LAKIA NICHOLE: BEAUTY, INSIDE AND OUT

Lakia Nichole strives on becoming better than she was yesterday. Never one to back down from a fight, she uses her personal challenges as motivation to become the best woman she can be. Lakia prays and have daily conversations with God for peace and understanding about what life throws at her.  It's her way of maintaining balance and as a Libra, that's important for her. She believes that life can be easier when we worry less and love ourselves more. Those are two major lessons that she's learned the hard way. As she implements those lessons in her daily life, she continues to embark on a journey to personal evolution.

Lakia is the type of woman who would see the good in even her worst enemy. She knows that a troubled soul stems from an uninviting situation or circumstance. Therefore, she offers a friendly hand without judgment or criticism. However, she'll kindly let you know not to take her kindness as a weakness. 

Courtesy of www.lakianichole.com

Imani: Welcome to The Lounge! Let’s get right to it: Share a little background about Lakia Nichole – what makes her the woman she is today?

Lakia: Lakia Nichole is the woman today, because of the perseverance over many trials and tribulations. In fact, I wouldn’t be where I am today had it not been for the “teachers” and the lessons I’ve had that taught me what I deserve, what I don’t deserve, what I’m capable of, what my purpose is, etc.

Your anticipated novel, Number One Fan, is all ready creating a buzz before its release in May. Can you give a brief synopsis of the story and its characters?

Number One Fan releases May 1st, and I’m so excited. Basically, it’s about an over-zealous fan and the extreme adulation she has for her favorite star. She’ll go to great lengths to be with him.

This book is centered on a mental illness called Celebrity Worship Syndrome. What exactly is CWS, and who is likely to get it?

Yes. One of the main characters “Kennedy” suffers from Celebrity Worship Syndrome, which is an obsessive-addictive disorder in which a person becomes overly involved with the details of a celebrity's personal life. Folks who suffer from this usually have trouble with relationships in their personal lives. Hence, the need to fill a void with the star they admire.

Were there any challenges of writing this book?

No. Not at all. In fact, I couldn’t wait to complete the story. There are a lot of “Kennedys” in the world. I wanted to create this story with an “out of this world” plot, but with the reality behind CWS, it’ll be a story that a lot of women and men can relate to.

"I wouldn’t be where I am today had it not been for the “teachers” and the lessons I’ve had that taught me what I deserve, what I don’t deserve, what I’m capable of, what my purpose is, etc."

You’ve written an eloquent and honest statement in a recent press release about your experiences of CWS with one of the members from a Grammy Award-Winning group. You said in the statement, that it began during a time you’ve suffered loneliness and hopelessness, and their music had helped you through the darkness. So when did it go from admiration to an unhealthy obsession?

I can’t recall when my admiration transformed from simple to unhealthy, but I do recall seeing things within myself that I knew I needed to change. Because of my actions, I couldn’t remain focused on my business. As a result, my publishing business suffered, because of my unstable behavior. I’m just grateful to God that I was able to recognize the characteristics I’ve adopted and deal with them accordingly before it became more detrimental.

Did you seek professional help once you knew it was going out of hand?

No. It wasn’t that severe that I needed professional help. I simply stayed off of social media. LOL. When I did go on social media, I spent time on it promoting my business.

You also said you friended with one of its members on social media. Are you still friends with him or you’ve unfollowed (or unfriended) him for the sake of your sanity? 

As of today, I am still connected with the group via social media. If you would have asked me four years ago, I would be filled with enthusiasm. At this point in my life, it wouldn’t matter if we did or didn’t. During my transition, I’ve learned that celebrities are just ordinary folks with extra-ordinary jobs. They feel, bleed, $h!t, eat, and think like we do.

You said also Chase’s number one fan, Kennedy, is 35 percent you. Is there the slightest percentage of Chase’s character as the aforementioned group’s member?

Not at all. The only thing they have in common is that they’re singers. I wanted Chase to be a singer, because I’m a little more knowledgeable about the music business. I’m not familiar with what goes on in the business of sports and acting.

Now I want to move on and discuss your other endeavors. You’re a radio talk show host for Baltimore FlavaRadio. How did you fall into this fascinating opportunity?

 I was actually a guest twice on Baltimore Flava Radio and that’s how I got to know the hosts. They are great people and so fun to be around. When I discovered that they were holding auditions for a new co-host, I jumped at the chance. I submitted a video of a mock entertainment news report and eventually became one of three finalists. I was chosen as the winner during their one year anniversary celebration and it’s been non-stop fun with these guys ever since. I love those guys dearly, and I’m proud to be part of a group that created a platform to highlight DMV talent, much like I do with The YOUnique Mag.

And speaking of The YOUnique Mag...What were the most interesting guest you’ve interviewed and the most challenging? (You don’t have to give names)

I want to say the most interesting to interview was Ms. (Superwoman) Karyn White. She was so candid and open about her transition from the music biz to motherhood. The most challenging was Allan McNeil from the group Troop. I really tried to pull as much as I could out of him about his departure from the group, which wasn’t under good terms. He touched on it, but not as much as I wanted him to.

Tell us more about New Breed Publishing LLC and its mission to its authors and readers.

My mission as the publisher of New Breed is to bring together a team of talented authors that will create stand out material in an industry where stories are seemingly duplicated.

Number One Fan is your fourth book, third novel. Of all of your characters from your novels, which one you would love to interview?

Hmmmm. Good question. Probably Matthew from my first novel Hidden Confessions.  I’m re-releasing that one and its sequel Unveiled this year. I say Matthew because my poor character has been through a lot. However, he remains strong.

I want to quickly ask about your biography, Unbroken: A Story Faith, Struggle, and Triumph. According to the synopsis, you said, “No matter the strength of the storm, your umbrella of faith will keep you dry, as well as teach you when to dance in the rain. Eventually, the sun will come back out.” How therapeutic for you to literally be an open book for the world?

It was very therapeutic for me, because it helped me release the nagging and negative thoughts I carried. Upon writing, I knew that what I was writing was going to be something most women could relate to. Some will say I put too much of my personal business out there. What I say to that is… My comfort level won’t allow me to share/post what I don’t need to share/post. I find comfort in being transparent. I think being self-aware and sharing your thoughts with others is a gift from God, because you are possibly helping in spreading the message that people shouldn’t be afraid of who they are.

Before we conclude the interview, I want to congratulate you on this project. Like any artist, accomplishing a creative work to share with the world is an awesome feeling. With that said, what do you want readers to get from this book?

I want my readers to get a better understanding of why people do what they do. Before you judge or criticize, try to find out the core issue because there’s always something that triggers an action/behavior that you would deem “abnormal”. As far as the story itself…I want people to get the same feeling they get after they watch a crazy plot from their favorite television show. I want them to get the same feeling they get when they leave from watching an anticipated feature film that met their expectations.

What is your next project(s)?

I’m working on my next novel titled Hip Hop, Love, and Everything in Between. I’m looking to release that by Fall of 2015.

Finally, if you were to have a dinner party and invited five people you most admired – living or passed on. Who would they be, and what one question you would ask each of them?

Michael Jackson -I would ask him how he remained so humble throughout his amazing career. Queen Latifah said it best during his memorial. He really is the best entertainer on planet earth.

Lupita N’Yongo -I would ask if she has more meaningful roles coming to her more since 12 Years a Slave, or is that still a struggle for her as a black woman in Hollywood.

Oprah- I would ask her did she ever expected journalism to take her this far. She started out in Baltimore as a local news anchor. 

Mary J Blige- I would ask her if someone did a movie about her, who would play Mary or would she play herself. I think a Mary Bio would be epic.

J K Rowling- I would ask her if she knew the Harry Potter series would blow up like it did. It just goes to show that children really do love to read!

I would like to thank Lakia for this great interview. To follow or friend this multi-talented jewel find her at these sites:

http://www.lakianichole.com
http://www.newbreedpublishing.com/
http://www.theYOUniquemag.com
http://Twitter.com/LakiaNichole/
http://Twitter.com/YOUniqueMagazine
http://www.facebook.com/lakianichole/
http://Instagram.com/lakianicholeofficial

Coming May 1st

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NEW TALENT: MEET TRE' L. BRYANT!

Tre' L. Bryant is a first time author whose forthcoming book "Where There's a Will, There's a Way" chronicles her experience as a domestic violence victim and survivor. Born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, Tre' wants to use her voice and words in a powerful and positive way to speak on her experience for a passionate cause. She had a dream that was shattered and through her faith and family she overcame a life that was full of depression and meaningless. Now, Tre' is still here and standing tall while serving God's purpose with no intentions of stopping. To understand her struggle is to understand her journey.

Imani: Welcome to the Lounge. Let's start off with a simple icebreaker and begin with your story, just who is Tre' Bryant?

Tre: Thank you for having me it is truly an honor. Well Tre is a mom to two amazing kids (Kayla 19 and Larry 18) first and foremost and currently in pursuit of living out her dreams while helping people in the process , a business woman building her own brand and adjusting to life as a first time author.

Tell us more about your latest project. What's the inspiration behind this book?

Where there’s A Will There’s A Way was totally inspired by my personal real life events going as far back to the age for 4 years old. But mostly my experience being a Domestic Violence victim for 20 years which was half of my life and reliving some of those difficult moments. This book helped in my healing process and has allowed me to not be shameful of my past or blame myself for the things that I could not change. I always wanted to write a book but was discouraged so many times from doing so until I met my God sent angel that encouraged me to share my story and help others. It’s because of him I found the strength and courage to move forward and follow my dream and finally decide to share my story and not hide behind my pain any longer.

Briefly, explain what makes your book different from the vast choices in the same genre?

Because my story was my reality and I am here speaking to you as a survivor.

What were the challenges of writing this book?

Having to relive various moments in my life that I had emotionally detached myself from so many years ago. This book has helped me to finally deal with my pain while giving me the opportunity to help other’s in the process. Overcoming my fears and finally making peace with my past is really what this book is about and also letting people that have gone or are currently dealing with some of these same issues to assure them that they are not alone. I want people to be inspired by my story and say that it is because of me they didn’t give up.

What have you learned (or still learning) since being the business?

That it’s a lot of work and nothing like I imagined. Until you write a book you have no idea the hard work that goes into it and making it a success. I never knew it could be so demanding but at the same time I accept the challenge and I have been blessed with a great mentor.

What is your dream collaboration? With whom, and why?

I would be honored to work with Lakia Nichole on a project someday. She has been such an inspiration to me and has taken me under her wing and I am forever grateful and she has taught me so much already. She has become my hero professionally and personally she’s great.

Finally, share with us something you've never mentioned publicly since being an author; such as, a quirk or a hidden talent. I'm sure readers would like to know.

Cooking in the downtime is something that not too many people know about me. I also have very many business ventures in the works outside of my Domestic Violence organization Survivor Life’s Blessing which I have started to promote awareness and provide help to victims with the help of other survivors like myself as well.

Excerpt:

I still get vivid memories of being grabbed tightly around my neck and the tight grip of his hands preventing screams from escaping my lungs. Along with the continuous flow of tears, my breathing became shallow and I felt like I was slipping away. If I allowed him to think he could disrespect me in this fashion he was sadly mistaken. There was going to be some serious consequences and shit was about to get real ugly. Words started being exchanged and before long, shit started flying and breaking because I knew that this was one fight he was not going to win. I was ready to prove to him that I wasn’t having what the fuck he was dishing. We fought like two niggas in the street, and I remember he had me in an extremely tight head lock. I had full access to his arm and since that was the only part of his body I could reach, I locked down on it with my teeth like I was eating a steak and the end result was him in the emergency room having to get a rabies shot. My intention was to rip a plug out of his arm. Once the fight was over I realized that he still had not overcome his anger issues and felt he owned me. I was supposed to accept this kind of behavior whenever he felt the need to display it. I knew in my heart that I had love for him, but I started really asking myself if he was worth it. I developed thoughts of wanting to end my own life because of the stress, the drama, and him not choosing to acknowledge me. If there wasn’t verbal abuse, there were silent moments. I was the one who would end up hurt and feeling extremely alone, but then I would look at my babies and I would try to have a change of heart. As always and even to this day, I put them first. I continue to sacrifice for them what would ultimately be my entire life up to that moment and my much so desired happiness would be put on the back burner. During the first year of my son’s life there were many more fights, some permanent scars, endless heartaches, and feelings of being trapped with no outlet. I began to hate my life and went into a horrible depression. The recovery would not take place for a long time.

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