The Truth Serum

In this episode of The Literary Lounge with Dawn Bates, I’m joined by singer-songwriter, entrepreneur, television presenter and mother of four, Stacey Jackson.

Stacey's story is one of resilience, reinvention and refusing to let age define ambition. After launching her music career at the age of 40, she achieved chart success and has since released four albums and numerous singles, including Live It Up with legendary rapper Snoop Dogg. She has also collaborated with Papa Levi and renowned dance music producers including C-Rod and Dave Audé, performing around the world from stadiums to Pride celebrations.

Alongside her music career, Stacey is a television presenter, entrepreneur and passionate advocate for women's health and wellbeing. She is the creator of Staefit, a patented fitness top designed to support women during exercise, and continues to encourage women to pursue their goals with confidence, whatever stage of life they're in.

In our conversation, we explore Stacey's remarkable journey, what it really takes to reinvent yourself, the lessons she's learned along the way, and why it's never too late to follow a dream.

If you enjoy conversations about books, life, personal growth and the stories that shape us, be sure to subscribe to The Literary Lounge with Dawn Bates for new episodes featuring authors, entrepreneurs, academics, creatives and changemakers from around the world.

#bookpromotion #writing 

Cancer is not a disease - Andreas Moritz

The unlikely pilgrimage of Harold Fry - Rachel Joyce

Mutant Message Down Under - Marlo Morgan

The diary of a Magus - Paulo Coelho

The Five people you meet in heaven - Mitch Albom 

The 4 hour week - Tim Ferris

Some stories hit close to home. Others are home.

In Week 4 of the Writing on the Edge series, we step into the power and responsibility of telling personal stories with empathy, dignity, and strength.

This isn’t just about being “sensitive.”

It’s about being sovereign with your story.

Whether you’re writing about your own life or carrying the weight of someone else’s experience on the page, the way you write matters just as much as what you write.

This session is for you if you’re ready to:

-Honour truth without exploiting pain

-Balance bold storytelling with emotional intelligence

-Use tone, language, and narrative structure that centres care and clarity

-Recognise when empathy needs to lead, especially with trauma or culturally significant stories

What We Covered in This Session:

 ???? Step 1: Defining what care, dignity and strength mean for you, your readers, and the story

 ⚡ Step 2: The energy behind your story, alchemy, truth, and awakening through words

 ???? Step 3: Empathy vs people-pleasing. What emotions are you actually eliciting?

 ???? Step 4: Self-awareness in your writing style. Are you upfront or hiding in plain sight?

 ⚖️ Step 5: Ethical standards across cultures, genres, and your own inner compass

 ???? Step 6: Language, tone, root meanings, metaphors, crafting deeper resonance

 ???? Step 7: Who’s reviewing your manuscript, and why that choice matters

???? Live Q&A was packed with insight and bold questions because this work isn’t just creative, it’s transformational.

???? Helpful Links

 ???? Register for future sessions: https://dawnbates.com/writing-0n-the-edge

 ???? Book a 1:1 Author Strategy Session: https://authors.youcanbook.me

 ????️ Join my 7-Week Writing Programme: https://dawnbates.com/7weekauthorcourse

 ???? Subscribe to the newsletter: https://dawnbates.com/dive-in

 ???? Learn more: https://dawnbates.com

???? Question for You:

How do you make sure your writing respects the story you’re telling?

Let me know in the comments and don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with someone who needs this session.

#WritingWithEmpathy #WritingOnTheEdge #AuthorActivist #IntelligentActivism #WritingWithPurpose #MemoirWriting #TraumaInformedWriting

Let’s get one thing straight: writing about sensitive topics isn’t just about getting the facts right but getting the ethics right.

In Week 3 of the Writing on the Edge series, we go deep into what it means to research with integrity, empathy, and courage. Whether you’re exposing corruption, capturing the realities of marginalised communities, or telling your own story that intersects with others’ pain, you have a responsibility to get it right, not just for your readers, but for your sources and yourself.

This isn’t a tick-box approach to research. This is about soul-checking just as much as fact-checking. Because if the research doesn’t challenge you, ground you, and stir you a bit... are you even digging deep enough?

This replay is for you if you want to: 

✅ Handle interviews and lived stories with empathy and care

✅ Protect your sources and yourself (legally, emotionally, and energetically)

✅ Know how to navigate triggering content and dangerous environments

✅ Avoid retraumatising yourself or others in the name of ‘the truth’

What We’ll Explore Together:

???? Step 1: What comes up when you start researching? Notice your reactions. They matter.

⚖️ Step 2: Legal grey areas, undercover work, evidence handling, and why copies save lives

????‍♀️ Step 3: Body awareness. How does your research feel as you go deeper?

???? Step 4: Deadlines vs. flatlines, when your research starts costing you health and safety

????️ Step 5: Exposure, anonymity, and how to keep everyone protected

???? Step 6: Is the risk worth it? Who are you doing this for? Where’s the transformation?

???? Step 7: Reflect, rewrite, and build a circle of trust to carry you through

This one’s for the truth-tellers, the justice-seekers, and the writers who don’t just want to make noise, they want to make an impact.

???? Helpful Links:

???? Join the next live session: www.dawnbates.com/writing-0n-the-edge

???? Book a 1:1 Author Strategy Session: https://authors.youcanbook.me

✍️ Enrol in the 7-Week Writing Programme: https://dawnbates.com/7weekauthorcourse

???? Get the newsletter: https://dawnbates.com/dive-in

???? Explore more: https://dawnbates.com

???? Let’s Chat:

Have you ever felt conflicted while researching a sensitive subject? What helped you move through it? Drop your thoughts below, share this with your writer friends, and don’t forget to like + subscribe if this hit home.

#WritingOnTheEdge #EthicalResearch #WritingWithCourage #AuthorCoaching #TraumaInformedWriting #WritingTips #intelligentactivism #AuthorActivist #Authorcoaching #1millionauthors

Writing isn’t just about getting words down on paper but it’s also about what those words stir up within you. And when you’re writing about trauma, injustice, or deeply personal truths, that emotional impact can be heavy.

In Week 2 of Writing on the Edge, we go deeper into what happens to you, the writer, when you step into sensitive territory. This isn’t about avoiding the discomfort; it’s about navigating it with care, courage and awareness.

Whether you're writing a book that exposes injustice, chronicles personal healing, or gives voice to others’ pain, understanding the psychological and emotional toll of the process is non-negotiable. Let me help you prepare for that impact… and thrive through it.

This replay is for you if you're ready to:

✅ Write from a place of truth without re-traumatising yourself.

✅ Recognise emotional fatigue and protect your peace.

✅ Understand the difference between catharsis and overwhelm.

✅ Use grounding tools like sleep, breathwork, and nature to reset.

✅ Shift from "I have to write this" to "I get to write this" and reclaim your power.

???? What You’ll Learn in This Session:

???? Step 1: Define “impact”. Is it gentle, transformative, or too soon to carry?

???? Step 2: Sleep and nature as healing tools for trauma-writing.

???? Step 3: Tune in to the body, aches, stiffness, and resistance. What’s your body telling you?

???? Step 4: Catharsis or retraumatisation? Understanding the line.

????‍♀️ Step 5: Emotion is energy in motion. Surf it, don’t suppress it.

???? Step 6: Forgiveness, blame, and emotional anchoring.

✨ Step 7: No shame, no guilt. Let grace, truth and intention guide your words.

⚡Writing isn’t just a craft, it’s a journey. Let’s learn to write with intention, so healing becomes possible for both writer and reader.

???? Helpful Links:

???? Sign up for upcoming live sessions: www.dawnbates.com/writing-0n-the-edge

???? Book a Personal Author Strategy Session: https://authors.youcanbook.me

????️ Join the 7-Week Writing Programme: https://dawnbates.com/7weekauthorcourse

???? Subscribe to my Newsletter: https://dawnbates.com/dive-in

???? Explore More: https://dawnbates.com

???? Question for You:

Have you ever started writing something that left you emotionally drained? How did you deal with it? Let me know in the comments and don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with someone who needs to hear this.

#WritingOnTheEdge #WritingToHeal #HealingThroughWriting #WritingTips #TraumaInformedWriting #WritingWithCourage #intelligentactivism #AuthorActivist #Authorcoaching #1millionauthors

There’s a reason some stories don’t get told… they’re messy, emotional, and often come with more questions than answers. But here’s the thing: those are the stories that change lives.

Welcome to Week 1 of “Writing on the Edge,” where we’re diving straight into the deep end with “Introduction to Writing About Sensitive Topics” because writing truthfully isn’t always comfortable, but it is powerful.

Whether you’re writing about trauma, injustice, abuse, corruption, or identity, there’s a way to do it with courage, clarity, and care. In this session, I walk you through how to begin the process of writing about the hard stuff without becoming overwhelmed or losing your voice.

This replay is perfect for you if you want to: 

✅ Start writing about topics that matter (even when they’re heavy).

✅ Understand how to balance ethics with emotional honesty.

✅ Build a support system to carry you through the writing process.

✅ Create a safe environment for you and your readers.

✅ Turn your vulnerability into a tool for truth, advocacy, and transformation.

????️ What We’ll Explore:

 ???? Step 1: How to ground yourself and emotionally prepare to write the hard stuff.

 ???? Step 2: What transformation do you want for yourself and your readers?

 ???? Step 3: Structuring chapters around takeaways and insights while checking in with your body.

 ???? Step 4: Tackling the fears and nervousness that come with writing boldly.

 ???? Step 5: Creating a nourishing writing environment and daily self-care habits.

 ???? Step 6: Navigating ethical responsibilities like protecting identities and citing sources.

 ???? Step 7: Crafting a thoughtful reader journey that doesn’t overwhelm but empowers.

✨ Writing on the edge isn't just about telling the truth but doing it responsibly, powerfully, and with purpose.

???? Helpful Links

 ???? Sign up for upcoming live sessions: www.dawnbates.com/writing-0n-the-edge

 ???? Book a Personal Author Strategy Session: https://authors.youcanbook.me/

 ????️ Join the 7-Week Writing Programme: https://dawnbates.com/7weekauthorcourse

 ???? Subscribe to my Newsletter: https://dawnbates.com/dive-in

 ???? Explore more: https://dawnbates.com

???? Have you ever written about something difficult? How did it feel? Drop a comment below, let’s talk. And if this helped you, give it a like, subscribe, and share it with someone who’s got something important to say.

#authorjourney #SensitiveTopics #AuthorActivist #TruthTeller #AuthorJourney #IntelligentActivism #WriteToHeal #WritingTips #DawnBates #AuthorCoaching #1millionauthors

Your journey as an author is about more than just writing—it’s about designing a life that reflects your vision, voice, and purpose. In this session of The Author’s Strategic Journey, we explore how to take control of your future, harness your unique voice, and step into your next stage of authorship with intention.

This replay is for you if you’re ready to:

 ✅ Define what "Life by Design" means for you and create an intentional future.

 ✅ Embrace the power of your voice to challenge, inspire, and lead.

 ✅ Align your vision with new opportunities and adapt to unexpected growth.

 ✅ Expand your writing journey beyond books—through articles, speeches, and teaching.

???? Key Takeaways:

 ???? Step 1: What does “Life by Design” mean to you? Have you intentionally shaped your path?

 ???? Step 2: Reflect on sidelined life goals—what’s next now that you’ve become an author?

 ???? Step 3: Find your voice and choose your style: Quietly assertive? Silently powerful? Courageously challenging?

 ???? Step 4: Update your vision! New opportunities will emerge—are they moving you closer to your goals?

 ???? Step 5: Your writing journey is never over. What’s next? More books? Teaching? A PhD?

 ???? Step 6: What does living on your terms truly mean? Freedom, control, peace—define it for yourself.

 ???? Step 7: How has your writing transformed you? What’s changed in your mindset, patience, and articulation?

???? Bonus Resource:

 ???? Download the Philanthropic Book Strategy Swipe File for actionable insights: 

https://dawnbates-my.sharepoint.com/:b:/p/influence/EYYPT5aNz05Ek7AdOkjLI10BkTN5f6ONOSyIey5Wr72D8g?e=z0VFGa

???? Stay Connected on Your Author Journey:

???? Join my 7-Week Author Programme: https://dawnbates.com/7weekauthorcourse 

????️ Book a Personal Author Strategy Session: https://authors.youcanbook.me/ 

???? Subscribe to my Newsletter: https://dawnbates.com/dive-in/

Catch up on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dawnbates/

The next series starts soon… look out for updates!

???? Let’s Talk!

 Drop your thoughts in the comments, and don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this replay with fellow authors designing life on their own terms.

#LifeByDesign #AuthorJourney #WritingWithPurpose #CreativeVision #AuthorTransformation #AuthorJourney #Writing #AuthorActivist #AuthorCoach #1millionauthors

Your words can change lives not just through the stories you tell but through the impact your book can create.

In this session of The Author's Strategic Journey, we explore how your book can become a powerful tool for philanthropy. From giving back to supporting causes you care about, your writing has the potential to leave a legacy of positive change.

This replay is for you if you’re ready to:

 ✅ Use your book to make a difference in society.

 ✅ Explore giving royalties or books to charitable causes.

 ✅ Partner with organisations to expand your impact.

 ✅ Create a lasting legacy that goes beyond the title of "author."

???? Key Takeaways:

 ???? Step 1: Reflect on your views on humanity. Your book can serve a greater purpose when aligned with your values.

 ???? Step 2: Consider how you can contribute — through time, talent, or treasure.

 ???? Step 3: Determine how your royalties, skills, and resources can benefit others.

 ???? Step 4: Build meaningful partnerships with organisations that align with your mission.

 ???? Step 5: Measure the lasting impact of your philanthropic efforts through your book.

???? Bonus Resource:

 ???? Download the Philanthropic Book Strategy Swipe File for actionable insights: https://dawnbates-my.sharepoint.com/:b:/p/influence/EWoIVtb6fhJHla_-desi-iAB35we7ZO_36WNZ7hIjewScA?e=9t50OQ

???? Stay Connected on Your Author Journey:

???? Sign up for upcoming sessions: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/e6lyxrLVRc685JfuP3Fp6Q 

???? Join my 7-Week Author Programme: https://dawnbates.com/7weekauthorcourse 

????️ Book a Personal Author Strategy Session: https://authors.youcanbook.me/ 

???? Subscribe to my Newsletter: https://dawnbates.com/dive-in/

???? Let’s Talk!

 Drop your thoughts in the comments, and don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this replay with fellow authors and changemakers.

#AuthorJourney #Philanthropy #Legacy #Writing #AuthorActivist

Some books entertain. Some educate. And some shake the world.

Whistleblowing books aren’t just stories; they are bold statements, strategic assets, and catalysts for real change. Whether exposing corruption, challenging power structures, or revealing hidden truths, these books have the power to shape conversations, spark movements, and hold institutions accountable.

But writing a book like this isn’t just about telling the truth—it’s about knowing how to protect yourself, maximise your impact, and turn your book into a tool for lasting influence.

This replay is perfect for you if you want to:

✅ Understand how to position their book as a strategic asset for advocacy. 

✅ Navigate the legal and reputational challenges of publishing whistleblowing content. 

✅ Build credibility and mobilise supporters for their cause. 

✅ Leverage their book to drive meaningful societal change.

???? Key Takeaways: 

???? Step 1: Define your end goal. Are you trying to change a law, expose corruption, or raise awareness? Knowing your objective shapes your strategy. 

???? Step 2: Prepare for legal, personal, and reputational impacts. Discover how to safeguard yourself and your loved ones. 

???? Step 3: Build a support network. Allies are essential to amplify your voice and protect your credibility. 

???? Step 4: Master the media narrative. Own your story, anticipate backlash, and respond strategically. 

???? Step 5: Maximise your reach. From media appearances to podcast interviews, choose platforms that align with your goals.

???? Bonus Resource: ???? Download the Whistleblowing Book Strategy Swipe 

File for actionable steps and insights. 

???? Access it here: https://dawnbates-my.sharepoint.com/:b:/p/hello/ETTD6w4YCfhHo-DntvbNX5YBD1ZLvvbSR_66Zk3o-filVQ?e=f9Sa3a

???? Keep Expanding Your Author Journey!

???? Sign up for upcoming sessions: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/e6lyxrLVRc685JfuP3Fp6Q 

???? Join my 7-Week Author Programme: https://dawnbates.com/7weekauthorcourse 

????️ Book a Personal Author Strategy Session: https://authors.youcanbook.me/ 

???? Subscribe to my Newsletter: https://dawnbates.com/dive-in/

Contact: https://dawnbates.com/contact/

Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dawnbates/

???? Let’s talk! Drop your thoughts in the comments, and don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this replay with fellow changemakers!

#authorjourney #Whistleblowing #AuthorAdvocacy #publishingstrategy #AuthorActivist #SocialImpactBooks #SpeakTruthToPower #StrategicStorytelling #BookImpact #1millionauthors

Your book is more than just a marketing tool—it’s a catalyst for change, a voice for the unheard, and a powerful force in advocacy and social impact. Too often, authors limit their book’s potential to personal brand growth, missing out on the profound ways it can influence conversations, policies, and communities.

In this session, we explore how to turn your book into a strategic asset—not just for your business, but for movements that matter. Whether you’re advocating for human rights, challenging industry norms, or sparking dialogue on critical issues, your book can create lasting impact far beyond the bookshelf.

This replay is perfect for authors, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders who want to:

✅ Leverage their book to drive meaningful change and inspire action.

✅ Use their story to amplify social issues and challenge the status quo.

✅ Build credibility in advocacy circles, media, and policymaking spaces.

✅ Turn their book into a tool for education, awareness, and fundraising.

???? Key Takeaways:

???? How books have historically influenced activism, policy shifts, and global movements.

 ???? Strategies to position your book as a voice in advocacy, journalism, and thought leadership.

 ???? The power of storytelling in mobilising communities and driving systemic change.

 ???? Monetisation strategies that align with purpose-driven publishing and sustainable impact.

???? Bonus Resource:

???? Download the Beyond Brand Growth & Advocacy Swipe File for actionable strategies.

 ???? Access it here: https://dawnbates-my.sharepoint.com/:b:/p/influence/EaAgTZAr0-1No_hH2p_eHtIBOVhH31LP0PecApGFyKahxw?e=TJEEzS

???? Keep Expanding Your Author Journey!

???? Sign up for upcoming sessions: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/e6lyxrLVRc685JfuP3Fp6Q

 ???? Join my 7-Week Author Programme: https://dawnbates.com/7weekauthorcourse

 ???? Book a Personal Author Strategy Session: https://authors.youcanbook.me/

 ???? Subscribe to my Newsletter: https://dawnbates.com/dive-in/

???? Let’s talk! Drop your thoughts in the comments, and don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this replay with fellow changemakers!

#AuthorJourney #AuthorAdvocacy #Authorcoaching #AuthorActivist #SocialImpactbooks #brandingideas #1millionauthors