Writing Black Joy

Welcome to writing Black Joy!!! A new season is here. It has been 3 years of this project and I am celebrating!! I have had amazing guests over the past 3 years! It continues to be an incredible ride, and this upcoming season is no exception. One of the guests that you will hear in a few weeks time is Dionne Draper and we had so much fun recording, that when she kindly offered to interview ME for the podcast, I said yes!! First - a bit about Dionne. Dionne Draper is the executive producer and host of DAWTA The Podcast, founder of Sing With Soul, and a professional writer, actor and singer who combines academia, racial justice and music, to empower diverse voices. You will hear an in depth conversation with Dionne soon, and you'll learn a bit about her in our conversation today. But also - I am the guest today - which is weird. Do I read a bio for myself and pretend like I am a proper guest? Maybe not, but I am also aware that I have some new listeners, and so here is a little bit about me! So - I am Safiya Robinson - and I am the creator, host and producer behind this podcast. I am also a writer, and a creative, a sister and aunt and niece, a friend (and perhaps a mortal enemy to someone) and I am a reader and lover of the arts. When I am not podcasting, or writing, or starting crochet projects that I struggle to finish, or singing in a choir, I teach at the university of plymouth, and I still maintain my clinical practice. And I am also a writing coach and editor.  I am so happy to have you here! In this episode, Dionne and I talked about  my journey with the podcast and how it has evolved into a wider range of conversations  How the nature of humanity is seasonal and leads to our projects changing  The recurring themes from this season - including reinvention, everyday storytellers (link to blog) and joy in the midst of life and legacy - to name a few  Creating designs and merch for the podcast (you can find it on this link) How my own creative rhythm has changed over the past few years, especially during podcast mode - when it struggles a bit The dreams I have for my podcast including dream guests (names)  Mistakes I made when I started out (although in hindsight I don't really see them as mistakes) 20-21.20, 21-22.55 Plans for the future including - Q and A, live events - and I'm open to suggestions from you my listeners! The power of vision and visioning as a part of the creative process  Possibly recording a live podcast event  and so much more!  Sign up to my Substack over on https://substack.com/@writingblackjoy And you can read my blog post about being an everyday storyteller over on my blog! And follow me over on instagram https://www.instagram.com/writingblackjoy/ On facebook https://www.facebook.com/people/Writing-Black-Joy/61557171365533/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we wrap this season up with Mikita Smith who is a fellow podcaster and the voice behind the "Thym 4 Tea with Mikita Podcast," where she invites us all to embrace the beautifully messy aspects of life. As a nurse, motivational speaker, and certified meditation instructor, she's not just talking the talk; she's walking the walk, daring others to live a beautifully unbalanced life. Her approach to self-care is refreshingly real, advocating for a life that finds beauty in the chaos and to dance in the rain. Mikita's down-to-earth conversations and insights challenge us to break free from the conventional, celebrate our imperfections, and discover our true selves in the beautiful imbalance. We had a great conversation about:   Her journaling journey   How she encourages herself through her journaling   Her first solo writing retreat - the gift she gave to herself   Her meditation journey    The impact that meditation has on her journaling, and how these both impact her life   How this also contributes to her fiction writing, and to episodes for her podcast   Tips for starting a journaling practice   Take a listen to her guided meditation here (and check out her entire podcast - it's amazing!) And follow Mikita over on IG And follow Writing Black Joy over on IG! Hopefully this conversation will give you some new ideas, and or ways to think about your own journals and journaling practice.  And if you want your own shiny new journalt then grab mine! It is a blank canvas for your creativity with a combination of blank pages for sketching, lined pages for note taking, and dotted bullet grid when you are ready to mix things up! Go check it out at the links below if you crave that new notebook smell, and love that multimedia life. Click here if you use US based Amazon. Click here if you use UK based Amazon. Or search for Safiya Robinson in your own territory. And definitely sign up to my substack so that you can also enjoy the new Writing Black Joy newsletter! And subscribe to the podcast in your favourite player!

Today I talk with Ayesis Clay who is (among other things) an extraordinary playwright, poet and theatre professional as well as an educator and founder of Sculpted Clay Productions, where she uses innovative theatre-infused residencies and professional development workshops to help schools create trauma-sensitive, social-emotional focused learning environments for teachers and students. Ayesis and I talk about using memoir to connect with your inner world - and we also talked about performing and how that has impacted her view of memoir. Definition of memoir and the different ways of writing your story and moments from your life How Ayesis's memoir turned into a solo show The book of dopeness and how it helped with imposter syndrome The importance of taking time for yourself Going from writing something personal for yourself to sharing with others The importance of mindfulness when she takes people through the process of writing memoir Using rituals and other forms of creativity such as doodling to get into your writing practice. You can find my previous episode with Ayesis here, as well as my episode with Kerra Bolton.  And head over to Sculpted Clay Productions if you are an educator who wants to join the waitlist for Write to Create. And if you want your own shiny new journalt then grab mine! It is a blank canvas for your creativity with a combination of blank pages for sketching, lined pages for note taking, and dotted bullet grid when you are ready to mix things up! Go check it out at the links below if you crave that new notebook smell, and love that multimedia life. Click here if you use US based Amazon. Click here if you use UK based Amazon. Or search for Safiya Robinson in your own territory. And definitely sign up to my substack so that you can also enjoy the new Writing Black Joy newsletter! And subscribe to the podcast in your favourite player!

Today might be my favourite guest of the season so far - it's my favourite little sister Talibah! Talibah is first and foremostly my sister, she is also a teacher, mom, wife, and an artist. She is also a lifelong journaler, collector of lovely journals and stationery, and a bibliophile who is fascinated by minimalism.  This series, I have enjoyed the opportunity to have some of my favourite people on the show to talk about the things that light them up! For my younger sister Talibah, journaling is one of those things. It is an integral part of her life, so we had a fun conversation! It was like one of our - over the dinner table conversations (with coasters of course!!) so come sit with us, and hear all about: Her definition of journaling and why she finds it so useful  Stationary ❤️❤️❤️ Why she has different journals for different topics Her different journaling and how she incorporates her art, as well as how this spilled into other forms of creativity How her journaling practice has grown over the years The power of writing to impact how you remember the past What she does with ALL THOSE JOURNALS How discovering minimalism and simple living changed how she thought about her filled journals How motherhood has influenced her thinking about her journals And so much more!  My favourite thing about these conversations is the idea of creating your own journaling practice, and I hope that by listening, you walk away with something new to try to incorporate for your own journaling routine. Hopefully this conversation will give you some new ideas, and or ways to think about your own journals and journaling practice.  And if you want your own shiny new journalt then grab mine! It is a blank canvas for your creativity with a combination of blank pages for sketching, lined pages for note taking, and dotted bullet grid when you are ready to mix things up! Go check it out at the links below if you crave that new notebook smell, and love that multimedia life. Click here if you use US based Amazon. Click here if you use UK based Amazon. Or search for Safiya Robinson in your own territory. And definitely sign up to my substack so that you can also enjoy the new Writing Black Joy newsletter! And subscribe to the podcast in your favourite player!  

Today I have with me Ally Rose, and Javacia Harris Bowser. Ally Rose is a Writer, Rapid Transformational Therapy Practitioner, Certified Hypnotherapist, and Coach who brings more than a decade of experience to her work with a diverse range of clients worldwide. She has helped individuals from all walks of life overcome their obstacles and reach their goals. Javacia Harris Bowser is an award-winning freelance journalist and the author of the essay collection Find Your Way Back: How to Write Your Way Through Anything. She's also the founder of See Jane Write -- a website, community, and coaching service for women who write -- and the host of The Writeous Babe Podcast, which she calls the grown woman's guide to journaling.  Together, we discuss: How they define journaling  Their current journaling routines  Using journaling as a creative sandbox to help with their own writing Different types of journaling that they both use The practice of future castings/scripting Journaling and hope Writing fiction and your inner world Starting a journaling practice And Ally and Javacia's journaling opportunities for self love in February! Also check out their previous episodes - I have linked below, as well as links for both guests. You can find links to my Writing Black Joy journal over on www.writingblackjoy.com Here are links to Ally's book, journal and newsletter The Radical Self-Love Revolution: https://www.amazon.com/Radical-Self-Love-Revolution-Journey-Empower/dp/B0CH2NT87T The Divine Pause: https://www.amazon.com/Divine-Pause-invitation-recenter-reconnect/dp/1701871521   People can sign up to get a daily affirmation and reflection here: https://www.thedivinepause.com/ Main website: https://therootedwellnesscollective.com/ Instagram: @theallyrose   And here are Javacia's links - including her workshop for the 13th of February: Find your way back (book) - https://www.amazon.com/Find-Your-Way-Back-Anything/dp/0578365286 The Writeous Babe podcast https://writeousbabepodcast.podbean.com/ The Self Love workshop - https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYqcu-srDoiE9MpMxKebRph087ZvKVZIF8a And Javacia's community See Jane Write - website: https://seejanewritebham.com/  

Welcome to my new mini series Writing your inner world. This is for you if you: Use writing to tap into your inner world! Journal! Sketch! Write down your gratitudes! Make lists! Mind maps! Simply collect beautiful journals and pens but are reluctant to write in them (or is THAT one just me?) I wanted to explore ideas around how writing can connect you to your inner world and so for the month of February we will be doing just that. I have often found writing to be a very powerful tool for connection - both with others and with ourselves, and I wanted to explore how we use writing to connect to ourselves. I have some incredible guests which include one of my sisters, as well as past Writing Black Joy guests and a couple of fellow podcasters and we are talking all things journaling. I also talk a bit about how I tap into my own inner world (since I am not much of a journaler), and how you can get started with your own journaling practice. I am also taking the opportunity to release my first journal - which you can find on Amazon! It is a blank canvas for your creativity with a combination of blank pages for sketching, lined pages for note taking, and dotted bullet grid when you are ready to mix things up! Go check it out at the links below if you crave that new notebook smell, and love that multimedia life. Click here if you use US based Amazon. Click here if you use UK based Amazon. Or search for Safiya Robinson in your own territory. And definitely sign up to my substack so that you can also enjoy the new Writing Black Joy newsletter! And subscribe to the podcast in your favourite player!

Nacala Ayele was born and raised in Seattle Washington. She comes to coaching from a background of art, healing, service and community organizing.​ ​ Nacala believes that joyful people who operate from their own genius have the power to transform not only themselves, but their families, communities and the world. She is committed to centering the experiences of Black, Indigenous and People of Color communities and helping her clients design their lives around the things that bring them the most joy. Nacala and I discuss: Her work as a joy coach for Black and Indigenous clients Her project - like fine wine Black joy over time How she and her videographer sought to ensure "people first" within the project  The myth of objectivity  Her upcoming venture to learn more about recording oral histories from Black elders Being a good steward of the stories of others Her own joyful stories And so much more. I hope that you enjoy this conversation as much as I did.

Today's guest is Kiedra Taylor, and she and I had such a fun and deep conversation about her work and the magazine she curates. Let me tell you a bit about her. Kiedra Burston Taylor is a PhD candidate in the department of English. Her research focuses on depictions of Black girl protagonists in contemporary young adult literature. She is the founder and editor of Write On, Black Girl! Taylor is a Phi Kappa Phi John Tanaka Fellowship recipient. She is also a recent winner of the Outstanding Graduate Teaching  Award for the University of Connecticut. Kiedra and I talk about Her magazine write on black girl  Her PhD on Black girl rage in contemporary young adult lit The idea of respectable Black girls and women, who can't be angry or speak out The connection she sees between your ability to speak out and express your whole humanity, and joy What led her to starting the magazine How she edits pieces from writers with different voices and identities, and from different countries and cultures What the young writers have taught her And so much more.  Kiedra and I went deep, but had a wonderful conversation which I hope you enjoy as much as I did. Find Kiedra at https://www.kiedrabtaylor.com The call for submissions: http://bit.ly/3uHoKll And on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WrtOnBlkGrlUConn  

Olivia is a USA Today Best Selling, Emma Award, and multiple award-winning author who loves a good laugh coupled with some steam, mixed in with a man and woman finding their way past the words of "I love you." An author of contemporary romances, she writes heartwarming stories of blossoming relationships filled with heart and humor. The Technicians, The Blakemore Files, and the Modern Mail Order Brides, are one clicks for thousands of readers. When Olivia is not writing, she enjoys quilting, playing Scrabble online against other word lovers and spending time with her family. She is an avid world traveler who writes many of the locations into her stories. Most of the time she can be found sitting quietly with pen and paper plotting more adventures in love. Olivia lives in Hephzibah, Georgia with her husband, son, grandson and snotty evil cat, Katness Evermean. Olivia and I talk about: Why she started writing romance novels and who she was inspired by Some of her characters and the books she writes about  The importance of writing a different narrative How she gets her inspiration for her stories and her Writing and world building process How she does her research  Advice she gives young authors through her mentorship And so much more. Learn more about her books, upcoming releases and join her bibliophile nation at www.ogaines.com Subscribe to her email list at http://sendfox.com/ogaines Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ogaines Twitter: https://twitter.com/oliviagaines Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oliviawrites/  

Today we are joined by another dream guest of mine - Mirna Valerio. Let me tell you a bit about her! Mirna Valerio is a native of Brooklyn, NY, a former educator and XC coach, ultramarathoner, cyclist and skier, DEI facilitator, and author of the memoir, A Beautiful Work in Progress.  She began running in high school, recommitted to the sport after a health scare in 2008 and started her blog Fatgirlrunning—about her experiences as a larger woman in a world of thinner endurance athletes— while training for her first marathon.  Mirna's athletic story has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Runner's World, on NBC Nightly News, CNN, and in the viral documentary short, REI Presents The Mirnavator. Her writing has been featured in Women's Running, Self, Outside, and Runner's World. In 2018 she was chosen as a National Geographic Adventurer of the Year; in 2019 was featured on GMA, and has since then appeared on the Kelly Clarkson Show, Access Daily, and The Today Show. Her partners include LLBean, Ford Bronco, Lululemon, Salsa Cycles, Darn Tough Vermont, Hydro Flask, and Garmin.  She currently lives and trains in Vermont and is wholeheartedly enamored and obsessed with downhill skiing.  Mirna and I talk about: Her journey from blogger to published author - as she writes about her running life Writing nonfiction and fiction Her current project about Black Joy and the natural world How she handles feedback and rejection  How she decided to write her first fiction novel during nanowrimo Wild writing Legacy And so much more. We laugh a LOT in this one, and my sound definitely goes in and out so I'm sorry, but it was a great conversation and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. You can find Mirna on IG @themirnavator Or head over to her website:  www.themirnavator.com And you can learn more about me at https://www.safiyarobinson.com/

This week I am joined by Ber-Henda Williams - a poet, Visionary + Empath coach, and the founder of a leadership organization for girls. She is the author of ‘Memoirs of the Human Experience and Everything In Between, Vol. 1' - a memoir told through poems, preludes and essays. Ber-Henda supports empathic creative visionary empaths to find their voice, embrace feminine power, and create mission-based businesses in service of social transformation, justice and equity. When she is not doing that, she runs a girl's leadership program, The Power of Girlhood for girls 8-18. Además, ella es una poeta bilingüe. (She is a bilingual poet). She believes feminine empaths are here to disrupt the patriarchy and oppression with their mission-based businesses. You can listen to our conversation below, and click here to see Ber-Henda reading a piece that she wrote in Spanish and English, and click here to learn more about Ber-Henda. And take a listen to her podcast Soul of a Lead(her) here! And you can learn more about me at https://www.safiyarobinson.com/

Today I have with me one of my dream podcast guests - Greg Edwards.  Greg Edwards is a fearless comedian from Virginia. Greg moved to San Francisco in 2001 and became a fixture on the Bay Area comedy scene. Greg is known for his distinctive voice, awkward views and social commentary. He's performed at Jamie Foxx's Laffapollozza, SF SketchFest, SF Burrito & Comedy Fest, Riot LA, and clubs and colleges all over California. Greg was awarded the prestigious Dan Crawford Award from the San Francisco Punchline in 2009 and moved to Los Angeles in 2010.  Greg has performed at the Laugh Factory, The Comedy Store, The Hollywood Improv, The IceHouse, & all the popular independent shows in LA. Greg has worked with Dave Chappelle, Paul Mooney, Patrice O'Neal, Damon Wayans, Bill Burr, Charlie Murphy, Maria Bamford, Jim Jeffries, Harland Williams, Bill Bellamy, Deon Cole, W. Kamau Bell and many more outstanding comedians. Most recently, Greg stars as "Sparky Sweets PhD" of the critically-acclaimed web series THUG NOTES, Greg was also in season 1 of Comedy Central's Corporate and also was in Comedy Central's Black Depression video "Demetrinox". Greg has been in Entertainment Weekly, Forbes, The International New York Times and has been on BET, Comedy Central, interviewed on the Tavis Smiley show on PBS & has recently released 3 independent comedy albums Gregarious, Fuck you Greg & Dopamine. Greg and I talked about: The importance of relationships  The space that writing creates How conversations can boost your creativity  The evolution of a creative process - particularly with a live audience What we gain and lose with time and age Getting inspiration for your creative projects I even got to give Greg some encouragement on his current creative project - that you might find useful if you are working on anything! And we spoke about my blog post about the 6 Thinking Hats for writing. Greg also mentioned Rest is Resistance by Tricia Hersey and you can learn more about it here. And you can learn more about me at https://www.safiyarobinson.com/

Welcome back to Writing Black Joy, and today I have with me one of my dream guests - Tracey Michae'l Lewis-Giggetts. She is an incredible author, so let me tell you about her. As a writer and thought-leader, Tracey Michae'l Lewis-Giggetts offers those who read her work and hear her speak an authentic experience; an opportunity to explore the intersection of culture, identity, and faith/spirituality at the deepest levels.  She is the founder of HeARTspace, a healing community created to serve those who have experienced trauma of any kind through the use of storytelling and the arts. Tracey has Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication from the University of Kentucky, a Master of Business Administration degree from Montclair State University, and a Master of Fine Arts degree from Fairleigh-Dickinson University.  She is a former Assistant Professor of English and Black Studies at the Community College of Philadelphia. As a writer, Tracey has published eighteen books including several collaborations with numerous high-profile authors. In 2021, Tracey became one of 20 writers who contributed to the groundbreaking book, You are Your Best Thing: Vulnerability, Shame Resilience, and the Black Experience edited by acclaimed researcher, Brene Brown, and founder of the MeToo Movement, Tarana Burke.  Her most recent publication is the critically-acclaimed book, Black Joy: Stories of Resistance, Resilience, and Restoration (Gallery/Simon and Schuster) which has received rave reviews from celebrities like Kerry Washington, literary writers like Kiese Laymon and Deesha Philyaw, and media outlets like Good Morning America, Essence Magazine, and USA Today. Her forthcoming book, Then They Came for Mine: Healing from the Trauma of Racial Violence, examines the source and impact of racial violence against Black people in all its forms and offers a blueprint for the way the Christian Church can help facilitate healing.  Tracey has spoken on a number of platforms around the country on topics related to race/social justice, education, faith/spirituality, and wellness. Additionally, Tracey's freelance work has been published in print and online publications such as Oprah Daily, The Washington Post, Essence Magazine, The Guardian, The Chronicle for Higher Education, Ebony Magazine, TheRoot.com, and more. Tracey and I talk about: How she came to her joy journey through grief Dance parties with her daughter and the duality of grief and joy, Her search for the feeling of joy in her body The both / and of stories of Black lives Her definition of Black joy How she writes from a place of authenticity Inspiration and creating rituals that help her write Switching her voice as a ghostwriter The importance of finishing How she chooses future projects from her myriad of ideas And so much more. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. You can find out more about Tracey at https://www.traceymlewis.com/ You can learn more about me at https://www.safiyarobinson.com/  

This week we have with us Ayesis Clay - poet and playwright extraordinaire and so much more. Find out why she never actually considered herself a playwright - despite the fact that she has been writing plays since she was in primary (elementary) school, and hear her read from a current work in progress - A Million Tiny Ways.  Ayesis Clay is a master teacher, multidisciplinary theatre artist, and educational consultant. She has developed theatre arts curriculum for Prince George's County Public Schools, the Maryland Department of Juvenile Services, and many local and regional theatre companies. She served as a leader of the Prince George's County Theatre Advisory Board where she developed and facilitated pre-service workshops while mentoring both new and seasoned teachers. Combining her extensive background in theatre and education, Ayesis founded Sculpted Clay Productions, where she uses innovative theatre-infused residencies and professional development workshops to help schools create trauma-sensitive, social-emotional focused learning environments for teachers and students. You will want to listen to Ayesis's interview - we go deep and it is a wonderful conversation! Listen below. And you can hear Ayesis read an excerpt to “A million tiny ways” as well as learn more about her. And you can find out more about me at https://www.safiyarobinson.com/

Today I have with me Soribel Martinez and let me tell you she is a powerhouse. Her personality is infectious and we had an amazing conversation about her book Unbreakable. Let me tell you a bit about her. Soribel Martínez is a Licensed Clinical Psychotherapist, is the CEO of SMPSychotherapy and Counseling Services, business coach and consultant, public speaker, adjunct professor of Psychology at Post University, a Doctor of Social Work candidate at Walden University, and the founder of JC's Precious Minds Foundation Soribel has faced her share of challenges as a Dominican-American immigrant, from navigating school in her second language, recovering from religious trauma, losing a child, facing multiple brain aneurysms, and all of the usual heartbreak women face. In Unbreakable, Soribel guides you to reconnect with your Creator, figure out exactly what you want, and then take massive, inspired action toward your goals. Soribel and I discuss The importance of a marketing plan Ideas around legacy, and the dreams that we have that we may not see come to fruition in our lifetime - and her incredible wisdom around this. How a diagnosis shifted her life Her journey with English as a second language, and how she came to write her book in English Her writing routine/process and how she leaned into support during writing and publishing her book How she used social media while writing and publishing Acknowledging the experiences in your life and working through those feelings as you move into joy and becoming unbreakable Including others in your story Being prepared for speaking our stories out loud during launching - especially if we are more comfortable writing than speaking. How you are the best person to market your book Her foundation that supports mothers with special needs in the Dominican republic Pillars of business success that she included in her book unbreakable Details of her next book And so much more I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did. You can find out more about Unbreakable at https://book.soribelmartinez.com/ And you can learn more about Soribel and get onto her waiting list here! https://soribelmartinez.com/ And you can find out more about me at https://www.safiyarobinson.com/

Today I am joined by Dr Davia Shepherd - a fellow writer from the Caribbean, who also shares my love for collaboration. Here is a bit about Dr Shepherd. Dr. Davia H. Shepherd is the author of Grow Smarter. And she is also a Mom, a sister, a daughter and a wife. And, she hosts and coordinates a women's collaboration club: Ladies Power Lunch. She helps her patients feel better every day, but the one thing that she is most passionate about, and that gets her out of bed in the morning is supporting women in business to live their optimal lives through growing their visibility, reach, impact and income. She is a beacon for beacons.  At her intuitive core, Davia has always known, even as a child, that when we all pull together, we can achieve unbelievably amazing results; whether we are talking about health, relationships, finances or even our careers. Her focus especially in this time is to connect us with each other and with our true inner amazing selves, so that we may live the lives we have the potential for.  Her best selling book “Grow Smarter…collaboration secrets to transform your income and impact” is focused on providing us with a framework for using the power of collaboration with fellow entrepreneurs to grow our businesses even during unusual times.  She invites you to connect with her through LPL's monthly workshops and Facebook Community, LPL Summits, LPL Retreats or working with her one on one to make quantum leaps in your impact and income. Davia and I talk about: The importance of connection The magic of collaboration How she created her community Ladies power lunch How you can leverage being a part of an anthology The importance of support when it comes to writing and sharing your work Finding a way to share your story And so much more! Find out more about Davia's work at: www.ladiespowerlunch.com.  And you can order her book on Amazon.com, Amazon.co.uk or search for it in the closest amazon marketplace to you! And you can find out more about me at https://www.safiyarobinson.com/

Today I am joined by Martinus Evans. Martinus is a brilliant storyteller - and it may or may not be because he has the best stories. Either way - you're gonna love this conversation and you're gonna love his book! Martinus Evans has run over eight marathons since his doctor told him to “lose weight or die” in July 2012. Since then, he's also coached hundreds of runners and founded the Slow AF Run Club, a community of over 10,000 members worldwide. He is also the author of the book Slow AF Run Club: The ultimate guide for anybody who wants to run.  When he's not running races around the world, he enjoys speaking passionately about issues related to size-inclusivity, mindset, DEI and mental health. This conversation was so much fun! Just a note that there is a tiny amount of swearing here, so if you have kids around, slap in some headphones.  Martinus and I talked about: The inspiration (and future dream plans) for the slow AF run club How Martinus thinks about representation in his work and what he creates  The places running has taken him and what he loves about it  Posing nude in men's health magazine How he made writing his first book manageable for him by crunching the numbers The ups and downs of publishing his book What he is creating next for the slow AF run club  Letting our creations take on a life of their own How our relationship with what we create changes when we turn the thing we love into work I hope that you enjoy this conversation as much as I did! Grab his book below! https://slowafrunclub.com/preorder/ And you can find out more about me at https://www.safiyarobinson.com/    

Season 3 is here and this is episode 1 - and it's a solo episode! Today is all about telling you about the Writing Black Joy project as a whole, how I have been relating to it and thinking about it, and what is next for Writing Black Joy - both in this season, and in the future.   One person I talked about in the episode but couldn't for the life of me remember her name was Mollie Chen. She was the business coach I spoke to before I decided to start this project! Thanks Mollie it would not exist without you!    In addition, here are some of the links I mentioned: My mailing list Rosemarie Callender and her podcast - Podcast to Amplify The Writing Black Joy website My latest book - Wellbeing for Dentists And feel free to email me on safiyarobinson@gmail.com   See you next week!

This week's guest is Cedric Scott who is the founder and creative behind ancient baby brand. Cedric was and continues to be an educator, and he is also a writer, poet, chemist and entrepreneur as well as a husband and father.    His brand is at the corner of wisdom and innovation focusing on education, self-care and lifestyle.    Cedric and I talk about:    How he transformed what his students were learning about Black history by creating Melanated Mathematics - math content in the context of black history and culture.    His brand Ancient Baby brand and how he developed his brand from grooming products to textbooks.    The importance of legacy in everything he does,    The various collaborations he has had with other Black creatives and business folks throughout his career,   His writing and how poetry was the gateway into other forms of writing.   His creative process and so much more.   You can check out season 1 and other season 2 guests of Writing Black Joy over on https://www.writingblackjoy.com/   If you want to support us you can join our Patreon community over at https://www.patreon.com/safiyarobinson   You can find Cedric at https://ancientbabybrand.com/   You can follow Cedric on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/ancientbabybrand/   You can follow me on Instagram on https://www.instagram.com/safiyarobinson77/   If you want to know about working with me, go over to https://www.safiyarobinson.com/  

This week's guest is Kellie Richardson, who is a writer, poet and author. Kellie also spent 2 years as the poet laureate of Tacoma Washington. In 2017 - 2019.    She has written 2 collections of poetry and we had a great conversation about her writing as well as her visual art. And you can take a look at our conversation on YouTube if you want to see some of her art!   We talked about:   Being the first Black female poet laureate in Tacoma   How she created an intergenerational space for creatives to show her city that poetry is for everyone.   Why she didn't begin to share her work or embrace being a poet until she was in her late thirties   The narrowness of "categories" that legitimize air quotes proper writing and what is considered canon.    How she has fused her poetry and her visual art   How she assembled her poetry collections,   Walking the line of joy and grief, and holding opposing emotions    The questions to ask yourself if you are afraid to claim an identity as a writer and so much more.    You can check out season 1 and other season 2 guests of Writing Black Joy over on https://www.writingblackjoy.com/   If you want to support us you can join our Patreon community over at https://www.patreon.com/safiyarobinson   You can learn more about Kellie on her website https://www.brownbetty.org/   You can follow Kellie on Instagram over on https://www.instagram.com/brownbetty253/   You can follow me on Instagram on https://www.instagram.com/safiyarobinson77/   If you want to know about working with me, go over to https://www.safiyarobinson.com/      

This week, my guest is Dalia Kinsey, a nutritionist, speaker and author, who works at the intersection of holistic wellness and social justice. Dalia and I talk about: Identities, how we identify and how the language of identities is personal and changes over time. Health vs healthcare and how our daily experiences and emotions including joy impact our health behaviours.  Why Dalia wrote a book specifically for BIPOC and LGBTQIA folks. How Dalia worked up the courage to write a book proposal and get a traditional publishing deal. And so much more.  You can check out season 1 and other season 2 guests of Writing Black Joy over on https://www.writingblackjoy.com/ You can find more about Dalia at https://www.daliakinsey.com/ If you want to support us you can join our Patreon community over at https://www.patreon.com/safiyarobinson If you are outside of Barbados, you can find Dalia's book Decolonizing Wellness on Amazon. Use this link, or find the region that is closest to you  You can follow me on Instagram on https://www.instagram.com/safiyarobinson77 If you want to know about working with me, go over to https://www.safiyarobinson.com/  

My guest this week is Alicia Chantal and she is the owner of Fresh Look Editing based in Canada. She writes and edits non-fiction and is also a mom to 3 boys. One thing that Alicia and I discussed were the different ways and backgrounds that folks who come to writing and editing have. One of the reasons that I have shared editors and a literary agent this season is to show you a few of the folks who support writers on their journey. Writing is often thought of as a lonely journey but the reality is - you can make so many connections as a writer with other professionals who are there to help polish your work, help you get visible and share it with the world. So I hope you find this conversation helpful. In addition, Alicia shared very openly which I really appreciate and she and I talked about: Healthcare and the importance of having a writer and editor to break down the jargon and increase the understanding that people have about their own health. The importance of surrounding yourself with people who champion your ideas. The conversations that she and her family has and some of her experiences raising biracial children. The collaborative nature of editing. Understanding the editorial style of a publication when you are submitting your work to them. Different avenues for using your skills as a writer. The fresh prince of Bel-Air. Inclusive language and the "alive" nature of language. Frozen vs Encanto. And so much more! You can check out season 1 and other season 2 guests of Writing Black Joy over on https://www.writingblackjoy.com/ If you want to support us you can join our Patreon community over at https://www.patreon.com/safiyarobinson/ You can find Alicia at https://freshlookediting.ca/ You can follow me on Instagram on https://www.instagram.com/safiyarobinson77 If you want to know about working with me, go over to https://www.safiyarobinson.com/

This week I am joined by Yvonne Ator, and she is also a multipassionate writer at heart, who writes haikus, newsletters, poetry, and whatever else takes her fancy. She is also a coach for high performing, stress adled individuals who have hit a wall and want a different life but don't know where to begin. Yvonne has a heart for idealists and heart centered helpers. Yvonne and I talk about WDS - the World Domination Summit. If you wanna know what it is, I'd have to say it's a gathering of creatives. I'm going to get into trouble for saying that it's a conference but it's hard to describe it to anyone who hasn't been there. I've actually had a couple of other guests I've met through WDS - Jeff Harry from season 1 and Gary ware whose episode dropped a few weeks ago. So when you hear her mentioning WDS, that's what it is! Yvonne and I talk about: her writing journey and how writing was a constant part of her background. How pressure to go into a "traditional profession" meant that she dismissed her writing abilities for many years. Why she is taking back the term "idealist" Her journey with writing daily haikus and building the habit of consistently creating and sharing them - no matter if they were good or not. How she moved out of hiding in plain sight, And so much more. And as always, I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did. You can check out season 1 and other season 2 guests of Writing Black Joy over on https://www.writingblackjoy.com/ If you want to support us you can join our Patreon community over at https://www.patreon.com/safiyarobinson/ Learn more about Yvonne over on https://www.yvonneator.com/ Follow Yvonne on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/yvonneator/ You can follow me on Instagram on https://www.instagram.com/safiyarobinson77 If you want to know about working with me, go over to https://www.safiyarobinson.com/

This week I am joined by Kim Howard. Kim is a podcaster and a seasoned marketing professional, book club host and a long time friend who I am so happy to have with me.  She has a solo podcast Our One-Sixty-Six about Barbadian history, and she gives us a taste of her curiosity and knowledge in this episode. We also talk about  Her podcasting journey and her love for Barbadian history Bajan and other Caribbean sayings How to define and shape the story you are trying to tell, and researching true stories Framing your story for the chosen audience How we can talk ourselves out of our greatest ideas especially as perfectionists and how to get past the self doubt Podcasting, seasons, sound quality and so much more.  You can check out season 1 and other season 2 guests of Writing Black Joy over on https://www.writingblackjoy.com/ You can listen to Our one sixty six on your favourite podcast app or over on https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1863602.rss You can listen to Do it fuh Grantley - a life and finance podcast on your favourite podcast app or over on https://www.fortressfund.com/podcast/ Follow Kim on Instagram over on https://www.instagram.com/ouronesixtysix/ If you want to know about working with me, go over to https://www.safiyarobinson.com/  

This week I am joined by Gary Ware. Gary is many things as you will hear shortly - a self proclaimed creative catalyst, and corporate facilitator. He is also a master at play and that is something we dive into as we talk about his upcoming book which is all about play. Gary and I talked about his writing process and how he completed his “play-book'' as someone who has dyslexia and ADHD and how he brought play into the process. He also talked about seeing the world as a proving ground vs as a playground of possibilities, illustrations for a book that isn't a children's book, working with a graphic designer or facilitator and the importance of collaboration in the book writing process. You can check out season 1 and other season 2 guests of Writing Black Joy over on https://www.writingblackjoy.com/ You can jump on his mailing list to be the first to know when his book comes out over at https://www.breakthroughplay.com/ Gary also suggested that you take a look at the magic of Eric Jones and I found a clip here on https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mL9U4UXnezA Gary and I talked about one of our favourite books The Night Circus and you can find it here https://www.amazon.com/Night-Circus-Erin-Morgenstern/dp/0307744434 If you want to listen to my interview with Jeff Harry then go over to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bSL8OFnO3Iw Follow Gary on Instagram over on https://www.instagram.com/garyware/ If you want to know about working with me, go over to https://www.safiyarobinson.com/  

If you want to support us you can join our Patreon community over at https://www.patreon.com/safiyarobinson You can check out season 1 and other season 2 guests of Writing Black Joy over on https://www.writingblackjoy.com/ If you want to read (or listen to) my blog posts about the lessons learned after season 1 then read over here for part 1 and part 2. If you want to know about working with me, go over to https://www.safiyarobinson.com/  

If you want to support us you can join our Patreon community over at https://www.patreon.com/safiyarobinson You can check out season 1 and other season 2 guests of Writing Black Joy over on https://www.writingblackjoy.com/ If you want to read (or listen to) my blog posts about the lessons learned after season 1 then read over here for part 1 and part 2. If you want to know about working with me, go over to https://www.safiyarobinson.com/  

Todays guest is Cherise Wiltshire, a fun and spirited woman of God who loves travelling the world, biking and enjoys finding that hidden literary discovery in any and every bookstore. She has recently penned her own book - Hearts Cry - a devotional designed to strengthen your Christian walk. In her professional life, Cherise is a successful entrepreneur who runs her own business consulting firm, Wiltshire Consultancy International. Cherise and I talk about our spiritual journeys, dealing with loss, how Cherise wrote and published her devotional, her creative practice and so much more. You'll also get to experience some of her fun personality and encouraging nature. If you want to support us you can join our Patreon community over at https://www.patreon.com/safiyarobinson You can check out season 1 and other season 2 guests of Writing Black Joy over on https://www.writingblackjoy.com/ If you are outside of Barbados, you can find Heart's cry on Amazon. Use the link below, or find the region that is closest to you https://www.amazon.com/Hearts-Cry-Daily-Journey-Jesus/dp/1632694964/ref=sr_1_1 Watch Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie's Ted talk - The Danger of a Single Story https://www.ted.com/talks/chimamanda_ngozi_adichie_the_danger_of_a_single_story?language=en  You can read my blog post "Things I miss about God" at https://www.safiyarobinson.com/more-questions-than-answers/2021/12/18/things-i-miss-about-god Learn more about Cherise and find her social media profile on https://www.writingblackjoy.com/ If you want to know about working with me, go over to https://www.safiyarobinson.com/  

This week I am joined by Kerra Bolton, an award winning producer and director, as well as a writer. She is also the CEO/Founder of Woodbine Films, which specializes in first-person, narrative nonfiction that examines the meaning of community, connection, and identity in the Black community. Her directorial debut, RETURN OF THE BLACK MADONNA, is currently in production. The documentary traces her epic quest to learn to swim, dive, and map sunken slave ships with Black marine archeologists. She is also working on a book Water in my bones and we discuss both of these projects today. Kerra and I talk about her commitment to Black joy after a long career in diversity and equity work, transmuting pain and trauma into joy, the process of making a documentary and holding multiple roles in that process, and the research process for the documentary. We also talked about the importance of endurance during the film making process. In addition, we also discussed - women's health and Kerra's experience of fibroids, and the significance of the high prevalence of fibroids in Black women, learning how to swim, fear of open water and epigenetics, and so much more. This conversation went to so many places, and is a really important testimony to how we can cultivate joy in our lives, even against a backdrop of pain or trauma. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. If you want to support us you can join our Patreon community over at https://www.patreon.com/safiyarobinson You can check out season 1 and other season 2 guests of Writing Black Joy over on https://www.writingblackjoy.com/ You can donate to The Return of the Black Madonna and also sign up to Kerra's mailing list over on www.kerrabolton.com You can follow Kerra on Instagram over @kerrabolton and also follow @returnoftheblackmadonna If you want to know about working with me, go over to https://www.safiyarobinson.com/  

This week I am joined by Philip Robinson, a children's book author and songwriter. Philip is a Bajan currently residing in the United Kingdom. He has written plays, poems and songs since childhood, and believes that diversity needs to be celebrated as a norm rather than a tension that divides. He is the author of 2 children's books which we will be discussing in our conversation today. Philip and I talk about beauty standards - particularly in children's books and fairy tales, and the lack of association of Black girls with beauty in children's stories, how inspiration for stories comes from so many different places, finding the time to write, illustrations of Black characters for children's books, self-publishing vs traditional publishing of children's books, and how comparison affects creativity, and so much more. You can check out season 1 and other season 2 guests of Writing Black Joy over on https://www.writingblackjoy.com/ Nia and the Kingdom of Celebration is on Amazon. Use the link below, or find the Amazon region that is closest to you. https://www.amazon.com/Nia-Kingdoms-Celebration-Philip-Robinson/dp/1999892305/ref=sr_1_1 Daddy you cannot play Santa Clause is on Amazon. Use the link below, or find the Amazon region that is closest to you. https://www.amazon.co.uk/Daddy-cannot-play-Santa-Claus-ebook/dp/B07M9D8BXT/ref=sr_1_1 Early in the conversation, I mentioned a podcast I could not remember the name that talked about diversity in the publishing industry. The podcast is called "Balancing Stories" (previously Balancing Cultures) and the guest's name was Lisa Davis who shared that "Diversity in books starts within". https://balancingcultures.com/episode-26/ We also mentioned Atul Gawande's Reith lectures and you can find them over on https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b04bsgqn/episodes/player Follow Philip on instagram over on https://www.instagram.com/kingdomsofcelebration/ If you want to know about working with me, go over to https://www.safiyarobinson.com/  

This week I am joined by Thea Charles, a fellow storylistener and the host of the Push or Pivot Podcast. Thea graduated from Providence College, obtaining a Bachelor's degree in Biology. She did as expected and took a career path in the medical field, working as a Histocompatibility Specialist and Compliance Officer. For Thea, following a path that was created for her didn't keep the internal fires burning. Being stuck at a crossroads in her career ultimately helped Thea realize coaching was the path for her. Thea is a life coach that believes when you know your purpose you can build the confidence to show who you are to the world. Thea has a knack for helping clients see the big picture, zero in on what they desire, and create manageable steps to get there. She helps women manage their transitions in life as she can relate having gone through many changes herself. She is a mom of two boys, wife, travel enthusiast, flutist, lover of tea and a good mural, and the host of the Push Or Pivot Podcast. You can check out season 1 and other season 2 guests of Writing Black Joy over on https://www.writingblackjoy.com/ Thea's first episode with us is https://www.writingblackjoy.com/writers-gallery/safiya-robinson You can find Thea's podcast - Push or Pivot at https://www.pushorpivot.com/ To listen to Thea's special series for Black History month, click below: Shirley Chisolm - https://www.pushorpivot.com/episodes/68 William Grant Still - https://www.pushorpivot.com/episodes/69 Jean - Michel Basquiat - https://www.pushorpivot.com/episodes/70 Marsha P Johnson - https://www.pushorpivot.com/episodes/71 And you can learn more about coaching with Thea on https://thearenel.com/ And if you want to know about working with me, go over to https://www.safiyarobinson.com/  

Today's guest Kathleen Naytia is an editor, podcaster and writer of speculative fiction, and she has joined me to talk all about editing. So if you have any plans of getting your work out there as a writer, then this conversation is a must listen. As my guest last week - Dawn Michelle Hardy said - editing is a non-negotiable (and by the way - if you haven't listened to last week's episode, then go take a listen - it is gold if you are writing or planning to write a book). Kathleen and I go deep into talking about editing - what the editing process is (and what it isn't) and how having the right editor can make your work better and improve your writing. We talk about how to choose an editor, the questions to ask, and how to advocate for yourself during the editing process. We got a bit nerdy talking about how language has evolved over time and also ableist language, and how an editor can help to ensure that your use of language keeps you true to your intentions for your story, as well as the nuance involved particularly in fiction and memoir. And we talk about different types of editing and when you can bring in that type of support. Kathleen is also a writer of speculative fiction, so we talk about her own writing practice, how a book by Octavia Butler changed her life, and her podcast Loud in theatre. This conversation is full of wisdom about the importance of editing to writing and publishing your work and I think it is a must listen for anyone who wants to write and bring that story into the world. If you want to support us you can join our Patreon community over at https://www.patreon.com/safiyarobinson You can check out season 1 guests and other season 2 guests of Writing Black Joy over on https://www.writingblackjoy.com/ Check out Kathleen's podcast Loud in the Theater over on https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/loud-in-the-theater/id1561710813 Kathleen and I talk about the book "The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake" and you can find it at https://www.amazon.com/Particular-Sadness-Lemon-Cake/dp/0385720963/ref=sr_1_1 Follow Kathleen on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kathleen_naytia/ And remember - if you want to write a book, and want to work with me as a writing coach or editor, then head on over to my website https://www.safiyarobinson.com/ or follow me over on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/safiyarobinson77/ and follow https://www.instagram.com/writingblackjoy/

This week I am joined by Dawn Michelle Hardy, “The Literary Lobbyist,” a creative publicity strategist and staunch advocate for self-published and traditionally published authors. Dawn and I talked about: the importance of audience building and several ways you can do that - whether you write fiction or non-fiction, even memoirs. We also talk about self publishing vs traditional and how to make that decision, the importance of editing - no matter how you are publishing - how to find an agent, and how to increase your chances of finding an agent, the landscape of the publishing industry for Black writers and creatives and so much more. Dawn also talked about a new initiative from the literary lobbyist - a speakers bureau that brings Black writers and writers of color to speak at Historically Black colleges and universities - so that creatives can learn more about the publishing industry and the opportunities within. This conversation is chock full of strategies and advice for writers who want to put their books out into the world - whether you want a traditional publishing contract, or you want to self-publish. If you want to support us you can join our Patreon community over at https://www.patreon.com/safiyarobinson You can check out season 1 guests (including Javacia and Jacqueline) and other season 2 guests of Writing Black Joy over on https://www.writingblackjoy.com/ Check out Love in a carry on bag by Sadeqa Johnson on https://www.amazon.com/Love-Carry-Bag-Sadeqa-Johnson-ebook/dp/B007HBKQK4/ref=sr_1_1 Check out "From the block to the boardroom" by Tracey Syphax on https://www.amazon.com/Block-Boardroom-Tracey-D-Syphax/dp/0985029501/ref=sr_1_3 If you want to know more about Dawn's program Publishing in your pajamas then head over to www.PublishingInYourPajamas.com Follow Dawn on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/Theliterarylobbyist/ And remember - if you want to write a book, and want to work with me as a writing coach or editor, then head on over to my website https://www.safiyarobinson.com/ or follow me over on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/safiyarobinson77/ and follow https://www.instagram.com/writingblackjoy/  

Writing Black Joy is here - a podcast for creatives, where we celebrate and feature all types of Black writers and storytellers with joyful tales to tell. We talk about their creative process, as well as their projects, and have lots of laughs along the way.