In this throwback interview from April 19, 2018, DJ Crash D sits down with young Black author Mariah Hayes as she talks about her journey into the world of writing, entrepreneurship, and self-publishing.

Mariah shares how she transitioned from working a 9-to-5 job to pursuing her passion for writing full time, motivated by her desire to build a better future for her children and create something meaningful for the next generation.

During the conversation, she discusses her story “Poppy” featured in the Urban Love Stories anthology, her upcoming poetry book “The Rose That Blossom Into Me”, and the challenges women—especially Black women—face when entering male-dominated industries.

She also opens up about heartbreak, ambition, motherhood, and the hustle required to turn creativity into a business.

This interview captures an early moment in her journey as she continues grinding toward building her brand and making her mark in the literary world.

Follow Mariah Hayes on Instagram: @mariahhhh

Interview conducted by DJ Crash D (Marcus “Big Trap” Miller).