THE FABULOUS LIFE OF TYLEISHIA DOUGLASS

Remember this name: TyLeishia Douglass 

Why? 

Maybe the fact she's emerging as an up and coming online radio host, interviewing the newest talent and the hottest celebrities to this day. Perhaps, this Baltimore native has a true gift for words, crediting several titles to her resume. Or simply she has an innate, never-quit persona; an attribute she carried since a young girl. 

The beauty behind this high-spirit goes beyond her infectious smile, but convey an unwavering support to her peers. Douglass is a prime example of how building a network creates multiple success -- not just with her dreams but with others. It's an attitude of a true leader.

Imani: Pink Noire is proud to welcome, Author, Promoter, and Radio Host, TyLeishia Douglass in The Lounge. I'm so excited you're here! Before we proceed: Tell us what makes "TyLeishia Douglass" the woman she is today? 

TyLeishia: Let me take this time to thank you Imani Wisdom for having me, you’re an amazing soul.  What makes me the woman I am today comes from a lengthy line of mishaps, some tragedies, plenty of prayer and finding the power and strength to heal where I was and allow the growth in me to simmer over time and become a prime servant and learning always which keeps all the quintessential essence of what I display and live in my life today. What is that? A soul of light that triumphed through the darkness and demonstrates the light as it grows in my soul.  I remain humble which many have kept me by seeing them succeed, flourish and being helpers one to another.  If you can work together we all become better, this is what makes me the woman I am today.

When was that moment in your life you knew you were a writer?

This may sound strange but I still am not sure what that moment was. I have had some mentors who were very helpful and encouraged me to embrace myself as a writer but, you ever had something else inside you that you know is bigger or different from writing? Perhaps not if you are a diehard author LOL! I have not cancelled writing out as of yet but I was close to it! Ask me this question again after I belt out the few more books I have been trying to work on lol! I guess this one is a to be continued.

Whether on your radio show or in your books, you exude positive energy and inspiration. Where do you find this innate ability? Inspiration from others? Or from yesterdays life lessons?

Since I was a little girl anything dealing with television, plays, TV. I mimicked and was good at it lol! However my mother wasn’t fortunate to put me in music, acting, or any school for the arts.  I find the innate ability to exude positive energy through being told I was nothing if I did not succeed in anything I dreamed; I was told my name meant nothing so, I knew it was time to look inside myself and move away from the negative practice that surround me and sty on the heels of those who are positive and didn’t mind taking the time to reach out because I wasn’t the “elite”

My inspiration from others was a huge help yes and each day I learn something new it’s a life lesson for me to gain more, learn and apply what I have gotten from that lesson and never forget to practice daily in my life to breath in and continue and be as my good friend Rhona Bennett so awesomely says “Be In A State Of Allowance” when life lessons happen. I allow it to grow me and to share this positive energy, one must eat, sleep and breathe feeling good about their decision to live a positive life that works inside out.

It was this these things that I knew I mustn’t hold  the joy and peace that I found but share my life and what I have learned and many that can relate to life itself drove me towards being a radio host. I am currently in a Community College now to earn my AA degree in Mass Communication & Publication. I am ready to take the show to a higher level in hopes that I will have a live television show in the future.

I've read somewhere you've endured a Cancer scare? Share with us how you have overcome that moment, and how are you feeling today?

Yes, I had been taunted since the age of 14 years of age. They have found 3 lumps on my breast that miraculously moved and disappeared. Then when I was 23 they found several small cysts in the both areas of my breast and through prayer from churches and my belief in God, I knew that He had so much more for me to do and my time was not up yet. Then again it pops up this time was being followed for 2 years. It was this time I worked my faith though I can admit I was a bit nervous.  It’s called being human and we all have feelings.

I had put my energy into knowing that miracles do exists and they have on me plenty times before so I placed it in the capable hands on God and after 2 years there was no re-growth. I do have at times where I have to be tested for joint issues which they say have been contributed to what they call “Traveling Cysts”. But putting yourself in a position to keep healthy and stay fit and be good to your body will be good to you and even if you have to work through what is present, you are not your condition.  So, I say I am alive and well and I am presently in the gym 3 to 4 times a week.

"I allow it to grow me and to share this positive energy, one must eat, sleep and breathe feeling good about their decision to live a positive life that works inside out."

I want to talk about the titles of two of many your books: My Scars Are My Tattoos and My Words Are Going On A Diet. Explain how you came up with these titles and a brief description of their stories. 

My Scars Are My Tattoos came from my life experience which left marks. This short is stories about looking past what’s on the surface. Don’t want to give the mystery away ha!ha!

My Words Are Going on a Diet comes from learning when to speak and knowing that words make an impact on the soul good and not so good. This one is a story about words are food that feed the mind, body, soul and spirit. What proteins does your tongue house?

I like that! So while we're the subject about your writing. What's your methodology of a solid storyline?

Wow, that one is kind of hard for me to answer but I would have to say as soon as something happens, I weigh in on how to pick and choose the battle on an intriguing situation, fiction or non-fiction events.

If you were to invite one of your characters on your radio show, who would they be and why?

I would have to say LaViese because she is not afraid to speak about her life story and she prides herself on breaking her silence.

Speaking of your radio show, tell us more about "Jewels of the Universe and G.E.M.S. Online Radio Show". 

Jewels of the Universe & Glowing Enriched Motivational Supporters (JOTU & GEMS) is a web based radio talk show on #BlogTalkRadio where I created a platform for ALL ARTS.

It's not enough to let awesome supportive beings just settle on social media alone, so I expanded us from a group I created back in 2010 made up of positive members who  were not afraid to spread their wings such as entrepreneurs, authors, musicians, etc. They are active, supportive and have a passion in creatively sharing their God given talents locally and on the airways worldwide.  I have a quote inspired by those who don’t allow fear to hold and bind their goals and not afraid to dream, “There is a million somewhere out there and your name is written in that space in the air. The world is painted in blue until they hear about you. So then let your light shine because it’s your time.”~ TyLeishia L.Douglass copyrighted material all rights reserved 2014.

JOTU & GEMS “Soul Light Supporters” (SLS) is what I call you when I invite you in my house, your home. You can join us on Thursday’s @6pmEST. Or call in to say hello to (SLS) and me your host that toasts to your success yours truly at 646.378.1552 we love to hear from you.

Of all of your guests, which one you would say is your most memorable one?

That is a hard one ha! I know I only have one choice so I can’t answer this one unless I can say ALL OF THEM.

“There is a million somewhere out there and your name is written in that space in the air. The world is painted in blue until they hear about you. So then let your light shine because it’s your time.”~ ©TyLeishia L.Douglass 

Now, what does "TyLeishia Douglass" have in store for 2015?

I am pursuing my AA Degree for Mass Productions and Communications at a Community College; I am trying to work on a few other manuscripts that I hope to get out at least 1 this year. I am working on a project with some really great partners but I can’t tell you about it just yet (wink) but it will be loved by all ages. I am in the gym to stay fit and working on expanding the show to help provide even more opportunities for promotions, connections and at some point having the show on more than once a week.

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

I would say, “Imani Wisdom, you have inspired me to hold on and I have watched you grow almost overnight. After you were on my show I have learned how much more beautiful your soul truly is and I want to take this time to tell you thank you and encourage you to continue to reach as high as you are destined to go.”

“Rhona Bennett, you have taught me so much and I truly thank you for being the example of what and how to bring the true champion out in us all. I am blessed to have you as my friend, mentor and my biggest inspiration. With all you give it’s not in vein and its obvious by so many you have made a positive impact in the lives all across the globe. Thank you my Inspo Rhoney!”

“B. Alexander you have been my besty for over 14 years and counting and not once have you broken any trust or promises that you only spoke of  and not come through. If walls could talk you are one of them or that fly on the wall ha! For this I am truly blessed to have you in my life for ALL you do I love you very much for being a friend, sister, mom and just being you! No words can say just how much you mean to me in my life. Forever a power team XOXO!”

“S. Wilson I appreciate how you were fitted into my life as a teen and will never forget you making some of my dreams come true. I love you and thank you for helping exercise positivity, believing, achieving, do right and treat others kind. You have been very instrumental to me and I won’t forget. XOXO!”

“JOTU & GEMS Community and those who have contributed in one way or another, I have learned from each and every one of you and appreciate all those who have and are supporters who believe in me. Some of you I watched you come through some very challenging moment whether it was losing a loved one, not feeling well and work through some hard times. You haven’t given up and so for this I have learned the strength in sharing, having the passion and drive to sacrifice to stay on point and I can go on and on but, I must and love as you all know my favorite 2 words, I have to say, “THANK YOU” you all have made an impact in my life and you are all so much appreciated.”

Thank you, TyLeishia. This has been a great interview. Tell the readers where they can purchase your work, as well as find you on the web?

I enjoyed it Imani! Thank you so much for having me! Readers can find my work on Amazon, Kobo, Smashwords, B&N, Nook. You can visit my website at www.jdnmbooks.com it’s been a pleasure Imani! God Bless!

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KISHA GREEN: THE QUINTESSENTIAL RARE JEWEL

If you are a writer, author, or a contributing factor to urban literature, you may have heard the name Kisha Green. 

The owner of DivaBooksInc, a service providing public relations to authors, Green has penned many titles, including her steamy short "FeFe's Freaky Tale". She is also a strident promoter and a literary consultant, as well as a public speaker and an award-winning, radio host to the show,Writer's Life Chat. 

Besides her awards and notable accolades, this New Jersey native has won the respect by scores of her peers. Authentic, inspirational, and supportive were words that have been expressed by many of them. However, one word adhere to the obvious reason as to why she's December's featured artist -- genuine. 

Kisha Green's unselfish drive to build platforms for new and seasoned authors have not gone unnoticed. Her determination reflects broadly beyond urban literature, but echoes in mainstream as well. This rare jewel proves just how effective leadership is suppose to be. 

Imani: It is an honor to have the woman with many talents, Kisha Green in The Lounge. Let me say first thank you for accepting the invitation. I've followed your career in the last few years, and I am mighty impressed with your accomplishments. So with that said, what's your story -- who is Kisha Green?

Kisha: Thank YOU, Imani it is a true honor to be featured by your website. Who is Kisha Green….Hmmm…She is a mother, sister, aunt, grandmother, friend, writer, blogger, literary consultant, book reviewer, publisher, online radio hostess, virtual assistant, author promoter and publicist.

There is so much to ask you, but one I want to get out because I'm sure every artist have gone through this: When was that "a-ha moment" when you knew you were a writer?

I do not think I had that moment as a writer but a few weeks ago I was at a book signing for a colleague and when I went to the register the staff knew me without me having to say a thing and they immediately praised me for all of the hard work I do for my clients and told me to keep up the good work, that for me made my day. I entered this industry in 2006 and I have been trying to find my way and that was a great moment for me.

You have an inspirational story of overcoming challenges, including family loss of loved ones. So I won't ask how have you overcame those dark moments because you're a thriving today as a respectable businesswoman. I want you to share with us if those challenges were a motivating factor to your success.

My challenge was when my mom died while I was writing my debut novel, And Even If I Did and after her death I went into a depression and did not want to finish the book. After a nine month hiatus I just woke up one day and decided I had to finish and make my mother proud in heaven.

For those who don't know, you have a business called "DivaBooksInc -- specializing to promoting authors, and you're a publisher, as well as a public speaker, radio talk show hostess, and a mentor to so many novice and seasoned authors. How in the world do you have the time to write and still create great work?

I multi task!!! Lol…I am always busy even when I think I am not. I am constantly making notes or completing projects, sending emails and etc. All I need is my cell phone and I am good to go!

I've read somewhere that you told the story of being new to the industry, and you had a hard time getting help from other authors. Explain what was that like, and how did it grow you as a writer and businesswoman?

I entered the industry in 2006 and no one wanted to help me and I made a promise then to never be those type of people. I remember wanted to get interviews and no one would feature me on their online radio shows, so I created my own, Writer’s Life Chats and I interviewed authors just like me. I also wanted to be featured on websites and got nowhere so I created, Writer’s Vibe which is now known as Literary Jewels and again I wanted to help authors just like me. I know it is hard juggling life, work and literary so I offer quality services with very reasonable rates.

My challenge was when my mom died while I was writing my debut novel, And Even If I Did and after her death I went into a depression and did not want to finish the book. After a nine month hiatus I just woke up one day and decided I had to finish and make my mother proud in heaven.

So basically, you’ve created your opportunities? Is that key for new authors?

Yes, after being rejected so many times I decided that failure was NEVER going to be an option for me and I would no longer concern myself with people telling me no, as I was too busy creating my own yes! I am not saying that everyone who tries this approach will be successful but this is the path Kisha took and it works.

Now let's talk about the industry itself. I occasionally hear complaints from readers that Urban Lit's storylines are sounding the same. What's your opinion on the matter, or is it much ado about nothing?

There are a lot of recycled storylines and I do not understand that because as a writer you have total creative freedom to write about anything you want, so why not do just that. As a book reviewer it can be boring to keep reading the same story just a new cover and characters.

Some have said bouncing from one genre to another can hurt your relationship with readers. Do you agree or disagree with this, and why?

I think it can strengthen it. I think it shows versatility and a creativity and readers can see that they think outside the box when it comes to writing.

Do you believe mainstream treat urban literature fairly -- and what I mean by "fairly", I mean, not taking the genre seriously in terms of its stories and its authors?

Yes and no…Some Urban lit authors are great story tellers and there are some who just copy a certain style. Whereas this is the platform for them to demonstrate their talent.

I decided that failure was NEVER going to be an option for me and I would no longer concern myself with people telling me no, as I was too busy creating my own yes! I am not saying that everyone who tries this approach will be successful but this is the path Kisha took and it works.

Given the fact that every author starts off as a "newbie", why do think most seasoned authors won't give a helping hand to the novice ones?

I do not think that it is intentional, I believe that it can be overwhelming with many new authors asking questions and getting advice and still doing the exact opposite. Like the saying goes…You can lead a horse to water but you cannot make it drink it.

What's your methodology of a solid storyline?

Proper character development, a perfectly executed plot, mixed with a sprinkle of suspense and drama to keep the reader engrossed.

Share with the reader each title of your books and a brief description of the stories and its main characters.

FOOL NO MORE: Unlucky described Leslie Kennedy's love life until she met Malcolm Daniels. Malcolm was the epitome of fine with a lucrative career in public relations, he was a dream come true. Little did she know the secret he harbored would change their lives forever.

PLEASURE PRINCIPLE: Laci wanted the finer things but could not afford it being a waitress, so she decided that being a call girl would cushion her pockets faster. As her bank account does increase there is someone plotting on her demise? You often have to be careful of karma because she is a bitch and you never know when she might appear to cause havoc and chaos. Like the saying goes, revenge is dish best served COLD!

TIL LIES DO US PART: Morgan and Justin are a happily married couple—or so it seems. Dissatisfied with her marriage and trying to fill that void, Morgan decides to add some excitement to her life with frequent visits to the Web. With a new found lust for online chat, Morgan begins to live a double life when she meets Andre, the man of her dreams. In her mind, Andre is her savior and he could do no wrong. That is, until her online world becomes her new reality and secrets are revealed that make her begin to doubt herself. Caught in a love triangle like no other, Morgan discovers that all is fair in love and war, until lies do us part

FEFE’S FREAKY TALE: Feona "Fefe" Walker has only one thing on her mind-pleasure. Before her love can come down, she must select a man to quench her body's insatiable appetite. NOTHING is off limits in her quest for pure sexual ecstasy.

You are versatile when it comes to genres. Do you have a favorite?

I like drama period! If it is in a romance novel,mystery or suspense just give me some page turning, jaw dropping reading material and I will read it.

Since in you're in public relations, which of your characters you find intriguing to promote to the masses, and why?

I would say FeFe from FeFe’s Freaky Tale because she is a full freak and holds nothing back and many see a title like that and or read the synopsis and think she is me, when she is just a made up character.

Are you character or plot-driven, and why?

Plot driven…I need to know the book will keep my attention so the more drama the better and a good plot makes sure of that.

I got to ask this: what is the one person in the industry you would love to collaborate with, and why?

I cannot pick just one, so I would say Al-Saadiq Banks, J.M. Benjamin and Jackie Collins because they all have a writing style that is unique and they create magic throughout the pages.

What you know now as an experienced author, what would you say to yourself if you could go back in time to meet "Kisha Green" the young writer?

Invest in a QUALITY editor and everyone in the industry does not have your back nor support you.

Well, let's talk about editing then. Those who are new to the business, how do you find that quality editor?

Network with your colleagues and ask them who they used and when reaching out to a possible editor ask for references and once you get them, contact them and ask questions. Check out their books on Amazon and see what the reviews are saying. Also many must keep in mind, just because it may cost a lot that does not guarantee  you are getting quality editing but also do not think editors come cheap either. When planning to self publish you must set a realistic budget and that includes a editor, your editing should cost more than your book cover. I know many editors but I only refer people to the ones that I have used and was satisfied with. Let me also share that a proofreader is NOT an editor.

And speaking of new writers and authors, what words of advice do give to the people who are new to the business?

Research…Research…Research and oh yeah RESEARCH!

We all have that person(s) that helped shaped our craft. If this person(s) were here right now, what would you say to them?

I would simply say THANK YOU for taking the time to explain the writing process to me and having patience as I attempted to try it.

As we near the interview, I would be wrong and not ask about your future projects. So what's on the horizon?

I will be releasing a full novel in late 2015, which is major for me since I haven’t released a full length novel since 2009. I am truly excited about that project.

And finally, describe in word Kisha Green's work.

Relatable

Thank you once again for joining me in The Lounge; it's been truly an honor. Please, share the with the readers where they can purchase your work, as well as finding you on the Web.

The pleasure was all mine and on social networks I can be found;

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/KISHA-GREEN/e/B002BLN9YK/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1417112016&sr=1-2-ent

Twitter:@KishaGreen

Instagram: @KishaGreen

Facebook: www.facebook.com/authorkishagreen

Website: www.divabooksinconline.com

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Spa Me Out

By TyLeishia L. Douglass

It’s been a long day at work so I ready myself by laying out the towels on the table in my spa room. I light the candles, choose the fragrance of body oils, and fill the basket with fresh fruit. I sit the champagne on ice, dim the lights and turn on some soft Brazilian lounge music. Its five o’clock, time to shower, brush my hair back, put on my sexy royal blue silky sleek night top, clear four inch Armani high heel shoes, shimmer Mac make up, place a dab of night musk oil behind each ear and wallah, I am ready!

On time as usual. You can almost set your watch by him. Eight o’clock on the dot Armando pulls his Bentley into the garage. He is always amazed at the indigo pool and the beach house I live in because it sits parallel to the waters and the rocks surrounding it; giving it an elegant touch. I wonder what he thinks about when he walks out to the rocks and the sands of the beach. He puts both hands in his pockets and lets the wind blow through his cold black hair as he stares out into the deep blue waters.

I stand on the upper level terrace; staring out at him while the seagulls call out communication in unison. I cannot wait for him to walk towards the two dolphin decorated glass doors and come in to relax me. Three minutes pass and he finally makes it up to the house and rings the bell. I walk down the iron-cased stairs made from marble and pearl.

I approach the door with a glass of champagne in my hand and just before I open it, he stares into my eyes and I into his. I slowly push the command button to release the lock and he smiles as the doors slide open. I take a step back and hand him the glass of champagne. He takes the drink from my hand and smiles at me softly saying, “Hello La’Vienia, are you ready to relax?” I answered with my eyes never leaving his, “Yes, I’m ready.

From the excerpt

TyLeishia L. Douglass is a native of Baltimore Maryland and a voice of hope for this generation. Douglass is an author, online radio talk host, promoter, public speaker and published author. TyLeishia is on a mission to encourage and empower others. Her imprint is embedded in the hearts of her short story readers. One of her personal favorite mottos is, "Helping to make a difference one page at a time." TyLeishia earned publishing credits from "Student Life Magazine", was featured on LA Talk Live “Perspective’s Corner” with Rhona “Rho” Bennett and credits from the soul diva songstress and life coach and member of the group EnVogue (The Real Funky Diva’s). TyLeishia's poetry and comments are also featured on askrho.com. The Baltimore Times featured Douglass online as Indie Soul Entrepreneur of the Week which speaks of her writings and blogs as self-help tools which she shares worldwide. TyLeishia is poised to offer solace and confidence to motivate others in their personal struggles through the poignant story of the main character of her novel, "Jewels Declaring New Miracles." New books are underway and additional short stories by TyLeishia are available on Amazon.com, Kobo, Smashwords and Barnes & Noble’s. Douglass continue her education and aims to achieve and earn her AA Degree in Mass Production and Communications in hopes that her online blog radio talk show, “JOTU & GEMS” will take flight in a future worldwide televised broadcast which serves as a platform that supports all arts in and around communities.

http://www.jdnmbooks.com/  (website)

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/jotugems  (JOTU & GEMS) Blog Talk Radio 

http://tyleishia1blog.wordpress.com/  (Wordpress Blog)

http://www.amazon.com/TyLeishia-Douglass/e/B0092I66VI/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1415482587&sr=8-1   (Amazon)

https://www.facebook.com/groups/466864883439413/  (JOTU & GEMS Grp) FB Page

https://twitter.com/1LadyLoveBug  (twitter @1LadyLoveBug)

https://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/jdnm (Smashwords)

http://store.kobobooks.com/search?Query=TyLeishia+Douglass  (Kobo)

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/TyLeishia-Douglass?keyword=TyLeishia+Douglass&store=book  (B&N)

https://www.facebook.com/tylaviese.douglass  (Personal FB Page)

https://www.facebook.com/jotusaotm?ref=hl  (Fan Page JOTU)

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