Podcast Ep. #3: How to Have a Writing Career with Longevity with Author Tracey Lewis-Giggetts
On episode number three of the Read, Write and Create podcast, the incredible Tracey Lewis-Giggetts joins me to talk about her literary life and experiences as an African-American writer and author of over 20 books. Tracey writes fiction, nonfiction, poetry and screenplays. Her two most recent books are Black Joy: Stories of Resistance, Resilience, and Restoration and Then They Came For Mine: Healing from the Trauma of Racial Violence. Tracey also works as a ghostwriter and has penned best-selling memoirs for several public figures and celebrities including, Tabitha Brown and Yusef Salaam, of the Exonerated Five.
Tracey’s Tips to be a Successful Author
On the show, Tracey shares the lessons she has learned on her literary journey, including how she started, and how she managed to build and sustain a career that has spanned more than 20 years. Tracey has so much wisdom to share including:
Tracey Lewis-Giggetts
“Stay ready, so you don’t have to get ready, when opportunities arise.”
How she keeps going in the face of rejection,
How she managed to quit her job in academia to write full time
Why it’s okay to write in more than one genre.
Most importantly, Tracey talks about how and why she is so prolific, why she makes no apology for centering her stories around Black people and Black culture, and why it is so important to “stay ready, so you don’t have to get ready” when new writing opportunities arise.
Tracey drops some real gems, tips, tricks, and actionable advice for writers at all stages of their journey. I hope you find her words inspiring for your own writing practice.
For More Information about Tracey Lewis-Giggetts
To learn more about Tracey and her literary work, please visit her website.
To get a copy of her book, Black Joy, that was recently nominated for an NAACP Image Award, consider purchasing it from the Read, Write, and Create bookstore.
Tracey mentioned the following useful resources for writers:
-The Hurston Wright Foundation offers amazing workshops and retreats for Black writers.
-Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott is a book for writers about writing that Tracey recommends.
Subscribe to the Read, Write and Create Podcast
Don’t forget to subscribe to the Read, Write and Create podcast so you can get biweekly pep talks and inspiration delivered directly to your ears. The show is available on Apple podcasts, Spotify, or Audible podcasts, so you won’t miss a single inspiring episode. Remember, sharing is caring.
Thanks!