Imani Wisdom's brainchild -- Pink Noire Publications -- has been known for her unpredictable style of storytelling. Now its founder is expanding the "pink and black" brand to shine on prolific artists. From the inspirationalist, Danica Worthy to bestselling author, Stacy Deanne, Pink Noire understand these talented individuals know how to express their craft through words, song, dance, and stroke of a brush.

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Delia Wynne: The New York Southerner

Delia Wynne is a native New Yorker with the gift for words. She made her debut in May 2014 as an author with her novel titled, Hope’s End – a story many know all too well of domestic violence, drug abuse, and depression.

I've met Delia a few months ago as she was promoting her novel online. ‘Quiet, but fiery with passion’ was my initial impression. The more we exchanged pleasantries, the more I wanted to know her story – and reading Hope’s End only furthered my curiosity for this character-driven novelist.

It was an honor to hear her speak with candor in The Lounge. What she conveyed, I’m sure many authors and readers can relate. 

Imani: Delia, thank you for joining me in The Pink Lounge -- welcome. Let me ask you this question, something different from what I ask my guest: Tell the readers more about you and the type of work you write.

Delia: Thanks so much for having me. I am a native New Yorker now happily living in the South. Ironically, I place almost all of my stories outside of my own settings. They are stories of women attempting to overcome barriers and great odds. Sometimes, by the final page, they do succeed. Oftentimes, there is a twist that comes along with whatever resolution they end up with. One common thread in all of my stories, though, is that they are always character-driven. Their decisions and actions move the plots forward, not the other way around.

Imani: When did that epiphany hit you and you realized you were a writer?

Delia: I realized it pretty young- by the time I was twelve, I was already writing novellas. Before that, I was very imaginative, daydreaming all of the time. My childhood caused an “anywhere but here” mentality in me, so I created different worlds to live in. That gave me a lot of practice when I started to seriously plot novels. Once I was out of my teens, I concluded that other people may want to read this stuff and that maybe I could do it professionally.

Imani: What's your methodology of a solid storyline?

Delia: A solid storyline of mine always contains a likely threat of disaster. Too often I’ve read novels, especially literary ones, where I am bored stiff because there is clearly nothing that can or will harm what the author is describing. Everything is too pat. When I am plotting a storyline, I always make sure that there is something that can wreck the characters’ lives, whether that is a hurricane, an extramarital affair, or a bankruptcy. This will always be the main plot, and of course, a good storyline is always comprised of scenes that absolutely function, whether they are to advance the plot or deepen characterization- no filler allowed.

Imani: Let's talk about your book, "Hope's End" and the wayward teen, Frances Mitchell. It's a powerful read; especially, how you centered the focal point on a host of important issues -- domestic violence, alcoholism, and drug abuse. But the honesty you have put forth for Frances, bearing the darkness of clinical depression, is all too real for many. Please tell the readers the importance of writing this character dealing with these issues.

Delia: I think it’s always important to address uncomfortable issues such as these in fiction. Wounds heal best out in the open. The fact remains that domestic violence is all too common, and too many people are self-medicating themselves, like Frances does, with drugs and alcohol when they have a diagnosable mental disorder. As for clinical depression, this may be the most taboo of all subjects, especially in the black community. It’s just not taken seriously enough. Most people think to be suffering a mental illness, one has to be -an axe-wielding maniac or drooling at the mouth. Clinical depression is not treated as the grave, uncontrollable disease that it is, which is a tragedy. Another relative issue I’d like to bring up is everyone’s ignorance of Frances’s condition. Lots of times people in reality, too, fail to recognize the symptoms of depression until it is too late. It often takes a suicide attempt, a drug overdose, or worse, for people to realize that something is really wrong with their loved one.

Most people think to be suffering a mental illness, one has to be -an axe-wielding maniac or drooling at the mouth. Clinical depression is not treated as the grave, uncontrollable disease that it is, which is a tragedy. Another relative issue I’d like to bring up is everyone’s ignorance of Frances’s condition. Lots of times people in reality, too, fail to recognize the symptoms of depression until it is too late. It often takes a suicide attempt, a drug overdose, or worse, for people to realize that something is really wrong with their loved one.

Imani: When I read the book, I don't know how many times I said, "Yep! I can relate; I've been in 'Frances Mitchell' shoes. As a writer, where did the inspiration of this character had come from?

Delia: Frances’s character is symbolic of several themes. When I wrote Hope’s End, I was suffering through a depression, myself. I decided to express my anguish, disgust, hurt, and anger through a novel. This is why I think the read is so powerful, it came from my imagination, yes, but it also came from the heart. The original title of the book was in fact, ‘Out of Rage’, as Frances represents of all those terrible feelings I was having. She is both pain and hope personified. It may not be lost on readers, either, that this is a modern-day retelling of Cinderella, since she’s rescued from an abysmal situation by a prince-like suitor and lives happily- at least for a while. The twists towards the end of the book is, in part, what separates it from the classic tale, though.

Imani: Without expressing too much of the plot, what made you decide the twist?

Delia: Well, I love irony, especially in my own work. Life is unpredictable and sometimes unfair. But even if it does even out, resolutions aren’t always satisfying. I like for my art to imitate that fact of life, and frankly, I also like to jolt my readers. I feel it makes for a more unforgettable reading experience and doesn’t compromise realism, in fact it reinforces it.

Imani: What you know as an author now, meaning the common mistakes new and self-published authors make. If you can go back in time to meet yourself as a novice writer, what advice would you give yourself?

Delia: Honestly, I am still learning. I don’t consider myself a new writer anymore, but I’m far from an experienced veteran. The one thing that I’d tell my past self is to work harder at promotion, because I spent a lot of time thinking that sales would just fall into my lap, then I became discouraged when that didn't happen. Promotion takes almost as much effort as writing, itself, does.

I don’t consider myself a new writer anymore, but I’m far from an experienced veteran. The one thing that I’d tell my past self is to work harder at promotion, because I spent a lot of time thinking that sales would just fall into my lap, then I became discouraged when that didn't happen. Promotion takes almost as much effort as writing, itself, does.

Imani: Where do see your career standing in five years?

Delia: I hope to see Hope’s End exposed to a whole lot more people. Of course, I’d like to have several more books out there doing well, and I do have other stories to tell. But I’d ultimately love to see Hope’s End reach the level of Push/Precious, or The Color Purple.

Imani: Do you have any projects you are currently working on, or any new releases you would like to share? And if it's a new release, please share a brief description of the story and its characters?

Delia: My latest story is an Urban Lit effort named Brie & Dallas. It’s about a former streetwalker that helps her ex-pimp through a life-threatening crisis. The main question is whether they can live together clean and square, or will their old habits get the better of them. It’s less serious and more freewheeling than Hope’s End. There is a lot of authentic, graphic content in this book, but I decided not to use the same bleak mood that I did in Hope’s End. Brie & Dallas is a more straightforward, action-focused tale.

Imani: Finally, tell us one thing you haven't shared with your readers. It can be a quirk, a favorite food, or a hidden talent. The floor is yours.

Delia: I’m an amateur comic book artist and have my own graphic novel called Track Star. I’m obsessed with track and field, so I came up with a story about a gorgeous sprinter who has a glamorous life and jet-setting career. It’s a hobby and a labor of love.

Imani: Fascinating! Will you pursue this avenue in comics someday?

Delia: No, it’s just something I like to read back and enjoy myself, but I never mind showing it off to interested people.

Imani: Delia, thank you for stopping by The Lounge. I had a blast. Tell the readers where they can purchase your work, as well as finding you on the web?



People can email at any time at deediwynne@gmail.com.


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The Intriguing Mysteries of Lori Titus

There’s nothing more intriguing than an author who thinks outside and beyond a box to create frightful tales of ghosts, zombies, and dark characters from beyond.

A couple of weeks ago, as I was searching for new guests among a plethora of writers online to fill the Pink Lounge, Lori Titus had caught my eye in a writing group. Perhaps it was piercing her brown eyes and her gentle smile speaking to me from her profile picture; or, her love for the paranormal was just as profound as mine; or maybe...just maybe...I needed to know who this author was in a genre with so few African Americans. 




Imani: Lori, thank you for joining me in The Pink Lounge -- welcome. Let me ask you this question I ask all of my guest: What makes Lori Titus the woman she is today?

Lori: Many things go into making someone who they are. Two things that my mother taught me come to mind. Perseverance, because success requires trial, failure, and the stubbornness to get back up. The other value would be a curiosity about life and learning in general. .

Imani: As I was conducting research for this interview, I've noticed on many sites around the web that you convey mystery and intrigue. Share with the readers how writing "intrigued" you, and how did it lead you to the paranormal genre?

Lori: Writing, no matter what kind of story, is about unlocking mysteries. I love to get into the mind of a character, to hear their inner thoughts. Paranormal stories interest me because they allow you to operate without the ordinary rules. If you can create a world where monsters exist, telepathy is a given, or ghosts live among us, anything is possible.

Writing, no matter what kind of story, is about unlocking mysteries. I love to get into the mind of a character, to hear their inner thoughts. Paranormal stories interest me because they allow you to operate without the ordinary rules. If you can create a world where monsters exist, telepathy is a given, or ghosts live among us, anything is possible.

Imani: What's your methodology of a solid storyline?

Lori: My story ideas start with a question. What happens if a girl has abilities that she hides? What would happen if the dead could come back in one cursed town? From there the storyline develops through the actions of the characters. Each step supports the storyline and advances the characters' journey.

Imani: So is it fair to ask that you are character-driven?

Lori: Yes, I guess you could say that. I definitely like to experiment.  If I don’t like how something comes out it can always be cleaned up in the editing process.

Imani: Although we have known each other for a brief time, as well as reading most of your work online, I want to say before we go further that you are a phenomenal writer. So, share with the readers each of your titles and their brief descriptions.

Lori: Thanks so much for the compliment!

Here's a list of my titles:

Hunting in Closed Spaces: A young girl is abducted by a man who says he was sent to protect her. Why are the powerful members of The Circle out to get her at any cost?

Lazarus: In Lazarus, California, 1869, the dead don't always stay that way. Enter Luella, a woman with a mysterious past and a plan to stop the dead from rising.

Green Water Lullaby: A collection of stories featuring ghosts, ghouls and other bad things in the town of Chrysallis, South Carolina.

Hailey's Shadow: As an adult now accused of murder, Hailey had a troubled childhood, and was known for starting fires. Are the "shadows" that she sees a fabrication of a disturbed mind, or are they real?

The Guardians of Man: This novel was a collaboration with Crystal Connor. In an isolated mountain community, residents fear the coming of winter after a worldwide power outage has left them without heat. What starts off as a technological disaster is revealed to be something worse - the ultimate battle between good and evil.

Imani: Of all of your characters, which one you would like to interview and why?

Lori: I would like to talk to Justin, Marradith's love interest from Hunting in Closed Spaces. He's one of those characters you never know what he will say.

Imani: The Paranormal genre have a pool of talented writers, and yet the number of African American authors are minimal. Why do you think that is so? And could it be an unreasonable fear within the African American community towards the genre?

Lori: I am not sure what it is. I believe that fundamentalist religion has something to do with the fact we don't see many blacks writing in paranormal or horror genres. That said, we are big consumers of this kind of fiction, in books and movies. I believe it’s considered a guilty pleasure by most in the black community.

 I am not sure what it is. I believe that fundamentalist religion has something to do with the fact we don't see many blacks writing in paranormal or horror genres. That said, we are big consumers of this kind of fiction, in books and movies. I believe it’s considered a guilty pleasure by most in the black community.

Imani: Now, you have coauthored a few titles with authors; such as, Crystal Conner and Olivia Weston. Tell us how you met these individuals, and what are the pros and cons to coauthor books?

Lori: I met Crystal through Facebook. After a while we started talking about writing together. Crystal writes more horror driven and sci fi dark fiction as opposed to mine, which tends to be paranormal and romance driven. Olivia Weston had edited for Crystal before, and she agreed to edit The End is Now and The Guardians of Man.

Imani: Do you have plans for another collaboration with these ladies? Or, are you flying solo with your own project(s)? And if so, could you share with us the details?

Lori: Crystal and I don't have anything specific planned, but I am sure we'll collaborate again.  I have a plot idea that I am holding on to just in case.

Imani: Among your litany of accolades and achievements, you also own the website "Flashes in the Dark". Share with the readers the concept behind this site, and where do you see it going in five years?

Lori: My goal for the next five years remains the same but on a larger scale - to introduce new and established writers to readers who don't have much time but want to be entertained.

Imani: Tell us one thing you haven't shared with your readers. It can be a quirk, a favorite food, or a hidden talent. The floor is yours.

Lori: I think most people would but surprised to know that most of my stories have tie ins. Luella is a great aunt to Marradith. The Guardians of Man also has a tie in to The Marradith Ryder Series.

Imani:  Finally, as an artist, we have muses and person(s) we admired to help shape our craft. So, who is your inspiration and if they were here right now, what would you say to them?

Lori: I would tell my sister, Linda that it was all worth it.

Imani: Lori, thank you for stopping by The Lounge. I had a blast. Tell the readers where they can purchase your work, as well as finding you on the web?

Lori: My work is available on Amazon.com. I am expecting to have a new novel called The Bell House out in December or January. I also have two novels in progress. One is tentatively titled The Daughters of Cain, which is about halfway through the first draft. The second is The Art of Shadows, which will be going to an editor soon. Shadows is the second book in The Marradith Ryder Series.


To learn more about Lori Titus and her amazing work visit her at LoriBeth215.wordpress.com and FlashesInTheDark.com.
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Tamyara Brown: Phenomenally Empowered!


Author of Blue’s Treasure and The Gatekeeper of Secrets, this decorated storyteller have stepped into the literary scene as a blushing novice. With her unwavering support to authors and her growth as a writer in a competitive industry, Brown had expanded her brand – with her business partner, Jeanell Byers – Taylor – and created “Beautifully Me Undefined”, a blog for the spirit of women of all shapes and sizes.


This breast cancer survivor, a mother of six, and a grandmother to four, Tamyara Brown’s literary legacy is only in its infancy. Her natural ability to give life to her characters and the vividness of her storylines, proves this author will leave a indelible mark as a unforgettable novelist. 


Imani: First off, welcome to The Pink Lounge. I'm very excited you're here, not because you and I share similar backgrounds and interests, but you have an incredible and inspiring story. So, in your own words tell the readers who Tamyara Brown is?

Tamyara: Tamyara Brown is an author who loves writing outside of the box. I am a mother of six beautiful children as well as a grandmother of four beautiful grandchildren. I am resilient. I am an entrepreneur I love inspiring and seeing others do well.

Imani: From what I read on your bio, your strength as a mother of six, a Breast Cancer survivor and of Domestic Violence, and caring for your son who has a rare kidney condition is an inspiration itself. That being said, as a writer myself, I know creativity doesn't come in the drop of a hat; it'll come when it comes. So tell me, how you muster the time, and more importantly, the emotions to write such eloquent work?

Tamyara: It is my passion, my joy but most of all a way for me to express myself as a person. A lot of my writing is inspired by the community I live in, people I meet every day and encounter with. As writers we often listen more and we are drawn to always ask, "What if"? My mind wonders what would happen if this person or situation went a different route. Sitting with my son at dialysis is my down time to really write and pour myself into the book I am writing. It is an attitude that trials and tribulations will not stop me at all.

Imani: All of your children seem to be one of your sources of inspiration; especially giving you words of encouragement. But a young man named, Ruben, pushes you into believing you can do ANYTHING your heart desire. Tell us more about this motivator and what's the recent "words of wisdom" he had shared with his mother? 

Tamyara: He is indeed my inspiration he has been battling a rare kidney disease named FSGS and nephritic syndrome. He has endured many challenges and now being on dialysis three times a week, 25 pills a day and he still smiles. He encourages me because my belief is if he can fight with every fiber of his being to stay resilient. I have no excuse. His last quote was during therapy, “The greatest love is letting go of what doesn't feel like love, what doesn't treat me like love and hurts so much it burns your heart. I let go of this one person because I love me the best and I don't deserve love that hurts. No one does."

“The greatest love is letting go of what doesn't feel like love, what doesn't treat me like love and hurts so much it burns your heart. I let go of this one person because I love me the best and I don't deserve love that hurts. No one does."

Imani: What I'm most impressed with you is the soul you put into your work - from your debut novel "Blues Treasure", to "The Gatekeeper of Secrets, and your upcoming release, "Fat Girl Vigilante", how did your soul speak to you to write each story? Let's start off with "Blues Treasure" and then to your next works.

Tamyara: Blue's Treasure was truly inspired by a relationship with someone I love and though we are not together he loved me unconditionally. He was incarcerated and I decided to go into his world of how it felt to have the woman he loves not write or visit. Even though the story is fictional the emotion is real. I thought of the consequences, the pain and anger he felt and how powerful love really is. That men love just as hard as women do. I wanted to put the question out there does love really conquer all? Can love cut through anger? Does it mend a broken heart and most importantly men no matter how tough and strong have feelings at the end of the day. Harper Blue was created in the likeness of him. I also wanted to touch on domestic violence and that professional women become abused by their mate. I touch on forgiveness and drug abuse.

Gatekeepers of Secrets is one of my favorite novels which is on Wattpad. It touches on a man who is sexually molested as a child and for all these years he has kept it secret. He was raised in a Christian home and a father who is the pillar of the community. How do you tell the world the Bishop of the church and community leader is a child molester? I allowed my mind to go places of a man who has it all together, who too is a community leader but also has a dark past. So many people believe when a man is molested he turns to drugs and alcohol which isn't true. In William Matters case he became driven, ambitious, working without sleep for hours to cover up the truth.

Fat Girl Vigilante was written out of anger, hurt and pain I was going through. It was being angry at the world and I needed to vent. So I created a story about a woman who is the first serial killer. She is on a rampage but more than anything she can't get over the hurt and pain of being teased as a plus size woman, being cheated on and not feeling love. I want every woman of size to realize you can fix the outer but the inner is what is in need of repair.

Imani: Besides being a prolific author, you're also a poet. When did you start writing the craft? And will you publish your poetry, or collaborate with other poets to make an anthology?

Tamyara: Poetry is my first love and I started writing when I was 11 years old. I became inspired by a poem Langston Hughes wrote called, "The Negro Mother". I instantly became fan and started writing my own poetry. I began writing every day and I haven't stopped. I would love to publish my poetry for the world to read and I have contributed poetry to three anthologies.

 Imani: As an artist, we have muses or person(s) we admired to help shape our craft. So, who is your inspiration and if they were here right now, what would say to them?

Tamyara: I have to say I admire Treasure Blue as an inspiration. Kisha Green for the business portion and you, Imani. Each of you drop gold nuggets of knowledge about the business. I truly thank each of you for every tip and lesson about writing. For being open and honest. Willing to answer questions and listen. I am grateful for each of you because I am better writer because of it. Imani, we both where new to writing and you'd email me information. You gave me my first guest blogging spot. That meant the world to me.

 Imani: They say life is a journey and you are a proven fact. In the last year, you've taken up a new passion - graphic designing. How did you learn to balance this new craft with an already full-plate?

Tamyara: Graphic Designing came from honestly not being able to afford one. My Uncle Khalid once told me, “If you can't afford it then learn how to do it yourself." I begin looking at videos on Youtube, reading blogs, learning how to code and just practicing every day. I just ran with it and it became more like a second new passion of mine.

Imani: Among your notable titles, you're also a blogger. You have a successful blog called, Beautifully Me Undefined. Tell us more about this site and how did you come up with the concept?

Tamyara: Beautifully Me Undefined came about one day when I realize we as women don't celebrate our bodies, ourselves. We think celebrating you have to perfect. A size two or four. I wanted plus size women to be bold, feel beautifully themselves at all times and live life without limitations. Your weight doesn't and never will determine your worth. It became a movement along with my partner Jeanell Byers- Taylor. I want plus size women to feel empowered. I want women all over the world to feel sexy and rock their curves. Beauty and Love doesn't have a waist size.

Imani: Okay, let me say to all of the readers, this woman is a powerhouse when it comes to writing. She writes all of time, despite of an uncertain publishing date - she goes on no matter what. So, within your library of finished work or work-in-progress, or even Beautifully Me Undefined what can we expect from Tamyara Brown in the future?

Tamyara: Thank you, Imani. I am currently working on a story called, “I AM Here" which you read on Wattpad. I am also working on another book called the, " B.L.A.H Diaries" (Broke, Lonely, Angry and Horny). As For Beautifully Me Undefined it is my goal to have my first conference of workshops, celebrity speakers and two days of empowering plus size women to step out of their shell and shine. Filled with tips on fashion, make-up, hair, how to open and start a business as well as self-publishing your book.

 Imani: Tell us one thing you haven't shared with your readers. It can be a quirk, a favorite food, or a hidden talent. The floor is yours.

Tamyara: I love to write erotica. Often people are afraid of the SEX word. I like stepping out of myself and creating a moment that will make people melt away their inhibitions. Sex is about power play of the mind, the soul and heart. Using those three to seduce a reader to think hmm I would like to try that with my husband/lover. I love writing what people are afraid to talk about. It is like the librarian who has a crush on the security guard. Or the business woman who is infatuated with the thug or the nerd. Imagine the magic you can ignite between those two souls once they let go of what people might think. The man who models but desires a plus size woman. Erotica gives me permission to break boundaries and change the rules of what is sexy. Every man and woman has a definition of what they consider sexy. Erotica gives you the room to explore and make people squirm in their seats.

"Erotica gives me permission to break boundaries and change the rules of what is sexy. Every man and woman has a definition of what they consider sexy. Erotica gives you the room to explore and make people squirm in their seats."

Imani: What I admire most about you is your no-nonsense approach of how beauty is supposed to be; whether of what shape or size, your mantra is "Beauty is skin deep". So, are we to expect an erotic novel proving size doesn't matter in the bedroom?

Tamyara: Yes and I think sexy is the confidence a woman feels. For a moment I use to think sexy is the right size, the right body, the pretty face, hair etc. The truth is sexy is about letting go fears of what YOU think. The novel will challenge the myths we create about our bodies. A man wanting you to fit society standards for beauty. I want plus size beauties to know they can be sexy and there are men who love every inch of them.

Imani: Finally, if you were to plan a dinner party and have extended the guest list with three legendary figures (living or not), who would they be and what would you say to each of them?

Tamyara: I would like to invite Maya Angelou, J. California Cooper, Langston Hughes, Terry McMillian, James Patterson, Jodi Piccoult, Danielle Steele and Mary B. Morrison.

Imani: Great choices. Now before we conclude our chat, could you share with readers where they can learn more about FSGS and Nephrotic syndrome?

Tamyara: For more information on FSGS and Nephritic Syndrome. Please go to www.nephcure.org, which is a community centered on finding a cure for FSGS (Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis) and Nephrotic Syndrome.

Imani: Tamyara, thank you for taking the time to stop by The Lounge for this conversation. I had a blast. Tell the readers where you they can purchase "Blues Treasure" and your other works, as well as finding you on the web?

Twitter: @tamluvstowrite
Facebook: www.facebook.com/tamluvstowrite                            


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Danica Worthy: The "It" Factor



Have you met someone and you knew instantly they had “it”?

I’m not talking of a "Beyonce-it" or "Halle Berry-it"; but the type of “it” that moves you through words – touching down to the bare soul. I’ve read lots of inspirational works written by some of the best, and yet not one has ever spurred an immediate reaction of researching the author. Of course I wasn’t surprise to discover her surname was “Worthy” – a perfect name to this galvanizing writer.

I also had the pleasure to finally chat with this talent on the phone. We have talked of everything from: our work, to family, and to life in general. Our 90 minute conversation was more than a business call, but a relaxing conversation with two women sharing a common thread.


Imani: Danica, I'm so honored you have accepted the invitation to join me in the Pink Lounge -- welcome. First off, let me ask the question I ask all of my guest: What makes Danica Worthy the woman who she is today?

Danica: Great Question. I am a woman who has and will continue to transform. My life's experiences, family and those I've come in contact with all play a role in my womanhood. I hold many roles and each one I take seriously. I like to think that I AM another one of God's beautiful unique creations taking the world by storm.


Imani: With all of your distinguished titles: motivational speaker, substance/mental health counselor, spiritual counselor, and author, I'm interested of how spiritual counseling became a part of your journey, and what does a spiritual counselor actually do?

Danica: My grandmother was a spiritual counselor and I believe this gift was passed down. A spiritual counselor is one with great listening abilities who's objectives may be to help others define life's purpose, overcome obstacles, connect with their inner spirit, and or to define what spirituality means to them. It really is a personal journey that I am allowed to help guide someone on.

Imani: That's a powerful gift. So this innate ability has lead you to where you are today. As I've learned, some people are born with it and some aren't. Do you agree?

Danica: I believe we're all born with this gift some are in tune with it instantly, some are taught to tap into their inner spirit, and some never find it.

Imani: From what I read of your work, I say you are one of the most prolific writers I know. Having said that, at what age you knew you were a writer? And how did it lead you to write such motivating and inspiring work?

Danica: I began writing approximately the age of 14 in journals. I was writing as a means to express myself freely without judgement or getting into trouble (lol). Writing has always been a safe haven for me I could say what I wanted without reprimand. When I began to share my work and saw how it made others feel it led me into writing not only for myself.

Imani: Now you have recently had to face a challenge that many women face some time in their life, which is Breast Cancer. Share with the readers, not how you felt when you heard the diagnosis because it's pretty obvious hearing "cancer" and your name in the same sentence is like synonymous with "fear and anger"; but share how it changed you as a person, and the way you view the world now?

Danica: I was changed in how I looked at life. I realized what I knew as life could be over and I had not even touched the surface of fulfilling my life's purpose. I had lost friends who had suffered from the disease and I wanted to bring awareness to not only cancer but other issues as well. This experience taught me that awareness is a vital component when it comes to our health, treatment, funding, and resources.

"I realized what I knew as life could be over and I had not even touched the surface of fulfilling my life's purpose."
Imani: Physically, how are you feeling to this day?

Danica: I affirm that I am 100% healthy everyday. I believe as I develop that mindset my body will eventually follow. I have had many health challenges and have had to incorporate radical self care. I'm loving how we can visualize a thing and soon it will immediately follow.

Imani: Let's change the subject a bit, and talk about the anthology you have collaborated with other talented authors: Deidra DS Green, Tammie T. Bell-Davis, and Jamila Gomez. Tell us more about this project, and how did the ladies and you made this idea into a reality?

Danica: I met these ladies via social media and we were a fan of each other's work. As we began to build relationships, we wanted to put a project together at the conference call; we all agreed on the subjects Cancer/ Bullying. We all had been directly or indirectly affected by both.

Imani: Have you been a victim of Bullying? If so, did it ever create a self-conscious within you and how did you turn it around?

Danica: Yes! I chose the route of being a peacemaker or agreeing with everyone to stay safe. What I realized through awareness is that there are many types of bullying i.e. workplace, cyber, indirect, or mental. How I began to turn that around is by exposing the party involved. Bullies hide behind their toughness, and titles. When I mastered the art of becoming aware I understood that I can change anything.

 Imani: Our journeys are filled with the unexpected -- the highs, the lows, and at times wanting to succumb to the adversity and give up; but not you. Where do you find the strength to pursue your dream, despite life's challenges?

Danica: I believe I get my strength and resilient spirit from my mom. After experiencing loss after loss, health issues, depression I had to ask God for mental fortitude. I utilize all the tools I've accumulated over the years to get me through when I come face to face with challenges.

"After experiencing loss after loss, health issues, depression I had to ask God for mental fortitude. I utilize all the tools I've accumulated over the years to get me through when I come face to face with challenges"

Imani: As an artist, we have muses and person(s) we admire help shape our craft. So, who is your inspiration and if they were here now, what would you say to them?

Danica: Wow my dad and my grandmother. I would tell them thank you for their love, wisdom, and guidance. I would tell them that even though they're not physical here I have apart of them in my heart.

Imani: Tell us one thing you haven't shared with your readers. It can be a quirk, a favorite food, or a hidden talent. The floor is yours.

Danica: I am very shy so I created a alter ego to get me through those trying moments when the shy anxiety creeps up. I also think I was a comedian and singer in my past life lol.

Imani: Now on a relaxed note: If you were to plan a dinner party and have extended the guest list with three legendary figures (living or not), who would they be and what one question you would ask them?

Danica: I would invite Marvin Gaye, Maya Angelou, and Goddess Isis.

I would ask Marvin his thoughts on the world today.

I would ask Mother Maya for one wisdom nugget to carry me through my journey.

I would ask Goddess Isis for one ancient Egypt secret.

Imani: Finally, what future projects do you have in store?

Danica: I will be releasing my book Suffering In Silence as well as a ebook of Affirmations. I will be expanding my brand to further empower women to live a fulfilled life holistically with a voice that roars.

Imani:  Danica, as we conclude the interview, tell the readers where they can purchase, The Sisters' Fight, and your other work, as well as finding you on the web?


Danica: You can find me on:



My website www.danicaworthy.com is forthcoming.
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5 WAYS TO STAY MOTIVATED DURING SEASONAL CHANGES



By Danica Worthy

With all you've been through are you looking for ways to stay motivated? 

If so I have developed some tips that will help you navigate through your life's journey.

We have approach a new season this year; autumn. A time of full maturity,  or it's early decline. During this season the atmosphere changes it's appearance allowing one to appreciate a different type of beauty.

Gazing upon natures new aura take a moment and think of the changes you have experienced over the year. You may be moving to a new job, launching a new business, or restructuring an existing one. Whatever the project is it takes time and effort and along the way you can and will lose motivation.

So here is how I've been able to stay motivated as season changes and obstacles come.

1. Find your passion= Finding your purpose.

I can't say this enough find what your most passionate about doing and DO IT. The thing that brings you the most euphoric joy when your in the midst of it. Ask yourself how does doing what I love empower me and those I come in contact with. Finally ask yourself what tangible benefits will I see by doing what I love.

2. Build your confidence muscle.

This is a big one not everyone was born with the solid I am the bomb diggity muscle. Look in the mirror daily and feed yourself with positive affirmations this is a great way to believe in yourself and silence the negative enemy in your mind. Conduct a life assessment review all the things you've been through,  you will discover a strength bridge that brought you over.

3. Keep gaining experience.

As you conduct your life audit become aware of your skill set. What are you an expert at? Learn your skill by doing whatever you desire to do get out there and do it. Don't wait for opportunities create them and watch opportunities find you. Take courses that will expand your knowledge and invest in yourself.  I almost forgot connect with what resonates with you.

4. Build a support system

Connections are great when they leave you feeling empowered, inspired, and ready to take action. Find those who have been where you're trying to go and build a relationship.  Bring something to the table because in any relationship you must give and not only take.

5. Take joy in your journey.

With all your plans and dreams don't forget to experience joy. Have fun knowing that all roads lead to opportunity and more creation. Detach from how you think things should be and just enjoy the ride.

Connect with me on facebook for more post like these https://m.facebook.com/DanicaInspiresTheInspirationalist?ref=bookmark



Danica Nichole Worthy was born and raised in Rochester, NY. She is a spoken word artist, poet, writer, motivator, and inspirationalist. Danica was created to inspire others to excellence. A counselor specializing in substance abuse/mental health and spiritual counseling, she is a Humanitarian, and a member of several charitable organizations. Danica N. Worthy has been writing since the age of fourteen. Her messages are of hope, love, and the ability to succeed inspite of your circumstances. Danica has co-hosted "Straight to Truth", blog talk radio show, focusing on on relationship building. Worthy is currently working on a poetic anthology, her debut novel, and a book of inspirational poetry.  
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