Shows
Reed, Write, and CreateGet Ready for Something New! On Season 5 We're Going Behind the BookWelcome to Season 5 of the Podcast! On this brief episode, Loril will provide a quick recap about her time living in a library in Ghana, followed by a sneak peek into what we have planned for this special season of the podcast.
For Season 5, we’re going Behind the Book, bringing you interviews and stories about people who depend on the free circulation of books in the world. From librarians, to agents, to activists and entrepreneurs, this season we're pulling back the curtain on the people who keep the book business flowing and growing.
To...2025-05-0517 min
Flourish In The Foreign | Black Women Living & Thriving AbroadEmbracing a Creative Life in Malaga, Spain with Lori L. Tharps: Aging AbroadSpecial Series: Aging Abroad In this episode of Flourish in the Foreign, past podcast guest Lori L.Tharps shares her journey of moving to Spain with her family and the challenges and triumphs they faced over the years. She reflects on her son's educational struggles and successes, her daughter's adaptation to Spanish life, and the cultural differences they've embraced. Lori discusses her professional shift from academia to creating a community for BIPOC women writers and her achievements in fostering creative connections. She candidly speaks about the concept of aging, both personally and for her family, and highlights t...2025-04-141h 22
Pondering Thoughts PodcastThe Power of Storytelling and Elevating BIPOC Voices with Lori. L. TharpsIn this episode K. Wilkes is in conversation with Lori L. Tharps, an award-winning author, journalist, educator, and literary influencer. She discusses the influence of her upbringing, her experiences in academia, and her commitment to elevating BIPOC voices through storytelling. Lori also delves into her podcast, 'Reed, Write, & Create,' where she explores the power of literature and the importance of representation in the literary world, all while navigating her new life in Spain. In this engaging conversation, Lori Tharps discusses the importance of storytelling, the legacy of bestselling authors, and the motivation needed for writers, especially those from m...2025-03-271h 08Reed, Write, and CreateWhat's Happening with the Reed, Write, & Create Podcast in 2025?Tune in to this brief episode for updates about the Reed, Write, and Create podcast, and some exciting news from host, Lori L. Tharps.
Links for more resources and information.
The Reed, Write, and Create Website
Find Out More about The Reed, Write, & Create Sanctuary for BIPOC women writers.
Apply to The Sanctuary HERE
The Blog Post About Lori's Upcoming Trip to Ghana
The Literary Lori YouTube Channel. Don't forget to subscribe by February 13.
2025-02-1011 minReed, Write, and CreateIgnore the Experts: You Can Write All the Things with Jabari AsimOn episode 46 of the podcast, I’m replaying my inspiring, 2023 conversation with award-winning author, journalist, professor, and poet, Jabari Asim.
Jabari Asim is the Distinguished Professor of Multi-Disciplinary Letters at Emerson College. He is the author of 23 books, including Yonder, the essay collection We Can’t Breathe, and Preaching to the Chickens: The Story of Young John Lewis. His awards include a Guggenheim fellowship and a Pushcart Prize.
His work has been included in Best American Essays and Best American Poetry. The former editor-in-chief of the NAACP’s Crisis magazine, he has published journalism in The Was...2024-12-2353 minReed, Write, and CreateWrite Yourself Into History with Arturo SchomburgOn episode 45 of the podcast, I’m giving you a pep talk about writing as resistance. About how you can push back against oppressive systems, defy stereotypes and limitations, and leave a lasting legacy, all with the power of the written word.
And I will be using the life and work of literary ancestor, Arturo Schomburg as my source material. Arturo Schomburg is most known as the founder of the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture in New York City, but he was also a writer, a revolutionary thinker, and activist, who used books and the writ...2024-12-0934 minReed, Write, and CreateHow We Fight White Supremacy with Journalists Akiba Solomon & Kenrya RankinAs much as it pains me to write this, I decided now is the right time to revisit this episode of the podcast featuring two dynamic journalists, Akiba Solomon and Kenyra Rankin. Akiba and Kenrya are the co-authors of the book, How We Fight White Supremacy.
How We Fight White Supremacy was published in 2019, at the tail end of the first Orange Dust presidency and it was a balm for the soul. The book is an anthology of essays, illustrations, comics and stories about how to fight white supremacy without losing your life or your sanity. I’m s...2024-12-021h 04Reed, Write, and CreateHow Oral Storytelling Can Make You a Better Writer with N. Scott MomadayOn episode 43 of the podcast, I’m going to be giving you a pep talk about how BIPOC writers can use Oral Storytelling traditions to up-level their writing practice. And I’m going to use the life and work of award-winning poet and author, N. Scott Momaday as my source material. N. Scott Momaday was the first Native American to ever win a Pulitzer Prize when he won the award for his 1968 novel, House Made of Dawn.
During this episode you’ll learn:
Why N. Scott Momaday is considered the founder of the Native American Writers Renaiss...2024-11-2526 minReed, Write, and CreateWriters: You Need a Reading Habit, Not Just a Reading HobbyOn episode 41 of the podcast, I’m going to be giving you a quick but important pep talk about reading, because you may be doing it all wrong. You see, writers, need an intentional reading habit, not just a reading hobby.
I’m going to break down the important difference between the two, and then share five easy steps, and a message from James Baldwin, to help you cultivate a sustainable reading habit that I promise will make you a better writer.
RESOURCES FOR YOU:
If you're looking for a inexpensive notebook/journal to use...2024-11-1125 minReed, Write, and CreateStay Ready, So You Don't Have to Get Ready: Writing Advice You Need Now from Tracey Lewis-GiggettsPress play on this fan-favorite, rewind episode with award-winning author, Tracey Lewis-Giggetts.
Tracey Lewis-Giggetts has written over 30 books in multiple genres. She writes fiction, nonfiction, poetry and screenplays. She is the author of the award-winning, Black Joy: Stories of Resistance, Resilience, and Restoration and Then They Came For Mine: Healing from the Trauma of Racial Violence.
Tracey is also an award-winning, celebrity ghostwriter and has penned best-selling books for several public figures including Tabitha Brown, Yusef Salaam of the Exonerated Five, and Dr. Joy Harden Bradford of Therapy for Black Girls.
Dur...2024-10-281h 02Reed, Write, and CreateHow Tembi Locke Turned Her Greatest Loss Into A Bestselling Memoir, From ScratchAre you trying to write a memoir and don’t know where to start? Are you worried about oversharing, or writing about people you know and love getting mad at you for spilling their secrets? Is the idea of getting the essence of your own life down on paper overwhelming?
Then stick around for this inspiring and informative rewind episode with actress-turned-author, Tembi Locke. Tembi wrote the best-selling, Reese Witherspoon anointed, From Scratch: A Memoir of Love, Sicily, and Finding Home.
During our conversation recorded right after the book debuted, Tembi and I talk...2024-10-1450 min
Black Writers ReadBlack Writers Read: Lori L. TharpsSend us a textThis episode features our conversation from September 28, 2024 with Lori L. Tharps, founder of the Reed, Write & Create platform.Lori is an award-winning author, journalist and educator. A self-described, storytelling evangelist, Tharps is a recognized voice in the areas of race, identity politics and African-American culture. She has written for The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Philadelphia Inquirer, Glamour and Essence magazines, among others.In 2021, Tharps moved with her husband and children to the south of Spain, where she launched Reed, Write & Create, a...2024-10-101h 28Reed, Write, and CreateWould You Give Up Your Freedom to Be a Writer? Meet Sor. Juana Inés de la Cruz, Mexico's First Feminist Writer and NunOn episode 37 of the 'Reed, Write & Create' podcast, you’re getting a pep talk about what can happen when we truly commit ourselves to our writing life.
And I am using the life and work of Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz, a renowned 17th-century Mexican nun, as my source material. Be clear, Sor Juana was no ordinary nun. She was a renegade and a revolutionary who used #NunLife to create the literary life she desperately desired.
Sor Juana, known for her poetic prowess, and advocacy for the education of women, gained fame through her l...2024-10-0731 minReed, Write, and CreateMarita Golden on How to Prioritize Your Health, Wealth & Community for a Productive Literary LifeOn episode 36 of the podcast, get the actual blueprint for a happy, healthy, productive literary life. Enjoy this episode from our archives with Marita Golden, award-winning author, journalist, writing coach, and living, literary legend.
Marita Golden is an award-winning author of over twenty works of fiction and nonfiction. Her books include the novels The Wide Circumference of Love, and After and the memoirs Migrations of the Heart, Saving Our Sons and Don’t Play in the Sun One Woman’s Journey Through the Color Complex. Her most recent work of nonfiction is The New Black Woman L...2024-09-3045 min
Black & PublishedBONUS: Reed, Write, and Create Podcast with Lori L. TharpsThis bonus episode of Black & Published features an episode of the Reed, Write and Create podcast hosted by award-winning author and creative writing coach, Lori L. Tharps. On the podcast, Lori offers bite-sized sessions of creative writing coaching based on the lives and times of our BIPOC literary ancestors, and she interviews successful BIPOC authors who share their stories and strategies for a productive and prolific literary life. This episode features her conversation with author Ibi Zoboi about what it takes to make it in the YA world. Support the showFollow t...2024-09-101h 04Reed, Write, and CreateSeason 4 Preview: What's Coming up on the Podcast and for "Literary Lori"We’re back for the fourth season of the Reed, Write and Create podcast!
On this short episode, find out what you can expect on this season of the podcast, and some exciting personal and professional updates about the literary life of your host, Lori L. Tharps.
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If you want more information, inspiration and resources for your literary life, visit the Reed, Write, and Create website.
If you would like a literary pep talk + resources carefully curated for BIPOC authors delivered to your inbox, ...2024-09-0910 min
Blaxit GlobalLori L. Tharps: Rediscovering Spain - Reflections on Life, Race, and IdentityLori L. Tharps, is a renowned journalist, author, and creative writing coach, whose work delves into the intersection of race and popular culture. Lori shares her remarkable journey from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to her current home in Malaga, Spain, where she resides with her family and a mischievous canine companion. Reflecting on her earlier negative experiences in Spain, Lori candidly discusses how she almost dismissed her return to the country, only to discover a newfound appreciation for the richness of her experiences.From her critically acclaimed books "Hair Story" and "Same Family Different Colors" to her...2024-03-251h 08Reed, Write, and CreateA Short But Important Announcement about the Podcast!Lori is taking a break from her winter break to share an update about the future of the podcast.
The podcast is getting a new name! Find out what it is and what caused the change on this short but important episode.
New Links for all things Reed, Write, & Create.
The Reed, Write, & Create website.
Reed, Write, & Create on Facebook.
Reed, Write, & Create on Twitter @ReedWriteCre8
Reed, Write, & Create on IG @readwritecre8
To learn more about the fascinating history of the Papyrus plant and...2024-01-0506 minReed, Write, and CreateBest of Author Series with Dr. Yaba Blay: Why Self Publishing is a Revolutionary ActOn episode 13, I have another episode from my “Best of…Author Interviews.” My guest is Dr. Yaba Blay, author of the groundbreaking book, One Drop: Shifting the Lens on Race. On the show we talk about how One Drop went from being a self-published labor of love and resistance, to arriving on bookshelves with a major publisher seven years later. Dr. Blay talks about what she had to sacrifice to get One Drop out into the world, and why she refused to compromise on her vision for her book.
Dr. Blay is a schola...2023-07-0357 minBlack & PublishedComo Se Dice, Ghost? with Lori L. TharpsThis week on Black and Published, Nikesha speaks with Lori L. Tharps, an author and ghostwriter living abroad in Spain. Her work sits at the intersection of race and real life. She is the author of three critically-acclaimed nonfiction books including, Hair Story: Untangling the Roots of Black Hair in America (St. Martin's) Kinky Gazpacho: Life, Love & Spain (Atria), and Same Family, Different Colors: Confronting Colorism in America's Diverse Families (Beacon) She also penned the novel, Substitute Me (Atria). In our conversation, Lori discusses how she's working to expand the definition of the Bla...2023-05-3047 min
Conversations with Seven SistersS1E4 Lori L. Tharps, Author and Journalist on life in SpainThis week on Conversations with Seven Sisters Lori L. Tharps (Smith College ℅ 94) shares her story starting in Milwaukee, Wisconsin to her current home in Malaga, Spain! Lori and Jen discuss what drew her to Smith, pursuing a career in journalism, balancing kids and writing, living as a Black woman in Spain, and much more. Lori L. Tharps is a Smith graduate as well as a journalist, author and creative writing coach whose work lands at the intersection of race and popular culture. She is the author of three critically acclaimed non-fiction books that deal with race...2023-05-2330 min
Flourish In The Foreign | Black Women Living & Thriving Abroad“Read, Write, & Create” in Malaga with Lori L. TharpsIn this Flourish in the Foreign episode, Lori L. Tharps is a journalist and author whose work lands at the intersection of race and popular culture. Listen as Lori shares her journey to living and flourishing in Malaga, Spain with her family as a working writer. This Episode Covers: Studying Abroad in Morocco Studying Abroad in Salamanca Navigating An Intercultural Marriage Raising Bi-racial, Bi-cultural, and Bi-lingual Children Moving & Living in Malaga, Spain Getting Settled in Malaga Black History in Spain B...2023-05-011h 35Reed, Write, and CreateWhy BIPOC Writers Must Get their Stories Into the World + Zora Neale HurstonOn episode number two of the Read, Write and Create Podcast, I give BIPOC writers their marching orders for their literary lives I explain why the world needs writers of BIPOC heritage to pick up their pens and write their stories; why we have to write like our lives depend on it; and why we have to write for ourselves. For inspiration and edification, I’m using the literary life and times of Zora Neale Hurston to help make my case.
In the episode I will be sharing:
The grim statisti...2023-01-2322 min
Let’s Talk Memoir25. Discovering the Story You Need to Tell featuring Lori L. TharpsLori L. Tharps joins Let’s Talk Memoir for a conversation about why memoirs are not an indulgence, the importance of finding your memoir’s theme, deciding where your book should begin, having a writing life that feeds you and also keeps you fed, and systemic racism in the U.S. and how her Black and Spanish children were the impetus for her to uncover Spain’s hidden Black history and write her memoir Kinky Gazpacho.
Also in this episode:
-the multiple memoirs we have within us
-how memoirs are healing medicin...2023-01-1752 minReed, Write, and CreateHow to Find the Time to Write + Phillis WheatleyThis is the very first episode of the Read, Write, and Create podcast!
Each episode of the show will include a pep-talk for BIPOC creative writers, inspired by the lives of our literary foremothers and forefathers of color. These pep talks will be short, sweet, and to the point, so you can get off the couch and back to your desk, writing the masterpiece you were meant to write.
On this first episode of the Read, Write and Create podcast, host Lori L. Tharps tackles an issue that vexes almost every writer: “How do I...2023-01-0917 min
My Bloody HellHow to Optimize Your Menopause Journey with The Menopositive DoctorsEpisode #14 is the last episode of Season One of the My Bloody Hell podcast! We did it!
I am really proud of the show we’ve created and the diversity of stories we’ve heard so far. My goal for the My Bloody Hell podcast was to create a space where women could share their menopause and perimenopause experiences and in an effort to bring menopause out of the closet.
For this final episode, my guests are Dr. Michelle Paraiso and Dr. Michaela Nelson, who together are known as the Menopositive Doctors. I sat down and chat...2021-12-1524 minMy Bloody HellMenopause Before Age 40 and After Cancer: Marla‘s StoryOn episode #13 of the podcast, my guest is Marla Stein. Marla is 49 years old and has had a varied and exciting professional career.
On this episode, Marla shares her story about what it was like to go through a surgically induced menopause when she was in her late 30s after going through cancer treatment and then another cancer scare.
Now, ten years later, Marla shares what it was like to go through “cold turkey menopause;” what the worst part of going through menopause before her 40th birthday was; and she talks a lot about the import...2021-12-0830 minMy Bloody HellHow to Track Your Menopause Journey to Improve Your Overall ExperienceEpisode 12 of the podcast is a short but important show with an actionable message. We’re going to be talking about the importance of tracking our menopause journey, from a health perspective and a growth mindset perspective. The fact is, by keeping track of our physical and emotional symptoms, as well as our evolving state of mind through this transition process, a woman can really improve and optimize her perimenopause experience. On the show, not only will I be sharing three key reasons why you should be tracking all aspects of your menopause journey, but I’ll also offer some...2021-12-0122 minMy Bloody HellPerimenopause with no Period (after a Hysterectomy): Wendy‘s StoryOn episode #11 of the podcast, my guest is Wendy Battles. Wendy is a 56-year-old African American woman based in Connecticut.
Wendy suffered from fibroids, which eventually led to a hysterectomy. But because she kept her ovaries, she still went through perimenopause. On the show, Wendy explains what perimenopause with no period is like, and how she’s used a combination of natural remedies, as well as diet and exercise, to help manage her symptoms.
Wendy also talks about what she’s learned as the host of the inspirational podcast, Reinvention Rebels – a show that highlights the st...2021-11-2436 min
Peeling Back the Layers of Your Life95: Lori L. Tharps - Have A Vision For Your LifeALL THE WAY FROM SPAIN!!! Black Women Living Abroad Series #blackwomenlivingabroad Lori L. Tharps is an award-winning author, freelance journalist and podcast host. She is a recognized voice in the areas of race, identity politics and African American culture. The author of three critically acclaimed nonfiction books, Hair Story: Untangling the Roots of Black Hair in America (St. Martin’s Press) Kinky Gazpacho: Life, Love & Spain (Atria) and Same Family, Different Colors: Confronting Colorism in America’s Diverse Families (Beacon), Tharps uses her words to ignite social change. A newly arrive...2021-11-221h 03My Bloody HellPerimenopause with No Physical Symptoms - Kimberly‘s StoryOn episode #10 of the podcast, my guest is Kimberly Adams. Kimberly is a white woman who grew up in Colorado and Maryland. She is the mother of two children, ages 20 and 17, and currently lives in Pennsylvania where she works as a therapist, a kayak instructor, and a ski instructor.
I wanted Kimberly to share her story on the show because she is the rare unicorn who has no physical perimenopause symptoms, but she does have emotional ones. It's an interesting dynamic that you will hear Kimberly talk about, as she shares what her unique perimenopause experience has...2021-11-1727 minMy Bloody HellHow Race, Culture and Ethnicity Impact Menopause and Why It MattersOn episode number nine of the podcast, Lori Tharps is putting on her professor’s hat again for an important solo episode to talk about how and why race, ethnicity and culture impact how we experience our menopause journey. It’s not all just about age and hormones.
As a journalist and an author, Lori spent her entire career writing about racism, identity politics and social justice issues, and so bringing that lens to the menopause space is something she had to do, not only because it’s fascinating, but also, because understanding how one’s ethnic backgrou...2021-11-1044 minMy Bloody HellNavigating the Change with Kathy GarlandOn episode number eight of the podcast, my guest is Katherin Garland. Kathy is a 48-year-old Black American woman based in Florida. She is the mother of two adult daughters and she is an associate professor of education and a writer.
During her episode, Kathy shares her story of how she went from being totally unprepared and unaware of what to expect from perimenopause, to launching a blog to help other women “navigate the change.” With humor and honesty, Kathy talks about how perimenopause started with crazy, erratic periods, how she discovered red wine made her hot flas...2021-11-0327 minMy Bloody HellWitches, Witchcraft and Menopause: What‘s the Connection?On episode seven of the podcast, get ready for a true tale that may scare you. Narrated by host Lori L. Tharps, it's a story gleaned from history about witches, witchcraft and menopause. Since we’re just a few days away from celebrating Halloween in many countries, what better time to share this horrific history lesson about the creepy connection between witches and menopause. A connection that goes all the way back to the 15th century in Western Europe, but still has massive repercussions for all of us women today.
In this episode you’ll learn how and wh...2021-10-2727 minMy Bloody HellLiving with Perimenopause, PMDD, and ADHD in Portugal: Maceo‘s StoryOn episode number six of the podcast, my guest is Maceo Estevez Cabrera. Maceo is a 45-year-old Cuban-American woman who recently relocated from California to Portugal with her husband and two young children. Maceo is the founder and owner of Booklandia, an online bookstore that specializes in bilingual books in Spanish and English for children and teens.
Maceo joins me on My Bloody Hell to share her story about the challenges of living with perimenopause and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), and then being diagnosed with ADHD! Even though Maceo says she honestly only experiences one week out...2021-10-2040 min
The Change DiariesLori L. Tharps – Find the voices of people who have done it alreadyThe Change Diaries Podcast explores how to better embrace change, spark change or simply be the change we want to see. Hello folks! In the second season of The Change Diaries podcast we're exploring the ups and downs of changing locations. This episode features Lori L. Tharps, published author, journalist, professor, podcaster, Mom, and all-round … Continue reading Lori L. Tharps – Find the voices of people who have done it already2021-10-1442 minMy Bloody HellNavigating Perimenopause and Grief: Lisette‘s StoryOn episode number five of the podcast, my guest is Lisette Austin. Lisette is a 51-year-old woman who identifies as Black and biracial. She lives in Seattle with her husband and 20-year-old son. On the show, Lisette shares her experiences navigating grief - after the death of her father - and perimenopause simultaneously.
Despite the very serious nature of her experiences, Lisette shares her journey with passion and enthusiasm, and is eager to pass on the wisdom she has gleaned from her still-evolving menopause journey.
Lisette is a travel podcaster and award travel expert. She...2021-10-1333 minMy Bloody HellMenopause and a Midlife Crisis: A Conversation with Novelist Dana SpiottaOn episode 4 of the podcast, I’m talking with award-winning novelist, Dana Spiotta about her new novel Wayward. Wayward is a thought-provoking book that centers the life of Samantha “Sam” Raymond, a white American woman whose menopause journey coincides with her midlife crisis...or maybe menopause causes the crisis.
In the story, Sam’s life has just begun to come apart: “Trump has been elected, her mother is ill and her teenage daughter is increasingly remote. At fifty-two she finds herself staring into 'the Mids' - those night-time hours of supreme wakefulness where women of a certain age contem...2021-10-0645 minMy Bloody HellWhat‘s the Difference Between Menopause and Perimenopause?On episode number three of My Bloody Hell, class is in session. And the lesson is: Menopause 101. Specifically, I’m going to be explaining what is the difference between menopause and perimenopause. A lot of people, men and women, have never even heard the word perimenopause before, much less know what it means or where it fits in the menopause process. Sad but true, the word perimenopause isn’t even recognized as a word on some digital platforms. That’s disappointing, but that’s why I started this podcast; to bring awareness and knowledge around the menopause journey.
It’s a...2021-09-2927 minMy Bloody HellCervical Cancer, Perimenopause and Cannabis: Karen‘s StoryOn episode number two of the podcast, my guest is Karen Campbell. Karen is a Black woman, a mother of a teen daughter, an educator and a yoga enthusiast who was abruptly thrust into perimenopause as a result of her treatment plan for cervical cancer. On the show, Karen shares her emotional story of dealing with a cluster of perimenopause symptoms all at once, while simultaneously going through chemotherapy and radiation.
While Karen’s journey is unique, I’m sure there is somebody out there who will be able to relate to this story. Wherever you are in y...2021-09-2229 minMy Bloody HellLori‘s Story: Menopause or Multiple SclerosisWelcome to the very first episode of the My Bloody Hell podcast, the podcast where we share stories from diverse women, about perimenopause. On this short introductory episode, host Lori L. Tharps introduces herself, her reasons for starting a perimenopause podcast, and then she shares her own personal perimenopause story. Lori’s journey will probably resonate with many listeners as she has experienced the classic symptoms of perimenopause including erratic periods, hot flashes, rage episodes and thinning hair. But when she started experiencing numbness in her arms and hands, that’s when her perimenopause story went from a classic tale...2021-09-1517 min
The Creative ImpostorCelebrate as a form of protest; anti-racism and multiculturalism with Lori L. Tharps"Anti-racism work is not about saving the unfortunate; anti-racism work is about saving all of us, improving the lives of all of us." ~Lori L. Tharps One of the themes to emerge from the not your typical self-care series is connection. Specifically, the idea that pursuing practices that require greater inward focus or offer less obvious immediate gratification creates a ripple effect. Anti-racism is self-care on a global scale. If you’re thinking, “Um, Andrea, that’s a bold claim and an unconventional discipline to add to my routine,” let me counter with this: it’...2021-05-0740 minReed, Write, and CreateWriting Wisdom: You Must Believe You Can WriteOn episode 64 of the podcast, I’m introducing a new segment called Writing Wisdom with Lori. On these mini-episodes, I’ll be sharing actionable inspiration for writers, aspiring writers and creative folks looking to put pen to paper. I want to give you a jolt of what you need to live your best literary life. Think tips, hacks and mindset motivation to get you going, or keep you going on your writing journey.
For this very first writing wisdom segment, I'm talking about the most important lesson all writers must learn, and that is that anybo...2021-03-1212 minReed, Write, and CreateLove, Loss and Writing Memoir with Tembi LockeOn episode 62 of the podcast we’re rewinding to listen to debut author and actress,Tembi Locke, talk about writing her brilliant memoir about love and loss, From Scratch: A Memoir of Love, Sicily and Finding Home. In our conversation, Tembi and I talk about the reasons she decided to write this searing love story about life before and after her Italian husband’s death from cancer; her writing process as a new author; why writing memoir is so powerful; what life is like for a Black-American woman living in Sicily; raising confident multiracial children; and the healing power of f...2021-02-2657 minReed, Write, and CreateTalking "One Drop," Blackness, and Publishing with Dr. Yaba BlayOn episode 61 of the show, we’re talking about Blackness, Identity Politics and self-publishing as a form of activism with Dr. Yaba Blay, author of the just released book, One Drop: Shifting the Lens on Race.
Dr. Blay’s book, One Drop is a gorgeous coffee table book filled with beautiful full-color portraits of people who identify as Black. The people are divided in groups: Mixed Black, American Black and Diaspora Black and each portrait is accompanied by a personal essay about the person’s racial background and lived identity experience. But this is not just a book of...2021-02-191h 02
Writer Mother MonsterWriter Mother Monster: Lori L. Tharps, “My mom would tell me about a patient who lacerated his liver on the escalator because he didn’t tie his shoes.”(February 11, 2021) Lori L. Tharps is a journalist, podcast host, and author of a novel and 3 nonfiction books, including Different Colors: Confronting Colorism in America’s Diverse Families. She has 3 kids and describes motherhood in 3 words as: “inspiring and exhausting.” In this episode, Lori talks about how her children’s different skin tones prompted her latest book, why she buys her kids only dark blue clothes, and how her mother gave her “the talk” by describing a badger’s persistent erection.Writer Mother Monster is an interactive conversation series devoted to dismantling the myth of "having it all" and offering w...2021-02-131h 05Reed, Write, and CreateWhite Like Her: Stories of Race and Racial PassingOn episode 60 of the podcast, we’re digging into the Meltingpot vault and replaying an episode that was inspired by the book, White Like Her: My Family’s Story of Race and Racial Passing (Skyhorse) by Gail Lukasik. The book is all about racial passing and family secrets in Gail’s family. I’m joined on the show by Gail Lukasik and Philadelphia journalist, Shannon Wink. Like Gail, Shannon was raised to believe she was white, but when she was doing some genealogical research for her job, she discovered some colorful family secrets of her own.
During this livel...2021-02-1254 minReed, Write, and CreateUntangling the History of "Hair Story" with authors Ayana Byrd + Lori TharpsOn episode 59 of the podcast, we’re having a birthday party for a very special book. And that book is, Hair Story: Untangling the Roots of Black Hair in America. Hair Story is the first book that I ever wrote, with my good friend, the journalist and author, Ayana Byrd. Hair Story covers the history, politics, business and culture of Black hair from 15th century Africa to modern-day America. And today, we're going behind the scenes and looking back at how Hair Story came to be.
Ayana and I birthed Hair Story 20 years ago and it debuted on...2021-02-0549 minReed, Write, and CreateA Big Announcement about the Future of this PodcastWelcome to 2021. It's a new year and I'm ready for something different. Not just for this world and the United States, but for this podcast. So, I'm making a change.
I don't want to talk about racism anymore.
What do I want to talk about? Something that lights me up. Something that makes me excited. Something that I wake up thinking about and fall asleep dreaming about. Something I really and truly love. Books! Yes, books. Multicultural books to be specific. Books written by authors of color, books that center the experiences of people of...2021-01-2909 minReed, Write, and CreateIs Christmas for white people with Dr. Marc Lamont HillOn episode 57 of the podcast, we’re replaying our Christmas show from 2019 because it's still very relevant today. Maybe even more so. On that episode, I set out to answer the question, "Is Christmas for white people?" Now, I’m not white and I’ve been celebrating Christmas with my very Black family for more than 40 years, so clearly Christmas isn’t intrinsically a white people’s holiday, but there are plenty of people of color in America who don't deck the halls or jingle any bells on December 25. Considering the fact that 2020 has been a banner year for people to...2020-12-1836 minReed, Write, and CreateRethinking Race + ThanksgivingNovember is National Native American Heritage Month and it’s the month we Americans celebrate Thanksgiving. On episode 56 of the podcast, we’re going talk about both of these so-called holidays and how and what we should be doing to celebrate. Clearly Thanksgiving 2020 is going to look a lot different than years past. You may be alone or far away from extended family for the first time. Some people may not have the funds to pay for an extravagant Turkey dinner this year. Some people may be mourning the loss of loved ones to Covid-19 this holiday season. Overall, I th...2020-11-2032 minReed, Write, and CreateDon't be Racist: Celebrate the Wins, But Keep FightingThis is episode 55 of the podcast and the seventh and final episode of the 'Don’t Be Racist Series.' Think of it as the recap episode. I’ll be reviewing all of the anti-racism lessons learned over the last several weeks, and I’ll be reviewing the momentous presidential election that just happened as well. And at the end of the episode, I’ll be giving you some final words of advice to take with you as you continue your journey to be committed anti-racism warriors.
I hope you remember those simple lessons as you go about you...2020-11-1311 minReed, Write, and CreateDon't Be Racist: Time to Divorce Your Trump-Supporting FriendsOn episode 54 of the podcast – number six in our Don’t Be Racist Series – I'm sharing a tough but necessary lesson. We’re going to be talking about what to do when friends and family members are Trump supporters. I’m not going to teach you how to talk to them or how to get them to change their ways. Nope, today’s lesson is all about disengaging. I’m going to tell you why you should disengage with these Trump supporting friends and family members and how to do it.
Now, there are many reasons why you should divo...2020-10-3016 minReed, Write, and CreateDon't be Racist: You Can't Say ThatLast week on the podcast, we talked about the importance of using your voice to confront racist behavior. On today's episode, we're flipping the script to discuss what NOT to say as an anti-racist warrior. In other words, how to avoid ever having someone say to you, 'You can't say that, that's racist.' Listen in to hear my list of questions, sentences and phrases you should remove from your vocabulary and why…if you want to be a good anti-racist warrior. Note, white people, this episode really is for you.
Clearly this episode would take...2020-10-2317 minReed, Write, and CreateDon't Be Racist: Use Your VoiceDid you realize you can live your whole entire life and never say a single racist thing or have a single racist thought, but if you’re not using your voice to speak out against racism, then you're not an anti-racist? In fact, some might even say you’re an accomplice or at least complicit in the crime of maintaining a racist system.
On episode 52 of the podcast, the fourth lesson in our Don't Be Racist series, we're going to be talking about using your voice as an anti-racist warrior. So far, we’ve spoken about mindset and tak...2020-10-1617 minReed, Write, and CreateDon't Be Racist - Decolonize Your MindThis is our third episode in the Don’t Be Racist Series on the My American Meltingpot podcast. Last week we spoke about taking action. This week, we're going to work on decolonizing our minds. In order to be a true anti-racism warrior, decolonizing and unlearning many of the untruths we’ve been taught our whole lives is essential. So, today’s lesson is all about how and why decolonizing your mind is a must.
This episode is just the beginning of a process because decolonizing your mind is a lifelong pursuit. Opening up to the idea that y...2020-10-0917 minReed, Write, and CreateLesson 2: Don't Be Racist: Take ActionOn episode 50 of the podcast, we're continuing our "Don't Be Racist" series. And the lesson for this episode is all about taking action. Do Take Action to be an anti-racism warrior. Don’t sit on the sidelines and wait for someone else to do the work.
Last week we talked about mastering your mindset. Finding your why for doing this work. Hopefully, it is now clear in your mind why you need to become an anti-racism warrior. So, the next step is to take action to bring about the change we want and need in this country....2020-10-0217 minReed, Write, and CreateLesson #1: Master Your Mindset to be an Anti-Racism WarriorEpisode 49 of the podcast is our first official lesson in the "Don’t Be Racist Series." And the first lesson is all about Mindset. In order to be an anti-racist warrior, you have to master your mindset. On the show I share why this is necessary, and how to get it done.
Research shows that the difference between those who succeed with their goals and those who fail, often comes down to mindset. But the good thing is, we control our mindset. So, essentially, we are in control of whether we’re going to be successful at somet...2020-09-2515 minReed, Write, and CreateWelcome to the "Don't be Racist" SeriesOn Season five of the podcast, we’re doing something a little different. From now until the end of November, we’re running a special series called, “Don’t Be Racist.” On each episode, I’ll be sharing short, actionable, bite-sized lessons on how to be an anti-racist. New episodes will appear every Friday.
On episode 48, I'm sharing my reasons for launching this series and explaining what you can expect from me, your favorite anti-racism educator. In a nutshell, I plan to show up to make this series as pleasant and invigorating as anti-racism work can be. I'm giving yo...2020-09-1808 minReed, Write, and CreateAuthor Lauren Francis-Sharma and the Book of the Little AxeOn episode 47 of the podcast I sit down with Lauren Francis-Sharma, the author of the My American Meltingpot Summer Book Club selection, Book of the Little Axe.
Book of the Little Axe takes place at the end of the 18th century and the beginning of the 19th century and tells the story of Rosa Rendon, a Black Trinidadian woman who flees her island home and finds herself living among the Crow Nation in what is now Bighorn, Montana. She becomes the wife of a Crow chief and raises three mixed-race children with the nation.
In a...2020-08-0756 minReed, Write, and CreateHow to be a Revolutionary WriterOn episode 46 of the podcast, I want to encourage everyone to pick up their pens and fight. Yes, become a revolutionary writer. We can all put pen to paper and write for our lives. You don’t need permission to write. You don’t need fancy tools or equipment. You simply must write.
You can write newspaper articles, blog posts, poems and manifestos. You can write novels, comic books, biographies and letters to your congressperson. You can write pamphlets, plays, memoirs and letters to your younger self. You can write text books and guide books and an...2020-07-3121 minReed, Write, and CreateTitle: All Hail The Queens of the ResistanceOn episode 45 of the podcast, I'm talking about a brand new book series called The Queens of the Resistance. A perfect collection for any wanna-be Revolutionary Reader, The Queens of the Resistance series is a group of four biographies saluting four of the most beloved boss ladies in Congress: Maxine Waters, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Nancy Pelosi and Elizabeth Warren. Written by Brenda Jones & Krishan Trotman, these easy-to-read, illustrated biographies are super inspiring and informative. Also, the books themselves are absolutely beautiful to look at and would make a welcome addition to any bookshelf or coffee table.
I...2020-07-2415 minReed, Write, and CreateHow to Raise a Revolutionary ReaderOn episode 44 of the podcast we're continuing with our Revolutionary Readers summer series. The topic? We’re going to be talking about how to raise young revolutionary readers, with the hope that the young people in our lives go from being revolutionary readers, to revolutionary leaders. Think about it, reading can be the spark that leads young people to do great things. Keeping in mind of course, that 'great things' could be defined as becoming the first female president of the United States, or it could mean starting a food drive for those in need in one’s community.
2020-07-1715 min
The Insider Mom PodcastUndoing Racism and Celebrating Diversity - An Interview with Lori L. TharpsIt's essential that parents not only have discussions about racism with their kids, but that they also educate themselves about it. In this interview journalist and author Lori L. Tharps talks about ways parents can do just that. She also addresses ways we can increase diversity within our communities, while sharing the responsibility of combating racism within organizations. Some of the topics covered in this episode are: - The reasons why white people need to focus on becoming partners of Black people, rather than their allies, in the fight against racism- How she became pa...2020-07-141h 20Reed, Write, and CreateRevolutionary Readers Book Club: Exile MusicI'm baaaack...for a special summer series on My American Meltingpot.
Normally, I would have taken the summer off from the podcast, to relax and refresh, but I just couldn’t put down the mic when there is just so much to talk about. But rather than rehash the day’s news, respond to every new event, or simply continue producing regular full-length episodes about race and real life, I decided to do something a little different.
For the next five weeks, I’m going to be hosting the Revolutionary Readers Summer Book Club here on the ...2020-07-1008 minReed, Write, and CreateWhy Colorism Matters at this MomentOn episode 42 of the podcast (the final episode of Season 4 by the way), I’m giving a lesson on colorism - that is the preferential treatment given to others based on the color or shade of their skin. At this pivotal moment in American society, as people grapple with dismantling racism, it is critical that folks understand that racism has a crafty cousin named colorism. And the truth is, if we don’t recognize the role colorism plays in maintaining a white supremacist society, then the fight to dismantle racism will never be won. If you want to slay the dr...2020-06-1946 minReed, Write, and CreateA Loving Day Message for Today's TurmoilHappy Loving Day! Do you know what Loving Day has to do with today's current racial justice moment? Listen in to this inspirational Meltingpot Minute to hear how a supreme court decision in 1967 paved the way for people of different races to legally marry in all 50 states, AND dealt a serious blow to white supremacy. I hope this episode enlightens you about our history, and inspires you to keep fighting for our future.
For more information about Loving Day and how you can celebrate it with your family and community, visit MyAmericanMeltingpot.com.
2020-06-1212 minReed, Write, and CreateA Message for Today: How We Fight White SupremacyI know it's not Friday, but I wanted to launch this special Rewind episode of the podcast – with a new intro – as soon as possible. This moment that we're in right now as a nation, demands it.
Back in April 2019, journalists Akiba Solomon and Kenrya Rankin joined me on the show to talk about their new book, How We Fight White Supremacy. While I knew at the time how powerful the episode was, today I am convinced that this episode was made for this moment. Not only do Akiba and Kenrya break down exactly what white supremacy is and...2020-06-021h 14Reed, Write, and CreateDear White People, You Have to Fix Your Racism ProblemOn Episode 39 of the My American Meltingpot podcast, I explain my agenda for white America in light of recent events in New York City and Minneapolis. Essentially, it's time for white people to fix America's race problem.
Here's a taste of what you'll hear on this incredibly important Meltingpot Minute.
Black Lives Matter
"Black people have been marching, protesting and reminding the public that Black Lives Matter for centuries, but it hasn’t really moved the needle in ending racism. We’ve changed laws, yes, but we haven’t dismantled racism. We haven’t been able to con...2020-05-2910 minReed, Write, and CreateAuthor Erin Entrada Kelly talks Diversity and Dreaming of SpaceOn episode 38 of the My American Meltingpot podcast, I am excited to have award-winning author, Erin Entrada Kelly join me to talk about her brand new book, We Dream of Space, her impressive career writing middle grade novels, and why she's so committed to including (truly) diverse characters in all of her work. Since Erin is also a Filipina-American, and it’s the middle of May, we also take time to chat about being Asian American in the age of Covid-19, and how celebrating Asian-American Heritage Month can help combat some of the discrimination we're seeing against this community.
...2020-05-221h 00Reed, Write, and CreateA Meltingpot Book Review: Girl, Woman, OtherEpisode 37 of the podcast is a quick Meltingpot Minute. Yes, it's a short episode, but it's long enough for me to share my honest review of the 2019 Booker Prize winning novel, Girl, Woman, Other by Bernadine Evaristo. The book is a delightful invitation into the lives of a diverse group of Black British women.
Spoiler Alert: I loved it.
Girl, Woman, Other is the perfect pandemic read. Why? Because the book is actually more like a collection of connected short stories than a novel, so even when my brain was fried, which it has been...2020-05-1508 minReed, Write, and CreateHow to Raise a Bilingual childOn episode 36 of the My American Meltingpot podcast, we’re talking all about what it takes to raise our children to be bilingual. What’s the best approach to take? When is the right time to start? Do parents have to be bilingual in order to raise children who speak more than one language? What are the challenges and benefits involved? To help answer these questions and more, Manuel Malia joins me on the show.
Manuel is a Spanish Lecturer at Princeton University and has over 20 years of experience teaching in colleges, high schools and elementary schools. A nat...2020-05-0854 minReed, Write, and Create#BooksAreEssential in a Global PandemicEpisode 35 is a quick Meltingpot Minute dedicated to spreading the word about the new #BooksareEssential campaign.
Publisher’s Weekly, the publishing industry trade magazine, launched the #BooksareEssential campaign to raise awareness of the need for books in society in general, but even more so during the Covid-19 pandemic. It seems pretty obvious that people need distractions when locked inside their homes 24/7, and books provide myriad ways of escape. But also, for all the parents who are suddenly thrust into the role of homeschooling teacher, books are the new essential tools of the trade. And let’s not forge...2020-05-0110 minReed, Write, and CreateDNA Travel, Multiracial Identity and AdoptionOn episode 34 of the My American Meltingpot podcast we’re talking about travel, family and finding self. Yes, we’re in the middle of a global pandemic and travel is probably the last thing on anyone’s mind right now, but this episode isn’t about planning the perfect cruise or finding cheap flights. My guest on the show is Lisette Austin, and she shares how travel helped her find herself as a mixed-race Black woman who also happens to be adopted. And then we dive into this new trend in the travel world called DNA travel and how it conne...2020-04-2456 minReed, Write, and CreateHow to Be a Meltingpot Mom During a Global PandemicEpisode 33 is a quick Meltingpot Minute episode where I'm sharing some tips and suggestions on how to be a Meltingpot Mom during a global pandemic.
As mothers during these unprecedented times of social isolation, lockdown, fear and homeschooling(!!!), we are tasked with not only managing the worries and concerns of our children, we also have to keep them safely occupied, and supposedly teach them things that they will need to be successful members of society.
I don't have any downloadable worksheets, nor am I going to suggest you do anything that would require you or you...2020-04-1719 minReed, Write, and CreateHow to Move Abroad as a Multiracial Family(Note: This episode was recorded before the outbreak of the Corona Virus.)
On episode 32 of the podcast, my guest is chef and educator, Karen M. Ricks. Karen is the founder and owner of the online cooking school, Our Kitchen Classroom. Karen is a Black American woman, married to a white man, and together they have a nine-year-old son. Karen and her family currently live in Tirana, Albania, but Karen considers herself a global citizen.
Before moving to Albania, Karen and her family lived in Italy, and before that, Japan. On the show, Karen shares how...2020-04-1059 minReed, Write, and CreateStop Mis-Using the Word Multicultural!: A RantThis is not a Corona virus related Meltingpot Minute. On episode 31, host Lori L. Tharps has a quick something to say about the misuse (or is it abuse) of the word multicultural. Businesses, marketers, podcast hosts and your friend Karen, are all using the word multicultural to describe anything that's not white. And that's not fair. Nor is it accurate.
Listen in for this quick lesson/rant where Lori breaks down what multicultural really means and why we should care that people are hiding behind the multicultural label instead of standing up for their own cultural communities...2020-04-0309 minReed, Write, and CreateHow to Live a Boldly Multicultural LifeOn episode 30 of the My American Meltingpot podcast, meet serial entrepreneur and activist, Sonia Smith-Kang.
Sonia is a multicultural advocate who draws from her rich cultural heritage as an Afro-Latina and proud military brat born in Puerto Rico and stationed on the Hawaiian island of O'ahu. She has dedicated her life to amplifying the voices of the underrepresented and is the founder and designer of Mixed-Up Clothing, co-founder of Culturas, MulticultiCorner and Mixed Heritage Day. A thought leader, community activist and expert in diversity, Sonia also serves as president of Multiracial Americans of Southern California. A graduate...2020-03-2742 minReed, Write, and CreateCoronavirus Isn't an Excuse to be Racist and StupidEpisode 29 of the podcast is our first stand-alone Meltingpot Minute. Starting in Season 4, the Meltingpot Minute will be a bite-sized episode where host Lori L. Tharps shares the latest news, views and pop culture reviews, all from a multicultural perspective. Even though it's not what we wanted to do, our first Meltingpot Minute is all about the Corona Virus.
Like all things relating to this global pandemic, this episode wasn't exactly planned. In fact, it was recorded in Lori's bedroom closet, late at night, instead of at our usual NPR studio. Listen in to hear what multicultural...2020-03-2011 minReed, Write, and CreateGuess Who's Afraid of Interracial Relationships?On episode 28 of the podcast we are going to be talking about interracial relationships in the 21st century. More specifically, we're going to discuss why, 53 years after the Loving decision made interracial marriage legal in all 50 states, we are still divided over interracial unions. On the one hand, studies show that more people support interracial relationships than in the past. But on the other hand, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's recent interracial union proved that a lot of people just aren't ready to accept love across the color line.
Joining me today to chop it up about...2020-03-1146 min
Reed, Write, and CreateRewind Episode: The Challenges of Traveling as a Multiracial FamilyOn episode 27 of the My American Meltingpot podcast, we're talking about the joys and challenges of travel when you're part of a multiracial family. What makes traveling as a multiracial family unique and different? Tune into this honest and fact-filled episode to find out. Be warned, we're talking about more than hair products and sunscreen...although those multicultural essentials do come up in our conversation.
My guest on the show is Carmen Sognonvi from the luxury travel blog, Top Flight Family. Not only is Carmen a family-travel expert, she also has a background in racial justice work...2020-02-2852 minReed, Write, and CreateRewind: How to Raise Confident Mixed-Race KidsOn episode 26 of the My American Meltingpot podcast, we're talking about parenting confident Mixed-Race children with educators, Ridvan Foxhall and Sharon H. Chang. This is our second rewind episode and it's a good one. As parents of Mixed kids, Sharon, Ridvan, and I all share personal experiences and practical tips and resources for raising Mixed Race children who are confident in their multi-ethnic identity. We cover everything from colorism to traveling to ancestral homelands. We know this parenting journey isn't always easy. Hopefully this episode will help pave the way.
Sharon H. Chang is an award-winning author, p...2020-02-1457 min
Raising Joyful and Resilient Black ChildrenTalking Black Hair with Lori L. TharpsOn today's episode, we're joined by Lori L. Tharps to discuss black hair and her book, Hair Story: Untangling the Roots of Black Hair in America. Lori is a set-described diversity diva and hairstorian.During this episode we cover the following topics and so much more!
The complicated history of Black hair
Strategies to help kids learn to love their hair
Cultural and historical importance of Black hair
To learn more about Lori, check out the show notes on whatisblack.co.Don't forget to follow us on Twitter, IG and Facebook @whatisblk.2020-02-0345 min
Raising Joyful and Resilient Black ChildrenTalking Black Hair with Lori L. TharpsOn today's episode, we're joined by Lori L. Tharps to discuss black hair and her book, Hair Story: Untangling the Roots of Black Hair in America. Lori is a set-described diversity diva and hairstorian.During this episode we cover the following topics and so much more!The complicated history of Black hairStrategies to help kids learn to love their hairCultural and historical importance of Black hairTo learn more about Lori, check out the show notes on whatisblack.co.Don't forget to follow us on Twitter, IG and Facebook @whatisblk.2020-02-0345 minReed, Write, and CreateRewind Episode: Can Technology be Racist?On Episode 25 of the My American Meltingpot podcast, we have the first of a series of rewind episodes. I am joined by author and journalist, Meredith Broussard to talk about the bias baked into our technology. Yes, we are talking about racist technology.
From self-driving cars to soap dispensers, we discuss all of the different forms of technology that have been created without taking into consideration the diversity of the consumers using said technology. Meredith Broussard, the author of the award-winning book, Artificial Unintelligence: How Computers Misunderstand the World, breaks down how and why most technology is...2020-01-3136 minReed, Write, and CreateIs Christmas for white people?Are you dreaming of a white Christmas? On episode 24, of My American Meltingpot, we’re talking all about Christmas. More specifically, we’re going to be interrogating the idea that Christmas is for white people! Now, I’m not white and I’ve been celebrating Christmas with my very Black family for more than 40 years, so clearly Christmas isn’t by definition a White People’s holiday, but there are plenty of people of color in America who do not deck the halls or jingle any bells on December 25th. On this episode we try to get to the bottom of wh...2019-12-1340 minReed, Write, and CreateThe Anniversary Episode!On episode 23, I'm celebrating the one year anniversary of the My American Meltingpot podcast! After one year, 22 episodes and a lot of blood, sweat and tears, I've really learned a lot. Not just about launching a podcast, but about all of the ways race intersects with real life. Thanks to the fact that I've had really amazing guests on the show, I feel like I've learned just as much as all of you. So, listen in as I recap my top 10 meltingpot lessons learned after 22 exciting episodes.
Be sure to listen all the way to the end o...2019-11-2923 min
Speaking of RacismUntangling The Roots of Black Hair and Diversity with Lori L. Tharps of My American Melting PotLori L. Tharps is an assistant professor of journalism at Temple University, an award-winning author, freelance journalist and popular speaker.
Lori joined Jen to talk about her book Hair Story: Untangling The Roots of Black Hair in America, as well as her passion for diversity.
You can find Lori's blog and podcast here: www.myamericanmeltingpot.com
2019-11-181h 01Reed, Write, and CreateAlzheimer's Doesn't DiscriminateOn episode 22 of My American Meltingpot, we’re going to be talking about the sixth leading cause of death in America, Alzheimer’s. After all, November is National Alzheimer's Awareness Month. And yes, we’re going to talk about statistics and studies, but because this is the Meltingpot, what we're really going to focus on is the impact Alzheimer’s has in communities of color, the toll of Alzheimer’s on families and caregivers, and what we can all do to help bring more attention to finding a cure for this tragic disease that kills our loved ones, not once, but...2019-11-1548 minReed, Write, and CreateLaila Lalami & The Other AmericansOn episode 21 of My American Meltingpot, listen in on my conversation with author, Laila Lalami. Laila is the author of the book, The Other Americans, our fall book club pick in the My American Meltingpot book club. She is also the author of three other award-winning novels including, The Moor's Account and Secret Son. A native of Morocco, Laila is a professor of creative writing at the University of California Riverside.
The Other Americans begins with the mysterious death of a Moroccan immigrant, but is so much more than a murder mystery or a thriller. A perfect f...2019-11-0146 minReed, Write, and CreateTo Be Black in Spain (Part II)On episode 20 of the podcast, we’re going back to Spain for Part II of my audio memoir. Just to recap, on the last episode, it was all about Spain’s hidden Black history. Or rather, how Spain’s hidden history of over 400 years of African slavery was coming out of the closet and is now being examined and shared by academics, artists and authors all around Spain.
For Part II, we’re leaving history behind and stepping into contemporary society. In chapters 3, 4 and 5, you’ll hear about what life is like for Black people living in Spain today...2019-10-1838 minReed, Write, and CreateBlack in Spain (Part I)Episode 19 is a little different from previous episodes. At the end of Season 2, I announced that I was heading to Spain for the summer to rekindle my romance with this country that had been my first true love. I was going back after 10 years away because I discovered that Spain was starting to come to terms with her own Black history. This was inspiring for me to hear because previously, Spain had kept her Black history hidden, which in turn led to our break up. At the time, being Black in Spain didn't seem like a viable option for...2019-10-0429 minReed, Write, and CreateTalking to Kids about RaceOn episode 18 of My American Meltingpot, we’re talking about how and when to talk to our children about race. Let's be clear, we're not going to give you a color-by-numbers script on how to talk to your children about race because, first of all, we don’t know your children. We don’t know what race you or your children are. We don’t know how old your children are. We don’t know if your children already have their own ideas about race, and we certainly don’t know what your ideas are about race. And all of those fac...2019-09-201h 06Reed, Write, and Create"The Intersection of Race and Real Life"Welcome back to Season 3 of the My American Meltingpot Podcast! Do you like our colorful new logo?
Episode 17 is a little bit different and a whole lot of fun. I recorded this episode in front of a live audience at the Respect Women's Podcast Festival in Philadelphia on August 25, 2019. The festival was held at Amalgam Comics & Coffeehouse – the only comic book shop owned by a Black woman on the East Coast – and was a celebration of female podcasters. It was all the way amazing.
Here's what you'll hear on the episode:
Since we were...2019-09-0632 min
Reed, Write, and CreateMAMP in Spain - A PreviewEpisode 16 of the My American Meltingpot podcast is a preview of what we're working on this summer: I'm going to the south of Spain to report on Spain's connection to Blackness.
It all started with a book I wrote 10 years ago called Kinky Gazpacho: Life, Love & Spain. I'm going back to Spain this summer to find out what has changed for Black people living in Spain today and for the artists and academics studying Spain's Black history. To find out more about my trip to the Iberian peninsula, check out the details on the My American Meltingpot...2019-06-2803 minReed, Write, and Create"Fried Chicken is a Unifying Food"On episode 15 of the My American Meltingpot podcast, we're getting out of the studio and hitting the streets of Philadelphia to find out who owns fried chicken. That's right, fried chicken. In the United States, fried chicken is most often associated with African Americans. Sometimes that association is a positive one, other times it is simply a racist trope. But the reality is, fried chicken is a culinary delight enjoyed by different cultures and communities all over the world.
In this episode, we're deep diving into the world of fried chicken in Guatemala, South Korea and in...2019-06-1446 minReed, Write, and CreateFood, Family and Finding Home with "From Scratch" author, Tembi LockeOn episode # 14 of the MAMP podcast, I get to chat with debut author and actress, Tembi Locke about her beautiful new book, From Scratch: A Memoir of Love, Sicily and Finding Home. From Scratch is the first selection for the My American Meltingpot Book Club. In our conversation, Tembi and I talk about the reasons she decided to write this searing story about life after her husband's death from cancer; her writing process as a newbie author; what life is like for a Black-American woman in Sicily; raising multiracial children; and the healing power of food. We also chat...2019-05-3152 minReed, Write, and CreateIn Defense of Diversity with Lori L TharpsOn episode 13 of My American Meltingpot, I’m doing my first solo show in defense of diversity. I felt I needed to take this opportunity to defend my favorite word, "diversity," because right now it seems like it's the word everybody loves to hate. I want to drag diversity out of the mud and restore it to its rightful place in our social activism lexicon. Here's what I share in this episode:
• How I became diversity’s biggest fan,
• Who hates diversity and why?
• My personal definition of diversity.
• And finally, my two versio...2019-05-1731 minReed, Write, and CreateRaising Healthy Mixed-Race KidsOn episode 12 of My American Meltingpot, we’re having a conversation about how to raise healthy Mixed-Race children. That is, how do we make sure our children who are more than one race, and possibly more than one culture as well, grow up feeling confident with their sense of identity? How do we prepare them to confront a world that still only seems to see people in Black and white? Joining me for this diverse discussion are two mothers of Mixed-Race kids, who are also parenting experts.
Sharon H. Chang is an award-winning author, photographer and activist wit...2019-05-031h 02Reed, Write, and CreateHow We Fight White SupremacyOn episode 11 of the My American Meltingpot podcast, we're dissecting and deconstructing white supremacy with the brilliant authors of the new book, How We Fight White Supremacy: A Field Guide to Black Resistance. Akiba Solomon and Kenrya Rankin, both editors at the news and culture website, Colorlines, join me for a profound discussion about the pervasiveness and pain of white supremacy in American society. We also talk about the myriad ways folks can resist and fight in every day life without losing their lives or their minds. Plus, we take time to imagine what the world would look like...2019-04-191h 12