On episode 16 of the podcast, I am joined by the incredible Denene Millner. Denene is truly a powerhouse in the publishing world. She is an author, editor, television and podcast host, and journalist. She has authored more than 30 books, including six New York Times best sellers. She is the creator and director of Denene Millner Books, an imprint of Simon & Schuster, and MyBrownBaby.com, a critically acclaimed blog that examines the intersection of parenting and race. Millner has written and collaborated on books of fiction, non-fiction, and youth literature including co-authoring Act Like a Lady, Think Like A Man, and Straight Talk, No Chaser both with comedian Steve Harvey. On September 5 of 2023, Denene’s debut solo novel, One Blood was released to rave reviews. During our interview, Denene walks us through how she went from being a journalist for the Associated Press, to running her own imprint at Simon & Schuster and the strategies and mindset she used to accomplish her writing goals. Other things we discuss include:   The benefits of being able to write across genres.  Denene’s secrets for productivity as a writer. The physical toll writing takes on the body and what to do to protect ourselves. Why it’s important to have your literary sisters in your life when you’re writing. Why you should never apologize for centering your people in your writing and how doing so can actually become your professional claim to fame. What literary ancestors Denene looks to for inspiration for her writing life. Her answers may surprise you!   Get ready to be inspired and to take notes because Ms. Milner is ready to school you.   Grab a copy of Denene’s epic new novel, One Blood at the Read, Write, and Create online Bookshop and support Denene, this podcast, and independent bookstores everywhere.   To learn more about Denene and all of her books and contributions to the literary world, visit DeneneMillner.com.   To find some of the best books written for young people by Black authors and illustrators, visit DeneneMillnerbooks.com.   For more literary resources to help you love your writing life, please visit the Read, Write, and Create website and blog.   If you’re looking for opportunities to get your work published, to get paid for your writing, and/or retreats and residencies where you can deep dive into the writing world, be sure to subscribe to the Reed, Write and Create bimonthly newsletter.  Follow @ReadWriteandCre8 on Instagram for more lit news, views, tips, tricks, giveaways, and opportunities.  If you're enjoying this award-winning podcast, please take a moment to leave us a rating or review on your favorite podcast platform.