When it comes to my growth, I’ve always maintained a healthy amount of delusion. You quite literally have to. 

So, I’m sure you can imagine my excitement when I received an email in the middle of the night inquiring about my services to ghostwrite the memoir of one of the world’s most beloved first ladies. Reading the words back to myself over and over again, I realized in that moment that I was sitting in answered prayers. 

With two babies on very different sleep schedules, I was awake and available to immediately connect to see how we could bring the project to life. What began as polite messages exchanged over WhatsApp, quickly grew into an early morning call that brought everything together. Within less than a few hours, I’d closed the deal of a lifetime.

As a teenager, I carved out worlds in my journal pages that I knew would one day come to life. That faith eventually blossomed into a blog started on my family’s home computer which helped me grow an organic community online through stories that resonated with women and young girls who looked like me. A few short years later, in the onset of my professional writing career, the skills I’d honed since childhood guided me as I became a leading pen delivering breaking news in publications across Canada. 

And even as I saw my world evolve in ways I could’ve only dreamed of years earlier, I still knew I wanted more. 

When I first laid the foundation for my company back in 2017, I envisioned myself as the person world leaders trusted with their reputations, and the one they called when they were ready to speak up, shake the room, and move minds to action. Since then, I’ve become a thought-partner for industry leaders, a brand architect and structural thinker for celebrities and executives ready for their next chapter, and an expert creative collaborator for those ready to put words to their legacy. 

I became someone with a proven track record of successfully navigating the rooms and topics that shape culture, communities, and generations all because I held firm to an unbreakable faith in my becoming. I made sure that my delusions existed side by side with my work ethic, so as one grew, so did the other. 

Today, as the founder of one of the only Black women led premium ghostwriting agencies in the world, I can bask fully in the fruits of my labor because I know the hard work it took to get here. There wasn’t a path perfectly laid out for me. I built it. And along the way, I made sure my faith was always louder than my fears. 

And this is exactly what I want for all of you. There will be moments along the way that challenge you, but those will be the tests that teach you the strength of your faith. In those inevitable moments, how far you’re able to make it in this game will depend on how anchored you are to your vision and your faith.

So if there’s something you want for yourself, no matter how big or unattainable it may seem to others, be delusional. And don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.

Fun fact about me: Sundays are my study days. 

No matter the weight of my to-do list or where I might be in the world, I always carve out time on Sundays to deep dive into a given topic, or three. 

Despite what most may believe, when you start a business, the learning doesn’t stop; that’s when it actually begins. Though I no longer have end of semester exams to prepare for, I’m still being tested in my daily business operations. As a founder in an industry that’s constantly in flux, my success is heavily dependent on my ability to stay informed, regardless of the room or conversation happening. And that ability is a skill set my clients are able to greatly benefit from. 

Just recently, I had a prospect call with a client who was excited about having my team ghostwrite his memoir. I matched his rhythm, assured him when the occasional question arose, and guided him through my company process. Satisfied with where we landed, I asked if he had any more questions for me. That’s when he asked, “What are some recent books that truly impressed you?”

I have to admit, the question gave me pause. 

I’m an avid reader, and as a professional storyteller, I make it my business to stay up to date on new titles, industry shifts, and the occasional bout of publishing drama. Though, admittedly, the question caught me off guard, I quickly scanned the entire bookshelf of my existence. Of course I had an answer for him; a lengthy one at that. But more than that, I realized I was being tested. 

As someone who’d made a name for himself in the world of tech, I knew how analytical he was, and the detailed answer he was more than likely looking for. His question wasn’t to undermine my experience, but to ensure I was not only up to the task, but versed enough on similar voices and stories to ensure his would be told as intended. 

Given what I knew about him, I rattled off a few recent memoirs I loved—Sarah Jakes Roberts, Viola Davis, Will Smith, and for a nice curveball, Gucci Man. Beyond the public names, I went deeper, weaving my knowledge of each of their stories with everything I now knew about him. Safe to say, he was impressed. 

Over the years, I’ve been able to land more deals than I can count because I keep my ear to the ground. Yes, even with my company’s almost decade-long success record. I credit this to my dedication to building and maintaining case studies around those moving the industry and culture forward, and even those who might be making waves in industries outside of my own. 

Regardless of the industry you’re in, it’s vital to your success and longevity to study the world you’re in, and the worlds that have the ability to impact yours. What I often witness are those who don’t stick to something long enough to master it or the ones unwilling to devote the time needed to gain deeper knowledge of a given topic beyond what’s trending on their For You page. 

For example, think of tennis. Who’s the first person that comes to mind? For me, it’s Serena. No last name needed. Even today, when someone asks my thoughts on AI, I immediately think about two women in my life who are shaping how I view and understand the world of automation. That’s Morgan DeBaun, and my very own WritersBlok strategist, Naomi Haile. My point is, when people think about your area of expertise, are you in their top 5?

And if you’re not, what’s stopping you? 

Far too often, we get lost in the art of doing, but it’s important that we never forget to go back to the basics. That looks like studying your craft, seeking out new knowledge, and allowing yourself to attain the information and expertise required to become a thought-leader in the lane you’re in. 

So, if you’re ever looking for me on a Sunday, know that you’ll find me locked in, studying the greats. From articles to podcasts, and everything in between, I use the information I obtain to build my own curriculum in my respective lane, while creating room to learn more about my subcategories. It might sound daunting, but it enables me to answer any question thrown my way with confidence because I know I’ve done the readings and I’ve committed to the work. 

If you’re someone looking to scale your company, know that the learning never stops. The discipline you pour into your craft shows in your endurance, especially in a world that has no plans on slowing down, regardless of whether or not you can keep up. 

“Have you considered the gems hidden within your network?”

This was the advice I offered a friend who messaged our group chat in search of a marketing agency. As a prominent brand owner, she was ready to explore the next chapter of her product offering. Though she had her sights set on working with a high-priced creative team, I had another idea. 

While I know there’s deep value in outsourcing support when looking to scale, as we mature in business, we can quickly forget how to tap into the wells of our own creativity—the only thing many of us had in our come up. When dreams were new, and access was limited, we learned to build future empires with guerilla marketing, and saw the value in networking across as a means of building upwards. And this time was no different.

Long before our respective businesses blossomed into what they are today, she and I built our brands on the backs of each other. We shared resources, held events together, and leaned on each other for more than just moral support. Truth be told, the foundation my brand sits on wouldn’t have been possible without her as my creative collaborator all those years ago. And I feel blessed to know she’s still an integral part of my life.

In response to her text that day, I reminded her that there were crucial steps that needed to be considered before forking out tens of thousands of dollars to hire a company who didn’t understand the ethos of what she’d created, or the sacred relationship she’d built with her growing audience base.

My suggestion: Create a focus group of your peers.

I encouraged her to create an online focus group, and with prepared questions and a mood board in hand, she could create space for us to brainstorm new ideas together. Surrounded by women she knew and admired, those who knew and admired her just the same, she’d be able to benefit from innovative perspectives that would have remained hidden amongst memes and article links. 

So, let me ask you this, what gems are hidden in your group chats? 

For many of us, the support we’re often in search of already exists in our chats, our communities, and our professional networks. These spaces are filled with the women we turn to for upliftment and support, but beyond that, they also possess the diverse experiences, insights, and feedback we need. 

If you take the time to look around you, I’m sure you’ll find that you’re already surrounded by an entire sea of brilliant women who, as experts in their respective fields, are ready to be your thought-partners and collaborators. By strategically bringing them together, what you’re left with, in turn, is a creative agency of your own.

Promote your shit!

I wrote my first book, Everything I Couldn’t Tell My Mother, in 2014 and it continues to be a source of income for me to this very day. This is because I take advantage of every moment I’m given (even some I boldly take) to talk about it; what inspired it, and what opportunities it sparked once it was finally out into the world. 

Truth be told, my decision to continuously promote my book is because I refuse to allow my story to fall into obscurity. 

But, for those in my industry, I find it all too common to see people excitedly promote their work in the weeks and days leading up to launch day, and maybe, just maybe in the months after. But nothing more. What follows is usually a steady decline in enthusiasm until the posts all but disappear from their content altogether. 

Think about it. How many people do you know who’ve launched something a few months to a few years ago? When was the last time you saw them promote that product or project? 

Why is that? 

Every time I see this happen, I question why someone would choose to abandon something that once meant so much to them once the dust apparently settles. If anything, I see it as the perfect time to kick the dust up again, and again, and again. 

Just recently, I shared a post on my Instagram story about my 2014 release. Within a few hours, a friend and founder of a popular book club, reached out, “Omg, I didn’t know you had a book!” To which I replied, “I didn’t know you had a book club!” Though we’ve been mutuals for quite some time, this became a timely reminder to me (and you) that every time you step out of your comfort zone to promote the things you’ve created, you create room for new people to find you. 

After my friend and I laughed at the revelation, the conversation quickly shifted to the possibility of me being a speaker at her monthly book club meet-up in New York City where my book would be featured as the book of the month. Not only am I beyond grateful for the opportunity, but I’m excited for my book to reach a new generation of readers, all because I never stopped talking about it. 

And neither should you. 

You can’t be too cool, embarrassed or consumed by the fear of being seen trying or even failing when it comes to talking about the projects that speak to your deepest passions. My book is one of my life’s greatest works, and for that reason alone, I’ll never be ashamed to talk about it, loudly and proudly forever. 

So, if you’ve created something, or you’re about to, talk about it, tell people about it, and give those meant to find it a real chance to, even if that might be years later. Reality is, you can’t put that much time and love into your work just to forget about it. 

Be proud of this shit you made!”

I came sooo close to taking the easy way out with my weight loss journey, but I had to check myself. Quick! 

For those of you who’ve been following me for a while, you’re probably used to me documenting every aspect of my life, especially my workouts. But after having two babies in two years, the body I was committed to maintaining back then is a shadow of who I am now. 

It’s noticeable, I know. In the way my clothes fit, in the reflection I see in the mirror. So much of my postpartum journey has been a personal dedication to holding this new version of myself with gentleness and care. But, I’ll admit, last week, I almost broke. 

While heading to my doctor’s office for a routine checkup, I spent the entire drive there contemplating how I could ask for weight loss medication. I mean, who can blame me? Everyday on these apps, we see women praised for their “snap back” body, and some days it’s hard to see the stretchmarks gracing my now plumper body and offer it the softness I know it deserves. 

By the time I parked, however, I had a complete change of heart. This wasn’t just a body that had gotten bigger; it was so much more than that. It was the body that safely held and gave birth to my two beautiful children. It provided them comfort and nurtured them for nine months until they were safely in my arms. It had done the same for me. Each new roll I discover now tells a story of my own resilience. My body kept *me* safe. 

It’s easy to get caught up in images of women sharing workout results when just behind the curtain is the reality that supplements are the real reason for their quickened progress. This time around, I’m turning a blind eye to the pressures often placed on moms to “bounce back,” and giving myself, this body I love so deeply, a full year to feel like myself again. No pressure, just patience and more self-compassion. And, I know, for those of us who may be in more highly visible positions, our self-criticism is only further exacerbated by the sounds of expectations that were never ours to begin with. But that stops here.

For the next twelve months, I’m going to take things slow. From private workout sessions to meals that consist of nothing but chicken, veggies, and quinoa, I’m allowing myself room to refamiliarize myself with the boring stuff. I’m even leaning into new habits so I don’t feel obligated to do it alone. What first began as my attempt to build community after moving into a new neighborhood has truly changed my life. While we often see the aesthetics of pilates—the matching sets and perfectly posed after session pics—let me tell you, it puts your body to work…and I’m loving every second of it. 

Though it’s only been a few weeks, and I may not be able to see immediate changes in my body just yet, I absolutely feel it. My endurance while running a business and maintaining a household. The strength I’m able to tap into when caring for two babies who love being in their mama’s arms; yes, at the same time.

As a former athlete, my mind is constantly ready to move, while my mind reminds me that what I need is a slowed pace that allows change to happen when it’s ready, not forced. That’s what my body is calling for, and I intend to listen. The best part? I’ve already seen major impacts to my mental health and how I’m now able to maneuver this postpartum journey a second time around. 

In the weeks to come, you may notice my workout videos return. But just know that the woman you’ll see is a far cry from the person I was just a few short years ago. I’m starting from scratch, and giving myself grace to introduce myself to, well, myself. It might be messy, I might not land all my moves perfectly, but with each video, know that I’m immensely proud of the woman you’re witnessing. 

“Are you looking for advice or a listening ear? I’m here for you, so either option is okay with me.” 

These were the words I offered a friend during one of our recent conversations. She was at a bit of a stalemate with a business venture and wanted an ear (and opinion, I assumed) to help untangle the details, business owner to business owner. However, after some time, I thought it best to pivot my approach when she seemed to be a bit taken aback by my straightforwardness. In the moment, it was what the topic called for, but after a few minutes, it became painfully clear that what she may have been seeking was solely emotional support. 

According to today’s online discourse, I guess I’m what most would deem the “strict friend”; the one you DON’T go to if you want to be coddled. 

But there’s a distinction here that I think is very necessary. While I may not be a “yes man,” or subscribe to group think, I absolutely know when grace and compassion needs to take precedence over a lecture (with love, of course). This is also not the same as the so-called friends who lean into condescension as a means to inflate their ego under the guise of “tough love”. 

No. Who I am is the friend who will listen to your dreams, heartbreak, or even the issues keeping you up at night, and be there, hand in hand, plotting your next move forward. 

I’m the “solution-oriented” friend. And if we’re being honest, we all need them. 

I’m the friend who believes in your dreams, but also understands the fear that can sometimes be attached to taking the first step. I see the person beyond the imposter syndrome who sometimes needs to be reminded of their greatness. And I’m absolutely the woman rooting for you with gentle nudges that say, “you deserve better than any person or situation that’s breaking your heart.” The problem I often encounter, however, is whether the person on the receiving end is ready to sit with that reality and those words. 

Sometimes, the answer is no. And that’s okay.

How I see it, conformity bias should never replace the sincerity required to maintain healthy friendship. For true friendship to last, it must be built on authenticity, not blind appeasement, and our shared commitment to holding each other accountable to our growth, and the visions we hold for our highest selves. 

I’ll never forget the first time a friend mistook my honesty for apathy, which caused a small rift in our relationship. I was devastated. Not because I thought I’d said something wrong, but because of how misunderstood I walked away feeling. I listened, I shared in her pain, and in between those emotions, I’d offered her a resolution. It’s who she knew me to be, but this time, it wasn’t what she wanted, and I was the last to know. 

The encounter troubled me so much, I immediately booked a call with my therapist. There, I learned to be okay meeting people where they are, and where their capacity allowed them to be. In doing so, I could maintain the relationships that meant the most to me without adapting or shrinking how I wished to show up in these dynamics. 

You see, authenticity in action means saying the thing even if the impact lands weeks or even months later. It means allowing yourself to be an honest and dependable voice in a world full of uniformity. That is where expansion lies; in thought and especially in what we’re capable of achieving. 

For anyone in my life, let me be clear: my desire to want what’s best for you in the long term may sometimes seem louder than the comfort needed in the immediate moment. While I may not always have flowery language, I’ll always be truthful. No, it might not be what you’re prepared for, but it will always stem from a place of love. Because, despite what may be weighing on you today, I know you have the ability to be unstoppable tomorrow, and every day after. 

Trust me. 

Moments like this never get old. 

A few weeks ago, a client contacted my ghostwriting agency to author her very first keynote speech. 

Every year, my team and I author several speeches, from opening ceremonies to award stages. The storytelling support I offer extends across public and intimate moments, translating milestones into words that linger long after everyone’s left the room. From commencement speeches to eulogies, the words we speak have the power to shift minds and move audiences to action, so I’m always honored when I’m called upon. 

For this particular client, I knew how important the moment was, and I was ready to go the distance with her. I understood her vision and couldn’t wait to bring all her ideas to life. Though she was very much an expert in her field, with the skills, stories, and passion to engage a room of industry leaders, she also knew that having a thought-partner in her corner was needed to fit all of those pieces together. 

What we produced was nothing short of magical. We met occasionally to discuss her strengths, but also her pain points. As we carved out draft after draft, each iteration got us closer to a version that showcased who I knew her to be. In the end, we created a story that would resonate with those in attendance beyond the hour she’d be on stage. From ideation to execution, it was such a beautiful process to be part of, all while witnessing the impassioned, confident speaker she became evolve right before my eyes. 

But this wasn’t something that took place over night. More than a creative collaborator, it’s also important to me that my clients feel supported every step of the way. With speech writing, that looks like coaching them through things like pronunciation, tone, body language, and stage presence to ensure they develop the confidence and comfort needed to deliver an impactful speech. And that’s exactly the kind of rigorous regimen I had her on. We would meet a few times a week to get her reps in. While the work was boring and even repetitive, slowly but surely, she found her rhythm, breezing through sentences that once made her stumble, and leaving room for her personality to shine through. 

By the time we made it to the final run, and I watched as she set up the presentation deck my team also designed to accompany her speech, I could barely contain my excitement. I sat in awe as she delivered her speech with flawless execution; no one in the room would know a first-timer was standing in front of them. 

This was more than a win. It was a reflection of the ways storytelling is infused in all aspects of our lives, and why I encourage everyone I know to collaborate with a speech writer or thought partner for all of life’s moments—big or small. Some of the most revered speakers we know have a team on hand to help them decipher and deliver their thoughts with clarity and emotional resonance, no matter the room. 

If you’ve been mulling over the words you’d like to use to define your next life or career defining moment, reach out! Let’s create something special together.

Quick Tip: Never be afraid to ask the uncomfortable question; especially when your money is involved. A few months ago, I was tapped to speak at an event that I was immediately excited to be part of. The organization was one I admired, and the event in question spoke directly to my interests. I just knew the audience would be in for an enlightening conversation, filled with evergreen industry insights. 

The problem: the initial discussion didn’t mention a participation fee. In my early speaking days, and given the organization, I would’ve made the assumption that they simply didn’t have the budget to cover my speaker fee. And, boy, would I have been wrong. I decided to reach out to the event organizers for a bit more information and, not only was there a budget set aside for speakers, it was a rather sizable amount. If I’d stuck with my initial assumption, I would’ve played myself dearly.

Throughout my speaking career, I’ve learned that you only get what you’re brave enough to ask (and negotiate) for. So many times I’ve seen people leave money on the table all because they were afraid to ask the dreaded, and often uncomfortable question: Is there a fee for this?

I released the shame of asking these kinds of questions a long time ago, and over recent years, I’ve taken things a step further to ensure those who share space with me are also given their just due. While this may look different from event to event, it always starts with an honest conversation around pay transparency. 

Once I know who else has been booked to be on stage with me, I like to reach out, first with a heartfelt message expressing congrats, followed by a quick pivot to get to business. And if it’s an event featuring a few of my sisters, I take the initiative to start a group chat. 

What I love about the approach is that it’s rooted in making sure we all eat. It’s also about creating a safe space where we can discuss fees, and help each other negotiate terms together. The conversation around money, especially for women, is one that’s especially difficult, and must be mastered. So, the more times we’re empowered to ask for our worth (plus tax, thank you!), the easier the habit becomes. 

As experts, there will come a time when you’re asked to take your talents to the main stage; be it a panel, fireside chat, or even a keynote. While these opportunities can be the fastest way to build brand visibility and widen your reach, it can also present a problem when you don’t know how much to charge, or what to say yes to when the event budget seems scarce. This is where your network, and using your voice become key. Taking the step to reach out to friends and colleagues to have a transparent discussion around payment can be the difference between walking away empty-handed or with a handsome direct deposit. 

If you don’t know how to ask the right questions to the right individuals, you’ll never know what to ask or negotiate for. But that all changes when we collectively commit to being transparent about what we’re offered for both our presence and our expertise. 

Now this isn’t to say we can’t work for free, which does happen from time to time. But while exposure is always appreciated, it definitely doesn’t pay the bills. Therefore, it’s important to know what’s available to you before blindly saying yes. 

The only way we close the pay gap for women is to be forthright about where we’ve been to make it easier for those coming up behind us. So, the next time you get booked, take a second to do a bit of research. Connect with those who’ll also be there, or reach out to those who’ve been there in previous years. Be bold, ask the right questions, and don’t forget to use the information you’ve gained to charge your worth, and share it with others. There’s more than enough room for all of us. 

As someone who loves talking dollars and cents, I’m always here to help anyone in my network find the strategy to make sure you’re fairly compensated. Don’t be shy. Reach out and let’s brainstorm together. 

I opened my inbox this morning to confirmation that I’d finally closed a book deal with a client I first met on a prospect call six years ago. 

2190 days ago. 

In 2020, a mutual friend connected us when he was seeking assistance with a memoir he hoped to have ghostwritten. The call went well and I was looking forward to getting the ball rolling. However, for reasons beyond my control, he decided it wasn’t the best time to move forward. At the time, I respected his decision, and thanked him for his time and consideration. 

For most people, communication would have ended there. But not for me. I’ve been in this industry long enough to know that most deals need time to marinate. Due to this understanding, years ago, I began keeping a list of all my discovery client calls. This was often accompanied by detailed notes that included things like the initial ask, areas for expansion, and niche interests that allow me to get a clear picture of who this client is, and who they have the potential to be. In most cases, a project doesn’t move forward for a number of reasons—maybe the timing or finances aren’t quite right—but that should never be an indication that the project isn’t capable of moving toward completion; whether it takes six days, weeks, or in this case, years. 

I learned a long time ago that there’s money in the follow-up, but I know that can be a hard thing to commit to when the initial “no” feels so close to rejection. Over the course of the last six years, with this particular client, I made a concerted effort to share resources and cultural happenings with him based on the information I’d gained from that very first call. In time, the flow of communication grew to be reciprocal, with him also sharing relevant resources he stumbled upon throughout his day to day. These weren’t daily or even weekly interactions, but they occurred long enough, and with enough intention to leave an impact. 

To get to this point, it requires you to sidestep the feelings of shame and embarrassment often associated with the follow-up process. By implementing an old school “door to door salesman” approach to your sales strategy, you allow yourself to remain top of mind by creating room for small, consistent nudges to push you closer and closer to the finish line. But, I understand that this may not be a method that works for everyone. In other instances, this can look like sending an email to inquire about how they’ve, or even simpler by engaging with their content on LinkedIn. But the easiest way to keep your potential clients in the fold, while showcasing your craft and work ethic is the tried and true newsletter. 

In the end, things progressed with this client because of the familiarity we’d built over the years. When things became better aligned on his end, it meant that I was his first call. It was a relationship that required a lot of nurturing, yes, but most of all, it required patience. And patience is how the toughest (sales) battles are won. As a business owner, my ability to follow through with clients over time has led to sometimes staggered, but always steady business that keeps my pipeline full. 

So, if you have a client you recently connected with and things didn’t quite work out, don’t fret. Take note of all that took place in your list of prospective clients, and try circling back in a few months. Remember, you’ll always miss the shots you don’t take. 

I find it almost poetic that as most of our recent stories or grid posts have been an homage to the wonders of 2016, I also find myself in deep reflection about where I was in that period of my life. 

Young and bright eyed, and with my laptop forever by my side, I was already a decade into solidifying my career in journalism, with my words gracing every major newspaper across the country. I knew I was destined to be a storyteller, but I suddenly had an itch for something more. Through the recommendation of a friend, I decided to lend my pen to ForbesWomen, and within six months, I was a senior contributor. 

Most of you know I didn’t follow the traditional route here so simply seeing my name in bylines each month offered constant comfort to the young girl in me who first decided to take a risk on herself and her passions. That is, of course, until the realities of the industry came knocking. 

Within my first few months, I recognized that what was required of me was, to be frank, completely unsustainable. I’d wanted to use my platform to offer careful and insightful visibility to Black and POC women who were making waves throughout varying industries or whom Natalie Warned likes to call, the anonymous extraordinaries. But what my editor wanted was for my immediate focus to be zeroed in on A-listers who needed little to no mention and quick turnarounds which worked for others, especially when you’re getting paid per article. 

Almost immediately, I felt the pressure of an invisible ceiling being placed above me, from the kind of care I could put into my stories to the amount of money I could make. So, by 2017, WritersBlok, my celebrity ghostwriting agency was born. There, I would be able to use my skills (as a storyteller, strategist, and researcher) to amplify the stories of those I admired, as well as those seeking assistance to better and broaden their brands. 

While I continued to lay the foundation for my company, my time at ForbesWomen, from the people I interviewed to the lessons they imparted on me, became the perfect master class and laid the foundation to how I became a successful businesswoman myself. As I slowly worked to remove that proverbial ceiling, I was getting a front row seat into how life as a business owner worked, and I couldn’t have been more grateful for it. 

Though the demands of the journalism industry caused me to slightly pivot, I knew that it was necessary as I began to see the start of obstructions to craft and content that were soon to plague the field I’d once loved so much. Despite this, even as my output at ForbesWomen slowed, the quality of my features never wavered. I held true to my initial goal and ensured that I was paving a way for other Black women to talk about the people and things that were shaping industries and culture. When I started, I was only 1 of 50 senior contributors at ForbesWomen, across over 2000 contributors spread across the entire Forbes ecosystem.

But, despite the love I had for my work as a journalist, nearly 10 years into my freelance career at this publication, I also knew the sun was beginning to set on that chapter of my life. It’s probably why I wasn’t all too shocked when, at the end of last year, I was singled out for the quota I’d seemingly missed in 2025. What did shock me, however, was how impersonal the entire discussion felt. My editor didn’t even bother to inquire about why my momentum slowed down.

The short answer: I became a mother.

Yes, you read that right. And some of you may be learning this news for the first time because I chose to keep such a precious milestone off the internet. I gave birth to my first son in October 2024 and my second son in January of this year. Back to back pregnancies, just over one year apart. As one chapter of my life started, another ended without any empathy or intention. Nearly a decade as a senior contributor at Forbes.com and hundreds of women featured, all wrapped up in a coldly written email. 

Sadly, the team and I were simply unable to agree on contractual terms (mainly the number of articles I’d produce per month), and so, we mutually agreed to part ways. 

My role as a journalist is officially over. 

I’ve hesitated sharing this news, but felt it appropriate to mention it publicly as I know so many of you continue to reach out about the possibility of being featured. I also wonder how many of those relationships will fall flat or flourish now that I’m no longer there. 

But while I may be exiting the rigorous grind of being a journalist, I’m excited for the extra time to pour into offering my expertise in a more educational capacity. I’ll still be available for those seeking advice and support on how to pitch to publications, navigate industry shifts as founders and brand builders, and of course, media literacy.

So, I guess I’m not completely bidding adieu to journalism, but ensuring that with my departure, the door remains open and the lane feels widened for new women-led voices to define the future of what’s to come.
My north star is my ghostwriting agency. I will continue to lead my brilliant all-women team as I have done for several years. Accepting that you’re in a season of transition is messy, but on the other side of that is usually something magical. There’s a deep and often vulnerable shedding that takes place just before the battle is won.