Writing Black with Maiysha Kai

Tabitha Brown is loved by millions for her unapologetic approach to life, family, and food. The author and influencer joined Writing Black to dive into her latest book, "I Did a New Thing," which challenges readers to break out of their routines and try new things. Brown is honest about the struggles she faced following her own advice and gets vulnerable as she discusses health challenges, missing her mother, and making changes to her inner circle. Connect with theGrio Black Podcast NetworkSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fans of The Roots are getting an intimate look into the early life of the group's co-founder, Tariq "Black Thought" Trotter, in his memoir "The Upcycled Self." The Philadelphia native joins Writing Black to talk about the love stories he says have shaped him into one of hip-hop's most treasured MCs. Black Thought also shares why now was the time to reveal his most vulnerable side to the world. Connect with theGrio Black Podcast Network See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Grammy Award-Winning artist Rhiannon Giddens has always been vocal about Black people's pivotal role in the origins of country music. The conversation surrounding those contributions has reignited as Beyoncé's new music debuted at the top of the country charts. Giddens plays banjo on Beyoncé's track "Texas Hold 'Em," and during her conversation with Writing Black hosty Maiysha Kai, Giddens shares that the instrument's history is "Blackity Black". The pair also discuss Gidden's projects, including an opera about an enslaved man and her first children's book. This conversation was originally recorded in October of 2022.  Connect with theGrio Black Podcast NetworkSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The complexity of being multiethnic is explored in this powerful conversation between host Maiysha Kai and theGrio's Natasha Alford. "American Negra" is part memoir, part cultural analysis, and all truth as Alford shares her experience navigating two worlds. Not just culturally but also economically. Alford talks life after Harvard and the immense pressure she felt post-graduation; she also gets vulnerable about her recent health struggles.  This Grio crossover is full of Black girl magic. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The restaurant chain Slutty Vegan has become an empire because its founder Pinky Cole refused to give up when life continued to tell her "no." Cole is now on a mission to share her struggles, hoping it will inspire people to pivot when they hit a roadblock. Her book, "I Hope You Fail," is an unfiltered how-to-guide that will keep your attention and leave you feeling motivated. Maiysha Kia and Cole talk her writing process, and dig into the dark times that eventually led to success.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Books make great gifts, and Maiysha Kai is here to help make your holiday shopping easier. She's curated a list of nearly 70 different titles that will work for kids, teens, and people interested in history, cooking, fiction, and more. The Writing Black Holiday Book Gift Guide is just what you need to share the love of reading with someone special. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

NBA All-Star and 2-time Olympic Gold Medalist Chris Paul joins Writing Black to discuss the vulnerability it took to write his book "Sixty-One." The book centers on the impact Paul's grandfather had on him. Affectionately known as "Papa," he was tragically murdered at the age of 61, the day after Paul signed his letter of intent to play college basketball at Wake Forest. Paul talks about writing the book during the pandemic as the country was going through racial turmoil following the death of George Floyd. He also touches on his commitment to criminal justice reform and the impact mass incarceration has had on Black Americans. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With an impressive Hollywood career spanning decades, Jada Pinkett Smith reminds the world that she's much more than salacious rumors and speculation about her marriage. Jada joins Maiysha Kai to dive into her memoir "Worthy," which is an honest and deeply personal look at her upbringing, the family she's created, and her journey to self-worth. Jada doesn't hold back as she discusses the infamous Oscar slap, the dehumanization of Black women, and her undeniable bond with Tupac Shakur.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

theGrio Black Podcast Network is proud to announce that two of our original podcasts, Being Black: The '80s and theGrio Daily, have received nominations from The Lovie Awards for their outstanding work. Click here to vote for Touré and here to vote for Michael Harriot and spread the word! Let's show the world we value Black storytelling. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brace yourselves for a raw and unfiltered conversation with the iconic and world-famous Wypipologist and theGrio Daily host Michael Harriot, famed for his Black Twitter presence and unfiltered takes. Maiysha and Michael dive deep into his book "Black AF History," where he doesn't hold back in addressing vital issues within the Black community, his upbringing, and his love for Black people and Black history. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maiysha Kai sits down with iconic model and activist Bethann Hardison. Discover the transformative power of Hardison's documentary, "Invisible Beauty," and hear firsthand accounts of her journey through the fashion industry as a Black woman. The two discuss reshaping beauty standards, the importance of fostering diversity, and the road ahead for the industry. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maiysha Kai sits down with the talented singer/rapper/songwriter/producer Jidenna as he sheds light on the importance of challenging stereotypes surrounding Black men and Black male vulnerability, the need for musicians like himself to unionize, his support for the writers and actors' strike and his unwavering love for hip-hop—Peek behind the curtain of his songwriting process, where authenticity and openness shine. Join us for this great conversation that unites, inspires vulnerability, and reveals the true essence of storytelling through music.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

CBS National Correspondent Michelle Miller stops by Writing Black to speak with Maiysha Kai about her new memoir "Belonging." In this thought-provoking and deeply personal conversation, Michelle unveils the compelling narrative of her life and reflects on the intricate intersection of race, family, and identity. Michelle takes us through her biracial experience, as she embraced her Black culture while her mother hid her from her Mexican side of the family because she was ashamed that she was Black. Michelle also tells the story of how she found out her father was one of the doctors that attended to Robert F. Kennedy when he was assassinated.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We celebrate Comedy Month on Writing Black with the hilarious KevonStage and his better half, Mrs. KevonStage. The two sit down with Maiysha to discuss the unique dynamics of being both life partners and comedic collaborators. KevOnStage, known for his razor-sharp wit and infectious charm, has taken the comedy world by storm, with his hilarious observations and relatable anecdotes resonating with audiences across the globe. Mrs. KevOnStage, his extraordinary better half, has been an integral part of his journey, adding her own comedic prowess to the mix. This is an episode you do not want to miss. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It is Comedy Month, and we bring you the hilarious comedian Sam Jay. Sam Jay sits down with Maiysha Kai to speak about her journey through Hollywood, going from being a Saturday Night Live writer to writing and producing her own shows, creating space in Hollywood for other LGBTQ Black entertainers, and not taking herself too seriously. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Writing Black host Maiysha Kai was invited to the LA Times Festival of Books to host a panel of brilliant and talented Black authors. The panel consisted of Clarkisha Kent, Deborah D.E.E.P. Mouton, and Ty Hunter, who all took time to speak about their craft of writing, how their identity plays a role in their writing and what is next for them. You do not want to miss out on this excellent panel and conversation. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We continue our Pride Month Celebration with political commentator and author Keith Boykin. Maiysha has a candid conversation with Keith about bringing his identity into politics, why you shouldn't be afraid to quit your job, how he is able to write so many books and what made him write his newest book "Quitting." See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We continue our celebration of Pride Month with best selling author Robert Jones, Jr. Jones sat down with Maiysha Kai to talk about his New York Times best selling novel "The Prophets," which is about a Black Queer enslaved couple navigating their love through the atrocities of slavery. Jones and Maiysha talk about their love for music and why Jones decided to step away from the very popular Twitter page and website "The Son of Baldwin."  Original Air Date: 8/28/22See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We are celebrating pride this whole month and we wanted to highlight a great conversation we had with Tony Award Winner Michael R. Jackson, the writer of the broadway play, "A Strange Loop." Jackson talks with Maiysha about how it took decades for him to write his musical and the meaning behind write a musical about a queer gay man that is writing a musical about a queer gay man writing a musical.  Original airdate 10/23/22 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In celebration of Black Music Month Maiysha sits down with music executive Danyel Smith about her music memoir Shine Bright which is a personal memoir of Danyel Smith as well as a history lesson about Black women in Pop. Danyel was the first Black woman editor of Billboard. The two discuss Danyel's turbulent and at times abusive upbringing, the Black women in music such as Whitney Houston, Lizzo, Beyonce and Ella Fitzgerald who deserve flowers and how women in the music industry still have to navigate a male dominated industry.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maiysha brings on NYT Best selling author Nedra Glover Tawwab, a family therapist who just released her new book Drama Free: A Guide to Managing Unhealthy Family Relationships. Maiysha and Nedra discuss the importance of setting boundaries in all your relationships which includes family, personal and work. They also delved into the importance of mental health, especially in the Black community. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Renowned poet, educator and author Clint Smith joins Writing Black to talk about his latest work "Above Ground." Smith discuses how his poems explore the intersections of family, race, social justice and personal identity. Maiysha and Clint have a candid conversation about his family and his fascination with Cicadas. Smith discusses his creative process and the challenges he faces when exploring the different facets of his book See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maiysha brings on relationship expert and acclaimed writer, producer and creator of Hulu's new hit series "Unprisoned" which stars Kerry Washington and Delroy Lindo. Tracy and Mayisha discuss how "Unprisoned" is based on Tracy's actual relationship with her father who was in prison for close to two decades. The two talk about what it takes to make it in Hollywood, relationships and what Tracy has planned for the future. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bachelorette star, author, and media personality Rachel Lindsay joins Writing Black to talk about her new fiction novel "Real Love," which she says is loosely based on her life. Maiysha and Rachel discuss Rachel's time on The Bachelorette, how she almost turned down the chance to be on the show, her numerous different ventures, what made her dive into the art of fiction writing, and a whole lot more!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Acclaimed poet and author Tara M. Stringfellow joins Writing Black to give Writing Black listeners a glipse into her new book "Memphis," which is about 3 generations of a Black family in the city of Memphis and one little girl that realizes she has the power to change the trajectory of her family. Maiysha and Tara discuss her journey from being an attorney, to becoming an poet, to being motivated to step into activism, to deciding to sit down and write her debut novel "Memphis. Tara also talks about her love for Memphis, how she wrote portions of the book in Cuba on the beach and more. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Journalist, guest writer for Rolling Stones Magazine and author Ernest Owens joins Writing Black to talk about his new book "The Case For Cancel Culture." After his Twitter feud with Elon Musk, Owens decided to talk with Maiysha about the importance of cancel culture, how cancel culture has been around for centuries, how it can get abused and why so many people in power like Dave Chappelle, Joe Rogan and even Barack Obama are afraid of cancel culture. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former NAACP Chairman and author Ben Jealous sits down with Maiysha Kai to talk about his new book, being confused for Dave Chappelle's bodyguard and how he is related to Robert E. Lee and Thomas Jefferson. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maiysha Kai sits down with Mr. and Mrs. KevOnStage to talk about their new book "Marriage Be Hard" which is about the ups and downs of marriage. They also discuss how they couldn't afford dinner on their honeymoon, KevOnStage being compared to Idris Elba, how parents can cause unintentional trauma and growing up in the church. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Valentine's Day is here and Writing Black host Maiysha Kai has some great Valentine's Day book recommendations that are all about Black love! Sit down and have a nice read with your Valentine with these great books about Black love! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Acclaimed authors and Washington Post journalist Robert Samuels and Tolu Olorunnipa wrote a riveting book about the life of George Floyd called "His Name is George Floyd." With the tragic death of Tyre Nichols by the hands of Memphis police officers, Maiysha and Robert and Tolu had a candid conversation about George Floyd, Georgi's life, policing in America and how what happened to George Floyd happens to so many Black lives in America. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Writing Black is an entertaining and compelling podcast featuring Black writers that showcases the myriad of ways Black people tell their stories. Each week, host Maiysha Kai, theGrio's lifestyle editor, talks to some of the best playwrights, songwriters, comics, journalists, and authors about their creative process, popular culture, publishing, and how race inherently inspires and informs their work. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maiysha talks with renowned historian Peniel Joseph about his critically acclaimed book "The Third Reconstruction." They also dive deep in the history of white resistance, why he thinks we are currently in the third reconstruction period, steps we can take to move forward, how the Black Lives Matter movement is very similar to past movements and more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We are highlighting the brilliant talents that come from Africa and on this episode of Writing Black we are amplifying the talented and critically acclaimed Nigerian author Ayobami Adebayo. Adebayo's new novel "A Spell of Good Things" brings to life the culture and communities of Nigeria following two families through the struggles of class, wealth and political struggles. Adebayo also talks to Maiysha about her taking a different route than what was expected of her, how Nigerian mothers are much more than what you see and how they are both excited to see Black Americans and Black people in Africa interacting with one another a lot more than before. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As we honor MLK Day, Maiysha chats with civil rights legend and renowned journalist Charlayne Hunter-Gault. She shares with Maiysha gut-wrenching stories of being the first Black student to attend the University of Georgia;  from dorm life to life-threatening attacks, her stories cement her place in the history book and anthology of extraordinary, brave Black women In her new book "My People," Hunter-Gault tells her own heroic story as well as the iconic and history-making people she has reported on worldwide throughout her decades-long journalism career. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maiysha talks with Wall Street giant and now critically author Cin Fabré about her debut Memoir "Wolf Hustle" about her time being one of the few Black women on Wall Street and how the industry is cutthroat.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maiysha sits down with award winning chef Keith Corbin about his new memoir "California Soul" documenting his life growing up in the streets of Watts, to going to prison and then changing his life after prison to become one of the top chefs in the world. Chef Corbin tells Maiysha all the ups and downs he endured on his way to becoming a top chefSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maiysha Kai chats with Grammy award winner singer Rhiannon Giddens about her new opera "Omar" about a African enslaved Muslim, what it took to transition from songwriting to developing an opera, her new children's book "Build a Home" which is based on her song of that she collaborated with Yo Yo Ma of the same title, how white people co-opted Folk music from Black people. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maiysha sits down with world renowned ballerina Misty Copeland to talk about her book "The Wind At My Back" which is about her life as well as her mentor's life Raven Wilkinson, who was first Black woman to dance for a major classical ballet company. Misty and Maiysha also discussed Misty breaking racial barriers in ballet, opening up doors for others and the progress that has been made in ballet. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maiysha brings on world renowned journalist and author Toure to speak about his riveting true crime book "Ivy League Counterfeiter" which is about an Ivy League alum who turned to the world of crime as a professional counterfeiter. Toure details how this counterfeiter was a person who he grew up with and the world of crime was something that many didn't expect.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maiysha sits down with the husband and wife duo that is taking over interior designing, Jeanine Hays and Bryan Mason. The couple talks about their new book "AphroChic", their time working with HGTV, telling Black stories through the Black home, being Black in a space that you don't see many Black people in, the founding of decorative brand "AphroChic" and more. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maiysha brings on professor and writer of the Feminist Manifesto for Black Women, Shanita Hubbard. Maiysha and Shanita have a very candid conversation about being a "Ride or Die Chick," what it means to be a Black woman in America and how we need to break so many cultural "norms" that actually hurt Black women. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maiysha talks with political powerhouse Bakari Sellers about his new children's book, mixing activism and politics, balancing family and work and more. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maiysha has a candid conversation with Political Commentator and Author Keith Boykin about bringing his identity into politics, why quiet quitting and just plain out quitting your job is important, his numerous books including his newest one "Quitting", how he navigates social media and more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maiysha Kai sits down with This Is Us writer Eboni Freeman about getting into the writing industry, what it was like writing for This Is Us and how she brings her identity and life experiences to the writing room.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maiysha brings on Tony Award winner Michael R. Jackson to talk about his musical "A Strange Loop" that he calls a "Big, Black and Queer American Broadway Show," his character Usher's love/hate relationship with Tyler Perry, breaking into a space where there aren't many Black people, his love for Motown and more. This is a one of a kind conversation that you do not want to miss! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maiysha sits down with New York Times bestselling Young Adult author Ayana Gray about her two fantasy novels Beasts of Prey and Beasts of Ruin. Two books that center around an all Black fantasy world. Ayana speaks about how it is being a young Black author in a genre that doesn't see a lot of Black women writers, making sure Black people are represented in her novels, her time in Ghana, her books being picked up by Netflix and more. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maiysha talks with award winning Washington Post journalists and critically acclaimed authors Robert Samuels and Tolu Olorunnipa about their book "His Name is George Floyd," what it was like to speak with the family and friends of George Floyd, how did writing such a powerful book affect their lives and how George Floyd was much more than the 10 minute video that affected the entire world. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maiysha sits down with best selling author Candice Carty-Williams about her new book "People Person," what made her start writing, her Black British musical that is being picked up by Netflix, how the United Kingdom teaches Russian history before Black history and the genesis behind her critically acclaimed best seller "Queenie."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maiysha speaks with Disability Rights Advocate and best-selling author Keah Brown about finding her writer's voice, advocating for inclusion, and how going viral on Twitter impacted her life.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maiysha Kai sits down with legendary Actor Omar Epps. You may know him from "Juice" or "Love and Basketball" or the "The Wood." But now you will now him as the author of the new Afrofuturistic book "Nubia: The Awakening." In this interview Omar Epps gives an introspective look on his love for hip-hop, the film industry and the importance of being prepared for success. This is an interview you for sure do not want to miss! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maiysha talks with New York Times Best Seller author and Son of Baldwin creator Robert Jones, Jr. about his book "The Prophets." Robert explains how he came up with the concept of a novel about Black queer love during slavery, and how his identity influences his writing and the writers that influenced him.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.