Writing About the Things That Matter: Dr. Tameka Ellington {ep. 111}
November 8, 2023
Continuing our discussion on using books to write about the things that matter and advocate for knowledge, understanding, and change, this episode is an interview with Dr. Tameka Ellington and her decision to write the book: "Black Hair in a White World"
In this episode we discuss:
- Dr. Ellington's journey to write this book, despite it being outside of her normal areas of focused
- Why she was so passionate about bringing the topic of Black hair to the forefront
- Writing about difficult topics
- Why writers shouldn't be afraid to bring their message to the world
- Tips for authors who do want to advocate/ bring about activism through the books
- Her book, Black Hair in a White World
Dr. Tameka Ellington brings high energy and real-life examples of struggle to triumph and poverty mindset to growth mindset. She grew up in the inner city of Cleveland, Ohio and was raised by a single mother. Her father was absent due to alcoholism and drug use which landed him in a 15-year prison sentence. Despite the violence and crime surrounding her, Dr. Tameka always strived for excellence. She is a TRIO Upward Bound Alum and was the first person in her family to obtain a college degree. She attributes education, TRIO Programs, and the dedicated mentors in her life as resources that helped her escape poverty and attain the peace of mind needed to go after her dreams.
Dr. Tameka is CEO and Founder of Dr. Tameka Ellington Enterprises, a personal, professional, and spiritual wellness company. She is a speaker, internationally acclaimed and awarded fashion scholar, and confidence coach. She’s the author of four books, including the award-winning book, TEXTURES: the history and art of Black hair written for its namesake exhibition co-curated by Dr. Tameka, featuring artifacts and contemporary artworks musing on Black hair and Black culture. Her fifth book, Black Hair in a White World is set to be released summer 2023 with Kent State University (KSU) Press. Dr. Tameka is also the host of the Black Beauty Activist Podcast where she has critical conversations with her guests to disrupt Westernize beauty standards and raise the consciousness and confidence of Black women.
Dr. Tameka is dedicated to empowering her clients to achieve new levels of self-confidence, and helping them break down cultural barriers in their personal and professional lives. “On the other side of fear is your beautiful confidence.”
Learn more here: https://www.facebook.com/tameka.ellingtonphd
https://www.instagram.com/dr.tamekaellington/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-tameka-ellington-93659212/