• Excavation is a crucial stage in the writing process.
• Black women writers often face unique emotional challenges.
• Listening to oneself is essential during the excavation process.
• The ordinary can be a source of profound inspiration.
• Self-discovery is intertwined with the writing journey.
• Small details in everyday life can enrich storytelling.
• Vulnerability in writing leads to deeper connections.
• Naming emotions can empower writers to overcome blocks.
• The publishing industry often overlooks ordinary Black experiences.
• Writing into the ordinary is a revolutionary act.

• "Excavation is a crucial stage in the writing process."
• "The ordinary can be a source of profound inspiration."
• "Writing into the ordinary is a revolutionary act."

• 00:00 Introduction to Black Writer Doula Sessions
• 01:25 The Importance of Excavation in Writing
• 03:27 Understanding the Excavation Process
• 13:29 Excavation as a Self-Discovery Journey
• 20:23 Writing into the Ordinary
• 36:08 The Complexity of Black Womanhood in Writing
• 42:16 Affirmation and Closing Thoughts

• We are moving the Black Writer brand in a new direction.
• Shame and guilt are significant barriers to creativity.
• Shame originates from external expectations, while guilt comes from within.
• Emotions like shame and guilt can block creative energy.
• It's essential to identify where shame and guilt manifest in the body.
• Practicing gratitude for shame can help in releasing it.
• Guilt can lead to a lack of trust in oneself and decision-making.
• Creative freedom requires letting go of past burdens.
• Engaging in self-reflection is crucial for emotional healing.
• Community support is vital for writers to thrive.

• The journey of writing is often filled with challenges and setbacks.
• Community and collaboration are essential for success in the publishing industry.
• Self-publishing can empower authors to take control of their work.
• Mental health and healing are ongoing processes that require daily attention.
• Authenticity in storytelling resonates with readers and creates connection.
• Rejection in the publishing world is common and should be viewed as redirection.
• Affirmations and positive self-talk can significantly impact mental well-being.
• Building a supportive network can help underrepresented voices be heard.
• The importance of setting boundaries in creative work to avoid burnout.
• Writing can serve as a therapeutic outlet for personal experiences. Naming characters gives them identity and depth.
• Ending a story can be challenging and emotional.
• Life is often about the journey, not just the destination.
• Living in the present is crucial for happiness.
• Detaching from current reality can help in creating new narratives.
• Gardening symbolizes patience and growth in life.
• Taking control of book sales empowers authors.
• Social media is a tool, not the only way to connect.
• Authenticity in marketing is essential for authors.
• Building genuine connections is more valuable than social media presence.

Key Takeaways

• Format Changes
• Introduced Black Writer Therapy Doula
• One Author Chat/month
• Deep focus on healing, expanding community, and raising divine feminine energy
• More Intentional

• Latasha Crystal has been passionate about writing since the eighth grade.
• Writing serves as a healing medium for Latasha, helping her process her experiences.
• Imposter syndrome is a common struggle for many writers, including Latasha.
• Supportive friendships play a crucial role in personal growth and overcoming challenges.
• Latasha's debut novel, 'Rocky Crescendo,' focuses on a shy girl discovering herself through music.
• The themes of self-discovery and acceptance are central to Latasha's writing.
• Latasha enjoys blending genres in her writing, often mixing elements of middle grade and young adult fiction.
• Writing about mental health for middle schoolers is important to Latasha.
• Latasha's upcoming project is a rom-com about a good girl and a bad boy.
• Latasha believes in writing what you wish you could have experienced.

• Scarlet defines a happily married woman as someone who maintains her individuality while being in a partnership.
• Marriage requires ongoing effort and communication, especially after children leave home.
• Writing serves as a healing process for Scarlet, allowing her to explore her emotions and experiences.
• Cultural traditions and superstitions play a significant role in shaping identity and beliefs.
• Storytelling is a powerful tool for connection and understanding among women, especially women of color.
• Scarlet emphasizes the importance of being open to experiences and emotions.
• The conversation highlights the need for women to express their pain and vulnerability.
• Scarlet's journey of self-discovery is intertwined with her writing and storytelling.
• The discussion touches on the complexities of being perceived as a strong black woman.
• Scarlet's pen name is a homage to her heritage and family history. Women can embody a range of identities and emotions.
• The strong Black woman trope often forces women into a masculine role.
• Writing can be a healing process for personal and ancestral pain.
• Culinary metaphors can enrich storytelling and connect to cultural roots.
• Compassion is essential in both personal relationships and storytelling.
• Ancestral connections can guide and inspire creative work.
• The audacity of Black women writers is a powerful force in literature.
• Emotional expression is crucial for both writers and their characters.
• Characters can reflect the ideal traits we wish to see in the world.
• Creativity allows for the exploration of complex identities and experiences.