As an acclaimed author and veteran teacher of writing, Marita Golden provides guidance to aspiring authors on how to tell their own stories and encourages them to dig deep on their journeys as writers. The author of nineteen works of fiction and nonfiction alike, Ms. Golden digs deep during this hour of Next Steps Forward to share her stories and experiences in her own words that have informed her writing. Focusing primarily on the experiences of Black Americans, she breaks down the myth that endangers the physical and mental health of Black women as explored in her book "The Strong Black Woman." Providing insight into the hard lessons that she and other Black women have learned, she underscores the importance of self-care and encourages the Black community to break down the stigma of seeking mental health treatment. A fierce voice on timely, important and transformative topics, she will provide her perspective on parenting Black teen boys and improving relationships among Black families. During a time that she notes the Black community is in crisis, it is especially important that our society makes a commitment to listen to and learn from the testimony of Black Americans.