MahoganyBooks Front Row: The Podcast

MahoganyBooks Media
MahoganyBooks Media
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MahoganyBooks Front Row: The Podcast is a thoughtfully curated series that offers a unique opportunity to listen to Black authors discussing their latest works. Each episode of the podcast features an in-depth conversation with an author, delving into their creative process, inspirations, and the themes explored in their book. The series is a re-cast of the live author talks hosted by MahoganyBooks, a Black-owned bookstore in Washington DC dedicated to promoting literature written for, by, or about people of the African Diaspora. With the podcast, listeners can enjoy the same level of engagement and intellectual stimulation as the live events from the comfort of their own homes.

  1. 5d ago

    Beyond the Thriller: S.A. Cosby in Conversation with Derrick Young at the Black Books Matter Festival

    Recorded live at the Black Books Matter Festival, MahoganyBooks co-founder Derrick Young sits down with S.A. Cosby, the bestselling author of Blacktop Wasteland, Razorblade Tears, All the Sinners Bleed, and King of Ashes. Cosby talks about the long road to his breakthrough. An early book was rejected more than 60 times, his first agent dropped him, and one publisher asked if he could make his work "blacker." He explains why he writes a full private biography for every main character, how he decides a story is finished, and why fans of Razorblade Tears got a surprise in King of Ashes. He also gets candid about the business side: the gap between his advance and a white peer's, why writers of color should ask publishers about marketing budgets, and why Black bookstores get skipped on author tours. Cosby shares updates on the Netflix adaptation of All the Sinners Bleed and a Blacktop Wasteland prequel he's writing. He closes with a defense of Black Southern life and why he keeps writing about the South: "Because I'm from the damn South." Shop S.A. Cosby's books at MahoganyBooks.com. Takeaways: Cosby says publishers told him early on they liked his books but didn't "see a market" for them. He describes getting what he calls "three-quarter rejection letters": three paragraphs of praise followed by a no. An early book was rejected more than 60 times, and he burned the rejection emails after landing his deal with Flatiron Books.He writes a private biography for each main character, covering details as small as favorite ice cream and first kiss. He says about 95% of it never appears in the book, but it keeps characters from making choices that only serve the plot. His example is Titus Crown's hidden fear of snakes in All the Sinners Bleed.For Cosby, a book is a snapshot of a character's life, not the whole story. He considers a story finished when the character has made an emotional journey and ends up different, not perfect, from where they started.Cosby confirms his books share a universe. Characters and references recur across novels, and Ike from Razorblade Tears makes a cameo in King of Ashes. He says he brought Ike back partly because so many readers asked how Ike was doing.Cosby describes Crime Writers of Color, a group he says started with 12 writers around 2015, when writers of color weren't being invited to crime fiction conferences. He says it has grown to about 300 members.Cosby says he received a $5,000 advance for Blacktop Wasteland, while a white author with similar credentials received $100,000 for her debut. He urges writers to share pay information and to ask publishers how much marketing money is behind their book compared with peers. In his words, "don't let your gratefulness hide your self-respect."Cosby and Derrick Young describe how publishers can steer author tour stops toward whichever store promises to buy the most copies, which can shut out Black bookstores. Young tells the audience that every book bought or borrowed from a library is tracked and sends a message to publishers.Cosby rejects the publishing idea that Black people don't read. He points to a crowd of about 180 at an Atlanta-area tour stop that had set up 50 chairs, and an audience of 387 in St. Louis.Cosby argues that the South belongs to the Black people who built, loved, and died on it, not to Confederate apologists. He calls it the site of "America's first great sin" and its first great ability to overcome it. Mentioned in this episode: African Ancestry We are the pioneers of genetic ancestry tracing for Black people globally, reconnecting you to your specific African roots–the country and the people. Our scientists compare your DNA markers to the largest African reference database in the world in order to find your African origin up to 2000 years ago. African Ancestry ...But Make it Books promo  Hey, y'all. It's Niccara, host of ... But Make It Books, a podcast where we're bookishly healing through life. In this podcast, we use fiction and nonfiction as a doorway into the deeper parts of life. Think ambition, healing, identity, the questions you didn't even know you were carrying. Every episode, we let the book lead us somewhere real. Because the best stories don't just entertain you, they help you understand yourself. So go ahead and find us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Subscribe now and bring your whole self to the conversation. Peace, y'all.

  2. 5d ago

    Challenging American Mythology: The 1619 Project, Curricular Omissions, and the Politics of Forgetting

    Recorded live at the third Black Books Matter Festival, this conversation brings together Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist Nikole Hannah-Jones, creator of The 1619 Project, and journalist and culture critic Michael Harriot, author of Black AF History: The Un-Whitewashed Story of America. MahoganyBooks co-founder Ramunda Young opens the afternoon with the reason the store exists. She grew up in Tulsa, one mile from Black Wall Street, and never learned about it in school. Then Hannah-Jones and Harriot take on "the real America." They talk about why most Americans are never taught a history that centers slavery, why The 1619 Project drew such fierce pushback, and why they reject the idea that George Washington's slaveholding was a mere "flaw." Hannah-Jones traces how Virginia's slaveholding elite shaped American republicanism and connects that line to the Electoral College. Both argue that Black Americans didn't only build this country's wealth. They also helped define what liberty and democracy actually mean. Hannah-Jones closes with a charge: learn your history, because it shows you what you're capable of. Then the whole room says it together: Black books matter. Shop books from Nikole Hannah-Jones, Michael Harriot, and more at MahoganyBooks.com. Takeaways: Nikole Hannah-Jones explains that most Americans never learn a slavery-centered history. Official school curricula don't teach it, popular culture rarely tells it, and even Black Americans often have to seek it out on their own.Hannah-Jones argues that many white Americans have built their personal identity on the belief that the U.S. is an exceptional nation. When asked how much of the ignorance is willful, Michael Harriot says some people were never taught, but that by 1988 or 2015 it had to be a deliberate choice.The speakers reject framing George Washington's slaveholding as a minor "flaw." They cite his pursuit of Ona Judge and his sale of people who tried to escape to the Caribbean, and they argue the founders knew slavery was wrong and chose it anyway.Hannah-Jones argues that the heart of the American Revolution was Virginia, not Boston or Philadelphia. She traces American republicanism, where a small group of elite landowning white men govern for everyone else, to a colony whose poor were largely enslaved and couldn't vote. She connects that idea to the Electoral College.Hannah-Jones says reducing Black Americans' contribution to forced labor reinforces white supremacy. She argues Black people also gave the nation intellectual labor, turning the Declaration of Independence into a document about liberty and pushing democracy to mean that everyone has a say.Hannah-Jones argues that telling this story "kills their myth" of American exceptionalism. She says that threat, more than the history itself, is why this work is targeted and banned. She calls the current administration's attack on history tactical, not superficial.Hannah-Jones urges listeners to learn their history and "get that ancestral knowledge." She warns that what's planned for Black Americans is something most people in the room have never lived through. She adds that fear is okay, because courage requires fear. Mentioned in this episode: ...But Make it Books promo  Hey, y'all. It's Niccara, host of ... But Make It Books, a podcast where we're bookishly healing through life. In this podcast, we use fiction and nonfiction as a doorway into the deeper parts of life. Think ambition, healing, identity, the questions you didn't even know you were carrying. Every episode, we let the book lead us somewhere real. Because the best stories don't just entertain you, they help you understand yourself. So go ahead and find us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Subscribe now and bring your whole self to the conversation. Peace, y'all. African Ancestry We are the pioneers of genetic ancestry tracing for Black people globally, reconnecting you to your specific African roots–the country and the people. Our scientists compare your DNA markers to the largest African reference database in the world in order to find your African origin up to 2000 years ago. African Ancestry

  3. Sep 2

    Empowering Voices: Indie Authors Discuss Self-Publishing

    At MahoganyBooks' Black Books Matter Festival, moderator Nikesha Elise Williams, author of The Seven Daughters of Dupree, speaks with indie authors T.L. Price and Sundiata Ramin about why they chose self-publishing and how it requires running a business. Price, an attorney and mother of three, began writing urban romantasy and paranormal romance to increase representation of Black men in fantasy and to publish quickly without a traditional gatekeeper; she stresses treating writing like a job with set hours, budgeting, professional covers, multiple editors, and learning the industry. Ramin, author of a Chuck Brown biography and a Go-Go Museum curator, describes using his bookstore, design, and marketing background to produce a high-quality book, meet a tight timeline, and distribute through major channels. Both discuss building audiences, using social media, and connecting with Black readers, while audience Q&A covers tips for young writers, marketing poetry, research and worldbuilding, and finding mentorship through author networks. Takeaways: Self-publishing necessitates a professional approach; authors must treat their craft as a business and set dedicated work hours.Indie authors have the opportunity to represent marginalized voices in genres traditionally dominated by other demographics, fostering greater inclusivity.Building a loyal fan base is crucial; authors often find that their readership extends beyond initial expectations, reaching global audiences.Effective marketing strategies, including professional editing, eye-catching covers, and budget management, are essential for indie authors to achieve success in the competitive literary marketplace.

  4. Sep 2

    The Company We Keep: Nurturing Healthy Relationships in Our Lives

    During the Black Books Matter festival, a thought-provoking panel featuring Christine Platt, the Afro Minimalist, and Alexandra Elle captivated a full audience with discussions surrounding identity, healing, and the literary journey. Christine Platt's narrative arc, transitioning from a lawyer in energy and environmental law to an influential author, was a testament to the power of redefining oneself beyond societal expectations. The panelists introduced the concept of 'quantum leaping'—the idea that individuals can transform their lives simply by choosing to do so, without waiting for external approval. They addressed the personal sacrifices inherent in growth, such as the need to disappoint others and to sever ties with those who no longer align with one's evolving identity. Furthermore, the conversation highlighted the need to maintain healthy relationships through clear communication and regular check-ins, emphasizing that the company we keep significantly influences our paths. This event not only celebrated Black literature but also served as a powerful reminder of the importance of self-actualization and the communal support necessary for navigating personal journeys. Takeaways: Christine Platt emphasizes that career transitions are possible and valid, encouraging individuals to embrace their evolving identities.The concept of 'quantum leaping' is discussed as the act of decisively changing one’s life without seeking external validation or approval.Establishing and maintaining personal boundaries is essential for healthy relationships, allowing individuals to prioritize their own growth.Healing often requires disappointing others, which can be a difficult but necessary part of personal development and self-care.Clear and direct communication is fundamental for nurturing meaningful connections and understanding within our relationships.The company we keep significantly influences our well-being, highlighting the importance of surrounding ourselves with supportive and aligned individuals. Mentioned in this episode: African Ancestry We are the pioneers of genetic ancestry tracing for Black people globally, reconnecting you to your specific African roots–the country and the people. Our scientists compare your DNA markers to the largest African reference database in the world in order to find your African origin up to 2000 years ago. African Ancestry

  5. Aug 19

    Backtalker: Exploring Intersectionality and Critical Race Theory

    In a powerful discourse held in conjunction with the release of Kimberly W. Crenshaw's memoir, Backtalker, the evening celebrated Black literature and its significance in the broader cultural landscape. Kimberly Crenshaw, an eminent scholar and co-founder of the African American Policy Forum, engaged in a dynamic conversation with moderator April D. Ryan, who is celebrated as a leading voice in journalism. Crenshaw articulated the central themes of her memoir, which chronicles her journey in developing critical race theory and intersectionality, two pivotal intellectual movements that seek to address the complexities of race and gender in America. The event underscored the importance of accessibility in literature, as Crenshaw expressed her commitment to making Black narratives available to all, regardless of geographic or social constraints. Throughout the discussion, Crenshaw reflected on her upbringing in Tulsa, Oklahoma, a city steeped in historical significance, particularly regarding Black entrepreneurship and resilience. She highlighted the disheartening absence of Black historical narratives in her education, which fueled her passion for creating spaces for Black voices within literature and academia. The conversation also delved into the broader implications of erasure and representation in contemporary society, urging attendees to recognize their agency in advocating for equitable access to diverse stories. As the dialogue progressed, participants were encouraged to engage with Crenshaw's insights, fostering a collaborative atmosphere that emphasized the necessity of collective action in the pursuit of social justice. The event concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session, during which attendees posed questions about the relevance of intersectionality and the role of literature in challenging societal norms. Crenshaw's responses were infused with wisdom and urgency, prompting the audience to reflect on their roles as advocates for change. The gathering served as a clarion call for continued dialogue and activism, reinforcing the notion that literature is not merely a reflection of society but a catalyst for transformation, inspiring individuals to become 'back talkers' in their own right, challenging injustices and promoting inclusivity in the literary canon. Takeaways: Discussing and recognizing historical events such as Black Wall Street is crucial for understanding contemporary issues.The conversation highlighted the significance of community support in pursuing academic and social justice objectives.Kimberle Crenshaw emphasized the role of intersectionality in understanding the complexities of race and gender in modern society.Fear should not deter individuals from voicing their truths, as collective action can lead to substantial societal change.The podcast underscored the necessity of acknowledging and addressing systemic injustices in order to foster meaningful dialogue and progress. Mentioned in this episode: African Ancestry We are the pioneers of genetic ancestry tracing for Black people globally, reconnecting you to your specific African roots–the country and the people. Our scientists compare your DNA markers to the largest African reference database in the world in order to find your African origin up to 2000 years ago. African Ancestry

  6. Jul 15

    Building Real Connections in a Digital Age: Lessons from Nedra Glover Tawwab

    In this podcast episode, Nedra Tawwab talks about how relationships work and why it is important to keep your own identity. She explains the difference between being close and being too entangled, pointing out that strong connections should not take away your independence. Tawwab also highlights how understanding attachment styles can shape our relationships, and she encourages people not to expect their partners to be perfect, like the idea of a “soulmate.” The talk covers why setting boundaries matters, how to have healthy disagreements, and how to handle relationships with family and friends, especially when dealing with grief and loneliness in today’s world. In the end, Tawwab urges us to build real, meaningful connections that go beyond surface-level interactions, especially now when social media is so common. Takeaways: Tawwab emphasizes the importance of maintaining personal boundaries in relationships to avoid enmeshment.The discussion includes how attachment styles can hinder personal growth and create dependency in relationships.Tawwab cautions against labeling partners as 'soulmates,' advocating for realistic relationship expectations.Healthy disagreement is vital; it allows couples to grow and understand each other's perspectives better.Building deeper offline connections is essential to combat the loneliness epidemic exacerbated by social media. Mentioned in this episode: ...But Make it Books promo  Hey, y'all. It's Niccara, host of ... But Make It Books, a podcast where we're bookishly healing through life. In this podcast, we use fiction and nonfiction as a doorway into the deeper parts of life. Think ambition, healing, identity, the questions you didn't even know you were carrying. Every episode, we let the book lead us somewhere real. Because the best stories don't just entertain you, they help you understand yourself. So go ahead and find us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Subscribe now and bring your whole self to the conversation. Peace, y'all. African Ancestry We are the pioneers of genetic ancestry tracing for Black people globally, reconnecting you to your specific African roots–the country and the people. Our scientists compare your DNA markers to the largest African reference database in the world in order to find your African origin up to 2000 years ago. African Ancestry

  7. Jul 1

    Reflections on the Legacy of Black Bookstores in America

    The recent panel discussion at MahoganyBooks, celebrating Char Adams's debut nonfiction work, 'Black Owned: The Revolutionary Life of the Black Bookstore,' provided a profound exploration of the pivotal role that Black bookstores play in community consciousness and cultural identity. Moderated by Derrick Young, the co-owner of MahoganyBooks, the panel included influential figures such as Shirikiana Gerima, founder of Sankofa Video and Bookstore, Ramunda Lark Young, also a co-owner of MahoganyBooks, and Paul Coates, a prominent publisher and activist. Throughout the discourse, the speakers delved into the nuances of intentional curation and the delicate balance of censorship—addressing how the selection of books can reflect and shape community narratives. They emphasized that Black bookstores are not merely commercial entities, but rather vital cultural institutions that foster a sense of identity and belonging. Adams articulated her vision of a collaborative ecosystem among Black bookstores, highlighting the importance of mutual support and resilience in the face of economic challenges. This discussion not only illuminated the historical significance of Black bookstores but also pointed towards a future where they continue to thrive as hubs of education and community engagement. Takeaways: The discussion illuminated the profound role of Black bookstores in transforming community consciousness, transcending mere profit motivations.Panelists emphasized the importance of intentional curation in bookstores, reflecting a commitment to community over commercial interests.The historical impact of Black bookstores like Karibu was recalled, demonstrating their pivotal role in fostering literary culture and community.Char Adams's insights on the collaborative nature of the Black book ecosystem highlighted the necessity of unity among bookstores and authors.The conversation addressed the evolution of technology in bookselling, illustrating how online platforms have expanded access and community engagement.Through shared experiences, the panelists underscored the resilience and adaptability of Black bookstores in navigating contemporary challenges. Hosts & Guests: Char AdamsRamunda Lark YoungShirikiana GerimaPaul CoatesDerrick A. Young (Host) Podcast Credits: Production: Muse ProAudio: Christian Jones (https://www.instagram.com/cjthegenesis) Add it to your Library Black-Owned: The Revolutionary Life of the Black Bookstore Mentioned in this episode: African Ancestry We are the pioneers of genetic ancestry tracing for Black people globally, reconnecting you to your specific African roots–the country and the people. Our scientists compare your DNA markers to the largest African reference database in the world in order to find your African origin up to 2000 years ago. African Ancestry

  8. Jun 3

    Keeper of Lost Children: Unveiling Untold Stories of Resilience

    Victoria Christopher Murray hosts a conversation with Sadeqa Johnson about her new novel, Keeper of Lost Children. Johnson shares that her inspiration comes from Mabel Grammer, a woman who dedicated her life to helping mixed-race children in post-World War II Germany. She explains her choice to tell the story through three characters—Ethel, a version of Grammer; Ozzie, an African American GI; and Sophia Clark, a teenager wrestling with her identity. This structure helps explore themes like parental love, identity struggles, and second chances as key parts of the story. Johnson also discusses her research and the emotional scenes designed to connect with readers and highlight the important, often overlooked, history of Black women’s contributions. The episode ends with a Q&A from the audience, deepening the discussion of these themes and her writing journey. Takeaways: Ramunda Young, co-owner of Mahogany Books, opens the podcast by introducing the esteemed moderator, Victoria Christopher Murray, a prominent author.Victoria Christopher Murray engages Sadeqa Johnson in a profound discussion of her novel Keeper of Lost Children, which draws on historical events.Sadeqa Johnson articulates her narrative approach, utilizing three distinct timelines and perspectives to explore themes of identity and parental love.The novel's premise is rooted in the real-life story of Mabel Grammer, highlighting the struggles of mixed-race children in post-war Germany.Sadeqa emphasizes the importance of telling underrepresented historical narratives, asserting that Black women have been pivotal yet often overlooked in history.The episode culminates in an audience Q&A, inviting further exploration of the themes and characters introduced in the discussion. Hosts & Guests: Sadeqa JohnsonVictoria Christopher Murray Podcast Credits: Audio & Production: Christian Jones (https://www.instagram.com/cjthegenesis) Add it to your Library Keeper of Lost Children Mentioned in this episode: African Ancestry We are the pioneers of genetic ancestry tracing for Black people globally, reconnecting you to your specific African roots–the country and the people. Our scientists compare your DNA markers to the largest African reference database in the world in order to find your African origin up to 2000 years ago. African Ancestry

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MahoganyBooks Front Row: The Podcast is a thoughtfully curated series that offers a unique opportunity to listen to Black authors discussing their latest works. Each episode of the podcast features an in-depth conversation with an author, delving into their creative process, inspirations, and the themes explored in their book. The series is a re-cast of the live author talks hosted by MahoganyBooks, a Black-owned bookstore in Washington DC dedicated to promoting literature written for, by, or about people of the African Diaspora. With the podcast, listeners can enjoy the same level of engagement and intellectual stimulation as the live events from the comfort of their own homes.

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