In this episode of “We Published Beloved!” D. Danyelle Thomas shares her journey of writing and publishing her book, The Day God Saw Me as Black. D. Danyelle emphasizes the challenges of navigating the publishing landscape, from the importance of audience engagement and influencers to the role of editors in the writing process. Throughout the discussion, she highlights the emotional journey of publishing and the need for authenticity in writing. Together, Jenn and D. Danyelle Thomas explore the multifaceted journey of authorship, touching on the significance of publishing formats, the importance of relationships in the publishing world, and the politics surrounding representation in writing. They discuss self-advocacy throughout the publishing process, the challenges of navigating gender norms in writing, and the transformative power of focusing on purpose over fear. The conversation culminates in a reflection on the role of readers in an author's success and the importance of authentic engagement with one's work.