We Published, Beloved! Podcast

Lindsey Stewart discusses her book 'The Conjuring of America' and the intricate relationship between Black women's magic, folklore, and family history. The dialogue explores the significance of the book's cover, the role of quilts in Black culture, and the importance of storytelling and memory. Lindsey shares her research journey, the challenges of navigating the publishing world, and the collaborative nature of writing with editors. The conversation emphasizes the need for aspiring writers to read extensively and seek support throughout their writing process.

In this conversation, Mawiyah Kai El-Jamah Bomani discusses her book on "Hoodoo Saints and Root Warriors: Stories and Magick for Liberation", emphasizing the importance of ancestral connections, community healing, and storytelling. She shares insights into her writing process, the challenges of publishing, and the significance of supporting Black bookstores. The discussion also touches on cultural appropriation and the need for authenticity in spiritual practices, offering advice for aspiring authors in the field.

In this conversation, Nicole Carr discusses her journey as a journalist and author with the publishing of her book "The Price of Exclusion: The Pursuit of Healthcare in a Segregated Nation." Her book focuses on her exploration of Black medical history through her family legacy. This discussion highlights the often-overlooked contributions of Black physicians, the importance of understanding historical context and ancestry in storytelling, and how these elements shape her narrative.

Carr reflects on the challenges of writing during the COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of thorough research, and the complexities of the publishing process. She emphasizes the living nature of books and the significance of community in the writing process. Carr shares her experiences navigating the publishing landscape and offers valuable advice for aspiring writers.

In this conversation, Savannah Stephens shares her journey in debuting her dark southern gothic fantasy novel, Witch Queen Rising. She talks through the challenges of navigating the complexities of publishing, marketing, and writing her second book. This episode offers insights into the publishing industry, self-advocacy, and the creative process, especially for Black fiction writers.

Steven Underwood discusses his book 'Forever for the Culture', exploring the significance of Black culture in the digital age. He shares his journey from writing essays to publishing a book, the impact of social media on Black creators, and the challenges faced in the publishing industry. The conversation highlights the importance of representation and the role of online spaces in shaping cultural narratives.

Steven Underwood shares his journey as an author, emphasizing the importance of support from agents and editors, navigating the complexities of book releases, and the challenges of gaining visibility in the literary world. He discusses innovative strategies for publicity, the duality of intellectualism and humor in his writing, and the significance of community engagement for authors. Underwood encourages new Black and queer authors to embrace their stories and take ownership of their narratives, highlighting the value of networking and mentorship in the literary community.

In this episode of We Published, Beloved!, Tara Jefferson discusses her book 'Bloom How You Must: A Black Woman's Guide to Self-Care and Generational Healing.' She shares the journey of writing the book, the importance of intergenerational conversations among Black women, and the impact of community support. Tara reflects on the interview process, the role of her publishing team, and the significance of vulnerability in her writing. She emphasizes the need for Black women to find their voices and the importance of self-care, while also providing advice for aspiring authors.

In this episode of We Published, Beloved!, Camille U. Adams discusses her memoir 'How to Be Unmothered,' exploring the writing process, her cultural identity, and the complexities of motherhood. She shares her journey of writing during COVID, the challenges of publishing, and the universal themes of mother wounds that resonate with readers from diverse backgrounds.

In this engaging conversation, Adams shares her journey as a writer and emphasizes the craft involved in creating compelling narratives. She offers valuable advice for aspiring memoirists, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds, encouraging them to respect their work and embrace their unique voices.

In this episode of We Published, Beloved!, Dara Baldwin discusses her book 'To Be A Problem', which explores the intersection of race and disability rights. She shares her journey as a Black woman in the social justice movement, the challenges she faced in the publishing industry, and the importance of representation and community support. Dara emphasizes the significance of lived experiences in understanding social issues and the need for honest dialogue about racism within the disability rights movement.

In this conversation, Baldwin discusses her experiences with book promotion, community engagement, and the challenges faced by marginalized voices in the publishing industry. She emphasizes the importance of grassroots support, the complexities of writing about disability justice, and the need for media responsibility in representation. Baldwin shares insights on navigating the political landscape and the impact of activism on communities, highlighting the intersectionality of various social justice movements.

In this episode of We Published, Beloved!, Jamilah Lemieux discusses her journey as a Black single mother and author, reflecting on her experiences in the writing industry and in publishing. She shares insights into the challenges of writing her book, the importance of community support, and the impact of mental health on her creative process. Jamilah addresses critiques she has faced regarding her right to tell her story and emphasizes the need for more narratives from Black single mothers. The conversation also touches on her book tour planning and her aspirations for the future, encouraging other aspiring authors to share their stories.

In this episode of We Published, Beloved!, Dr. Jenn M. Jackson shares an intimate account of their journey from ideas to published book, highlighting the significance of community, the importance of self-trust, and the transformative power of writing about Black women and feminism. This episode offers a deep dive into the challenges and victories of first-time authors navigating the publishing industry.