Dr. Sabin Prentis Duncan, a multifaceted educator and author, joins C. M. Lockhart on this episode of the Written in Melanin Podcast to discuss his journey as author of both fiction and non-fiction works. He shares insights into writing his trilogy, reflects on his growth as an author, and speaks on the importance of authentic representation in literature.

00:00 Intro

00:23 Meet Dr. Sabin Prentis Duncan

03:11 The Impact of Teaching

05:13 Why write about African-American men and their families?

13:17 The Inspiration Behind the Trilogy

18:09 Crafting Authentic Female Voices

22:10 The Journey of a Writer's Growth

24:25 Navigating the Business of Writing

26:56 Empowering Indie Authors

32:14 Outro

Chelsea talks with Rachel Howzell Hall as they discuss her journey as an author, balancing a full-time job, transitioning from writing thrillers to romanticy, and the impact of life experiences on her writing.

00:00 Welcome to the Written In Melanin Podcast

00:22 Introducing Rachel Howzell Hall

01:33 Balancing Writing with a Full-Time Job

03:48 The Creative Process and Finding Time

12:04 Navigating the Publishing Industry

18:50 The Importance of Support and Community

25:00 AI as a Tool: Embracing the Future

25:25 Transitioning Genres: From Thriller to Romanticy

33:20 Personal Growth and Grief

44:08 Writing Advice and Final Thoughts

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Rachel's Website: https://www.rachelhowzell.com/

What Fire Brings: https://melaninlibrary.com/books/8173

The Last One: https://melaninlibrary.com/books/8199

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Merch: https://shop.melaninlibrary.com/

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Chelsea's Books

We Are the Origin: https://shop.writteninmelanin.com/b/KihME

We Are Dying Gods: https://shop.writteninmelanin.com/b/wadge

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Chelsea's Discord Community: https://discord.gg/XSWtDRMyNb

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The Links: https://WrittenInMelanin.com/links

Melanin Library: https://MelaninLibrary.com/

Patreon: https://Patreon.com/WrittenInMelanin

Services: https://www.writteninmelanin.com/services

Chelsea interviews author Kelis Rowe about her debut novel 'Finding Jupiter,' her journey in traditional publishing, and the balancing act of crafting authentic YA romance amidst life's many challenges.

00:00 Welcome to the Written in Melanin Podcast

00:22 Introducing Kelis Rowe and Her Debut Novel

01:50 Kelis Rowe's Journey to Becoming an Author

02:21 The Reality of Publishing and Writing

04:34 Navigating the Publishing Industry

06:51 The Importance of Writing What You Love

13:17 Building Relationships with Editors

18:29 Marketing and Promoting Your Book

25:41 Balancing Writing with Personal Life

36:15 Kelis Rowe's Upcoming Projects

38:49 Final Thoughts and Writing Advice - Kelis' Links: https://linktr.ee/keliswrites Finding Jupiter: https://melaninlibrary.com/books/6459 - Merch: https://shop.melaninlibrary.com/ - Chelsea's Books We Are the Origin: https://shop.writteninmelanin.com/b/KihME We Are Dying Gods: https://shop.writteninmelanin.com/b/wadge - Chelsea's Discord Community: https://discord.gg/XSWtDRMyNb - The Links: https://WrittenInMelanin.com/links Melanin Library: https://MelaninLibrary.com/ Patreon: https://Patreon.com/WrittenInMelanin Services: https://www.writteninmelanin.com/services

In this episode of the Written In Melanin podcast, host C. M. Lockhart speaks with author Julian Winters about his journey as a Black and queer writer, the importance of authentic storytelling, transitioning from young adult to adult fiction, and the impact of representation in literature.

00:00 Welcome to the Written In Melanin Podcast

00:23 Introducing Julian Winters

03:44 Navigating the Publishing Industry

20:38 Accolades and Awards

25:29 Shifting from Young Adult to Adult Fiction

30:05 The Importance of Black Voices in Literature

37:15 The Joy of Writing

47:00 Advice for Aspiring Authors

49:17 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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Julian's Books

Prince of the Palisades | https://melaninlibrary.com/books/8169

I Think They Love You | https://melaninlibrary.com/books/8168

Julian's Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/wintersjulian/

Julian's Website

https://www.julianwinters.com/

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Merch: https://shop.melaninlibrary.com/ - Chelsea's Books We Are the Origin: https://amzn.to/4eALU2x We Are Dying Gods: https://amzn.to/3zmWNFi BookHarts Community | https://discord.gg/XSWtDRMyNb - The Links: https://WrittenInMelanin.com/links Melanin Library: https://MelaninLibrary.com/ Patreon: https://Patreon.com/WrittenInMelanin Services: https://www.writteninmelanin.com/services

In this episode of the Written In Melanin podcast, host C. M. Lockhart speaks with guest Robbie J. Atkinson, renowned for her avant garde storytelling, about her unique approach to crafting complex characters and plots in Manga and film, the journey of entrepreneurship, and the importance of creating diverse and thought-provoking narratives.

00:00 Introduction to the Written In Melanin Podcast

00:24 Meet Robbie J. Atkinson: Avant Garde Storyteller

01:28 Robbie's Unique Storytelling Approach

01:58 The Importance of Original Stories

03:50 Balancing Entertainment and Thought-Provoking Content

04:38 Creating Complex Characters and Stories

09:10 Robbie's Journey in Film and Manga

10:10 Founding RPX Media Production

32:28 Challenges and Rewards of Creating Manga

37:39 Marketing and Business Strategies for Creatives

44:49 Advice for New Authors

47:49 Conclusion and Where to Find More

-Robbie's Manga

https://www.rpxmediaproduction.com/the7thkingdom - Merch: https://shop.melaninlibrary.com/ - Chelsea's Books We Are the Origin: https://shop.writteninmelanin.com/b/wato-hardback We Are Dying Gods: https://shop.writteninmelanin.com/b/wadgph BookHarts Community | https://discord.gg/XSWtDRMyNb - The Links: https://WrittenInMelanin.com/links Melanin Library: https://MelaninLibrary.com/ Patreon: https://Patreon.com/WrittenInMelanin Services: https://www.writteninmelanin.com/services #BlackAuthors #AuthorTube

In this episode of the Written In Melanin podcast, host C. M. Lockhart speaks with guest Brianna Peppins, author of young Adult Contemporary books, about her journey as a Black and Indie author, the influence of HBCUs on her writing, challenges in book marketing for Black authors, and advice for aspiring writers.

00:00 Welcome to the Written In Melanin Podcast

00:23 Meet Brianna Peppins: Author Spotlight

02:00 Choosing Spelman College: A Journey to HBCU

05:10 Creating Black Spaces in YA Literature

10:51 Empathy and Grace: Themes in Brianna's Writing

27:50 Navigating the Publishing World as a Black Author

39:05 Advice for Aspiring Writers and Closing Thoughts

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Brianna Peppins Book

Briarcliff Prep | https://melaninlibrary.com/books/5381

Brianna Peppins Website | https://linktr.ee/BriannaPeppins

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Merch: https://shop.melaninlibrary.com/

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Chelsea's Books

We Are the Origin: https://shop.writteninmelanin.com/b/wato-hardback

We Are Dying Gods: https://shop.writteninmelanin.com/b/wadgph

BookHarts Community | https://discord.gg/XSWtDRMyNb

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The Links: https://WrittenInMelanin.com/links

Melanin Library: https://MelaninLibrary.com/

Patreon: https://Patreon.com/WrittenInMelanin

Services: https://www.writteninmelanin.com/services

#BlackAuthors #AuthorTube

This is part 2 of the interview with Demetrius Frazier the owner of Resist Booksellers.

00:00 Welcome to the Written In Melanin Podcast

00:20 Navigating the World of Indie Publishing

01:36 The Amazon Debate: Convenience vs. Supporting Indie Bookstores

04:15 How to Market Your Book to Bookstores and Readers

16:21 Final Thoughts and How to Support the Podcast

Resist Booksellers

233 N Sycamore Street,

Petersburg, VA 23803, USA

https://resistbooksellers.com/

https://www.instagram.com/resist_bks

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Merch: https://shop.melaninlibrary.com/

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Chelsea's Books

We Are the Origin: https://shop.writteninmelanin.com/b/wato-hardback

We Are Dying Gods: https://shop.writteninmelanin.com/b/wadgph

BookHarts Community | https://discord.gg/XSWtDRMyNb

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The Links: https://WrittenInMelanin.com/links

Melanin Library: https://MelaninLibrary.com/

Patreon: https://Patreon.com/WrittenInMelanin

Services: https://www.writteninmelanin.com/services

#BlackAuthors #AuthorTube

This a part 1 of the interview with Demetrius Frazier the owner of Resist Booksellers

00:00 Welcome to the Written In Melanin Podcast

00:22 Spotlight on Demetrius Frazier: Literacy Advocate and Entrepreneur

03:05 The Mission and Impact of Resist Booksellers

11:24 Navigating the Book Industry as an Indie Author

31:30 The Power of Support: Valuing Indie Authors

33:08 Innovative Solutions for Indie Authors: Author Fairs

45:49 The Indie Author's Guide to Success: Tips and Strategies

Resist Booksellers

233 N Sycamore Street,

Petersburg, VA 23803, USA

https://resistbooksellers.com/

https://www.instagram.com/resist_bks - Merch: https://shop.melaninlibrary.com/ - Chelsea's Books We Are the Origin: https://shop.writteninmelanin.com/b/wato-hardback We Are Dying Gods: https://shop.writteninmelanin.com/b/wadgph BookHarts Community | https://discord.gg/XSWtDRMyNb - The Links: https://WrittenInMelanin.com/links Melanin Library: https://MelaninLibrary.com/ Patreon: https://Patreon.com/WrittenInMelanin Services: https://www.writteninmelanin.com/services

This is part 2 of the interview with Bethany Baptiste the author of "The Poisons We Drink" 00:00 Welcome to the Written In Melanin Podcast 00:22 The Journey of 'The Poisons We Drink' with Bethany Baptiste 00:33 Navigating the Challenges of Traditional Publishing 02:16 Bethany's Publication Rollercoaster: Delays, Misprints, and Tours 12:17 The Emotional Toll of Publishing Setbacks 23:07 The Culture of Silence in Traditional Publishing 40:02 Personal Reflections and the Future of Publishing 46:29 Closing Thoughts and Where to Find Us Bethany's Book https://melaninlibrary.com/books/8112 Bethany's Website https://www.bethanybaptiste.com/ - Merch: https://shop.melaninlibrary.com/ - Chelsea's Books We Are the Origin: https://shop.writteninmelanin.com/b/wato-hardback We Are Dying Gods: https://shop.writteninmelanin.com/b/wadgph BookHarts Community | https://discord.gg/XSWtDRMyNb

This episode of the Written In Melanin podcast features host C. M. Lockhart in conversation with Bethany Baptiste, discussing her journey as a young adult sci-fi fantasy novelist. They dive into Baptiste's book 'The Poisons We Drink', exploring its unique blend of fantasy, politics, and the power of love potions. They discuss the inspiration behind the novel, the importance of representing morally grey Black characters, and the challenges faced in the traditional publishing world, especially for black authors.

00:00 Welcome to the Written In Melanin Podcast

00:23 Introducing Bethany Baptiste

01:06 Diving Into 'The Poisons We Drink': A Unique YA Fantasy

03:49 The Inspiration Behind the Story: From Election Night to Dream Visions

11:20 Crafting Morally Gray Characters and Navigating Publishing Challenges

24:41 Bethany's Writing Journey: From Fanfiction to Published Author

41:43 Empowering Advice for Aspiring Authors

Bethany's Book

https://melaninlibrary.com/books/8112

Bethany's Website

https://www.bethanybaptiste.com/

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⁠Support the show⁠-

Purchase We Are the Origin: ⁠https://www.writteninmelanin.com/product/wato-hardback⁠

Purchase We Are the Origin LIMITED EDITION: ⁠https://www.writteninmelanin.com/product/watole⁠

Purchase WE ARE DYING GODS: ⁠https://www.writteninmelanin.com/product/wadg-hardback⁠

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The Links: ⁠https://WrittenInMelanin.com/links⁠

Melanin Library: ⁠https://MelaninLibrary.com/⁠

Patreon: ⁠https://Patreon.com/WrittenInMelanin⁠

Services: ⁠https://www.writteninmelanin.com/services⁠

Music by Akia DaGreat

Request We Are the Origin and We Are Dying Gods at your local bookstore or library!

This episode features a discussion with author Tatiana Obey, known for her action-packed, character-driven stories featuring diverse characters. In it, C. M. Lockhart and Tatiana discuss various themes relevant to Black and indie authors, such as the importance of visibility, the challenge of receiving and giving honest reviews, and the significance of community in the indie author space.

00:00 Welcome to the Written In Melanin Podcast!
00:21 Meet Tatiana Obey: Author, World Traveler, and Anime Fan
01:19 Revisiting Sistah Samurai and Introducing Bones to the Wind
03:52 The Magic of Tatiana's Writing: A Deep Dive into Her Books
10:21 The Journey of Publishing a Duology as an Indie Author
20:29 Understanding Your Target Audience and the Power of Word of Mouth
29:17 The Power of Recommendations and Trust in Authors
31:02 Navigating Book Reviews as an Author and Reader
43:59 The Importance of Honest Feedback in the Author Community
56:05 Concluding Thoughts on Authorship and Community Support

Tatiana's Books
https://www.tatianaobey.com/

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Tatiana's Previous Podcast Episode
https://youtu.be/y1HUCidA2ek?si=DMqol--Mc5ntSZax

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Purchase We Are the Origin: https://www.writteninmelanin.com/product/wato-hardback
Purchase We Are the Origin LIMITED EDITION: https://www.writteninmelanin.com/product/watole
Purchase WE ARE DYING GODS: https://www.writteninmelanin.com/product/wadg-hardback
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The Links: https://WrittenInMelanin.com/links
Melanin Library: https://MelaninLibrary.com/
Patreon: https://Patreon.com/WrittenInMelanin
Services: https://www.writteninmelanin.com/services

Music by Akia DaGreat

Request We Are the Origin and We Are Dying Gods at your local bookstore or library!