PUBLISHED & BLACK MAGAZINE JAN-FEB 2024

DR.VERNESSA BLACKWELL CELEBRATES JOY 365 AND 600 AUTHORS PUBLISHED

SHAWNTI REFUGE

Author Cover Feature + Interview

VERNESSA BLACKWELL

CONTENTS

SHAWNTI REFUGE

TABLE OF

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MECCA GLOBAL-SELF-CARE COLUMNIST

BE YOUR OWN PUBLICIST

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BEYOND THE BOOK Article

PUBLISHED + BLACK PODCAST Feature

SUCCESSFULLY PUBLISHED Article

we appreciate our featured authors and our readers.

WHO'S ON THE COVER

MY NAME IS CERTIFIED MENTAL HEALTH COACH MENTAL HEALTH ADVOCATE AUTHOR + KEYNOTE SPEAKER

I SHOW YOU HOW TO LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE THROUGH GUIDED JOURNALING w w w . s h a w n t i r e f u g e . c o m

I used to endure a great de al out of fear of losing people. N ow, I set bou ndaries t o safeguar d my ow n identity.

SHOP NOW SHOP NOW w w w . s h a w n t i r e f u g e . c o m

LET’S CHAT WITH SHAWNTI C H E C K

O U T

H E R

I N T E R V I E W

Your journey has been quite remarkable. Could you share with our readers a bit about your path to becoming an author and an advocate for mental health?

I became an author so that I can use my mental health journey as an inspiration to others.

I began my mental health journey in 2018 after having a nervous breakdown. I wasn’t getting the support or help that I needed and over to overcome this holistically, until I found the perfect therapist for me. We’re going to therapy learning how to journal and using other coping skills. I was able to manage my mental health without medication.

Once I discovered the holistic approach to helping myself heal, I found my purpose of helping others to do the same. By writing an autobiography, I shared all of the challenges I faced from childhood up until the year 2018, so that others who may have gone through similar challenges would know that they are not alone and there is hope for recovery, but they have to do the work.

In addition to your autobiography, you've authored several guided journals. What draws you to this format, and how do you hope these journals will impact those who use them?

I learned about guided journaling from my therapist. She taught me that I needed to get everything that was inside of my head out of my head and onto paper so that I could process it correctly heal and move on. Initially, I rejected the idea of journaling, but once my therapist taught me how to do it correctly, and to use prompts, the sky was the limit to my healing.

Once I saw that guided journaling was working for me and all of the million issues I had I knew I had to get those same journals I created for myself, published for others to use as either a self-help to or in addition to therapy. I hope the journals will impact others by empowering and inspiring them to take responsibility for their own healing. As I did with mine. The healing begins once you admit there is a problem and are ready to work on it.

"Quiet As Kept" is a deeply personal story. What motivated you to share your experiences, and what do you hope readers will take away from it?

Quiet is kept, was motivated by my mental health journey. I wanted to share my experiences from all stages of my life, so that it will resonate with someone who reads it to know they are not alone they can overcome their past, and they can live a purposeful life only if they want to. I hope readers will take away from reading, quiet as kept that we in the black community need to stop keeping secrets stop gaslighting each other stop avoiding , stop fighting and stop pretending that everything is OK when it really is not . we have to be strong enough to admit when there are issues and we have to be brave enough to face them, head on, and not hold onto them for years. Not one of us is perfect. We all have problems. It’s all a matter of if we deal with them or if we sweep them under the rug if we sweep them under the rug we are choosing to damage our mental health because that’s what it does.

Mental health advocacy is a critical issue today. Can you tell us about your advocacy work and why it's so important to you?

I started my mental health advocacy after I was diagnosed with severe depression and anxiety and 2018. My advocacy work is very important to me because I could’ve lost it all but I chose to fight for my life because in the end, I knew I was worth it. I want others to know that I care about their mental health and that we all deserve safe spaces access a Mental Health Services, and a support system because we cannot do this alone.

Your book discusses resilience and growth. Could you share a key lesson or moment from your life that exemplifies these themes?

I would say that a key lesson I learned is that despite obstacles that I created for myself such as being a teen mom, I still kept my focus and finished school. Back then a lot of girls were dropping out of school thinking that they couldn’t go because they had a baby or thinking they had to stop and get a job and I refuse to let that be my story I knew I was going to be someone I didn’t let being a teen mom hinder me from reaching my goals. My daughter and I grew up together, and when she became a teenager, I gave her the openness to discuss anything which is something that I did not have.

What advice do you have for individuals who may be going through challenging times and are in search of strength and healing?

The advice I have for anyone who might be going through challenging times, and are in search of strength and healing is the first pray, and stay prayerful. Get you a support system. It may not come from family or friends unfortunately but we all need that one person in our lives who is going to walk with us and not in front of us or behind us but side-by-side encouraging us to push forward despite our circumstances when we tend to try to do things alone nine times out of 10 we are going to quit, we all were made to win. Therefore, we need a support system to do so.

"Quiet As Kept" touches on themes of self-love and pursuing one's own happiness. How have these principles played a role in your life, and what can readers learn from your experiences?

I didn’t know that I didn’t love myself until I start living for myself, and not for what others wanted me to be or who they wanted me to be with. The level of self love that I have for myself at this point makes me comfortable with being uncomfortable. I’m ready to have those hard conversations. I’m ready to face my demons. I’m ready to defend myself. I’m ready to stand up for myself because I love myself.

What readers can learn from my experience is that you should live your life for yourself do what makes you happy people are going to talk about you whether you are doing good or bad so you might as well do what you love and do it for you, you only have one life to live, and you should live a happy life and not be worried about what others think of you.

Your book is set to released in fall 2023, can you give us a glimpse into what readers can expect from "Quiet As Kept" and why they should be excited to read it?

Some readers can expect to collect the pearls. They can expect to laugh, cry, pick the jars up off the floor, and think of starting on a healing journey with the lessons and tips that I provide in the book.

Other readers can expect to sip on some piping hot tea to gossip about and have their speculations of what they thought they knew confirmed or denied.

You've been an inspiration to many. Are there authors or books that have influenced or inspired you in your writing journey?

Since I began my healing journey, I don’t think I’ve read so much in my life that I wasn’t forced to read anyway. I have read books from Michelle Obama, Shonda Rhimes, Real Talk Kim, Tabatha Brown, and even Napoleon Hill.

All of these authors inspired me to change my mindset and write my story. I hope someone else, and the way that I probably wouldn’t be able to. Otherwise, my story is very powerful and important.

What's next for you? Do you have any upcoming projects or initiatives you'd like to share with our readers?

What’s next for me is that I released my second book in November 2023, I will be doing book tours promoting Quiet As Kept, holding more in-person events for teens and young adults, and opening my coaching program to the public.

In your advocacy for mental health, what changes or improvements would you like to see in the way society approaches and supports mental well-being?

I would like to see the stigma of mental health, and the black and brown community diminished. Mental health is possessed by everyone it’s just a matter of what condition our mental health is in some of us have great mental health, and some of us do not and those of us do not need to know that it’s OK to not be OK and it’s OK to get help it’s OK to get support. Do not be ashamed because you’re not perfect because none of us are.

Mental health, discussions and services should be readily available in all communities no matter what the quality of care should not have a limit based on financial ability.

As an accomplished author and mental health advocate, how do you balance your creative work with your advocacy efforts?

Mental health is always on my mind 24 seven no matter what I am doing. somewhere no matter what I’m doing mental health, finances way answer my thoughts I balance, my creative work with my advocacy efforts by intertwining the two. This is how I know that I am walking in my purpose because this is not for me it is for the world I’m just a vessel.

SHAWNTI HAS LAUNCHED HER COACHING PROGRAM AND GOES LIVE DAILY ACROSS SOCIAL MEDIA CONNECT WITH HER TODAY W W W . S H A W N T I R E F U G E . C O M

GOING BEYOND THE BOOK

The art of storytelling doesn’t end when the last page of a book is turned.

In today’s digital age, authors have a plethora of opportunities to extend the reach and impact of their narratives. From webinars to merchandise, let's explore how authors can think outside the traditional book format.

Adapting into Various Formats Not all readers engage with content in the same way. Some prefer to listen to audiobooks during their commute, while others might be visual learners and appreciate visual summaries or infographics. By adapting your book into formats like audiobooks or podcasts, you increase accessibility and cater to a wider audience.

Workshops and Webinars Using the content of your book, you can host workshops or webinars that delve deeper into its themes or provide a space for discussion. This not only positions you as an expert in your field but also provides an interactive platform for readers to engage with the material and with you.

Collaborations for Extended Reach Influencers and industry experts can be powerful allies. Consider collaborating on content that ties into your book's themes. Guest appearances, interviews, or co-hosted events can tap into new audiences and amplify your message.

Merchandise and Physical Products Ever thought of a quote from your book being on a T-shirt or a poster?

Creating related merchandise can not only provide additional income but also serve as a marketing tool. Fans wearing or using items related to your book are walking advertisements for your work!

Endless Possibilities The journey of an author is filled with imagination, creativity, and passion.

Just as these elements are essential in crafting captivating stories, they are equally important in marketing and outreach. By thinking beyond the traditional book format and exploring diverse platforms and strategies, authors can ensure their stories resonate far and wide.

Tiffany A Green-hood

eBook Available At WWW.PUBLISHWITHTIFFANY.COM

Vernessa Blackwell w w w . l i f e u i m a g i n e d . c o m

DR.VERNESSA BLACKWELL HAS PUBLISHED OVER 600 BESTSELLING AUTHORS

Dr. Vernessa Blackwell is a Multi International Best-Selling Author/Speaker and Grief & Joy Restoration Coach and 24-year Army Veteran. She has published nineteen books in the genres of Religion, Christian, Life/ Death, Bereavement, Inspiration and Christian Nonfiction, including her most popular series, The Grief Helpline.

HER NEW RELEASE JOY 365 NOW AVAILABLE AT AMAZON IN EBOOK, PAPERBACK AND HARDCOVER

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CREATIVE WAYS TO BE YOUR OWN PUBLICIST IN PUBLISHING

1. Leverage Social Media Contests Hold a contest on platforms like Instagram or Twitter. Ask followers to share a post about your book, tag friends, or even create related content. This not only increases your book's visibility but also actively engages your audience.

2. Host Virtual Book Tours Instead of traditional book signings, collaborate with bloggers and influencers to "host" you on their platforms for a day. Share excerpts, conduct interviews, or engage in Q&A sessions with their audience.

3. Create Engaging Multimedia Turn a chapter of your book into a short audio drama or an animated teaser. Such content can be shared on platforms like YouTube, drawing in a different set of audiences and offering them a unique taste of your story.

4. Pen Guest Articles Write articles related to your book's theme and pitch them to relevant blogs or online magazines. This positions you as an authority in your genre and brings attention to your book.

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Breaking into the literary world as a new author can be daunting. With thousands of books published daily, how do you make yours stand out?

The answer lies not just in writing a great story but in mastering the art of marketing and publicity. Here are some inventive strategies to ensure your book doesn't get lost in the shuffle.

5. Collaborate with Brands If your book revolves around a particular theme, say baking, team up with related brands or local businesses for joint promotions. This could be in the form of giveaways, events, or cobranded content.

6. Engage in Local Community Events Participate in local events or book clubs. Offer to give free readings or workshops. This grassroots approach can lead to strong word-of-mouth publicity.

7. Optimize for Online Search SEO isn't just for businesses. By ensuring that your book's online description, reviews, and related content are optimized for search engines, you increase the chances of it being discovered by potential readers.

A Dynamic Approach is Key In the constantly evolving world of publishing, relying solely on traditional marketing methods may not suffice. As authors, understanding your audience, leveraging modern platforms, and continuously adapting is crucial. Remember, every book has an audience. Your task is to ensure that your story finds its readers, one creative strategy at a time.

8. Create Shareable Graphics Design visually appealing graphics or quote cards from your book and share them on Pinterest, Instagram, and other visual platforms. These act as teasers and can be widely shared, increasing your book's visibility.

9. Offer Exclusive Content Give readers a reason to buy and promote your book by offering exclusive content. This could be in the form of a deleted chapter, a character backstory, or a sneak peek into the next book.

10. Start a Podcast or Webinar Series Delve deeper into the themes of your book, discuss its characters, or chat with other authors. A podcast or webinar series provides a platform to engage with your audience and keep the conversation around your book alive.

11. Foster a Reader Community Create a Facebook group or forum where readers can discuss your book, share their interpretations, and interact with you. This sense of community can lead to loyal readers who actively promote your work.

12. Collaborate with Fellow Authors Join hands with other authors to promote each other's books. This can be in the form of joint giveaways, interviews, or even co-writing a short story.

Embrace Innovation In today's digital age, authors have more tools at their disposal than ever before.

But with these tools comes the need for innovation and out-of-the-box thinking.

It's not enough to just write a book; you need to be its biggest advocate and marketer. By embracing these creative strategies, you not only increase your book's chances of success but also forge a deeper connection with your readers.

After all, at the heart of every marketing strategy is the desire to share stories and connect with others. Embrace the challenge, and let your passion for your work shine through in every strategy you employ.

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Let’s Chat About the Term “Successfully Published”

I’ve been in the publishing game a while and I often hear things that don’t make sense. The term “Successfully Published”, let talk about it.

Now let’s be real, most authors consider successfully published meaning they sold 1 million books overnight or made the NYT Bestseller List.

Truthfully I don’t know anyone who has done that or has clients who have.

So what does successfully published mean? I would consider this term to mean exactly what it says Successfully Published.

We published her book successfully, meaning the process has been completed correctly. Meaning, professionally produced, printed, and placed in distribution.

What most publishers are afraid to tell you is that as the author, you are responsible for the rest. You are responsible for selling, marketing, promoting, and pitching your own book for opportunities that pay you outside of a bookstore.

Yes, I said it and whether you believe me or not, it’s the truth. Too many times the successfully published term is thrown around and blamed on the publisher or the person who prepared it for publishing for whether or not it sells.

Stop playing the blame game and do the work that it takes to get the results you say you want.

Truthfully, We would need to charge a minimum of 10K-20K to clean up your social media, build an audience of target readers for your particular book, and then create content that draws in who your book is for. Do you realize how much time this takes? Understand this, most authors who get signed to a publisher, have a following already.

Authors expect us to do all this for pennies and still make them NYT Bestsellers with 1 million books sold overnight.

Do your research before you hold a publisher responsible for the results you are delusional about. Publishing and then selling books and marketing to the people your book speaks to takes much work. Furthermore, what it took in 2023 will be completely different from what it takes in 2024. publishwithtiffany.com

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MECCA GLOBAL

SELF-CARE Written by Sharonda @MeccaGloBal Baker

Hello Readers, I hope you all are doing well out there, and taking care of yourself. a lot has happened over these last few years. Collectively we all have had some ups, and some downs, some wins, and some losses- but we are still here! (Thank God) xo We lost a lot of great people whom we love dearly, and it is extremely important to give yourself time to heal, and grieve properly, so you can grow forward. It's not going to be easy, take as much time as you need, and your peace of mind is worth it.

Find strategic ways to take better care of yourself. A lot of people think going to the day spa or pampering yourself costs a lot, but I will be the first to tell you it's not. I make it my business to pamper myself as often as I feel like it. Self-care and self-love is real. I have been practicing self-care, and pampering myself since I was a teenager.

Don't ever feel guilty for putting yourself first, because if you're not good, how are you able to take care of the people around you? Be good to yourself. That goes for the things we eat, and drink as well. Also, A lot of people don't realize that the things we watch, and listen to, even the things we say to ourselves, and the things people say to us play a big part in our mental as well. So be very protective, and selective on what you allow.

Don't allow people out here to drain you of your energy. It's ok to take a break from social media, disconnect from all that stuff, and remove yourself from negative people, or anything that will drain you of your energy. Be kind, and show more love to people. It is enough hate going around, more love is needed... Until Next time... Stay sucka free Love Mec...xo

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*Jewel of the Month* Remember, you are your first priority.

Normalize not answering your phone for energy drainers. #SUCKAFREE = 24~7~365= 48~14~730= Double Grind-Double Overtime XoXo Signed MeccaGlobal The voice of the (Underdogs) from the Bottom-that Chick making you step your Game up!

“Don’t Get Mad ~ get inspired!”

There’s a lot of Mecca’s only one MeccaGloBal… Now you can hear MeccaGloBal’s podcast in all digital markets everywhere PODCAST ARE AVAILABLE! (SEARCH MECCAGLOBAL PODCAST) #SBMGBLOG ONLINE SBakerMediaGroup.com #SBMGRADIO EVERY SATURDAY AFTERNOON. #SBMGTV MUSIC VIDEOS (TAKEOVER ) Channel 19 Saturday 12 NOON, 9 PM,10 PM, 11 PM,12 MIDNIGHT. FOLLOW @MECCAGLOBAL ON SOCIAL MEDIA INSTAGRAM THREADS TWITTER CLUBHOUSE SNAPCHAT

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