Author Gene, writing under the name JL James, joins Conversations That Count to share the story behind his novel The Other Side of Color. This episode explores prejudice that can exist within the same community, the emotional impact of family estrangement, and the determination required to escape personal alleyways and create a different future.Gene walks through his creative journey from a short story to a full novel, the realities of self-publishing, and what it takes to promote meaningful work while balancing a day job. We also discuss his music project Soft Pillows, written as comfort for those who have experienced loss, and how creative expression can become medicine for the soul.Listeners will hear about identity, resilience, storytelling, and the go-getter mindset, along with a simple challenge to help anyone move one step closer to their own North Star.Follow Conversations That Count on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, and share this episode with someone who needs a reminder that they can win.About the GuestGene Belcher Jr. is an author and storyteller writing under the name JL James. His novel The Other Side of Color explores how prejudice can exist within the same community and how identity, family dynamics, and resilience shape a young man’s life. Raised in upstate New York, Gene draws from real experiences and emotional truth to tell stories about coming out of personal alleyways and crossing bridges toward a better future.His work has found its way into schools and libraries and is increasingly used to spark conversations around identity, belonging, and self belief. In addition to writing, Gene has spent decades in sales and marketing, bringing an entrepreneurial mindset to creative work.Business contactEmail: [email protected]: 731 394 1914LinkedIn: Eugene F Belcher Jr on LinkedInTo learn more, visit:https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-shaftListen to more episodes on Mission Matters:https://missionmatters.com/author/david-shaft