It's Personal Podcast

Cozbi A. Cabrera: Illustrating and Writer for Young Readers with Representation in Mind  Acclaimed children's book author and illustrator Cozbi Cabrera takes us on a journey through her creative process, sharing intimate moments from her childhood that have deeply influenced her goal of providing authentic representation for young readers through her work.   In this episode, Cozbi opens up about her path to becoming a published author and illustrator, the mentors who have guided her along the way, and the importance of diverse storytelling for children. She provides a behind-the-scenes look at how she brings her vibrant illustrations and heartwarming narratives to life, always striving to mirror the rich tapestry of human experience.   Whether you're an aspiring creator, a parent seeking meaningful books, or simply someone who appreciates the power of children's literature, this conversation with Cozbi Cabrera will surely inspire and delight. Tune in to this insightful dive into the world of inclusive, representative storytelling for young audiences.   Listen to audio versions here:   Apple: https://itunes.apple.com/ca/podcast/t.. [https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbVFfbzlvNW90LXFCZnVSMkV6WGFGaHU1LUJuZ3xBQ3Jtc0trMzhjUmYycHFFSTNzZjhSYzlmcWJTOE55NjdSZm1fb1BXbWpkcnJHUmxlUm13bWJGQmVYZ3dlWW5XVEk2OXllZ25JRTF4Qk9yZGhGam80Y2hXYUpndHRpRmFwOTk5Mmc0MWIyMUpXWjJ2bTlLaFBNUQ&q=https%3A%2F%2Fitunes.apple.com%2Fca%2Fpodcast%2Ft..&v=9XVwsgU8lWQ].   Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2f3XyNg.. [https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbTRWdTAwb2JHT0JBV0pBQmFJVDhqVWpmUWhnd3xBQ3Jtc0trWVRFdWd1S3ozcE5BTVpZVElDS3BicFZnYmNqWW1lTTBXMkFyamdnMUZMajZIdFR5MG96QlgyUXlGcXdOUVltbVhYZFNaOTJpd3pMeFQ1MEJyMjlQYldUZFI0TEZTRVMzNUlUS3B3ck0xMnB3dWs2cw&q=https%3A%2F%2Fopen.spotify.com%2Fshow%2F2f3XyNg..&v=9XVwsgU8lWQ].    Zencastr: https://zencastr.com/It-s-Personal-Po.. [https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbGdtVFdYazkyb2RiSjdSVVEwYlNSMUphb0JvQXxBQ3Jtc0tsSG1SbWZMZjdLQnRsTF9BdWNDX2t4V2gySFE5X0JzRlIxR0x1ZlhmMDY4MGRUeXlHd2VGV0FMa084U2tFVjF6eS1zWkF5eXJmQzZzTXpHWnNHMWhabldwN1JkM0tPeUxFTF9yNTd4ZXMyZE9ES01WWQ&q=https%3A%2F%2Fzencastr.com%2FIt-s-Personal-Po..&v=9XVwsgU8lWQ].   Website: https://www.cozbi.com/q4r7drqsugu7ile... [https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbTA0SnFoWU1ta0tIOGFDdDBSaW1rMTZRdmpmZ3xBQ3Jtc0tsWG9pR3A5WHRLNWpzQVVMOUNoUFJJbDdadlFITXBscEhvZXVCbXpsTFpZdWJkXzFKTGRPeV9NYVozY2I5UTl1RVFYUEhfb3NzS0JpLUdhbzlhUWFHX3kya3hjcVM0cnltQm5NNDN4a3dVYWxCaC1CYw&q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cozbi.com%2Fq4r7drqsugu7ileyo7d63pp5879y5p&v=9XVwsgU8lWQ] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cozbi/?hl=en [https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbjR2Q1FqNTZ1WTBiQmdMWDFGTFJoTFFvTDljUXxBQ3Jtc0tuTDR6T2UxZUZXMFI1alMtRTR0NGNtaUxoMVFkNG5sYmJjN25WWFdSdF9xR3phRFJtRllEZlh0R3A4UHptLWwtbUxUQVhRTWxLNERuM2xmMnc4YV8xZjRQWi1UR0p2eDREdFU4WlR1TmprN0NDdFdGQQ&q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.instagram.com%2Fcozbi%2F%3Fhl%3Den&v=9XVwsgU8lWQ] X:  https://x.com/CozbiHandmade [https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbmpmZzkxZkw2emNDclhxdWtQU3poc3YzaTZ6QXxBQ3Jtc0trMTM4eWxHN0pTa3dOY0lGdnFXVEhwR2dwN3VqbDFoSmdCcnotdTkxMU9LNUlWQk9PRXl3QzA3R24yOWp1RFFhaXljS2J1ZDB0T3ZELXRIMzN5b01GYngzX09RakFZRVRxRkdBVE1nVDZBZVB2TmRrbw&q=https%3A%2F%2Fx.com%2FCozbiHandmade&v=9XVwsgU8lWQ]

Michael Arceneaux shares COPING WITH LOSS of his mother and the essays in his new book "I Finally Bought Some Jordans" that reflect on his close relationship with his mom and the complexities of family.    Arceneaux discusses the mix of humor and heavy issues in his writing, including topics like personal finance, celebrity encounters, and navigating the pandemic. His candid reflections on family, grief, and his journey to self-acceptance provide an intimate look into his life and creative process.   Listen to audio versions here:  Apple: https://itunes.apple.com/ca/podcast/t...  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2f3XyNg...  Google: https://tinyurl.com/4zb86e8p  Zencastr: https://zencastr.com/It-s-Personal-Po...   Website: https://www.michael-arceneaux.com/  Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/youngsinick/  X: https://x.com/youngsinick  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michael.arceneaux

Poet, writer, and educator Dr. Tony Keith Jr. makes his debut with a powerful YA memoir in verse, tracing his journey from being a closeted gay Black teen battling poverty, racism, and homophobia to becoming an openly gay first-generation college student who finds freedom in poetry. The audio experience is a true delight, with Tony's writing and narration shared with such passion and joy - it truly sounds like a rap album!  Tony dreams about life after high school, where his poetic voice can find freedom on the stage and page. But the Boogeyman has been following Tony since he was six years old. First, the Boogeyman was after his Blackness, but Tony has learned It knows more than that: Tony wants to be the first in his family to attend college, but there's no path to follow. He also has feelings for boys, desires that don't align with the script he thinks is set for him and his girlfriend, Blu. Despite a supportive network of family and friends, Tony doesn't breathe a word to anyone about his feelings. As he grapples with his sexuality and moves from high school to college, he struggles with loneliness while finding solace in gay chat rooms and writing poetry. But how do you find your poetic voice when you are hiding the most important parts of yourself? And how do you escape the Boogeyman when it's lurking inside you? Grab your copy of this powerful memoir today Grab your copy of this powerful memoir today! Listen to audio versions here:  Apple: https://itunes.apple.com/ca/podcast/t...  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2f3XyNg...   Zencastr: https://zencastr.com/It-s-Personal-Po... Website: https://www.tonykeithjr.com/ Instagram:   / tonykeithjr   facebook:   / tonykeithjr   X:   / tonykeithjr

Artist and author Gracey Zhang shares insights into her diverse creative portfolio and the personal experiences that have shaped her art and writing.  From her early days exploring the world through her travels, to her immersion in the vibrant art scene at one of the top art schools in the world, Gracey's path to artistic success has been a winding and inspiring one. Delve into the inspirations behind her beautiful picture books and her deep appreciation for the power of visual storytelling.   Discover how Gracey's own experiences navigating different cultures have influenced the rich tapestry of her work, imbuing her narratives with a sense of wonder and a celebration of diversity. Join us as we unpack Gracey's passion for creating relatable and empowering stories, and learn how her unique artistic style, honed through her mastery of a mysterious mission paintbrush, has captivated readers of all ages.   Prepare to be inspired by Gracey's incredible talent and her mission to share the beauty of the world through her art and words. As we explore the next chapter of her creative journey, we can't wait to see what Gracey Zhang will bring to the world of children's literature and beyond.   Listen to audio versions here:  Apple: https://itunes.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-grayarea-podcast/id1433551931?mt=2  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2f3XyNgnVLk0rqEeebK57y?si=CDLYL6_iRMeGNQaxC7pmAA   Zencastr: https://zencastr.com/It-s-Personal-Podcast   Website: https://www.graceyzhang.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/graceyyz  Be: https://www.behance.net/graceyzhang

Luana Horry, a passionate SENIOR EDITOR at HARPERCOLLINS Children's Books, who is revolutionizing the world of children's literature. Born and raised in Jamaica, Queens, a hub of extraordinary talents, Luana has made it her mission to diversify the publishing industry and amplify underrepresented voices.   As a trailblazer in her field, Luana has worked on beloved titles such as "Not Quite Snow White" and "My Hair," championing stories that reflect the rich diversity of our world. Her unwavering dedication to inclusive content has transformed the landscape of children's books, ensuring that every child can see themselves reflected in the pages they read.   Luana's vision extends beyond just representation - she aspires to empower Black authors to explore a wide range of genres, moving beyond the confines of trauma-focused narratives. By cultivating diverse and innovative storytelling, she aims to inspire young readers and foster a deeper understanding of the human experience. With collaborations that span from Pete the Cat to renowned figures like Dwayne Wade and LeBron James, Luana's impact on the publishing world is undeniable.   Listen to audio versions here:  Apple: https://itunes.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-grayarea-podcast/id1433551931?mt=2  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2f3XyNgnVLk0rqEeebK57y?si=CDLYL6_iRMeGNQaxC7pmAA   Zencastr: https://zencastr.com/It-s-Personal-Podcast Soundcloud: https://shorturl.at/xamld

Best SELLING AUTHOR, Nick Brooks, the mind behind the critically acclaimed novel "The Promise Boys," talks about RELATIONSHIPS, and the music industry.   Nick delves deep into the personal experiences that have shaped his literary journey, from his time creating music and working with renowned record labels, to the profound impact of becoming a "girl dad" and the importance of amplifying Black and Brown voices.  Discover how these unique facets of Nick's life have infused his writing with a raw authenticity that explores the complexities of fatherhood, relationships, and the power of community.    Listen to audio versions here:  Apple: https://itunes.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-grayarea-podcast/id1433551931?mt=2  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2f3XyNgnVLk0rqEeebK57y?si=CDLYL6_iRMeGNQaxC7pmAA Google: https://tinyurl.com/4zb86e8p  Zencastr: https://zencastr.com/It-s-Personal-Podcast   Website: https://www.thenickbrooks.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialnickbrooks/  X: https://twitter.com/whoisnickbrooks  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@officialnickbrooks?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc  Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCM8r_HKBgxXGU4y4qtAzyhw

Acclaimed children's book author Ellen Oh takes us on a captivating journey, sharing insights into her diverse literary portfolio and the personal experiences that have shaped her writing.  From her early days as a lawyer and college instructor to her transition into the world of children's literature, explore Ellen's path to literary success. Delve into the inspirations behind her middle grade novels and her love for this age group. Discover how Ellen's own experiences navigating the complexities of being caught between two cultures - American and Asian - have influenced her narratives and characters. Join us as we unpack Ellen's passion for creating diverse, relatable stories for young readers. Learn how her involvement with the "We Need Diverse Books" organization has empowered her to champion representation and inclusion in the world of children's literature. Prepare to be inspired by Ellen's unique voice and her mission to uplift underrepresented experiences through the power of storytelling. Website: https://www.ellenoh.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fredtjosephhttps://www.instagram.com/elloecho/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@fredericktjoseph?lang=enhttps://www.tiktok.com/@theellenoh X: https://twitter.com/fredtjosephhttps://twitter.com/elloellenoh

Fredrick Joseph, New York Times Best Selling author, thought-provoking speaker, and advocate for equity and social justice, joins us for a captivating conversation. Fredrick will discuss his new poetry collection "We Alive, Beloved," which explores a new genre that seeks to find joy in moments of difficulty. Whether illuminating the beauty of being Black, highlighting the hope that can be found in childhood, or sharing intimate truths revealed on a mental health journey, this collection will appeal to both new and established readers of poetry. Fredrick's words promise to resonate within the deepest corners of your soul, leaving a mark on your heart and a renewed appreciation for the beauty of being alive. As a proud New Yorker, Fredrick will share insights into his upbringing and the cultural influences that have informed his perspectives on the world. Delving into the realms of music and sports, he'll unpack the powerful interconnections between these mediums and the pursuit of equality and liberation. Listeners can expect a dynamic and insightful dialogue as Fredrick shares his unique experiences, challenges preconceptions, and offers a blueprint for a more just and equitable future. Website: https://frederickjoseph.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fredtjoseph TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@fredericktjoseph?lang=en X: https://twitter.com/fredtjoseph

As we sit down with Saadia Faruqi, a talented writer and advocate for diversity in children's literature. Saadia shares her inspiring journey of writing books that resonate with her daughter, with a strong desire for her to see herself represented in literature. We explore the importance of having range in writing, capturing the early years, middle school, and older ages to cater to a wide audience. Saadia also discusses her mission as a Pakistani American writer and the significance of discussing religion with children. Get a sneak peek into her new series, "Ali the Great," focusing on the early years, set to release on August 1st. We also delve into the exciting books that Saadia has in the pipeline for the upcoming years. Website: https://saadiafaruqi.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/SaadiaFaruqi Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saadiafaruqi/

Join us on this episode of the podcast as we dive deep into the life and experiences of Antonio Michael Downing, author, musician, and speaker. Antonio shares his journey growing up in Toronto and the profound influence his grandmother had on his life and family. We explore the pressures that people of color face when creating and the challenges of letting go of control when it comes to something you've built and created. Antonio also shares his perspective on life as a bounty of creativity, and the mental health tools he uses to take care of himself. Tune in to learn more about Antonio's new book "Orphan Blue" and the powerful stories he tells through his work. Follow Antonio online: Website: https://www.antoniomichaeldowning.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/John_Orpheus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johnorpheus/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/john.orpheus.3/

Join us on this episode of the podcast as we chat with Ekiuwa Aire, founder of Our Ancestories. Ekiuwa shares her experiences growing up in boarding school in Nigeria and how her family, especially her kids, inspired her to write books that represent African history and culture. She also discusses her biggest influence, Vasti Harrison, and how her work has impacted her own writing. Tune in to learn more about Ekiuwa's journey and the importance of representation in children's literature. Follow Ekiuwa: Website: https://our-ancestories.com/en-ca/pages/about Twitter: https://twitter.com/ancestories/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/our.ancestoriess/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/our_ancestories/

Jennifer Baker was named the 2019 Publishers Weekly Star Watch "SuperStar" because her "varied work championing diversity in publishing has made her an indispensable fixture in the book business." She is the recipient of a 2017 NYSCA/NYFA Artist Fellowship and a 2017 Queens Council on the Arts New Work Grant (as well as the QCA Jr. Board Artistic Excellence Award) in Nonfiction. Her essay "What We Aren't" was also listed as a Notable Essay in The Best American Essays 2018. On Its Personal, Jennifer chats about her debut YA, FORGIVE ME NOT, and all of its meanings. Jennifer shares her thought process around the story, and how the multiple themes within the story have an impact on today's world. Throughout this chat, Jennfier also dives into her childhood and explains some of her most memorable moments in school. Website: https://www.jennifernbaker.com/bio Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jbakernyc/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/jbakernyc FORGIVE ME NOT: https://www.jennifernbaker.com/forgive-me-not-novel

Nawal Qarooni is an educator, writer, and adjunct professor who supports a holistic approach to literacy instruction and family experiences in schools across the country. Drawing on her work as an inquiry-based leader, mother, and proud daughter of immigrants, Nawal's pedagogy is centered on the rich and authentic learning all families gift their children every day. Upcoming book: Nourishing Caregiver Collaborations: Elevating Home Experiences and Classroom Practices for Collective Care (Stenhouse, end of '23 or early '24). Website: https://www.nqcliteracy.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/NQCLiteracy Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nqarooni

Breanna J. McDaniel (she/her/hers) is the co-founder of REIYL (Researchers Exploring Inclusive Youth Literature) and an author. She's published in myriad academic journals, an academic anthology and her debut picture book Hands Up! was published with Dial Books in 2019, while her newest picture book Impossible Moon was published with Denene Millner Books in June of 2022. She has five forthcoming picture books, one with Dial GO FORTH AND TELL: The Life of August Baker, Librarian and Master Storyteller coming in February of 2024 and Cute Toot with Henry Holt Books for Young Readers in the Spring of 2024. On ItsPersonal Breanna chats about growing up in the South, hard truths about her current position with education, and her soon-to-be-published picture book, Cute Toot. A podcast conversation, you do not want to miss. Website: https://www.breannajmcdaniel.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bremacbooks/

Jamila is such a warm soul. In 2017 Jamila created a lifestyle design coaching methodology to help people find intentional, aligned, and strategic ways to transform their lives into what they want them to be. Jamila is also the host of a podcast called Deliberate and Doing it Afraid, where stories, reflections, and revelations are shared. On Its Personal Jamila talks about the art of living, growing up in the south, design, and motherhood. Website: https://jamilareddy.me/meet-jamila#about-bottomInstagram: Twitter: https://twitter.com/JamilaReddy Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamilareddy/?hl=en

Born the second of six cool kids. The South Bronx is where he first opened his eyelids. A land shrouded in bright-colored decay, the birthplace of graffiti and the hip-hop DJ! He paints fantasy worlds of elephants, and castles too! Accompanying this wonder is some whimsical truth. Charles has a voice that is seldom heard. A fusion of jazz, distorted guitars, and chirping birds. C.G chats never being a reader, and starting to draw in kindergarten. He also talks closely about his family, and growing up with very little during the 90s. School was not great, but his family found ways to figure it out. Author and Illustrator of "Red, Yellow,Blue and a dash of White too!"(Skypony Press) And "Boogie Boogie, Y'all"(Harper Collins)

Ashley Franklin is a professional chaser—of ideas, dreams, and, most often, her kids. She is the author of Not Quite Snow White and a contributor to Once Upon an Eid, a collection of brilliant Muslim voices and stories. Ashley lives in Arkansas with her husband, Michael, and her children, Bilal and Mikhail. You can visit her online at www.ashleyfranklinwrites.com On the podcast, Ashley talks about raising boys and being a momma, the gifted and talented program, book deals (including The Little Mermaid), and some of her most personal writing struggles. Website: https://ashleyfranklinwrites.com/ Instagram: ashleyfranklinwrites Twitter: twitter.com/charcarr1 Facebook: www.facebook.com/ashleyfranklinwrites

Charlene has always loved writing. She grew up reading Dickens and Tolkien and Bronte. When she turned to contemporary books, too many were predictable, with characters that felt like paper doll cut-outs. It took time but, through the misses, she found books full of realistic characters, who messed up like the rest of us. Those were the books she was aching for, and are the type she aims to write. On this podcast, the Canadian writer talks about her inspiration from travel (living in multiple places), growing up with brothers, adult fiction, the editing and revising process, and future writing aspirations.. Website: https://www.charlenecarr.com/about2/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charlenecarrauthor/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/charcarr1 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/charlenecarrwritinglife

Sarah Roughley talks about growing up in Southern Ontario writing stories about freakish little girls with powers because she secretly wanted to be one. Sarah is also an educator/professor , and has her PhD in English. She prides herself on wiring pieces on writing pieces about young girls that have super powers!. On ItsPersonal, Sarah talks what she does outside of writing, storytelling in the Black and African culture, and how fantasy allows us (the world) to imagine something different. Website: https://sarahraughley.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/s_raughley/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/s_raughley

Danielle Murrell Cox is from Montreal Quebec. She is a creator of all things. She graduated from Dawson College in 2011, and is now a graphic designer, illustrator, freelancer, and business owner. Danielle is best know for her self-published coloring books Black Queens and Black Kinds, which went viral on social media and gave her the opportunity to have a segment on NowThisHer, amongst many other platforms. On ItsPersonal, Danielle chats about growing up in Canada, "speaking French", her love for art, and her supportive Black momma. Website: https://dmcox.co/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dmcox_/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/dmcox_