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What if the loss of a dear friend could spark a new beginning that transforms the literary landscape for Black authors? Join us in this heartfelt episode as we welcome Beatrice Winifred Eicher, Chelsea Gayden, and Jill Tu, the dynamic team behind the Afro Knots podcast, which began as a tribute to their late friend KL Bird and flourished into a supportive community for Black writers. Beatrice delves into her love for Southern Gothic and horror, Chelsea embarks on her journey from querying to signing with agent Sarah Fisk, and Jill celebrates the release of her book "The Dividing Sky" while preparing for her middle-grade debut. Together, they share how a shared passion can push you from being an unagented writer to a debut author.

Discover the magic behind the Afro Knots podcast as we discuss the importance of authenticity and community in podcasting. With anecdotes about meaningful exchanges with authors like Tracy and Karen Strong, and plans to expand through a newsletter and Discord, we explore how opening up about the topics you love can forge genuine connections with your audience. Our conversation captures the excitement of starting a podcast using accessible tools like Anchor and Spotify for Podcasters, while also balancing the roles of creator and author. We talk about how a podcast can become more than just a platform but a refuge for sharing insights and experiences.

As the Afro Knots team navigates the world of publishing, Chelsea and Jill candidly share their trials and triumphs in seeking literary agents and developing their writing careers. Chelsea recounts the impact of the pandemic on her storytelling, leading her to a successful pitch contest, while Jill reflects on her six-year manuscript journey and the invaluable mentorship she received. Listen as they share the joys of becoming role models and how their platform serves as a beacon of support within the Black community. From personal tales to professional advice, this episode is a treasure trove of inspiration for aspiring authors and podcasters alike.

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🎙️ Craft Chat Chronicles with J.D. Myall
Candid conversations on writing, publishing, and creative life — featuring bestselling authors, MFA students, and writers at every stage of the journey.

About J.D. Myall
J.D. Myall is the co-chair of Drexel University’s MFA Alumni Association and a publishing and library professional. She is the creator and host of Craft Chat Chronicles, where she interviews authors, agents, and industry insiders about the art and business of writing.

Her work has appeared in Ms. Magazine, Writer’s Digest, and HuffPost. Her debut novel, Heart’s Gambit, releases with Wednesday Books/Macmillan in February 2026.

When she’s not conjuring magic, murder, and mayhem on the page, J.D. mentors emerging writers through workshops and alumni programs, fostering community among aspiring and published authors alike.

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