — more to come.
View →Behnke Treats Co. is a future consumer products initiative under Behnke Holdings. Development has been temporarily paused while we focus our resources on our active publishing and media businesses. The project remains part of our long-term vision and may resume in the future.
Behnke Notary Services is an upcoming professional services division of Behnke Holdings. Development continues to move forward as licensing, planning, and operational preparations are completed. We look forward to sharing additional updates as we move closer to launch.
At Books by Behnke and Behnke Holdings, our Board of Directors provides strategic oversight, leadership guidance, and long-term vision as we continue to grow across publishing, media, and business ventures.
Joseph McDermitt (Behnke)
Founder, Chairman, Chief Executive Officer & President
Joseph serves as Board Chair and leads the company's overall vision, strategy, and long-term growth. As the author of the Before 18 series, Joseph has built a brand centered on raw storytelling, resilience, and real-life experiences. His leadership continues to drive innovation across publishing, media, and business development, positioning the company for continued expansion. Through his work, Joseph remains committed to building a platform that connects with audiences, challenges perspectives, and brings meaningful stories to life.
Sarah Blackwell
COO / Chief Operating Officer | Vice President | Board Co-Chair
Sarah Blackwell currently serves as Vice President and Board Co-Chair of Behnke Holdings. Sarah previously held the role until December 2025, when she stepped away from the position. With her return to leadership, she brings prior experience, continuity, and a strong understanding of the company's long-term vision and strategic direction. Her leadership continues to play an important role in the growth, structure, and future development of Behnke Holdings and its expanding portfolio of brands.
Isaiah Allen
Chief Creative Officer (CCO) | Board Member
Isaiah currently serves as Chief Creative Officer (CCO) of Behnke Holdings, leading the company's creative direction, brand development, media presentation, and overall visual identity across its platforms and operations. He plays a key role in shaping the company's public image, audience engagement, and long-term creative vision. Previously, Isaiah served as Chief Financial Officer from January 2024 through March 20, 2025, supporting the company's financial planning, operational growth, and organizational development during a major period of expansion.
Malika Johnson
CFO (Chief Financial Officer) | Board Member
Malika Johnson serves as Chief Financial Officer of Behnke Holdings, leading financial planning, reporting, and day-to-day finance operations across the portfolio. She works closely with the Chair and senior leadership on budgeting, forecasting, and the financial groundwork for the company's expanding divisions.
Amy Behnke
Board Member | Director of Talent Acquisition
Amy Behnke currently serves as a Board Member for Behnke Holdings after previously serving as Vice President within the organization. As a continuing member of the board, Amy plays an active role in helping expand the company's vision, strengthen its growing brands, and support long-term development across the organization. As Director of Talent Acquisition, she leads recruitment strategy and helps identify talent to support the company's continued growth. As part of a family-founded business, Amy brings leadership, support, and dedication to the company's continued growth. Her involvement reflects the strong family foundation behind Behnke Holdings and its future direction.
My mother is truly amazing, and I am grateful to have her continue helping guide and support this company as we continue bringing our vision to life together. — Joseph
Jordan Curaçao
Board Member | Strategic Advisor, Human Resources
Jordan serves on the Board of Directors of Books by Behnke and Behnke Holdings, providing strategic guidance in human resources, organizational structure, and team development.
Mario Valente
Chief Technology Officer (CTO) | Board Member
Mario was appointed on July 8, 2026, as the company's next Chief Technology Officer. He currently serves as a voting member of the Board of Directors of Books by Behnke and Behnke Holdings, overseeing operational strategy and supporting the company's overall efficiency and growth. He works closely with leadership to ensure systems, processes, and daily operations align with the organization's long-term goals.
Our Board of Directors is committed to maintaining strong governance, structured leadership transitions, and long-term organizational stability. Leadership changes are managed through a strategic and reviewed process to ensure continued growth and operational excellence.