In this episode, we talk with Dr. Linda Holloway, a children's book author. Dr. Linda shares her journey into writing children’s books, inspired by her own childhood and academic research on Black women in wellness. The discussion covers significant themes in her books, including mental health, anti-bullying, sickle cell disease, sexual assault, diversity, divorce, and death. Dr. Linda emphasizes the importance of creating safe spaces for children to discuss these tough topics. The episode also touches on contemporary issues like book banning and the role of storytelling in social change.

00:00 Welcome to the Liberation is Lit Podcast

00:11 Meet Dr. Linda Holloway: Children's Book Author

00:26 The Inspiration Behind Dr. Linda's Books

02:58 Topics Covered in Dr. Linda's Books

05:13 The Importance of Safe Spaces for Children

07:05 Challenges and Reflections on Book Banning

12:52 Upcoming Projects and Focus Areas

18:40 Advice for Making a Positive Impact

24:54 Where to Find Dr. Linda's Books

26:22 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

Dr. Linda’s Books

I Love My Happy Hair!

Little Miss Linda Speaks Out About Diversity

Little Miss Linda Goes to Counseling

Little Miss Linda Bad Girls of Montgomery

Little Miss Linda Speaks Out About Sickle Cell Disease

Little Miss Linda Copes with Divorce

Little Miss Linda Speaks Out About Death

Where to Find Dr. Linda

Email: lindahollowayspeak@gmail.com

YouTube: Dr. Linda JM Holloway

Facebook

Thank you for being part of the Liberation is Lit podcast! If you have stories to share, want to suggest topics, or just want to connect, find us on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok @liberationislit or visit our website at liberationislit.com. If you enjoyed the episode, please consider leaving a review! Remember, your voice matters, and together, through the lens of stories, we're making a difference in the world.

Welcome to Season 4 of the Liberation is Lit Podcast! In this episode, we interview author Toni Ann Johnson about her latest book, 'But Where's Home?' Toni Ann shares her journey from actress to writer, discussing her transition from screenwriting to creating impactful prose and short stories. The conversation delves into the complexities of race, family dynamics, and personal trauma, highlighting the importance of storytelling in social change. Toni Ann also shares her activist story and offers advice for writers on submitting their work. Don't miss this insightful discussion on the power of narratives to inspire and transform communities.

00:00 Welcome to Season Four!

00:25 Meet Toni Ann Johnson

00:46 Toni Ann's Writing Journey

05:56 Challenges and Strengths of Screenwriting

08:31 Exploring Short Stories and Novels

12:23 Inspiration Behind 'But Where's Home?'

18:18 Balancing Personal and Professional Writing

22:18 Upcoming Projects and Events

25:25 Making a Positive Impact

34:32 Connect with Toni Ann Johnson

Toni Ann’s books

But Where’s Home

Lightskin Gone to Waste

Homegoing

Books mentioned

Trinity by Zelda Lockhart

The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fistfight in Heaven by Sherman Alexie

Drown by Junot Diaz

The Confession of Copeland Cane by Keenan Norris

Resources Mentioned

Social Justice Storytelling (with Tayler)

AWP Conference and Book Fair

Women Who Submit

Where to find Toni Ann

Instagram

Threads

toniannjohnson.com

Thank you for being part of the Liberation is Lit podcast! If you have stories to share, want to suggest topics, or just want to connect, find us on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok @liberationislit or visit our website at liberationislit.com. If you enjoyed the episode, please consider leaving a review! Remember, your voice matters, and together, through the lens of stories, we're making a difference in the world.

In this episode, we are joined by acclaimed author Jandy Nelson. Jandy shares her unique journey from poet to fiction writer and the profound impact of storytelling. They discuss her latest book, 'When the World Tips Over,' inspirations, and the role of books in social change. The conversation delves into the challenges of book bans, how to support authors, and the importance of community and joy. Jandy and I also exchange thoughts on upcoming projects, favorite reads, and advice for aspiring writers. Tune in for an inspiring and uplifting dialogue on literature's power to transform.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:40 Jandy Nelson's Journey to Fiction

03:28 Tayler's Fiction Writing Aspirations

05:46 Jandy's Latest Book: When the World Tips Over

11:42 The Importance of Book Advocacy

18:53 Finding Joy and Staying Grounded

20:28 Recommended Reads and Final Thoughts

26:19 Closing Remarks and Farewell

Jandy’s Books

When the World Tips Over

I'll Give You the Sun

The Sky Is Everywhere

Books mentioned in this episode

Looking for Alaska by John Green

The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison

The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky

Black Boy by Richard Wright

Night by Elie Wiesel

The Loneliness of Sonia and Sunny by Kiran Desai

frank: sonnets by Diane Seuss

Martyr! by Kaveh Akba

The Bottom of the River by Jamaica Kincaid

How It Feels to Float by Helena Fox

Where to Find Jandy

https://jandynelson.com/

Instagram

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Thank you for being part of the Liberation is Lit podcast! If you have stories to share, want to suggest topics, or just want to connect, find us on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok @liberationislit or visit our website at liberationislit.com. If you enjoyed the episode, please consider leaving a review! Remember, your voice matters, and together, through the lens of stories, we're making a difference in the world.

In this episode, we interview author Rachel Runya Katz about her new book. Rachel discusses her unique writing style of contemporary romance that she humorously calls 'rom traum coms,' exploring real-world issues within the romantic escapism genre. We delve into the themes of her latest hidden identity, epistolary romance book, and the importance of diverse representation in romance literature. Rachel also shares her insights on how romance can be revolutionary and the significance of depicting different types of love. Listeners get a glimpse of Rachel's creative process, inspirations, and her upcoming events.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:17 Meet Rachel Runya Katz

00:43 Rachel's Writing Journey

03:20 Inspiration Behind the New Book

05:10 Exploring Themes of Love

08:46 The Subversive Power of Romance

13:08 Staying Grounded as an Author

14:54 Upcoming Projects and Events

15:38 Making a Positive Impact

17:23 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

Rachel’s Books

Isn’t It Obvious

Whenever You’re Ready

Thank You For Sharing

Books Mentioned in the Episode

The Neighbor Flavor by Christina Forest

The Art of Catching Feelings by Alicia Thompson

Love Off the Record by Samantha Markham

Radical Intimacy by Sophie K Rosa

Reel K. Ryan

A Gentleman’s Gentleman by TJ Alexander

Where to find Rachel

rachelrunyakatz.com

Instagram

Thank you for being part of the Liberation is Lit podcast! If you have stories to share, want to suggest topics, or just want to connect, find us on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok @liberationislit or visit our website at liberationislit.com. If you enjoyed the episode, please consider leaving a review! Remember, your voice matters, and together, through the lens of stories, we're making a difference in the world.

In this episode, we interview Shobha Rao, author of 'Girls Burn Brighter' and 'Indian Country.' Rao shares her journey to becoming a writer, beginning with her migration from India to the U.S. as a child. We cover the themes in her books, particularly focusing on disenfranchised populations and the impact of colonialism. Rao also discusses the importance of cultivating kindness, the inspiration behind her writing, and her literary influences.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:50 Shobha Rao's Journey to Becoming a Writer

03:49 Exploring Themes in 'Indian Country'

06:36 Shobha Rao's Literary Focus and Inspirations

09:14 The Impact of Colonialism and Empire

12:07 Grounding Practices and the Power of Poetry

15:16 Current Reads and Literary Influences

19:02 Advice for Making a Positive Impact

23:03 Closing Remarks and Where to Find Shobha Rao

Shobha’s Books

Indian Country

An Unrestored Woman

Girls Burn Brighter

Books Mentioned in Episode

2666 by Roberto Bolaño

Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingslover

David Copperfield by Charles Dickens

Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain

Adventures of Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain

James by Percival Everett

Where to Find Shobha

ShobhaRao.com

Thank you for being part of the Liberation is Lit podcast! If you have stories to share, want to suggest topics, or just want to connect, find us on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok @liberationislit or visit our website at liberationislit.com. If you enjoyed the episode, please consider leaving a review! Remember, your voice matters, and together, through the lens of stories, we're making a difference in the world.

We have a powerful discussion with Dr. Charlene Sims about financial freedom and literacy within the Black community. Dr. Charlene shares insights from her book “The New Black Wall Street,” which focuses on sustainability, collaboration, and the essential knowledge needed for successful entrepreneurship. Discover the importance of discussing financial literacy with children and the need for community support in business ventures. Dr. Charlene also touches on the significance of creating generational wealth, overcoming business challenges, and the value of self-help and community-oriented initiatives. Don't miss this enlightening conversation aimed at inspiring and equipping the Black community to achieve financial stability and success.

00:00 Welcome to the Liberation is Lit Podcast

00:14 Introducing Dr. Charlene Sims

00:41 Dr. Charlene's Academic Journey

01:42 The New Black Wall Street

03:32 Challenges of Entrepreneurship

05:08 Importance of Financial Literacy

09:19 Community Support and Financial Stability

10:53 Making a Direct Impact

14:08 Current Reads and Recommendations

16:47 Upcoming Projects and Final Thoughts

20:28 Where to Find Dr. Charlene Sims

21:07 Closing Remarks

Dr. Charlene’s Book

The New Black Wall Street

Books Mentioned in the Episode

A Renaissance of Our Own: A Memoir Manifesto by Rachel E. Cargle

Where to Find Dr. Charlene

Facebook

Time is of the Essence on Instagram

Thank you for being part of the Liberation is Lit podcast! If you have stories to share, want to suggest topics, or just want to connect, find us on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok @liberationislit or visit our website at liberationislit.com. If you enjoyed the episode, please consider leaving a review! Remember, your voice matters, and together, through the lens of stories, we're making a difference in the world.

In this episode, we dive into the world of indie publishing with special guests Naomi, Michael, and Marines. The discussion covers the motivation behind starting imprints with Bindery (a startup publisher that partners with large-scale social media tastemakers to lead their own publishing imprints), the importance of promoting underrepresented voices, and the challenges of traditional publishing. Each guest shares insights on their specific imprints, including Boozhoo Books, Mareas, and Left Unread Books, and highlights upcoming titles they are excited about. The conversation also explores the significance of supporting indie authors, the necessity of active engagement in the literary community, and how storytelling can drive social change. Tune in to discover how you can make a positive impact in the book world and support voices that need to be heard.

00:00 Welcome to Liberation is Lit Podcast

00:26 Meet the Influencers: Naomi and Michael

00:50 The Journey to Bindery

04:18 Championing Diverse Voices

07:31 Supporting Indie Publishing

14:19 Staying Motivated in the Literary World

18:36 Current Reads and Recommendations

21:53 Final Thoughts and Where to Find Us

Bindery Imprints

https://boozhoo.binderybooks.com/

https://leftunreadbooks.binderybooks.com/

https://mareas.binderybooks.com/

Books Mentioned in the Episode

Cry, Voidbringer by Elaine Ho

Orange Wine by Esperanza Hope Snyder

Love Be Damned by Briana Garrett

Firekeeper's Daughter by Angeline Boulley

Warrior Girl Unearthed by Angeline Boulley

Sisters in the Wind by Angeline Boulley

The Serviceberry: Abundance and Reciprocity in the Natural World by Robin Wall Kimmerer

Where to find the Tastemakers

Marines

Instagram

TikTok

Youtube

Threads

Michael

TikTok

Instagram

Threads

Naomi

Instagram

TikTok

Threads

Thank you for being part of the Liberation is Lit podcast! If you have stories to share, want to suggest topics, or just want to connect, find us on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok @liberationislit or visit our website at liberationislit.com. If you enjoyed the episode, please consider leaving a review! Remember, your voice matters, and together, through the lens of stories, we're making a difference in the world.

In this episode, we are joined by poet extraordinaire, Chrisso. We dive into Chrisso's journey from growing up in Lancaster, South Carolina, to becoming a prominent figure in the slam poetry scene. Chrisso shares his background, the inspiration behind his positive poems, and his experiences in various poetry competitions like Slam Madness and Southern Fried. The conversation also touches on Chrisso’s writing process, his upcoming projects, and the importance of maintaining a positive impact in the community. Listeners will be inspired by Chrisso’s passion for poetry and the power of storytelling for social change.

00:00 Welcome to the Liberation is Lit Podcast

00:42 Meet Chrisso: The Poet Extraordinaire

03:43 The Journey into Slam Poetry

06:13 Writing Process and Techniques

10:49 Upcoming Projects and Collaborations

15:03 Advice for Making a Positive Impact

16:27 Starting a New Garden

16:51 Family Gardening Memories

17:36 Supporting Local Farmers

18:03 Health and Self-Care

20:52 The Power of Collaboration

25:18 Journey into Poetry

28:55 Chris's Poetry and Performance Style

30:00 Where to Follow Chris

31:36 Conclusion and Listener Engagement

Chrisso’s Book

Autobiography of a Trying Poet

Where to Find Chrisso

Instagram

Thank you for being part of the Liberation is Lit podcast! If you have stories to share, want to suggest topics, or just want to connect, find us on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok @liberationislit or visit our website at liberationislit.com. If you enjoyed the episode, please consider leaving a review! Remember, your voice matters, and together, through the lens of stories, we're making a difference in the world.