Liberation is Lit Podcast

In this episode, we have an enlightening conversation with author and cultural worker, Sara Makeba Daise. We explore the concepts behind Sara's book 'Sankofa Shadow Work: Diaries of a Diasporic Divine', discussing themes of ancestral connections, healing epigenetic trauma, and the South as a spiritual portal. Sara shares her inspirations, her journey as a newly published author, and...

In this episode of the Liberation is Lit podcast, we sit down with author Russell Earle Jr. for an inspiring discussion about the power of storytelling and social change. In this episode, Russell shares his journey as a writer and the release of his travel memoir, 'Until I Came Home: A Sunset Journal,' which chronicles his six-month backpacking experience through South America. Discover...

In this episode of the Liberation is Lit podcast, we sit down with poet and author Terrence P. Elmore to delve into his journey as a writer and the profound messages conveyed through his poetry. Terrence shares how he rediscovered his passion for writing, the inspiration behind his books 'Love Letters', 'The Essence of Love', and 'Pain is Not Our Only Paintbrush', and...

In this episode of the Liberation is Lit Podcast, host Tayler Simon sits down with Coach Lester to delve into the transformative power of accountability in the realms of creativity and entrepreneurship. Coach Lester shares his personal journey from a multi-talented creative to a successful accountability coach. He discusses the importance of time management, the value of building habits, and the c...

In this episode, we are joined by scholar Dr. Jenn M. Jackson to discuss the profound impact of Black feminist scholarship. We explore Dr. Jenn’s journey from an early love of writing to becoming an influential voice in Black feminism, the necessity of storytelling, and the ongoing fight for recognition in academic spaces. Dr. Jenn also shares insights from their book 'Black Women Taught Us&a...

In this inspiring episode, we join poet Naya Lanai as we discuss the transformative power of storytelling, poetry, and community. Naya delves into her journey as a poet, the emotional liberation she finds in her work, and the importance of self-love and community in creating social change. We also explore impactful literature, the beauty of complex lives, and her role in organizing the Queer Write...

In this episode, we chat with author Cleyvis Natera about her journey as a writer, starting from her childhood in the Dominican Republic and her burgeoning love for reading. We talk about her new book, 'The Grand Paloma Resort', which explores themes of class, privilege, and the dynamic between local workers and tourists at a luxury resort. Cleyvis also touches on the cultural storytelli...

In this episode, we speak with author and poet Nicki Pappas. Nicki shares her experiences with spiritual abuse within a cult-like church and her path to deconstruction and self-discovery. Nicki opens up about her writing process, her self-published books, and the importance of slowing down, being grounded, and healing from trauma. The conversation also touches on Nicki's exploration of psiloc...

In this episode, we speak with author Daria Burke about her new memoir, Of My Own Making. Daria shares the deeply personal journey behind her writing, including her upbringing in Detroit, dealing with childhood trauma, the healing power of storytelling, the science behind trauma and recovery, and the importance of self-care and community. The conversation delves into how Daria balances vulnerabili...

In this episode, we talk with author Joe Chianakas to discuss his journey as a writer, the impact of storytelling, and the importance of diverse perspectives. Joe shares insights on his creative process, his emphasis on horror as a genre to tackle social issues, and the inspiration behind his works, including the 'Unveiling Aiden' series and 'Darkness Calls.' The conversation a...

In this episode, we have a powerful conversation with author and advocate David Ambroz about his new memoir, 'A Place Called Home,' and his advocacy around poverty and the child welfare system. David shares his personal journey from homelessness in New York City to becoming a foster father and advocate in Los Angeles, emphasizing the transformational power of storytelling in driving soci...

In this episode, we hear from author and historian Nishant Batsha. We discuss Nishant's journey from historian to novelist, inspired by the challenge of accessing individual lives in historical archives. Nishant shares insights into the concept of 'critical fabulation,' which blends historical knowledge with creative storytelling. The conversation covers Nishant's latest book,...

In this episode, we discuss the ongoing issue of book bans in SC. We explore the current state dynamics, with a focus on the actions of individual parents and the state Board of Education's regulation (43-170) that deems any sexual material developmentally inappropriate. Get the tea on the books that are currently banned statewide in SC. 00:00 Introduction to the Liberationist Lit Podcast  00...

In this episode, author and former teacher Amy Friedl shares her journey from teaching to writing children's books focused on connecting girls to nature. Amy discusses her transformation and healing through nature, her book series 'Strong Girls Travel,' and her efforts to empower young girls and families to embrace the outdoors.  00:00 Introduction to the Liberation is Lit Podcast 0...

In this episode, we sit down with renowned author Vanessa Miller. We discuss Vanessa's journey as a writer, the importance of storytelling, and her latest historical fiction work, 'The Filling Station,' centered around the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre. Vanessa shares how her faith and dedication to inspiring readers keep her grounded. The conversation also highlights the resilience of t...

In this episode, we speak with children's book author, educator, and yoga instructor Kyla Saphir about the importance of nature-based learning for children. Kyla shares her background in early childhood education and discusses how nature schools foster curiosity, emotional well-being, and social skills in kids. She emphasizes the need for diverse representation in nature schools and talks abo...

In this episode, we have a heartfelt and insightful conversation with author and poet Enigmatic Raven. Discussing the intersections of personal identity, writing, and social advocacy, Enigmatic Raven shares their journey from a rural Midwestern upbringing to becoming a published author. The discussion touches on the challenges of the job market, the role of poetry and fantasy in exploring deep emo...

In this episode, we speak with Jennifer Bartell Boykin, the City of Columbia Poet Laureate. Jennifer discusses her work as a writer, focusing on her personal experiences growing up as a Black woman in the rural South and capturing the stories of her ancestors. She highlights her role as Poet Laureate, her involvement in advocating for students' rights, particularly through the Diversity Aware...

In this episode, we talk with Dr. Latasha Watts, an author, poet, and model. Dr. Latasha discusses her journey as a writer, her passion for poetry, and how her experiences, including her work with Mecklenburg County Mobile Crisis, have influenced her creative pursuits. She emphasizes the importance of using her voice to inspire and motivate others, especially during difficult times. The conversati...

In this episode we have an enlightening conversation with author and illustrator Noah Bodie. They discuss Noah's passion for writing queer dark fantasy, the importance of representation in literature, and the challenges and joys of being a creator. Noah shares insights on his work, his inspiration, and the significant impact of storytelling in promoting social change. Listeners get a glimpse...

In this episode of the Liberation is Lit podcast, we chat with returning guest Marla Taviano about our upcoming course, 'Poet to Publish,’ during National Poetry Month. We discuss the importance of self-publishing poetry, the personal and social impact of creative expression, and our efforts to combat book censorship. The conversation covers Marla's recent projects, including her unique...

In this episode, we interview Rian Jenkins, a poet, author, and community activist. Rian discusses her journey as a writer, the various genres she works in, and her inspiration to write. She talks about her upcoming releases, including a children's book and a middle-grade novel, and her initiatives like the all-Black author book drive. Rian also delves into her mentorship efforts, the importa...

In this episode of the Liberation is Lit podcast, we sit down with Latina poet and author Brandy Del Río to discuss the transformative power of poetry and storytelling. We explore themes of feminism, Latin history, and the impact of cultural heritage in writing. Del Río shares insights into her creative process, the challenges faced while compiling her poetry collection 'I Thought We Were Pos...

On this episode of the Liberation is Lit podcast, we have an in-depth conversation with Andraya 'Digital Draya' Lashay, founder of Uncut Gems Agency and the Art Pharm Project. Draya shares her inspiring journey from a background in journalism and PR to creating impactful community projects that blend art and agriculture. Discover how Draya's work fosters social and emotional well-be...

In this episode, we are joined by author Sarah Raughley to discuss her upcoming book, The Queen's Spade. We dive into Sarah's writing process, her inspiration behind retelling the story of Sarah Forbes Bonetta (Queen Victoria’s goddaughter), and the importance of imagination and creativity in storytelling. Sarah shares her experience with historical research, her motivations for writing...