<p>Lori Tharps is all about shaking up the storytelling scene and spreading the good word about BIPOC voices. In our chat today, we dive into the transformative power of travel and how it can reshape our perspectives on identity and culture. Lori shares her journey from a storytelling-loving kid with a typewriter to becoming an award-winning author and educator living in sunny Spain. We also get into the nitty-gritty of her creative writing community for BIPOC women, and how helping others tell their stories is way more fulfilling than endless diversity training. So, buckle up for some witty banter and insightful tales that’ll inspire you to pack your bags and seek out your own stories!</p><p>Takeaways:</p><ol><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Lori's journey into storytelling began with an antique typewriter at age eight, igniting her passion for writing.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>The move to Spain allowed Lori to reconnect with her dreams of being a global storyteller, showcasing BIPOC narratives.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Understanding race and identity has shaped Lori's work, making her a powerful voice in storytelling and activism.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Traveling has transformed Lori's perspective, revealing the importance of cultural immersion beyond American experiences.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Researching destinations is vital; Lori emphasizes choosing places that resonate with personal interests and values.</li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span>Creating a travel journal helps Lori capture memories, ensuring she reflects on her experiences long after her trips.</li></ol><br/><p>Lori Tharps Bio:</p><p>Lori L. Tharps is an award-winning author, journalist and educator. A self-described storytelling evangelist, Tharps is a recognized voice in the areas of race, identity politics and African-American culture. She is the author of three critically acclaimed nonfiction books including, Hair Story: Untangling the Roots of Black Hair in America (St. Martin’s Press) and Kinky Gazpacho: Life, Love & Spain (Atria). Lori She has also written for The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Philadelphia Inquirer, Glamour and Essence magazines.</p><p>In 2021, Lori moved with her family to the south of Spain, where she launched Reed, Write & Create, a podcast and platform that celebrates and supports BIPoC stories and storytellers. The Reed, Write, & Create podcast was named Best Literary Podcast by the Black Podcasting Awards in 2023.</p><p>Links referenced in this episode:</p><ol><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><a href="https://readwriteandcreate.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">readwriteandcreate.com</a></li><li data-list="bullet"><span class="ql-ui" contenteditable="false"></span><a href="https://loriltharps.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">loriltharps.com</a></li></ol><br/>