Speaking in First Draft

Speaking in First Draft is dedicated to elevating a range of creative voices and experiences, especially those whose stories are suppressed. In light of nationwide xenophobic attacks targeting immigrants, we’re handing our Girls Write Now community members the mic. Get ready to hear captivating stories from Nigeria, Ukraine, the Dominican Republic, and other parts of the world. These community voices are invaluable and must be protected; we are honored to share their stories with you.The episode features the following guests and their original pieces: * Melania Luisa Marte: “Coming To America in III Parts” and “A Newlywed American Portrait”* Nana Ekua Brew-Hammond: An excerpt from My Parents’ Marriage* Edafe Okporo: An excerpt from ASYLUM, A Memoir & Manifesto* Vera Sirota: “Ode to Councilwoman Mary ‘Marusia’ Beck”* Libsett Rodriguez: “¿Porqué no los dos?”"Speaking in First Draft is a production by Girls Write Now.Host: Kathryn DestinProducers: Kathryn Destin and Vahni KurraEditors: Annaya Baynes, Kathryn Destin, Sally Familia, and Vahni KurraMusic by Jaya Rao-Herel This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.girlswritenowmedia.org

Back with another riveting episode for this bonus season, let’s welcome first-time author Diandra Ford-Wing! In conversation with Girls Write Now’s Creative Marketing Director, Chelle Carter-Willson, they discuss Diandra’s debut novel - “Red Bird”. In this story, Diandra details the tremendous pain she underwent after losing two of the most important women in her life. From nature, spirituality, to healing, our guests leave no leaf unturned in this beautiful reflection on the mental beast that is grief.—TW: References to sexual assault, death, and suicideSpeaking in First Draft is a production by Girls Write Now.Host: Kathryn DestinProducers: Kathryn Destin and Vahni KurraEditors: Annaya Baynes, Kathryn Destin, Sally Familia, and Vahni KurraMusic by Jaya Rao-Herel This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.girlswritenowmedia.org

We’re obsessulated with our next bonus season guest, Winnie Holzman, writer and co-creator of Wicked the musical and films. Together, Winnie and host Kathryn get real about process, influences, and legacy when it comes to creating a cultural sensation. Prepare to hear some behind-the-scenes stories of the development and “betterizing” of Wicked, and what we can continue to learn from it in our ever-so-complicated, but beautiful world.Speaking in First Draft is a production by Girls Write Now.Host: Kathryn DestinProducers: Kathryn Destin, Kenna McCaferty, and Vahni KurraEditors: Annaya Baynes, Kathryn Destin, Sally Familia, and Vahni KurraMusic by Jaya Rao-Herel This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.girlswritenowmedia.org

Let us welcome Howard University’s esteemed professor and scholar of African-American literature Dana A. Williams! She is joined by Community Coordinator Annaya Baynes to discuss her newest book, Toni at Random: The Iconic Writer’s Legendary Editorship. In this biography of the brilliant novelist and activist Toni Morrison, Dana recounts Morrison’s legacy, close mentorship, and tenure as an editor at Penguin Random House. Listen in to this rich conversation between the two HBCU graduates as they discuss how vital it is to honor Black storytelling, mentorship, and art now more than ever.Speaking in First Draft is a production by Girls Write Now.Host: Kathryn DestinProducers: Kathryn Destin, Kenna McCaferty, and Vahni KurraEditors: Annaya Baynes, Kathryn Destin, Sally Familia, and Vahni KurraMusic by Jaya Rao-Herel This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.girlswritenowmedia.org

Today, we are thrilled to welcome the talented chef and author, Food Network Star Kardea Brown Smith. Host Kathryn, had the privilege of speaking with Chef Kardea about her new cookbook Make Do with What You Have. Set to launch later this year, Kardea shares 100 delicious new and accessible recipes rooted in the legacy of her family and hometown of the Gullah Geechee Sea Islands off South Carolina’s coast. We dive into rich topics such as gaining strength from “struggle” meals, the historical impact of race on the culinary industry, and how to manifest your dreams through writing.Speaking in First Draft is a production by Girls Write Now.Host: Kathryn DestinProducers: Kathryn Destin, Kenna McCaferty, and Vahni KurraEditors: Annaya Baynes, Kathryn Destin, Sally Familia, and Vahni KurraMusic by Jaya Rao-Herel This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.girlswritenowmedia.org

Speaking in First Draft returns for a special bonus season celebrating some of our newest additions to the Girls Write Now community. We are thrilled to highlight some of the remarkable voices we’ll honor at our Girls Write Now Awards this fall, so make sure ot stay tuned! This season, we’ll talk about a diversity of topics through creative writing and artistic lenses, from sharing culture through cooking to processing grief to navigating the immigrant experience, and so much more. Thank you for listening!Today's special episode features comedic actress and writer, and one of our awardees for 2025, Rachel Bloom. In conversation with mentee Inica Kotasthane, they discuss how they defy death! In promotion of Rachel's latest Netflix special, Death, Let Me Do My Special, they reflect on using stand-up comedy to process the trauma from the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. While we can’t guarantee you the cheat code to avoid death entirely, you’ll surely learn all the ways Rachel and Inica have learned to laugh and love through tremendous loss.Speaking in First Draft is a production by Girls Write Now.Host: Kathryn DestinProducers: Kathryn Destin, Vahni Kurra, and Kenna McCafertyEditors: Annaya Baynes, Kathryn Destin, Sally Familia, and Vahni KurraMusic by Jaya Rao-Herel This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.girlswritenowmedia.org

For our final episode of season 3, we're joined by GWN mentee alum Romaissaa Benzizoune and our Community Coordinator Kenna McCaferty to dive into the world of advocacy journalism. Romaissaa, a passionate writer, editor, and aficionado of culture and opinion writing, gives an honest and personal insight into the current state of digital and print media. Things aren't like they used to be and it is felt across the industry. If you're interested in learning more about the ups and downs of pursuing journalism, finding purpose in creative essay writing, and learning to adapt to this ever changing industry, then this is the episode for you.Speaking in First Draft is a production by Girls Write Now.Host: Kathryn DestinProducers: Kathryn Destin, Sally Familia, and Vahni KurraEditors: Annaya Baynes, Kathryn Destin, Sally Familia, and Vahni KurraMusic by Jaya Rao-Herel This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.girlswritenowmedia.org

In this episode, we’re diving into how writing can help you step into your zone of genius, why we often self-sabotage to restore a sense of safety, and how your relationship with ambition shapes the life you are building. We're joined by Vahni Kurra, our Marketing and Communications Manager and Amina AlTai, leadership coach, chronic illness advocate, and author of The Ambition Trap: How to Stop Chasing and Start Living. Together, they talk about the generational shift in ambition and why, even if a book has already been written, no one can share your story quite like you can!Speaking in First Draft is a production by Girls Write Now.Host: Kathryn DestinProducers: Kathryn Destin, Sally Familia, and Vahni KurraEditors: Annaya Baynes, Kathryn Destin, Sally Familia, and Vahni KurraMusic by Jaya Rao-Herel This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.girlswritenowmedia.org

Race and identity lie at the bedrock of the US. In this rich conversation, former mentor TaRessa Stovall and Girls Write Now mentee and intern Kayla Dudley discuss TaRessa's memoir Swirl Girl: Coming of Race in the USA. Together, they dive into common misconceptions about mixed-race people and media representation while also creating a powerful space for learning and growing as writers of all ages and backgrounds. Plus, stick around to hear their thoughts on Ryan Coogler's latest hit Sinners!Speaking in First Draft is a production by Girls Write Now.Host: Kathryn DestinProducers: Kathryn Destin, Sally Familia, and Vahni KurraEditors: Annaya Baynes, Kathryn Destin, Sally Familia, and Vahni KurraMusic by Jaya Rao-Herel This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.girlswritenowmedia.org

In this episode, we're taking a poetic trip to the roller rink with Arriel Vinson, a Girls Write Now mentor alum and debut author of Under the Neon Lights. In her discussion with mentee Maryam Oguntola, Arriel explores the connection between Black liberation and roller skating, and how it inspired her novel-in-verse. From talking about Midwestern hometowns to revolutionary protest, first crushes to developing a poetic style, this conversation will make you want to grab your skates and find your own place of communal joy.If you want the chance to meet Arriel and do some writing in community, come to our Friday Night Salon on June 20th at 6 PM ET! The event is hybrid, so you can join us at the Girls Write Now headquarters in Manhattan or online. You can register at https://girlswritenow.org/event/june20salon/.Speaking in First Draft is a production by Girls Write Now.Host: Kathryn DestinProducers: Kathryn Destin, Sally Familia, and Vahni KurraEditors: Kathryn Destin, Sally Familia, Vahni Kurra, and Annaya BaynesMusic by Jaya Rao-HerelThanks for listening! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support our work. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.girlswritenowmedia.org

The path to a writing career isn't always straight, as you'll learn in this episode. Girls Write Now pair Summer Boxer and Hanna Neier chat about Hanna's start in law, what brought them to GWN, and writing historical fiction. Summer and Hanna give advice for writers who are just beginning. Start the episode for thoughts on writing historical fiction and stay for the positive energy of this amazing pair!Speaking in First Draft is a production by Girls Write Now.Host: Kathryn DestinProducers: Kathryn Destin, Sally Familia, and Vahni KurraEditors: Annaya Baynes, Kathryn Destin, Sally Familia, and Vahni KurraMusic by Jaya Rao-Herel This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.girlswritenowmedia.org

Have you ever felt like the less an artist gives, the more powerful their message becomes? This week, we're diving into the world of music journalism with Mentor Ana Yglesias and Mentor Sidney Madden, a music journalist who knows what it means to protect the sacredness of the craft. Together, they unpack what makes a great story pitch, how editors shape the writing process, and why artists like Beyoncé inspire them to hone their voices with purpose. From gender dynamics in the industry to finding inspiration in unexpected places, this conversation is a deep look into the storytelling behind the music.Speaking in First Draft is a production by Girls Write Now.Host: Kathryn DestinProducers: Kathryn Destin, Sally Familia, and Vahni KurraEditors: Annaya Baynes, Kathryn Destin, Sally Familia, and Vahni KurraMusic by Jaya Rao-Herel This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.girlswritenowmedia.org

For our third and final part in our series on writing as activism, host Kathryn Destin speaks with GWN Teaching Artist Anna Lapera, Mentor alum Amira Pierce, and current mentee Maya about campus activism. With rising student movements and Gen-Z activism in response to repression from the institutions that are supposed to protect them, our episode guests share their experiences and perspectives on what is truly a historic moment for our country. The conversation discusses a variety of topics from overcoming university censorship, to using writing to raise awareness, to building true community rooted in solidarity. A special thank you to Anna, Amira, and Maya for your bravery and courage in the face of it all.Speaking in First Draft is a production by Girls Write Now.Host: Kathryn DestinProducers: Kathryn Destin, Sally Familia, and Vahni KurraEditors: Annaya Baynes, Kathryn Destin, Sally Familia, and Vahni KurraMusic by Jaya Rao-Herel This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.girlswritenowmedia.org

In part two of our three part series on writing as activism, we're discussing environmental justice. In the last year, many of our GWN community members were impacted by climate disasters from hurricanes to fires to droughts, and more. So, in the face of this new reality, we're trying something new for this episode. Instead of an interview, you'll listen to pieces from community members Robyn Lam, Rosalie Turner, and Jordan Gass-Poore creatively discussing the crisis that impacts us all.Music by Jaya Rao-Herel This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.girlswritenowmedia.org

In these tumultuous times, we often turn to art as a guide to true north. GWN's Kathryn Destin moderates a conversation with mentees Ayah Al-Masyabi and Allison Su. In this first episode of our three part series on writing as activism, you’ll hear a beautiful conversation about writing as resistance, surviving the overwhelming news cycle, and staying steadfast in your activism. You'll leave the episode with a longer TBR list and a few action items to begin your own form of resistance.Speaking in First Draft is a production by Girls Write Now.Host: Kathryn DestinProducers: Kathryn Destin, Sally Familia, and Vahni KurraEditors: Annaya Baynes, Kathryn Destin, Sally Familia, and Vahni KurraMusic by Jaya Rao-Herel This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.girlswritenowmedia.org

Have you ever been told, "Okay, now explain it to me like I'm 5 years old," and then realized that prompt is much harder than you thought it would be? This week, we're learning about children's book writing from authors and mentor alum Linda Marshall, Ashna Shah, and Candice Jalili. In this thoughtful and enlightening conversation, our guests go through the many steps of children's book writing from brainstorming to collaborating with illustrators. You might even learn a thing or two as they share how they creatively explain challenging topics like the AI revolution and political instability to our world's most impressionable minds. Speaking in First Draft is a production by Girls Write NowHost: Kathryn DestinProducers: Kathryn Destin, Sally Familia, and Vahni KurraEditors: Annaya Baynes, Kathryn Destin, Sally Familia, and Vahni KurraMusic by Jaya Rao-Herel This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.girlswritenowmedia.org

Our first episode of Speaking in First Draft Season 3 features a lovely and profound conversation between our very poetic Community Coordinators Sally Familia (they/them) and Azia Armstead (she/her). Together they explore Sally's new chapbook "Leaving, Then Coming Back", which discusses themes of departure, return, transformation, and so much more. Expect to learn this episode what Sally and Azia think about the concept of home, choosing joy and hope, and honoring the voices of our past selves. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.girlswritenowmedia.org

Bring out the garlic, crosses, and wooden stakes. This episode is all about vampires, and we get into it with Girls Write Now fellows Annaya Baynes and Kenna McCafferty. They discuss the history of vampires in Western media, the ethics of living under capitalism, and the way Black women often have the weight of the world placed on their shoulders. In this season two finale episode, you'll get to hear all about Annaya’s work-in-progress Innocent Blood. Speaking in First Draft is a production by Girls Write Now.Host: Kathryn DestinProducers: Kathryn Destin, Sally Familia, and Vahni KurraEditors: Annaya Baynes, Kathryn Destin, Sally Familia, and Vahni KurraMusic by Jaya Rao-Herel This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.girlswritenowmedia.org

Have you ever thought about dropping everything and just going? Mentor Jaime Brockway did just that for two years and in this episode shares a short story about her adventures from her untitled travel memoir. She is interviewed by travel photographer and Senior Visual Editor at Travel + Leisure Taylor McIntyre. Together, they discuss what influences their travel writing from gender dynamics to climate change. Speaking in First Draft is a production by Girls Write Now.Host: Kathryn DestinProducers: Kathryn Destin, Sally Familia, and Vahni KurraEditors: Annaya Baynes, Kathryn Destin, Sally Familia, and Vahni KurraMusic by Jaya Rao-Herel This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.girlswritenowmedia.org

Prepare to enter into an incredible world with familiars, fantastical tech, and magical girls. That is what's in store for this conversation between mentor Kristy Cunningham Bigler and mentee Shreya Darji. They discuss worldbuilding, the quest for character names, and the funny personalities of ferrets. In this episode, you'll get to hear all about Kristy's work-in-progress Code Name: Space Goddess. Find more of Kristy’s work:Website: curiographic.comPortfolio: krisbigler.comInfinite Spiral Comic: enterthespiral.comMusic by Jaya Rao-Herel This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.girlswritenowmedia.org