Reed, Write, and Create
Lori L Tharps
If you are a BIPoC writer, Reed, Write, & Create, is the podcast you need to stay motivated and inspired to write. Award-winning author, educator, and creative writing coach, Lori L. Tharps ( ”Hair Story,” ”Kinky Gazpacho,” and ”Substitute Me”) knows how hard it is to stay committed to your writing projects - whether you’re working on that debut novel, a gut-wrenching memoir, or an essay about your trip around the world. Writing can be your passion, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy. Even if you’re a seasoned author. On the show, Lori is here to serve as your creative-writin...
What'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.
Feb 10, • 11:09
Ignore the Experts: You Can Write All the Things with Jabari Asim
On 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
Dec 23, 2024 • 53:39
Telling Black Women's Stories across Platforms with Rebecca Carroll
This is our last episode of Season 4! On episode 46 of the podcast, I am so excited to share my conversation with Rebecca Carroll, whose new book, I Know What the Red Clay Looks Like: The Voice & Vision of Black Women Writers (Haymarket) was re-released on December 3, 2024. Rebecca is a writer, cultural critic, and host of the podcasts Come Through with Rebecca Carroll and the award-winning Billie Was a Black Woman . Her 2021 memoir, Surviving the White Gaze, where she shares her experiences a
Dec 16, 2024 • 53:21
Write Yourself Into History with Arturo Schomburg
On 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 revolutio
Dec 9, 2024 • 34:58
How We Fight White Supremacy with Journalists Akiba Solomon & Kenrya Rankin
As 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 wi
Dec 2, 2024 • 1:04:41
How Oral Storytelling Can Make You a Better Writer with N. Scott Momaday
On 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 o
Nov 25, 2024 • 26:35
Laila Lalami Had to Decolonize Her Language In Order to Write Her Stories
On episode 42 of the podcast, we have award-winning author Laila Lalami on the show, discussing her powerful novel, The Other Americans. The Other Americans was a finalist for the National Book Awards. Laila is the author of several 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. On the show Laila talks about her rigorous research and writing process for her novels, why
Nov 18, 2024 • 42:36
Writers: You Need a Reading Habit, Not Just a Reading Hobby
On 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 inexp
Nov 11, 2024 • 25:09
Stay Ready, So You Don't Have to Get Ready: Writing Advice You Need Now from Tracey Lewis-Giggetts
Press 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 severa
Oct 28, 2024 • 1:02:17
Veronica Chambers Shares the Secrets of Her 30+ Years of Literary Success
On episode 39 of the podcast, I am so excited to share my conversation with memoirist, journalist, editor, celebrity collaborator, novelist and all around literary icon, Veronica Chambers. Based in London, Veronica Chambers is a New York Times best selling author of over 25 books, and is currently the editor of narrative projects at The New York Times. Born in Panama and raised in Brooklyn, her work often reflects her Afro-Latina heritage. Her first book, the acclaimed memoir, Mama’s Girl is
Oct 21, 2024 • 1:04:47
How Tembi Locke Turned Her Greatest Loss Into A Bestselling Memoir, From Scratch
Are 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. Duri
Oct 14, 2024 • 50:53
Sor. Juana Inés de la Cruz: Revolutionary Nun & Revolutionary Writer from Mexico
On 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
Oct 7, 2024 • 31:43
Marita Golden on How to Prioritize Your Health, Wealth & Community for a Productive Literary Life
On 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 Jou
Sep 30, 2024 • 45:14
Turn Your Pain Into Art with Chester B. Himes, The Father of African-American Crime Fiction
Get ready for a pep talk that explains how perseverance, persistence and pain can lead to productivity, fame and fortune in a writer's life. When you hear about the life and work of African-American crime writer, Chester B. Himes, you will overstand what’s possible for a writer, even when confronting the worst things life can throw at you. Racism, violence, prison, poverty, chronic pain. Chester Himes experienced all of those things and more, and yet still managed to write award-winning novels,
Sep 23, 2024 • 28:53
Season 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. ******************************** 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 BI
Sep 9, 2024 • 10:48
Bonus Episode with Black & Published: Vanessa Riley Writes Regency Romance with Black People in the Starring Roles
SURPRISE! It’s a Bonus Episode. Yes, I am officially on summer vacation, working on my novel, and the podcast is on a summer hiatus. So, why am I back in your podcast feed? Because I have a special bonus episode for you! I want to introduce you to a literary podcast I love to listen to called Black & Published. Hosted by author Nikesha Elise Williams, Black & Published features interviews with novelists, nonfiction writers, poets and playwrights every week. For today’s bonus episode
Jun 17, 2024 • 51:42
Busting the Myth of The Solitary Writer: Virginia Woolf Got it Wrong
On episode 32 of the podcast, our final episode of Season 3, I’m going to share a final pep talk meant to get you to stop thinking that you have to do this writing thing all alone. On today's show, I’m going to dispel the myth of the solitary writer, sharing why it’s a myth, how it got started, why it’s a dangerous myth, who the myth actually benefits, and how we should be handling our writing lives instead. My hope is that by breaking down the faulty logic behind the solitary writer myth, you
Jun 10, 2024 • 21:25
"Pursue Your Writing Life Like a Dog Pursues a Bone" with Bernice L. McFadden
On episode 31 of the podcast, I have saved the best for last. Our final author interview this season is with the incomparable, American-Book-Award-winning author, Bernice L. McFadden. Bernice L. McFadden is the author of over a dozen books, including Sugar and Glorious. Her latest novel, Praise Song for the Butterflies, was long listed for the 2019 Women's Prize in Fiction. McFadden’s novel, The Book of Harlan won the 2017 American Book Award and the 2017 NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Liter
May 27, 2024 • 50:38
Why BIPOC Writers Should Consider a Life Abroad: Lessons from James Baldwin
On episode #30 of the Reed, Write, & Create podcast, we’re doing two things; we’re honoring the late, great James Baldwin, who would be turning 100 years old in 2024, and I'm giving you a pep talk about being an American writer abroad. Yes, I’m sharing the life and times of Mr. James Baldwin to offer you the opportunity to consider what travel can mean for your writing life. And by the way, if you think we’re going to mostly be talking about Baldwin’s life in Paris, think again. On this epis
May 13, 2024 • 24:42
From Self-Published to New York Times Bestseller: Sadeqa Johnson Shares Her Story of Success
On episode #29, New York Times bestselling author Sadeaqa Johnson is on the show sharing her inspiring author journey and her practical strategies to living a successful literary life. Sadeqa Johnson is the New York Times bestselling author of five novels, including Yellow Wife and her latest, The House of Eve, which was the February 2023 Reese Witherspoon Book Club pick. Sadeqa’s accolades include being a NAACP Image Award nominee, a 2022 Hurston/Wright Foundation Legacy finalist, a BCALA Li
Apr 29, 2024 • 52:52
The Paradox of Jessie Redmon Fauset: The Harlem Renaissance's Most Prolific Novelist that You Don't Know
Episode #28 of the podcast is dedicated to the literary life and legacy of Jessie Redmon Fauset, the most prolific novelist of the Harlem Renaissance, and also, sadly, the most overlooked and under-appreciated. On this episode of the Reed, Write, & Create podcast, I will be sharing Fauset’s fascinating life story, as well as four reasons why she is often sidelined and left in the shadows when it comes to conversations about the literary greats of the Harlem Renaissance. Spoiler alert: Havin
Apr 15, 2024 • 25:30
Being a Writer is Hard Work:A Masterclass in Creative Writing with Phillip B. Williams
On episode 27 of the podcast, award-winning poet and debut novelist, Phillip B. Williams, is on the show. You might have heard about Williams because his brand new novel, Ours, was one of Oprah’s most anticipated books for 2024. Ours is an epic story about a conjure woman named Saint, who goes around destroying plantations in the south, and then freeing the enslaved workers. She then creates a magical world called Ours where the newly emancipated can live in peace because white people can neithe
Apr 1, 2024 • 58:43
How Do You Make a Living as a Writer in Hard Times? Ask Langston Hughes!
On episode #26 of the podcast, I’m using the life of the illustrious Langston Hughes, to give you a pep talk on how to make a living with your writing. Even in hard times. Did you know that Langston Hughes is recognized as the first African-American writer to make a living solely from his writing? Yes, Langston Hughes was definitely the hardest working writer in Harlem, and throughout his life before and after the renaissance. So studying his success and strategies can give us some excellent
Mar 18, 2024 • 22:59
How to Bring History's Hidden Figures to Life on the Page with New York Times Bestselling Author, Ilyon Woo
On episode 25 of the podcast, my guest is New York Times Bestselling author, Ilyon Woo. Ilyon is the author of the new book, Master Slave Husband Wife: An Epic Journey from Slavery to Freedom and The Great Divorce: A Nineteenth-Century Mother’s Extraordinary Fight Against Her Husband, the Shakers, and Her Times. Her writing has also appeared in The Boston Globe, The Wall Street Journal,Time, and The New York Times. During our delightful conversation Ilyon shares: When she fell in love with sto
Mar 4, 2024 • 56:38
Art, Activism, and Audre Lorde: How to Use Your Words to Change the World
On episode 24 of the podcast, you’re getting a pep talk about art and activism, using the life and times of the incredible Audre Lorde as our role model. We’re talking about the intersection of identity, writing, and making the world a better place. Audre Lorde was a Black feminist writer and activist who authored several books of poetry, essays, and memoir. Some of her most popular titles include, Sister Outsider, Zami: A New Spelling of My Name, and The Cancer Journals. This episode will
Feb 19, 2024 • 18:59
Writing Romance, Race, and Ricki Wilde with New York Times Best-Selling Author, Tia Williams
We’re back with season 3 of the Reed, Write, and Create Podcast! On episode 23 of the podcast, my guest is New York Times best-selling author, Tia Williams. Tia is an author of both YA titles and adult fiction. She wrote the bestselling debut novel The Accidental Diva and then penned two young adult novels, It Chicks and Sixteen Candles. Her award-winning novel, The Perfect Find is currently a Netflix movie starring Gabrielle Union. Her next novel, Seven Days in June was a New York Times
Feb 5, 2024 • 44:17
A 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
Jan 5, 2024 • 6:22
How to Make a Living Writing YA Fiction: A Conversation with Ibi Zoboi
On episode 22 of the podcast, award-winning author, Ibi Zoboi is my guest. Ibi is the New York Times Bestselling author of the YA novel, American Street, which among other distinctions, was a National Book Award finalist. Ibi is the editor of the anthology Black Enough: Stories of Being Young and Black in America. She co-authored the Walter Award and L.A. Times Book Prize-winning novel-in-verse, Punching the Air, written with Exonerated Five member, Yusef Salaam. Her debut picture book, The Peop
Dec 18, 2023 • 1:07:33
It’s All About The Sanctuary: A Membership Community for BIPOC Women Writers
On episode 21 of the podcast, I’m taking you on a tour of The Sanctuary, the new private membership community we’re launching at Read, Write, and Create headquarters. The Sanctuary is a private community for BIPOC women writers who want to get their work out into the world and who want to get paid for doing it. I’m going to share the origin story of The Sanctuary, but I’m also going to share why writing communities are gaining in popularity, even though they are far from a new idea. So, even
Dec 4, 2023 • 19:58
Greenlight Your Own Projects: Self-Publishing Without Apology with Dr. Tamara Pizzoli
On episode #20 of the Read, Write, and Create podcast, my guest is Dr. Tamara Pizzoli, who shares her unconventional success story as an independent children’s book author and publisher. Dr. Pizzoli is an African-American author, curator, producer and publisher. Originally from Texas, she is the mother of four children and has resided in Rome, Italy for over fifteen years. In 2013, she opened a boutique English-language school for kids in Rome called The English Schoolhouse, which she later conv
Nov 20, 2023 • 47:20
Writing Retreats are Not Bougie: Why Writing Retreats Should be a Part of Your Regular Writing Practice
On episode 19 of the podcast, I’m giving a pep-talk on the importance of writing retreats for your regular writing practice. Yes, I just ran my first writing retreat, so I’m still glowing from that amazing experience, but this pep talk isn’t about me. It’s about you and all the benefits you will gain from adding writing retreats to your writing life. Some of the benefits of attending writing retreats include: Increased productivity in your writing Improved self-confidence as a writer Access to
Nov 6, 2023 • 22:43
How to Have a 40-Year Literary Career with Award-Winning Author and Literary Activist Marita Golden
On episode 18 of the podcast, the amazing Marita Golden is my guest. 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 Loves Herself, Has Boundaries and Heals Every Day. Marita is also the Co-f
Oct 23, 2023 • 46:04
Find Your Passion and Your Purpose as a Writer with Maya Angelou
On episode 18 of the podcast, I’m sharing a lively pep-talk using the life and times of the incredible Dr. Maya Angelou to inspire you to tap into your purpose and passions as BIPOC writers. One little programming note, make sure you stick around all the way to the end of the episode because I’m launching a new segment of the show called, Read Like a Writer, where I will be sharing a book recommendation for a book that is delightful to read and will help you improve your craft. The topics
Oct 9, 2023 • 23:00
New York Times Best-Selling Author, Denene Millner Shares Her Story and Her Strategies for a Prolific Literary Career
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
Sep 25, 2023 • 1:09:44
The Sisterhood and Why Writers Need a Writing Community
It was Virginia Wolf who said, “a woman must have money and a room of her own if she is to write fiction.” And it’s true, when we write, particularly if we’re working on creative work, we need peace and quiet so we can sink into our imagination. But writers are human too. And that means we are social beings. We crave connections. We need our tribe. But not just any tribe, we writers need fellow writers who understand the nuances of a literary life and will help us stay committed to our craft. Ep
Sep 11, 2023 • 16:51
Best of Author Series with Kaitlyn Greenidge: Real Talk about What it Takes to Be a Writer
On episode 14, I have another episode from my “Best of…Author Interviews.” This week I am sharing my 2021 interview with award-winning novelist, Kaitlyn Greenidge. Kaitlyn Greenidge's debut novel We Love You, Charlie Freeman (Algonquin Books), was one of the New York Times Critics' Top 10 Books of 2016. She is currently Features Director at Harper’s Bazaar as well as a contributing writer for The New York Times. Her second novel, Libertie, was published by Algonquin Books and it had just come ou
Jul 17, 2023 • 49:11
Best of Author Series with Dr. Yaba Blay: Why Self Publishing is a Revolutionary Act
On 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. Bla
Jul 3, 2023 • 57:13
”Best of ...Author Series:” Lauren Francis-Sharma + Book of the Little Axe
On episode 12 of the podcast, I’m dipping into my podcast archives to bring you one of my favorite author interviews. My guest is novelist Lauren Francis-Sharma. Lauren is a child of Trinidadian immigrants, and is the author of Till the Well Runs Dry and Book of the Little Axe. Lauren’s most recent writings can be found in The Lily, Electric Literature, Barrelhouse, Salon, as well as Marita Golden’s anthology, Us Against Alzheimer’s: Stories of Family Love and Faith. Lauren is also the Assistant
Jun 12, 2023 • 55:35
Get Your Writing Life on Track with the NBA
On episode 11 of the podcast, our last episode of the season, I am giving you a pep talk that will leave you truly lit. Before signing off for the summer, I want to get you fired up and inspired to write, but also give you a source of inspiration you can always go back to when you need that little pick me up. So, I decided to share my secret source for writing inspiration and guidance. It’s the NBA! Yes, I’ve been fashioning my writing career based on the lives and lessons learned from basketbal
May 29, 2023 • 24:58
How to Launch, Sell, and Market Your Book: A Masterclass with Mr. Ernest Owens
On episode 10 of the Read, Write, and Create podcast, award-winning journalist and author Ernest Owens joins me on the show to provide a masterclass on how to launch, market and sell your book. The author of the new book, The Case for Cancel Culture, Ernest brings his wit and wisdom to the topic of book marketing, and provides actionable advice for authors at all stages of their career. This is an episode where knowledge is dropped, the truth is shared, and tips and tricks come at your fast. If
May 15, 2023 • 54:06
How to Leave a Literary Legacy with Lorraine Hansberry
On episode nine of the podcast, I’m sharing a pep talk meant to encourage you to seize your moment to write. You must get your stories out into the world, so that you can leave a legacy of your words, your wisdom, and your dreams behind. Writing is such a powerful tool to leave a lasting legacy for our loved ones and for the world. Just look at the work our literary ancestors have left behind for us to learn from and love. To drive home my point, I’m going to be sharing the life and times of th
May 1, 2023 • 26:13
You’re Never Too Old to Start Writing or Keep Writing: Dorothy West
On episode # 8 of the podcast, I’m giving you a quick pep talk about the perfect age to become a literary star. Spoiler alert: There isn’t one. The truth is, age is completely irrelevant in the writing game. You never know when your big literary break is going to come, you’re never too old to pick up the pen, and it’s never too late to tell your story. Rather than worrying about your age, you should be working on your words. To prove this point, I’m going back to the ancestors, and I’m sharing
Apr 17, 2023 • 15:22
The Secret to a Productive and Prolific Literary Life with Jabari Asim
On today’s episode of the podcast, award-winning author, journalist, professor, and poet, Jabari Asim, joins me on the show, to share his advice and experiences maintaining a productive, prolific, and eclectic literary career for more than thirty years. Jabari Asim is the Distinguished Professor of Multi-Disciplinary Letters at Emerson College, where he also directs the MFA Program in Creative Writing. He is the author of 23 books, including Yonder, the essay collection We Can’t Breathe, and P
Apr 3, 2023 • 53:39
The pen is mightier than the sword. Lessons learned from Ida B. Wells
On today’s episode of the podcast, I’m giving you a pep talk on the power and the potential of the written word to change the world. Yes, the pen is mightier than the sword, and I want all of my BIPOC writers to wield this powerful weapon with intention and agency. And because you know I like to give you role models to emulate, I’ll be sharing the inspiring story of how Ida B. Wells weaponized her words in order to make miracles happen. This is a pep talk you don’t want to miss. “The way to r
Mar 20, 2023 • 32:32
Should Writers Only ’Write What They Know?”: Mark Twain and Toni Morrison Have the Answers
On episode 5 of the Read, Write and Create podcast, get ready for an epic battle between two literary lions, Mark Twain and Toni Morrison. The battle is over whether writers should write what they know, or write what fascinates them. Mark Twain said, “write what you know.” Toni Morrison said, “please do NOT write what you know.” So who was right? And what useful writing advice can all storytellers take from these two literary legends on this topic? The answers may surprise you, so listen up and
Mar 6, 2023 • 25:03
For Writers: Perseverance is More Important than Talent + Octavia E. Butler
On today’s episode of the podcast, I’m sharing a pep talk about perseverance. The truth is, perseverance is the most important habit, or superpower, a writer must have, even more than talent. You can be the most talented writer in the room, but if you can’t figure out how to keep writing in the face of hardship and adversity, then you’re not going to succeed in this game. To help explain the importance of perseverance in a literary life, I’m sharing the incredible true story of how Ms. Octav
Feb 20, 2023 • 22:22
How to Have a Long-Lasting Literary Career with Tracey Lewis-Giggetts
On episode #3 of the podcast, the incredible Tracey Lewis-Giggetts joins me to talk about her literary life and experiences as an African-American writer and author of over 20 books! Tracey writes fiction, nonfiction, poetry and screenplays. Her two most recent books are Black Joy: Stories of Resistance, Resilience, and Restoration and Then They Came For Mine: Healing from the Trauma of Racial Violence. Tracey also works as a ghostwriter and has penned best-selling memoirs for several public f
Feb 6, 2023 • 1:01:04
Why BIPOC Writers Must Get their Stories Into the World + Zora Neale Hurston
On 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 statistics
Jan 23, 2023 • 22:58
How to Find the Time to Write + Phillis Wheatley
This 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
Jan 9, 2023 • 17:05
Introducing the Read, Write & Create Podcast
It's been a while since a new episode of the MAMP podcast dropped, and sadly there won't be anymore new episodes. However, I am launching a brand new, bimonthly podcast called Read, Write & Create and on this short little episode, I'm going to tell you all about it. Think bite-sized creative pep talks for BIPOC writers. The new podcast officially launches in January 2023 and I hope if it sounds like something you need in your life, you'll tune in and subscribe. Until then, Write On!
Dec 5, 2022 • 4:11
One Last Thing About the Future of the Show
This is the final episode of season six of the podcast and it’s going to be a short one. I have a few important announcements about the future of the show to share, some personal updates, and of course, some multicultural book news. One of the big announcements I'll be sharing is that I am launching a new podcast called, Meltingpot Stories. Yes, the podcast that will be all about multicultural books. Please follow me on IG @LoriLTharps and visit the My American Meltingpot website to know when th
Apr 16, 2021 • 15:12
Author Kaitlyn Greenidge Talks Freedom and "Libertie"
On episode 68 of the podcast, author Kaitlyn Greenidge joins me to talk about freedom and Libertie. Kaitlyn’s debut novel was the critically acclaimed, We Love You, Charlie Freeman. Her writing has also appeared in Vogue, Glamour, the Wall Street Journal, Elle.com, Buzzfeed, and the Virginia Quarterly Review. She was a contributing editor for LENNY Letter, is currently a contributing writer for The New York Times and recently became the Features Director of Harper’s Bazaar magazine. I invited K
Apr 9, 2021 • 45:21
Children's Book Author, Zetta Elliott, Wants to Decolonize Your Imagination
On episode 67 we’re going back into the Meltingpot archives to listen to an interview with award-winning children’s book author and indie publisher, Zetta Elliott. Zetta has written over 30 books for children, teens and young adults and is committed to telling stories featuring Black characters in the most unexpected places. From sci-fi, to fantasy, to haunted historical fiction, Zetta has written it all and shows no signs of stopping. She is on a mission to decolonize all of our imaginations
Apr 2, 2021 • 58:47
The Multicultural History of Witchcraft in America with Author Via Hedera
On episode 66 of the podcast we’re going to talk about witches. Why? Because there is a growing number of women who are practicing witchcraft in the United States. And because this is America, there is a racial divide in this increasingly popular witching community. Apparently, Black witches and white witches just can’t get along. Cries of cultural appropriation, questions of who gets to call themselves a witch, and how witches are portrayed in popular media are all discussions that are happeni
Mar 26, 2021 • 1:03:37
Children's Book Author Joanna Ho Writes to Change the World
On episode 65 of the podcast, I’m joined by children’s book author, educator, and activist Joanna Ho. Joanna is the New York Times bestselling author of Eyes that Kiss in the Corners, a beautiful picture book that tells the story of a little Asian girl who learns to love and appreciate the shape of her eyes. Joanna holds a BA in psychology from the University of Pennsylvania, and a master’s from the Principal Leadership Institute at Berkeley. She has been an English teacher, a dean, the desig
Mar 19, 2021 • 44:35
Writing Wisdom: You Must Believe You Can Write
On 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 lesso
Mar 12, 2021 • 12:48
Telling Global Stories with Jennifer Steil, Award-Winning Author of Exile Music
On episode 63 of the podcast, I’m joined by award-winning author, Jennifer Steil, to talk about her brilliant new novel, Exile Music. Exile Music tells the remarkable story of an Austrian Jewish family who has to flee Nazi occupied Vienna during WWII, and then finds themselves living as refugees in La Paz, Bolivia. Jennifer stumbled upon this fascinating and mostly unknown piece of history – European Jewish refugees living in Bolivia – when she was living in La Paz with her diplomat husband, and
Mar 5, 2021 • 1:24:19
Love, Loss and Writing Memoir with Tembi Locke
On 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
Feb 26, 2021 • 57:34
Talking "One Drop," Blackness, and Publishing with Dr. Yaba Blay
On 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 ra
Feb 19, 2021 • 1:02:49
White Like Her: Stories of Race and Racial Passing
On 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 discov
Feb 12, 2021 • 54:53
Untangling the History of "Hair Story" with authors Ayana Byrd + Lori Tharps
On 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 birthe
Feb 5, 2021 • 49:06
A Big Announcement about the Future of this Podcast
Welcome 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, bo
Jan 29, 2021 • 9:51
Is Christmas for white people with Dr. Marc Lamont Hill
On 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 2
Dec 18, 2020 • 36:33
Rethinking Race + Thanksgiving
November 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 mourn
Nov 20, 2020 • 32:20
Don't be Racist: Celebrate the Wins, But Keep Fighting
This 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 simpl
Nov 13, 2020 • 11:11
Don't Be Racist: Time to Divorce Your Trump-Supporting Friends
On 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
Oct 30, 2020 • 16:01
Don't be Racist: You Can't Say That
Last 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 i
Oct 23, 2020 • 17:16
Don't Be Racist: Use Your Voice
Did 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
Oct 16, 2020 • 17:09
Don't Be Racist - Decolonize Your Mind
This 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 lifel
Oct 9, 2020 • 17:24
Lesson 2: Don't Be Racist: Take Action
On 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
Oct 2, 2020 • 17:30
Lesson #1: Master Your Mindset to be an Anti-Racism Warrior
Episode 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 goi
Sep 25, 2020 • 15:13
Welcome to the "Don't be Racist" Series
On 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 ser
Sep 18, 2020 • 8:14
Author Lauren Francis-Sharma and the Book of the Little Axe
On 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 c
Aug 7, 2020 • 56:49
How to be a Revolutionary Writer
On 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 young
Jul 31, 2020 • 21:40
Title: All Hail The Queens of the Resistance
On 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,
Jul 24, 2020 • 15:30
How to Raise a Revolutionary Reader
On 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, o
Jul 17, 2020 • 15:13
Revolutionary Readers Book Club: Exile Music
I'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 Rea
Jul 10, 2020 • 8:45
Why Colorism Matters at this Moment
On 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
Jun 19, 2020 • 46:34
A Loving Day Message for Today's Turmoil
Happy 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 you
Jun 12, 2020 • 12:48
A Message for Today: How We Fight White Supremacy
I 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
Jun 2, 2020 • 1:14:43
Dear White People, You Have to Fix Your Racism Problem
On 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 ch
May 29, 2020 • 10:52
Author Erin Entrada Kelly talks Diversity and Dreaming of Space
On 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 Herita
May 22, 2020 • 1:00:32
A Meltingpot Book Review: Girl, Woman, Other
Episode 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
May 15, 2020 • 8:27
How to Raise a Bilingual child
On 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 experien
May 8, 2020 • 54:10
#BooksAreEssential in a Global Pandemic
Episode 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 su
May 1, 2020 • 10:07
DNA Travel, Multiracial Identity and Adoption
On 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
Apr 24, 2020 • 56:37
How to Be a Meltingpot Mom During a Global Pandemic
Episode 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 work
Apr 17, 2020 • 19:26
How 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
Apr 10, 2020 • 59:34
Stop Mis-Using the Word Multicultural!: A Rant
This 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
Apr 3, 2020 • 9:02
How to Live a Boldly Multicultural Life
On 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
Mar 27, 2020 • 42:13
Coronavirus Isn't an Excuse to be Racist and Stupid
Episode 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
Mar 20, 2020 • 11:41
Guess 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
Mar 11, 2020 • 46:35
Rewind Episode: The Challenges of Traveling as a Multiracial Family
On 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 Fa
Feb 28, 2020 • 52:57
Rewind: How to Raise Confident Mixed-Race Kids
On 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 pa
Feb 14, 2020 • 57:59
Rewind 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 a
Jan 31, 2020 • 36:46
Is 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. O
Dec 13, 2019 • 40:48
The 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
Nov 29, 2019 • 23:59
Alzheimer's Doesn't Discriminate
On 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
Nov 15, 2019 • 48:39
Laila Lalami & The Other Americans
On 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 immigr
Nov 1, 2019 • 46:18
To 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 i
Oct 18, 2019 • 38:50
Black 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 Spai
Oct 4, 2019 • 29:17
#18 How to Talk to Your Kids About Race
On 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. An
Sep 20, 2019 • 1:06:20
#17 Live from the Respect Women's Podcast Festival
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'
Sep 6, 2019 • 32:02
#16 MAMP in Spain - A Preview
Episode 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, chec
Jun 28, 2019 • 3:16
#15 "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,
Jun 14, 2019 • 46:12
#14 Food, Family and Finding Home with "From Scratch" author, Tembi Locke
On 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;
May 31, 2019 • 52:09
#13 In Defense of Diversity with Lori L Tharps
On 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 divers
May 17, 2019 • 31:48
#12 Raising Healthy Mixed-Race Kids
On 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
May 3, 2019 • 1:02:51
#11 How We Fight White Supremacy
On 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
Apr 19, 2019 • 1:12:02
#10 Interracial Friendships: Besties, BFFs and Bromances in Pop Culture and Real Life
Welcome to Season 2 of the My American Meltingpot podcast! On episode 10 we're talking about interracial friendships, not interracial romances, friendships. Besties, BFFs and Bromances. We're asking the questions; why are interracial friendships important in working towards racial justice and why don't we see more of them both in real life and in pop culture? You might be surprised to know just how few Americans claim they have a friend of a different race. Joining me to dive into this discussio
Apr 5, 2019 • 43:16
#9 Bonus Episode: Lori's Meltingpot Origin Story
On this bonus episode of the podcast, I want you to get to know me, your host, a little bit better. Everybody has an origin story and this is mine. It's not my life story, it's my meltingpot story. You will hear how I met my husband in Spain, and then how together we built a multiracial, multicultural, bilingual, meltingpot family. Our story was told as part of a special podcast series in 2017 called, The Loving Project. I hope you enjoy it.
Mar 15, 2019 • 27:46
#8 The Challenges of Traveling as a Multiracial Family
On episode #8 of the podcast, we're discussing the challenges of traveling as a multiracial family. Thanks to Cindy McCain, the widow of Senator John McCain, this issue recently made headlines when Mrs. McCain believed she was witnessing a case of child trafficking at an Arizona airport. What she really saw was a mother traveling with her mixed-race child, which according to McCain, looked suspicious and warranted police intervention. I'm joined by travel blogger and interracial justice worker,
Mar 1, 2019 • 56:45
#7 The "Beauty and Pain of Black hair" with Gillian Scott-Ward
On episode 7 of the My American Meltingpot podcast, I'm joined by Dr. Gillian Scott-Ward. In 2013, Gillian was a psychologist working at Barnard College. But when she decided to go natural, her whole world changed. On the show, we discuss how Gillian went from college psychologist to award-winning filmmaker with her debut film, Back to Natural. We talk about the "beauty and pain" of having Black hair in America and all around the world. It's a conversation that goes all the way to the roots of B
Feb 15, 2019 • 44:28
#6 Unapologetically Bold and Black: Diversity in Kids Lit with Zetta Elliott
On episode #6 of the My American Meltingpot podcast, I am joined by author, activist and educator, Zetta Elliott, for a passionate conversation about diversity in children's literature. Zetta has written over 30 books for children, teens and young adults and is committed to telling stories featuring Black characters in the most unexpected places. From sci-fi, to speculative fiction, to haunted historical fiction, Zetta has written it all and shows no signs of stopping. She is on a mission to dec
Feb 1, 2019 • 56:19
#5 Behind the Music with Sumi Tonooka
On episode #5 of My American Meltingpot, we’re going behind the music with legendary jazz composer, Sumi Tonooka. You might recognize Sumi’s name because not only is she the woman who created our Meltingpot theme music, she’s also a world class composer, jazz pianist and educator. I talk to Sumi about her decades-long career in the music industry, how her African-American and Japanese-American heritage influences her creative work, and how she used music to bring attention to the injustice of t
Jan 18, 2019 • 0:46
#4 The One-Drop Rule Revisited
On episode #4 of the MAMP podcast, we're revisiting the one-drop rule with two women who both believed they were white, until they discovered by accident, that they weren't. My guests are Gail Lukasik and Shannon Wink. Gail is the author of the new book, White Like Her: My Family's Story of Race and Racial Passing. Shannon is a Philadelphia-based journalist and writer. In her late 40s, Gail discovered that her mother had been passing as white for her entire adult life. Shannon learned her mater
Jan 4, 2019 • 0:47
#3 K-Pop Is Everything
K-Pop, or Korean pop music, is already a global phenomenon, but 2018 was arguably the year K-Pop went mainstream in the United States. Supported by a devoted, multi-ethnic fan base, groups like BTS dominated America's pop music charts all year long, even though they sing in Korean. On episode #3 of the podcast, K-Pop columnist for Billboard magazine, Tamar Herman, and teen K-Pop fan, Esai Malia-Tharps, join host Lori Tharps for a deep-dive into this diverse world of boy bands, girl groups, super
Dec 21, 2018 • 0:53
#2: Racist Technology
Is it possible for technology to be racist? And if so, what does that mean for the human beings that use it? What does that mean for society in general? Who gets hurt by technology that's racist? (Hint: Anybody with extra melanin.) All of these questions and more are answered in this fascinating discussion with Meredith Broussard, author of the new book, Artificial Unintelligence: How Computers Misunderstand the World. We break down what technology is actually capable of accomplishing and what s
Dec 7, 2018 • 0:38
#1: Deconstructing Thanksgiving
Why do we celebrate Thanksgiving? What's this holiday really about? Meltingpot host, Lori Tharps is joined by Dr. Crystal Fleming, author of the new book, How to Be Less Stupid About Race and together they deconstruct the Thanksgiving holiday. Note, it's not pretty, but it's an important conversation we all should be having. Because we all need to be a little less stupid about Thanksgiving.
Nov 23, 2018 • 0:36