In this episode of My Simplified Life, host Michelle Glogovac speaks with Nikkya Hargrove, author of the memoir Mama and owner of the new bookstore, Obodo Seredipity Books in Stratford, Connecticut. Nikkya shares her journey of writing her book, the themes of community, forgiveness, and motherhood, and the challenges of being a queer black woman. She discusses the importance of storytelling and creating a safe space for diverse narratives in her bookstore. The conversation also touches on family dynamics, the motivation behind writing her memoir, and her aspirations for future projects.

What We're Talking About

• Nikkya's memoir Mama explores themes of love, community, and motherhood.
• The importance of forgiveness in personal growth and healing.
• Nikkya opened her bookstore to create a community space.
• Her upbringing shaped her determination and stubbornness.
• Writing the book was a therapeutic process for Nikkya.
• Community events are a key focus of her bookstore.
• Nikkya emphasizes the value of diverse stories in literature.
• Her son Jonathan's reaction to the book was emotional and supportive.
• Nikkya plans to write another book focusing on her daughters and parenting.
• The journey of healing from childhood trauma is ongoing and essential. 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Nikkya Hargrove 05:50 The Journey of Writing Mama 11:33 Themes of Love, Forgiveness, and Family 18:51 The Impact of Incarceration on Family Dynamics 26:58 Future Aspirations and New Projects 31:27 Exploring Empathy Through Stories

Links Mentioned

Nikkya Hargrove’s Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/nikkyahargrove/

Mama by Nikkya Hargrove

https://bookshop.org/a/99223/9781643751580

Obodo Serendipity Books

https://www.instagram.com/obodoserendipitybooks/