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. 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.

  2. 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

  3. 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

  4. 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

  5. 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

  6. 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

  7. May 21

    Self-Publishing Success: Strategies from Three Dynamic Independent Authors

    The second Black Books Matter Festival is inaugurated by Ramunda Young, co-owner of MahoganyBooks, whose opening remarks resonate with a deep appreciation for the significance of community spaces that embrace and celebrate Black narratives without the constraints of code-switching. Young's reflections set the tone for the festival, which features a panel of independent authors—Charlotte Avery, Brian Heat, and Cerece Rennie Murphy—who share their journeys in self-publishing, emphasizing how this choice has enabled them to maintain their creative integrity. They discuss the internal battles of self-doubt and the motivational factors that drive them to persist in their writing endeavors, focusing on the importance of serving their readers and cultivating their characters with love and dedication. During the panel, the authors delve into the complexities of balancing the artistic and commercial aspects of writing. They highlight the necessity of assembling support teams and utilizing cost-effective resources, such as Fiverr, to manage various facets of the publishing process. The discussion also covers valuable tools and strategies, including IngramSpark for print-on-demand services, and the Amazon KDP platform for effective keyword optimization to enhance discoverability. Young underscores the critical nature of owning intellectual property, which can pave the way for future adaptations and opportunities. She also champions Black Classic Press for its commitment to high-quality printing services, reinforcing the festival's mission to uplift Black-owned enterprises. This episode encapsulates a rich tapestry of experiences, offering practical advice and inspiring stories that illuminate the path of independent authors navigating the publishing landscape. The panelists' insights serve not only as a guide for aspiring writers but also as a testament to the power of storytelling in fostering community and cultural identity within the Black literary tradition. Takeaways: Ramunda Young emphasizes the necessity for Black community spaces to celebrate and share stories.The panelists discuss the importance of self-publishing to maintain creative control and protect their voices.Key strategies for balancing writing with the business aspects include building teams and using affordable services like Fiverr.IngramSpark is recommended as an essential resource for print-on-demand services and distribution among independent authors.Authors are advised to ensure their books have appropriate ISBNs, barcodes, and returnable terms for bookstore acceptance.Mentorship is highlighted as a critical asset for aspiring authors to navigate the publishing landscape effectively. Links referenced in this episode: blackclassicpress.commahonagonybooks.com

  8. May 7

    Ben Crump on Civil Rights, Literature, and the Fight for Justice

    This podcast episode features a momentous gathering at MahoganyBooks, where civil rights attorney Ben Crump presents his debut legal thriller, "Worse Than a Lie," the inaugural entry in the Boley Cooper series. Central to Crump's narrative is the harrowing tale of Hollis Montrose, a Black police officer unjustly shot and falsely charged on the night of Barack Obama's historic election in 2008. Crump highlights his motivations for writing the novel, emphasizing the need to portray a heroic Black trial lawyer and to educate readers about the ongoing struggles for justice faced by marginalized communities. Throughout the discussion, Crump articulates the emotional toll of his legal work and the imperative for the youth to engage with civil rights issues and to champion their own narratives. The episode culminates in a profound dialogue about the significance of representation in literature and the relentless fight against systemic oppression. Takeaways: Ben Crump's debut novel, 'Worse Than a Lie,' casts a Black trial lawyer as a superhero to inspire future generations.Crump emphasizes the importance of education and perseverance in the fight for civil rights, urging youth to read and engage in justice work.The emotional toll of Crump's legal battles is profound, reflecting the struggles marginalized communities face in seeking justice.Crump draws parallels between real-life cases of police violence and the fictional events in his novel, highlighting ongoing societal issues.The podcast serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving Black narratives and affirming the worth of Black children. Hosts & Guests: Attorney Ben CrumpDr. Illyasah Shabazz Podcast Credits: Audio & Production: Christian Jones (https://www.instagram.com/cjthegenesis) 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

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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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