SURPRISE! It’s a Bonus Episode.   Yes, I am officially on summer vacation, working on my novel, and the podcast is on a summer hiatus. So, why am I back in your podcast feed? Because I have a special bonus episode for you!    I want to introduce you to a literary podcast I love to listen to called Black & Published. Hosted by author Nikesha Elise Williams, Black & Published features interviews with novelists, nonfiction writers, poets and playwrights every week. For today’s bonus episode, I’m running a recent episode from Black & Published that I loved. This episode features an interview with award-winning author, Vanessa Riley. An engineer turned historical romance writer who always centers women of color in her best-selling books, Vanessa Riley has an incredible story of how she started her writing career, and an even more impressive story of how she got the mainstream publishing industry to take her historical romance stories seriously.  This episode centers on her recently released novel about Haiti’s only queen, Marie-Louise Christophe. The book sounds amazing, and this episode is equally amazing.   I hope you enjoy and continue listening to Black & Published wherever you listen to podcasts.  If you want to learn more about Vanessa Riley, visit her website.   If you’re looking for more creative writing inspiration, and useful resources for your literary life, visit ReedWriteandCreate.com.   Sign up for the monthly, Reed, Write, & Create newsletter for literary resources and opportunities delivered right  to your inbox.   Don’t buy your books on Amazon, support indie booksellers and shop online at the Reed, Write, & Create bookshop for a list of curated titles by BIPOC authors.    If you’re looking for a better way to organize your writing manuscripts, fiction and nonfiction, consider trying Scrivener. I’ve recently become a Scrivener fan and am using it to write my current novel. Feel free to use my affiliate link to purchase Scrivener and receive 20% off by using the code REEDWRITE.

On episode 32 of the podcast, our final episode of Season 3, I’m going to share a final pep talk meant to get you to stop thinking that you have to do this writing thing all alone. On today's show, I’m going to dispel the myth of the solitary writer, sharing why it’s a myth, how it got started, why it’s a dangerous myth, who the myth actually benefits, and how we should be handling our writing lives instead. My  hope is that by breaking down the faulty logic behind the solitary writer myth, you writers start to think of your writing practice in new and more expansive ways. During the episode, you’ll hear how world-famous writers, from Socrates to Shakespeare, were perceived as solitary writers, but they really weren’t. Same story for contemporary writers from Hemingway to Zora Neale Hurston.  So, tune in and enjoy the episode.  This will be our last lit pep talk before we go on summer hiatus. We’ll be back with new episodes in September. Until then, keep writing.  **********  If you’re looking for more creative writing inspiration, and useful resources for your literary life, visit ReedWriteandCreate.com.   Sign up for the monthly, Reed, Write, & Create newsletter for literary resources and opportunities delivered right  to your inbox.   Don’t buy your books on Amazon, support indie booksellers and shop online at the Reed, Write, & Create bookshop for a list of curated titles by BIPOC authors.    If you’re looking for a better way to organize your writing manuscripts, fiction and nonfiction, consider trying Scrivener. I’ve recently become a Scrivener fan and am using it to write my current novel. Feel free to use my affiliate link to purchase Scrivener and receive 20% off by using the code REEDWRITE.    Write On!

On episode 31 of the podcast, I have saved the best for last. Our final author interview this season is with the incomparable, American-Book-Award-winning author, Bernice L. McFadden. Bernice L. McFadden is the author of over a dozen books, including Sugar and Glorious.  Her latest novel, Praise Song for the Butterflies, was long listed for the 2019 Women's Prize in Fiction. McFadden’s novel, The Book of Harlan won the 2017 American Book Award and the 2017 NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Literary Work. The New York Times selected her novel Gathering of Waters as one of the 100 Notable Books of 2012 and as an Editor's Choice pick. Glorious was a finalist for the NAACP Image Award and featured in O, The Oprah Magazine. Currently, McFadden is an Assistant Professor of English at Tulane University in New Orleans, Louisiana.  During our conversation, Bernice and I discuss: The highs and lows of her decades-long literary career.How she kept writing when faced with multiple rejections and editors telling her that there was no market for Black authors writing literary fiction. Why she decided to start writing “humorous erotica”  under the pen name Geneva Holliday. How Toni Morrison impacted her early career.The roles spirit and synchronicity have played in her writing practice. If you’re looking for a dynamite episode that will keep you  motivated to keep writing, then press play and enjoy!   To learn more about Bernice McFadden, follow her on Facebook and Instagram. Her website is currently under construction, in anticipation of her new memoir, First Born Girls due on shelves in 2025. ********** If you are a BIPOC woman writer looking for even more literary inspiration and motivation, not to mention a highly supportive community of BIPOC sister scribes, then you should apply to be a member of the RWC Sanctuary.    The Sanctuary is a private writing community specifically  for BIPOC women writers, who take their writing seriously. Novelists, poets, memoirists, short story writers and nonfiction writers, are welcome to apply. Inside the Sanctuary we help our members get paid, get published, and reach all of their writing goals.   For more information, visit The Sanctuary page on the Reed Write and Create website. But don’t delay, because we’ll be closing our doors to new members on June 1 for the summer, and they won’t be opening again until the fall. Prices will increase for membership in the fall.    If you’re looking for more creative writing inspiration, and useful resources for your literary life, visit ReedWriteandCreate.com.   Sign up for the monthly, Reed, Write, & Create newsletter for literary resources and opportunities delivered right  to your inbox.   Don’t buy your books on Amazon, support indie booksellers and shop online at the Reed, Write, & Create bookshop for a list of curated titles by BIPOC authors.    Sharing is caring, so please share the name of this podcast with all of your BIPOC writer friends.

On episode #30 of the Reed, Write, & Create podcast, we’re doing two things; we’re honoring the late, great James Baldwin, who would be turning 100 years old in 2024, and I'm giving you a pep talk about being an American writer abroad. Yes, I’m sharing the life and times of Mr. James Baldwin to offer you the opportunity to consider what travel can mean for your writing life. And by the way, if you think we’re going to mostly be talking about Baldwin’s life in Paris, think again. On this episode, we’re talking Turkey. Istanbul, that is. Yes, the country where Baldwin wrote the majority of his most important works, and the country that he said on more than one occasion “saved him,” was none other than Turkey.    During this inspiring episode you’ll hear: Why James Baldwin left the United States to write.Why Baldwin spent a decade living and writing in Turkey.What made Baldwin an “American writer” despite his many years abroad.Multiple reasons why BIPOC writers should consider traveling or living abroad to enhance their writing life.What a writer should look for in a location when trying to find a new country where she can write.   MORE BALDWIN Try reading The Fire Next Time, it’s quintessential Baldwin, and a perennial bestseller. There are many organizations and institutions celebrating the life and work of James Baldwin this year in honor of his 100th birthday. Here are some for your consideration: Morgan State University is having a year-long celebration of Baldwin’s life.  Even in the UK, they’re celebrating Baldwin. Check out Baldwin in Bristol Check out La Maison Baldwin, an American-led organization based in France. They are planning a big centennial celebration honoring Baldwin in September of 2024, but they have programming for writers all year long.  ******************************** More Writing Resources BIPOC women writers, come join us at our upcoming Open House for The Sanctuary, on May 19, 2024. (Please RSVP for the Open House here. ) The fun starts at 3pmEST and you’ll learn all about what we offer our members; community, accountability, professional development, and resources to help you get published and get paid for your work. Our members are both emerging writers and authors with multiple titles published. At the Open House, you’ll get to hear from current members who are crushing their writing goals, and we’re going to play #Lit game of literary trivia. With Prizes!   Visit the Reed, Write, & Create website for more information, inspiration, and resources to optimize your writing life.  Please don’t support online retailers who don’t care about authors or the future of books. Please consider supporting the Reed, Write, & Create podcast and indie bookstores across the United States, by doing your online book shopping at the Reed, Write, & Create bookstore. We have a wonderful collection of books by BIPOC authors for adults, teens, and kids.

On episode #29, New York Times bestselling author Sadeaqa Johnson is on the show sharing her inspiring author journey and her practical strategies to living a successful literary life.   Sadeqa Johnson is the New York Times bestselling author of five novels, including Yellow Wife and her latest, The House of Eve, which was the February 2023 Reese Witherspoon Book Club pick. Sadeqa’s  accolades include being a NAACP Image Award nominee, a 2022 Hurston/Wright Foundation Legacy finalist, a BCALA Literary Honoree, and the Library of Virginia’s Literary People’s Choice Award winner. She is a Kimbilio Fellow and teaches in the M.F.A. program at Drexel University. Originally from Philadelphia, she currently lives near Richmond, VA with her husband and three teens.   Before she was topping the bestseller charts, Sadeqa was hand-selling her self-published novel, determined to prove herself to a publishing industry who wouldn’t give her a book deal. During our conversation, Sadeqa shares how she went from that frustrating place, to where she is today, working on her sixth novel, winning multiple literary awards, and teaching in a MFA program, all with no signs of slowing down.    This is the episode you need to listen to for inspiration, actionable strategies for your writing life, and motivation to keep writing! ** To learn more about Sadeqa Johnson, visit her website at Sadeqa.net To follow Sadeqa on Instagram, her favorite online hangout, find her @Sadeqasays Purchase your copy of Sadeqa’s latest book, the New York Times bestseller, The House of Eve from the Reed, Write, & Create Bookshop. You’ll be supporting this podcast and Sadeqa! ** BIPOC women writers, come join us at our upcoming Open House for The Sanctuary, on May 19, 2024. The fun starts at 3pmEST and you’ll learn all about what we offer our members; community, accountability, professional development, and resources to help you get published and get paid for your work. Our members are both emerging writers and authors with multiple titles published. At the Open House, you’ll get to hear from current members who are crushing their writing goals, and we’re going to play #Lit game of literary trivia. Please RSVP for the Open House here.   If you’re looking for more creative writing inspiration, and useful resources for your literary life, visit ReedWriteandCreate.com.Sign up for the monthly, Reed, Write, & Create newsletter for literary resources and opportunities delivered right  to your inbox.If you’re a BIPOC woman writer looking for a supportive writing community that will help you stay accountable to your writing goals, not to mention provide carefully curated  opportunities to get published and get paid, apply to join the Reed, Write, & Create Sanctuary. Don’t buy your books on Amazon, support indie booksellers and shop online at the Reed, Write, & Create bookshop for a list of curated titles by BIPOC authors.  Sharing is caring, so please share the name of this podcast with all of your BIPOC writer friends. Thanks!

Episode #28 of the podcast is dedicated to the literary life and legacy of Jessie Redmon Fauset, the most prolific novelist of the Harlem Renaissance, and also, sadly,  the most overlooked and under-appreciated. On this episode of the Reed, Write, & Create podcast, I will be sharing Fauset’s fascinating life story, as well as four reasons why she is often sidelined and left in the shadows when it comes to conversations about the literary greats of the Harlem Renaissance. Spoiler alert: Having an affair with W.E.B. Dubois, may or may not have had something to do with it. (I'm pouring the tea, so be ready.) Tune in for a little literary history, some literary lessons you can apply to your own writing life, and the pep talk you need right now. ************* BIPOC women writers, come join us at our upcoming Open House for The Sanctuary, on May 19, 2024. The fun starts at 3pmEST and you’ll learn all about what we offer our members; community, accountability, professional development, and resources to help you get published and get paid for your work. Our members are both emerging writers and authors with multiple titles published. At the Open House, you’ll get to hear from current members who are crushing their writing goals, and we’re going to play #Lit game of literary trivia. Please RSVP for the Open House here.  Visit the Reed, Write, & Create blog for more content and resources to up-level your writing life.   If you’re a BIPOC woman writer who is looking for community and accountability to help you get published and get paid, apply to join the Reed, Write, & Create Sanctuary. Our members stay winning.    Don’t support an online retailer who doesn’t support writers or the longevity of the publishing industry. Buy your books from independent bookstores. You can support this podcast and independent bookstores everywhere, by making your online book purchases at the Reed, Write, & Create bookstore.  If you want to be the first to know what new classes, retreats, and workshops I’m offering, plus  other literary opportunities to brighten your life, sign up for the monthly Reed, Write, & Create newsletter. Please don't forget to spread the word about the Reed, Write, & Create podcast. Rate & Review too.

On episode 27 of the podcast, award-winning poet and debut novelist, Phillip B. Williams, is on the show. You might have heard about Williams because his brand new novel, Ours, was one of Oprah’s most anticipated books for 2024. Ours is an epic story about a conjure woman named Saint, who goes around destroying plantations in the south, and then freeing the enslaved workers. She then creates a magical world called Ours where the newly emancipated can live in peace because white people can neither see, nor access Ours. And if they try, they meet with a gruesome ending! It’s an epic story of Black resistance. During our conversation, Phillip delivers a full masterclass on creative writing essentials.Topics covered include: How to use poetry to write better prose.What MFA programs are actually good for and who should applyWhy writers shouldn’t be worried about word countWhat you should be reading to improve your writingWhy we should be reading the works of our literary ancestors And… Why He Views Ours as Black Surrealism rather than Magical Realism Grab your pen and get ready to take notes, because this is an episode with lessons you’ll want to apply to your writing life today!   To learn more about Philip B. William, visit his website and find him on Instagram  Buy a copy of Ours from The Reed, Write, & Create Bookshop.  Phillip has also written two books of award-winning poetry. Check out Thief in the Interior.   One of Phillip’s early poetry influences is the legendary Sonia Sanchez. Try her American Book Award winning collection, Homegirls and Hand Grenades to inspire your poetry and prose.  ********* BIPOC women writers, come join us at our upcoming Open House for The Sanctuary, on May 19, 2024. The fun starts at 3pmEST and you’ll learn all about what we offer our members; community, accountability, professional development, and resources to help you get published and get paid for your work. Our members are both emerging writers and authors with multiple titles published. At the Open House, you’ll get to hear from current members who are crushing their writing goals, and we’re going to play #Lit game of literary trivia. Please RSVP for the Open House here.  If you’re looking for more creative writing inspiration, and useful resources for your literary life, be sure to check out all of the amazing content at ReedWriteandCreate.com.    Sign up for the monthly, Reed, Write, & Create newsletter for literary resources and opportunities delivered right  to your inbox.   If you’re a BIPOC woman writer looking for a supportive writing community to join, where you’ll find accountability partners, BETA readers for your work, and opportunities to get published and get paid, apply to join the Reed, Write, & Create Sanctuary.    Don’t buy your books on Amazon, support indie booksellers and shop online at the Reed, Write, & Create bookshop for a list of curated titles by BIPOC authors.    Sharing is caring, so please share the name of this podcast with all of your BIPOC writer friends. Thanks!

On episode #26  of the podcast, I’m using the life of the illustrious Langston Hughes, to give you a pep talk on how to make a living with your writing. Even in hard times.   Did you know that Langston Hughes is recognized as the first African-American writer to make a living solely from his writing? Yes, Langston Hughes was definitely the hardest working writer in Harlem, and throughout his life before and after the renaissance. So studying his success and strategies can give us some excellent ideas about crafting a successful writing life.   Stay tuned for some innovative, actionable tips and motivation for your writing life.    To learn more about Langston Hughes, especially his life in Spain, enjoy this blog post I wrote for ReedWriteandCreate.com.   Read Langston’s wonderful autobiography (the one I read from during the episode) I Wonder as I Wander to stay motivated throughout your writing life.    You might also enjoy this collection of Langston’s short stories called, The Short Stories of Langston Hughes.  If you’re looking for more creative writing inspiration, and useful resources for your literary life, be sure to check out all of the amazing content at ReedWriteandCreate.com.    Sign up for the monthly, Reed, Write, & Create newsletter for literary resources and opportunities delivered right  to your inbox.   If you’re a BIPOC woman writer looking for a supportive writing community to join, where you’ll find accountability partners, BETA readers for your work, and opportunities to get published and get paid, apply to join the Reed, Write, & Create Sanctuary.    When you’re buying new books, don’t support a massive online retailer that doesn’t pay authors or publishes their fair share, and puts indie booksellers out of business. Shop indie bookstores like the Reed, Write, & Create Bookstore powered by Bookshop.org.

On episode 25 of the podcast, my guest is New York Times Bestselling author, Ilyon Woo. Ilyon is the author of the new book, Master Slave Husband Wife: An Epic Journey from Slavery to Freedom and The Great Divorce: A Nineteenth-Century Mother’s Extraordinary Fight Against Her Husband, the Shakers, and Her Times. Her writing has also appeared in The Boston Globe, The Wall Street Journal,Time, and The New York Times.  During our delightful conversation Ilyon shares: When she fell in love with storytelling.Why she’s obsessed with the Shakers.Her secrets to writing thrilling, jump-off-the-page nonfiction.How being Korean-American has impacted her career as a writer.What the descendants of Willam and Ellen Craft, the subjects of Master, Slave, Husband, Wife, think of her portrayal of their famous relatives. Her advice for other BIPOC writers who want to write beyond their own cultural stories. It’s another informative, inspiring and fun conversation with an award-winning BIPOC writer.  I hope you love it!   To learn more about Ilyon Woo, visit her website: IlyonWoo.com and/or find her on Instagram @ilyonwooauthor.    Buy a copy of the incredible, Master Slave, Husband Wife: An Epic Journey from Slavery  to Freedom from The Reed, Write, & Create Bookshop.  To learn more about William and Ellen Craft, follow the Instagram account started by their descendants to share their story with the world. @WilliamandEllenCraft   If you want to read the book, Woo referenced during the conversation, it was Tiya Miles’ All that She Carried: The Journey of Ashley’s Sack, A Black Family Keepsake.   Check out Ilyon’s first book, the fascinating, The Great Divorce: A 19th Century Mother’s Extraordinary Fight Against Her Husband, The Shakers, and Her Times. If you’re looking for more creative writing inspiration, and useful resources for your literary life, be sure to check out all of the amazing content at ReedWriteandCreate.com.    Sign up for the monthly, Reed, Write, & Create newsletter for literary resources and opportunities delivered right  to your inbox.   If you’re a BIPOC woman writer looking for a supportive writing community to join, where you’ll find accountability partners, BETA readers for your work, and opportunities to get published and get paid, come to the Virtual Open House for The Sanctuary on March 17, 2024. Sign up HERE for more information and an invitation to the Open House.   Don’t buy your books on Amazon, support indie booksellers and shop online at the Reed, Write, & Create bookshop for a list of curated titles by BIPOC authors.    Sharing is caring, so please share the name of this podcast with all of your BIPOC writer friends. Thanks!

On episode 24 of the podcast, you’re getting a pep talk about art and activism, using the life and times of the incredible Audre Lorde as our role model. We’re talking about the intersection of identity, writing, and making the world a better place.    Audre Lorde was a Black feminist writer and activist who authored several books of poetry, essays, and memoir. Some of her most popular titles include, Sister Outsider, Zami: A New Spelling of My Name, and The Cancer Journals.    This episode will leave all my BIPOC writers motivated and inspired to change the world with their words. So, let’s go! To Learn More about the Incredible Audre Lorde   Visit: The AudreLordeProject.com Read: Warrior Poet: A Biography of Audre Lorde by Alexis de Veaux Read: Sister Outsider by Audre Lorde Read: Zami: A New Spelling of My Name by Audre Lorde Read: The Cancer Journals by Audre Lorde   If you’re looking for more creative writing inspiration, and useful resources for your literary life, be sure to check out all of the amazing content at ReedWriteandCreate.com.    Sign up for the monthly, Reed, Write, & Create newsletter for literary resources and opportunities delivered right  to your inbox.   If you’re a BIPOC woman writer looking for a supportive writing community to join, where you’ll find accountability partners, BETA readers for your work, and opportunities to get published and get paid, apply to join the Reed, Write, & Create Sanctuary.    Don’t buy your books on Amazon, support indie booksellers and shop online at the Reed, Write, & Create bookshop for a list of curated titles by BIPOC authors.

We’re back with season 3 of the Reed, Write, and Create Podcast!   On episode 23 of the podcast, my guest is  New York Times best-selling author, Tia Williams.    Tia is an author of both YA titles and adult fiction. She wrote the bestselling debut novel The Accidental Diva and then penned two young adult novels, It Chicks and Sixteen Candles. Her award-winning novel, The Perfect Find is currently a Netflix movie starring Gabrielle Union. Her next novel, Seven Days in June was a New York Times bestseller and Reese Witherspoon Book Club pick, and her new novel, A Love Song for Ricki Wilde, will be published by Grand Central on February 6, 2024.  During the episode, Tia gets real about the challenges of writing while Black in the mainstream publishing industry. She speaks openly and honestly about the obstacles she faced getting her second adult novel published, even after the success of her former titles. She tells us what race had to do it, and most importantly, how and why she never gave up on her writing dreams.   In the episode we also cover: The fun and not so fun parts about writing romance. How to write a good sex scene. Why BIPOC writers shouldn’t feel obliged to center trauma in their stories.    It’s a great episode to kick off Season 3, Black History Month, and Valentine’s Day. I hope you enjoy our conversation.   To learn more about Tia Williams, visit her website, TiaWilliams.net   Find Tia on the socials.    On Instagram On Facebook On Twitter/X   To purchase a copy of Tia's delightful new novel, A Love Song for Ricki Wilde, visit the Reed, Write, & Create Online Bookshop and support independent bookstores.  BIPOC woman writers: We have a supportive and active writing community where we provide you with the resources, accountability, and opportunities you need to get published and get paid. Visit ReedWriteandCreate.com and click on the The Sanctuary to learn more. Emerging and Seasoned writers are welcome.   Sign up for the  Reed, Write and Create newsletter   Visit ReedWriteandCreate.com for more resources and inspiration on the writing life. Please leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. Thank you!

Lori is taking a break from her winter break to share an update about the future of the podcast.  The podcast is getting a new name! Find out what it is and what caused the change on this short but important episode.    New Links for all things Reed, Write, & Create. The Reed, Write, & Create website. Reed, Write, & Create on Facebook. Reed, Write, & Create on Twitter @ReedWriteCre8 Reed, Write, & Create on IG @readwritecre8 To learn more about the fascinating history of the Papyrus plant and the origin story of the book, check out the amazing book called, Papyrus: The Invention of the Book in the Ancient World. by Irene Vallejo.

On episode 22 of the podcast, award-winning author, Ibi Zoboi is my guest. Ibi is the New York Times Bestselling author of the YA novel, American Street, which among other distinctions, was a National Book Award finalist. Ibi is the editor of the anthology Black Enough: Stories of Being Young and Black in America. She co-authored the Walter Award and L.A. Times Book Prize-winning novel-in-verse, Punching the Air, written with Exonerated Five member, Yusef Salaam. Her debut picture book, The People Remember, received a Coretta Scott King Honor Award. And  her most recent books include Star Child: A Biographical Constellation of Octavia Estelle Butler, Okoye to the People: A Black Panther Novel for Marvel, and her new novel, Nigeria Jones.    During our conversation, Ibi shares her unique journey to publishing success, as well as the sacrifices and compromises she had to make in order to get her foot in the door of the mainstream publishing industry. She also shares her experiences writing for a book packaging company early on in her career.    If you’re a fiction writer looking to break into the mainstream publishing industry, this is an important and informative episode to listen to and take notes.   Writing Resources Mentioned in this Episode Ibi mentioned a lot of great resources within this episode. Here are a few you might want to check out. Ibi Zoboi’s websiteVONA Writing WorkshopClarion Workshop for Sci-Fi and Fantasy WritersForbidden Planet Comic Bookstore in New York CityNikki Giovanni’s iconic poem Ego TrippinAlloy EntertainmentIf you want to learn more about Octavia Butler and her work, listen to our episode of the podcast on Octavia Estelle Butler. It’s really great.   BIPOC Writers, We Got You! If you are a BIPOC woman writer looking for a supportive and active writing community, where we support and celebrate BIPOC women writers who want to get published and get paid, visit ReadWriteandCreate.com and click on the The Sanctuary tab.   You can also sign up for the  Read, Write and Create newsletter, which is the first place where you’ll find out about my latest classes and creative offerings. Sign up on the Read, Write and Create website.    The RWC Gift Guide for BIPOC writers and readers was created for you! There are some really unique gifts listed on the guide that your writer and reader friends will love, plus the guide is not too long so you can quickly find the perfect gift and then get back to writing.    Be sure to visit The Read, Write and Create online bookshop, where you’ll find a whole shelf of books that make great gifts. You will also find the books of all of the guests who have appeared on the podcast highlighted there as well. Remember a purchase from our bookshop goes to support this podcast and independent booksellers everywhere.   We’ll be back in February.  Until then, keep writing and keep creating. Happy Holidays!

On episode 21 of the podcast, I’m taking you on a tour of The Sanctuary, the new private membership community we’re launching at Read, Write, and Create headquarters. The Sanctuary is a private community for BIPOC women writers who want to get their work out into the world and who want to get paid for doing it.    I’m going to share the origin story of The Sanctuary, but I’m also going to share why writing communities are gaining in popularity, even though they are far from a new idea. So, even if you’re not a BIPOC woman writer or The Sanctuary isn’t for you, I urge you to stick around and listen anyway to find out how writing communities can help you optimize your writing life.    And of course we’ll dip back into history for a minute to learn how our literary ancestors used official writing communities to help get their work into the world.   On the show, you’ll learn:  Why I Created the SanctuaryWho Belongs in  The Sanctuary What Goes on Behind the Doors of the Sanctuary and Why it is a Private CommunityHow Communities Like the Harlem Writers Guild and the South Side Writers Group Inspired the Creation of The SanctuaryWhy The Sanctuary is for BIPOC Women only   The episode is short and sweet, but I hope it answers all of your questions about The Sanctuary. If you’d like to learn more about our community, including how to apply, visit the new Sanctuary page on the Read, Write, and Create website.   For more resources, recommendations and inspiration to help you optimize your writing life, visit ReadWriteandCreate.com. While you’re there, be sure to sign up for the RWC newsletter.    The holidays are coming! Whether you celebrate Hannakah, Christmas, Kwanzaa or all three, you’ll be sure to find a great gift for the literature lovers in your life on the first ever RWC Holiday Gift Guide. Curated specifically for BIPOC readers and writers, there is something for everyone – even you - in our guide. And trust, it’s not an overwhelming list, so you can quickly find just the right gift and then get back to writing!   If you prefer to just gift everyone on your shopping list with books, be sure to visit The Read, Write and Create online bookshop, where you’ll find a whole shelf of books that make great gifts. Remember a purchase from our bookshop goes to support this podcast and independent booksellers everywhere.   If you enjoyed this episode or any of our other episodes, please be sure to leave a rating or a review on your favorite podcast platform.   Keep Writing.

On episode #20 of the Read, Write, and Create podcast, my guest is Dr. Tamara Pizzoli, who shares her unconventional success story as an independent children’s book author and publisher. Dr. Pizzoli is an African-American author, curator, producer and publisher. Originally from Texas, she is the mother of four children and has resided in Rome, Italy for over fifteen years. In 2013, she opened a boutique English-language school for kids in Rome called The English Schoolhouse, which she later converted into an independent publishing house. In just under a decade, Dr. Pizzoli has published over sixty books, with many more currently in development. Her most popular books include The Ghanaian Goldilocks, Tallulah the Tooth Fairy CEO, and K is for Kahlo. After gaining international attention in print and media for her diverse children’s books, Dr. Pizzoli was approached by Farrar Straus and Giroux in early 2017 and offered a book deal for Tallulah the Tooth Fairy CEO which was then released in 2019. Film rights for Tallulah the Tooth Fairy were later acquired by the actress, Gabrielle Union. During our conversation she shares: Her unconventional path to literary success.Why she chose to self publish her own books.Why she likes to find and contract her own illustrators.How she handles publishing deals with major publishers, on her own terms. Not to mention the movies and licensing agreements she’s also negotiating. FOR MORE INFORMATION If you want to learn more about Dr. Tamara Pizzoli or to purchase her books, visit TheEnglishSchoolhouse.com If you want to follow Dr. Pizzoli on Instagram, follow her @tamarapizzoli and to learn more about her books @theenglishschoolhouse. Check out the original Kickstarter campaign that launched The Ghanaian Goldilocks. Dr. Pizzoli referenced KDP as the platform she uses for self-publishing, that is Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing. If you are enjoying the Read, Write, and Create podcast, don’t forget to rate, review, and subscribe to the show on Apple podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform. For more resources, recommendations and inspiration to help you optimize your writing life, visit ReadWriteandCreate.com. While you’re there, be sure to sign up for the RWC newsletter because I send out a monthly list of opportunities for BIPOC writers that include jobs, open submissions, residencies, grants, fellowships and more. If you’d like more information about The Sanctuary, the new membership community exclusively  for BIPOC women writers who want to get their work into the world, please use this link to join the "I Want to Know More"  List.

On episode 19 of the podcast, I’m giving a pep-talk on the importance of writing retreats for your regular writing practice. Yes, I just ran my first writing retreat, so I’m still glowing from that amazing experience, but this pep talk isn’t about me. It’s about you and all the benefits  you will gain from adding writing retreats to your writing life.  Some of the benefits of attending writing retreats include: Increased productivity in your writingImproved self-confidence as a writerAccess to a wider writing networkIncreased creativity energy Even our literary ancestors knew how beneficial it was to run away and write, so of course I’ll be bringing their perspective to my pep talk as well. By the way, I’m making a big announcement at the end of the episode, so be sure to listen all the way to the end!   Links You Need from the Show   Learn more about The Renaissance House and their residence for BIPOC writers. If you want to read Zora Neale Hurston’s autobiography/memoir that she wrote while on “retreat” consider buying your copy of Dust Tracks on the Road at Bookshop.org so you can support this podcast and independent booksellers everywhere.    If you want to start planning which retreat you’d like to attend in 2024, check out this list of retreats for BIPOC writers I created. It will be updated for 2024 soon.    If you need ideas on how to plan your own writing retreat, check out this post I wrote about the DIY writing retreat.    If you’d like more information about The Sanctuary, the new membership community exclusively  for BIPOC women writers who want to get their work into the world, please use this link to join the I Want to Know More List. For more resources, recommendations and inspiration to help you optimize your writing life, visit ReadWriteandCreate.com. While you’re there, be sure to sign up for the RWC newsletter because I send out a monthly list of opportunities for BIPOC writers that include jobs, open submissions, residencies, grants, fellowships and more. You know you want some of that good stuff, don't you?

On episode 18 of the podcast, the amazing Marita Golden is my guest.    Marita Golden is  an award-winning author of over twenty works of  fiction and nonfiction. Her books include the novels, The Wide Circumference of Love, and After and the memoirs Migrations of the Heart, Saving Our Sons, and Don’t Play in the Sun: One Woman’s Journey Through the Color Complex. Her most recent work of nonfiction is The New Black Woman Loves Herself, Has Boundaries and  Heals Every Day. Marita is also the Co-founder and President Emerita of the Zora Neale Hurston/ Richard Wright Foundation.   Over the years, Marita’s life and work as an author and literary activist has served as both personal and professional inspiration to me and countless other writers.   During our interview, we discuss: The secrets and strategies Marita has used over the years to have a successful, diverse and long-lasting literary career. Time management skills.Why writers shouldn’t feel guilty about the need to make money from their writing. The need for self-care for writers and why it’s not just a trending buzzword.The importance of community for BIPOC writers.   I guarantee this episode with Marita Golden will leave you inspired, well-informed, and ready to write.    To learn more about Marita Golden and to find out about her classes and coaching, visit her website at MaritaGolden.com   To buy some of Marita’s most iconic books, visit the Read, Write, and Create bookshop and support Marita, this podcast, and independent bookstores everywhere.    To hear an interview I did with Marita Golden about her anthology and novel on Alzheimer's, have a listen here.    To learn more about the incredible Hurston/ Wright foundation, visit their website at HurstonWright.org.   For more literary resources to help you love your writing life, please visit the Read, Write, and Create website and blog.   If you’re looking for opportunities to get your work published, to get paid for your writing, and/or retreats and residencies where you can deep dive into the writing world, be sure to subscribe to the Read, Write and Create newsletter.    Follow @ReadWriteandCre8 on Instagram for more lit news, views, tips, tricks, giveaways, and opportunities.  Please don’t forget to leave a rating and/or a review for the show on Apple podcasts or wherever you like to listen to podcasts. Thank you!

On episode 18 of the podcast, I’m sharing a lively pep-talk using the life and times of the incredible Dr. Maya Angelou to inspire you to tap into your purpose and passions as BIPOC writers.    One little programming note, make sure you stick around all the way to the end of the episode because I’m launching a new segment of the show called, Read Like a Writer, where I will be sharing a  book recommendation for a book that is delightful to read and will help you improve your craft.    The topics we cover in this Maya Angelou inspired pep talk include:   Why writers have to live life and embrace new opportunities.How to launch your writing career by starting with what you love. The sacrifice and struggle required if you want to be a writer. How writers can heal the world with their words and why BIPOC writers especially have an obligation to do so.Why Maya Angelou never used the words “writer’s block.”   Read Like a Writer Selection: The Man Who Could Move Clouds by Ingrid Rojas Contreras. You can purchase a copy at the Read, Write and Create online bookshop and support this podcast, Ingrid, and independent booksellers across the United States.    Thank you for listening to this award-winning podcast. If you are looking for more resources, recommendations and inspiration to help you optimize your writing life, please visit ReadWriteandCreate.com. While you’re there, be sure to sign up for the RWC newsletter because I send out a monthly list of opportunities for BIPOC writers that include jobs, open submissions, residencies, grants, and fellowships.    Find out what amazing award the Read, Write, and Create podcast won in September.    We also now have a dedicated Instagram account @ReadWriteandCre8. Be sure to follow that account because it's where all things Read, Write and Create will be announced.    Please don’t forget to leave a rating and/or a review for the show on Apple podcasts or wherever you like to listen to podcasts.  I'll see you in two weeks on Monday. Keep writing!

On episode 16 of the podcast, I am joined by the incredible Denene Millner. Denene is truly a powerhouse in the publishing world. She is an author, editor, television and podcast host, and journalist. She has authored more than 30 books, including six New York Times best sellers. She is the creator and director of Denene Millner Books, an imprint of Simon & Schuster, and MyBrownBaby.com, a critically acclaimed blog that examines the intersection of parenting and race. Millner has written and collaborated on books of fiction, non-fiction, and youth literature including co-authoring Act Like a Lady, Think Like A Man, and Straight Talk, No Chaser both with comedian Steve Harvey. On September 5 of 2023, Denene’s debut solo novel, One Blood was released to rave reviews. During our interview, Denene walks us through how she went from being a journalist for the Associated Press, to running her own imprint at Simon & Schuster and the strategies and mindset she used to accomplish her writing goals. Other things we discuss include:   The benefits of being able to write across genres. Denene’s secrets for productivity as a writer.The physical toll writing takes on the body and what to do to protect ourselves.Why it’s important to have your literary sisters in your life when you’re writing.Why you should never apologize for centering your people in your writing and how doing so can actually become your professional claim to fame.What literary ancestors Denene looks to for inspiration for her writing life. Her answers may surprise you!   Get ready to be inspired and to take notes because Ms. Milner is ready to school you.   Grab a copy of Denene’s epic new novel, One Blood at the Read, Write, and Create online Bookshop and support Denene, this podcast, and independent bookstores everywhere.   To learn more about Denene and all of her books and contributions to the literary world, visit DeneneMillner.com.   To find some of the best books written for young people by Black authors and illustrators, visit DeneneMillnerbooks.com.   For more literary resources to help you love your writing life, please visit the Read, Write, and Create website and blog.   If you’re looking for opportunities to get your work published, to get paid for your writing, and/or retreats and residencies where you can deep dive into the writing world, be sure to subscribe to the Reed, Write and Create bimonthly newsletter.  Follow @ReadWriteandCre8 on Instagram for more lit news, views, tips, tricks, giveaways, and opportunities.  If you're enjoying this award-winning podcast, please take a moment to leave us a rating or review on your favorite podcast platform.

It was Virginia Wolf who said, “a woman must have money and a room of her own if she is to write fiction.” And it’s true, when we write, particularly if we’re working on creative work, we need peace and quiet so we can sink into our imagination. But writers are human too. And that means we are social beings. We crave connections. We need our tribe. But not just any tribe, we writers need fellow writers who understand the nuances of a literary life and will help us stay committed to our craft. Episode 15 of the podcast is all about why writers need writing communities. And I'm using the legendary writing group known as The Sisterhood to prove my point. In case you didn't know, The Sisterhood was a famous writing group for Black women in the late 1970s. Members included the likes of Toni Morrison, Alice Walker and June Jordan, and there was gumbo and champagne involved.  On the show, I explain: Why writing groups are just as important as a room of one's own for writers.What writing groups can do for your writing career and output.How to start your own writing group.Why BIOPC writers need their own writing groups   Links from the show you may need: The Read, Write and Create Blog offers more resources for BIPOC writers. If you'd like to pre-order the new book about The Sisterhood, you can do that at the RWC Bookshop. Follow the new Read, Write and Create Instagram account @ReadWriteandCre8 Please don't forget to leave a rating or review of the podcast on your favorite podcast platform.