エピソード

  • SC BOOKGAL AND FRIENDS PODCAST 7/20/25
    37 分
  • 21 DAY CHALLENGE WITH QUEEN ANGELA Day 19 Lesson on importance of & how to announce Upcoming Events & Opportunities
    2025/07/20
    Lesson Title:Day 19: Announcing Upcoming Events & OpportunitiesLesson Objective:By the end of this lesson, participants will understand the importance of proactively sharing upcoming events and opportunities (such as readings, signings, podcasts, interviews, or collaborations) with their audience, and learn effective strategies to make these announcements engaging.1. Why Announce Upcoming Events?
    • Build Anticipation: When you announce an event ahead of time, you give your audience something to look forward to. This creates excitement and keeps your audience engaged.
    • Boost Participation: The earlier your followers know about an event, the more likely they’ll be able to attend, share, or support it.
    • Showcase Active Involvement: Regularly participating in events or collaborations signals to your audience that you are active, professional, and in demand.
    • Expand Reach: Podcasts, interviews, and collaborations introduce you to new audiences—announcing these amplifies the cross-pollination effect.
    2. Types of Opportunities to Announce
    • Readings: Virtual or in-person events where you read excerpts of your book or work.
    • Book Signings: Sessions at bookstores, libraries, or festivals.
    • Podcasts & Interviews: Guest appearances on podcasts, radio, TV, or blogs.
    • Collaborations: Joint ventures with other authors, creators, or organizations (co-written stories, anthology releases, themed events).
    3. When and How to Announce
    • Timing:
      • Announce 2–4 weeks in advance for maximum visibility.
      • Provide reminders one week before, then 1–2 days before the event.
    • Platforms:
      • Your website/blog (events page)
      • Email newsletter
      • Social media (Instagram, Facebook, Twitter/X, LinkedIn)
      • Event-specific platforms (Eventbrite, Goodreads)
    4. What Should an Announcement Include?
    • Event details: What is happening, date/time, location (or link for virtual events)
    • Your involvement: What will you be doing? Why is it exciting?
    • How to participate: Register, RSVP, purchase tickets, tune in, or just mark the calendar.
    • Engagement: Invite readers to ask questions in advance, comment, or share.
    5. Sample Announcement Template🌟 Exciting News! I’m thrilled to announce that I’ll be reading from my latest novel at the [Downtown Bookshop] on [June 16th, 7pm]! This is a wonderful chance to meet local readers, sign your books, and answer your questions. Mark your calendars and RSVP here: [link]. Can’t wait to see you there! #BookReading #AuthorEvent6. ActivityDraft Your Own Announcement Write a social media post or email newsletter blurb announcing an upcoming (real or hypothetical) event, podcast, or collaboration. Focus on excitement, clarity, and call to action.7. Wrap-Up & Key Takeaways
    • Announcing upcoming events keeps your audience engaged and boosts their participation.
    • Clear, timely, and enthusiastic announcements create momentum and showcase your professional activity.
    • Don’t be shy about sharing your opportunities—your audience wants to support you!
    Assignment: Draft and share at least one announcement across your preferred platforms. Track engagement and note what messaging works best.

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/da-crew-podcast--5763835/support.
    続きを読む 一部表示
    22 分
  • BEWARE OF SCAMMERS IN THIS SEASON
    2025/07/20
    Beware: Navigating Book Award Season—What Every Author Needs to KnowAs award season approaches, excitement buzzes in the air. We all want the recognition that comes with a shiny seal on our covers and our names on “winner” lists. After all, in the world of books, an award is more than a trophy: it’s a formal recognition of excellence, an accolade that can elevate your career, open doors, and grow your audience.In short, an award is an honor bestowed upon an author or their book as a mark of distinction in literature. From game-changing titles like the Pulitzer Prize and the Booker Prize to local or genre-specific honors, earning recognition can feel like a dream come true.But before you reach for your credit card, it’s wise to ask: How much is too much to pay for a book award—and is it really an award if you have to pay for it?
    Don’t Let Award Fever Cloud Your Judgement


    Most prestigious literary awards, such as the Pulitzer, National Book Award, or the Booker, do not charge high submission fees. If they do, fees are purely to cover administrative costs and are never tied to your chances of winning. Instead, the focus is on literary merit and peer recognition.But as any author will tell you, inboxes and Facebook feeds flood this time of year with offers for less-known contests and so-called “awards” charging hefty sums. These are often dubbed “pay-to-play” or “vanity” awards, and while some are above board, many exist more to make money from hopeful authors than to genuinely recognize literary excellence.
    What’s a Normal Fee? What Should Raise Red Flags?


    • Legitimate awards might charge a reasonable submission fee—typically $25–$100—to cover judges’ stipends and promotion.
    • Red flags: Fees over $150-$200 with little transparency on judges or past winners.
    • Be wary if you must shell out additionally for stickers, plaques, or event attendance to “claim” your prize.








    Is It Really an “Award” if You Have to Pay?


    Prestige is earned, not bought. Most reputable awards require a small entry fee, but true literary achievement is never “for sale.”Consider:
    • If you pay and everyone wins… is that a real achievement?
    • Are judges industry professionals, librarians, or respected authors? Or does the process feel secretive and automated?
    • Do you see “winners” who all seem to have self-published books, with no media attention or bookstore recognition?
    Vanity awards make their money by inflating your hopes and emptying your wallet. Their recognition is rarely meaningful in the eyes of reviewers, librarians, booksellers, or readers.
    What’s the Real Value of a Book Award?


    A credible, merit-based award can boost your sales, attract agents, and make reviewers and bookstores pay attention. But a “pay-for-trophy” distinction—especially one easily recognized as a vanity award—can even harm your reputation.
    Author’s Checklist: Stay Smart This Award Season


    • Research every award. Who won last year? Who are the judges? Is it quoted in the press or respected by bookstores?
    • Watch fees: $25–$100 is standard. Over $150? Investigate thoroughly.
    • Be wary of extras: If you have to pay for your trophy, plaque, or gala seat, ask why.
    • Don’t buy prestige: The best accolades are earned, not purchased.
    • Ask the hive mind: Check in with writer groups, author societies, or publishing professionals if you’re unsure.

    Pro Tip: When in doubt, reach out! Connect with other writers who’ve submitted to the same award, or ask literary advocacy groups about its reputation.
    Bottom line: Awards should honor your hard work—not anyone’s ability to pay. As you chase well-deserved recognition this season, let your heart (and your research) lead the way. Prestige cannot be bought—so don’t let vanity awards sell you short.Happy award season, and may your literary merit always shine brightest!

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/da-crew-podcast--5763835/support.
    続きを読む 一部表示
    2 分
  • 21 DAY CHALLENGE WITH QUEEN ANGELA Day 18 Real-Time Engagement You are your BRAND, show up for YOU
    2025/07/20
    Day 18: Real-Time EngagementGet more from ANGELA THOMAS SMITH in the Substack appAvailable for iOS and AndroidGet the appIntroductionWelcome to Day 18 of our visibility branding journey! Today, we turn our attention to real-time engagement—an exciting way to energize your online community and make your brand unforgettable. In today’s fast-paced social world, interacting with your audience live—whether through a giveaway, poll, or contest—creates energy, excitement, and connection that scripted posts alone can’t match.Imagine the thrill your audience feels when their comment gets noticed in real time, or when they’re incentivized to tag a friend, answer a question, or win something fun. This day is all about learning why and how real-time engagement can level up your brand—and how to harness it responsibly.Core Lesson: Why Does Real-Time Engagement Matter?1. Stronger ConnectionsLive, unscripted moments create genuine bonds. Your audience feels seen and valued when they can participate instantly, rather than passively consuming content.2. Increased Visibility & ReachWhen you host interactive elements like live polls or giveaways with tagging, you invite new eyes to your page. Every tag or share helps your content reach potential new community members and customers.3. Instant Feedback & InsightReal-time engagement is a goldmine for immediate feedback. You’ll learn what your audience loves, cares about, or needs—helping you refine your brand to better serve them.Thanks for reading Da Visionary Queen Angela Thomas Smith ! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.3 Pros of Real-Time Engagement1. Builds Community and Loyalty: Live interaction sends a signal to your audience: “You matter. You’re not just a number.” This increases trust and keeps your followers coming back.2. Drives Algorithm Boosts: Social platforms favor real-time engagement. The more active your live post, the further your reach—giving your brand extra momentum.3. Showcases Brand Personality: Going live allows your unique voice and values to shine through. It’s a chance to be authentic and memorable.3 Cons of Real-Time Engagement1. Technical Glitches and Unpredictability: Live events can face tech hiccups (connection problems, lag, etc.) and unexpected comments. Preparation is key!2. Pressure to Perform: Being live can be nerve-wracking, especially for new brands or small business owners. Mistakes or awkward silences may happen.3. Risk of Low Participation: Not every audience may engage deeply, especially if your brand is new or you haven’t built up loyal followers yet.Thanks for reading Da Visionary Queen Angela Thomas Smith ! This post is public so feel free to share it.ShareHow and Why to Apply Real-Time Engagement to Your BrandHow:Schedule a live session for a mini giveaway, poll, or contest.Announce it ahead of time—build anticipation!Have clear rules and a simple entry process (e.g., “Tag a friend and answer this question to win!”).Engage directly with the audience—shout out names, thank them for their participation, and respond to comments in the moment.Wrap up with gratitude, share the winner(s), and tease upcoming events or offers to keep your audience excited.Why:Relevance: Meeting your audience “in the moment” shows your brand is vibrant and responsive.Trust: Honest live interactions build authenticity, making people more likely to support you.Growth: Each engagement opportunity can multiply your audience and turn casual followers into loyal fans.Share Da Visionary Queen Angela Thomas Smith Close & Motivational InvitationIn a world overflowing with scheduled posts and static content, real-time engagement is your brand’s chance to be truly unforgettable. It’s lively, human, and speaks directly to your community’s heart. Is it a little scary? Sometimes. But with every poll, question, or giveaway, you open the door to creativity, growth, and stronger relationships.Take the challenge—host a live mini event, welcome your followers into conversation, and watch your brand come alive! Don’t wait for perfection. Start with genuine enthusiasm, and let connection lead the way.Ready to go live and make your brand shine? Step into real-time engagement and see what magic you can sparkBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/da-crew-podcast--5763835/support.
    続きを読む 一部表示
    22 分
  • DAILY DEVOTION WITH QUEEN ANGELA Day 20 Overflowing Hearts – The Transforming Power of Cheerful Generosity
    2025/07/20
    DAY 20 LESSON: The Gift of GenerosityFocus Verse: “Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” – 1 Corinthians 9:7 Affirmation: I give cheerfully and abundantly.Powerful Introduction: (Grab Their Attention)Imagine standing at the edge of a lush garden. Every plant, from the smallest herb to the tallest tree, lives to give—offering fruit, shade, fragrance, and beauty. The garden flourishes because each part shares what it has. What if our lives mirrored that garden? What if, instead of holding tightly to our resources, we released them—believing that the act of giving creates a cycle where blessings grow and overflow for us and others?Backstory: Setting the Scene for 1 Corinthians 9:7To truly grasp this verse, let’s travel back to ancient Corinth, a bustling city known for commerce and culture. Paul, writing to the church in Corinth, is urging early believers to see giving not as a reluctant duty, but as a heartfelt decision. He addresses people who are learning to live differently—counter to a culture obsessed with accumulation and status.Paul uses simple, powerful imagery: farmers who sow sparingly only reap a small harvest, but those who sow generously will reap abundantly. Just as a hesitant farmer never sees a great harvest, a reluctant giver misses out on seeing God's abundant return. Paul’s message? Giving is not about obligation, but about opportunity: an invitation to reflect God’s generosity to us.Lesson FocusGenerosity blesses both the giver and the receiver. When we give—of our time, resources, encouragement, or talent—we mirror God’s own boundless generosity. Every act planted in love creates ripples, transforming both our lives and the lives of those around us.Three Powerful TakeawaysThree Powerful Takeaways (with Scripture)
    1. Generosity Multiplies Blessings. “Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.” (2 Corinthians 9:6) Just as one seed can yield an entire field, even a small act of generosity can multiply—blessing others and eventually returning to us in unexpected ways by God’s design.
    2. Giving Changes the Heart. “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” (1 Corinthians 9:7) When we give cheerfully, we break the grip of selfishness and scarcity in our lives. Our hearts grow more compassionate, more open, and more like Christ—a true blessing for us!
    3. Generosity Inspires Others. “In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” (Acts 20:35) Our giving often becomes the catalyst for others to give. A single act of kindness can inspire a chain reaction, empowering an entire community to live more abundantly.
    Three Powerful Ways to Apply Generosity Daily
    1. Start Small and Be Consistent. Look for daily opportunities—a smile, a kind word, helping a neighbor, or buying someone a coffee. Small seeds, planted often, bear great fruit.
    2. Be Intentional with Resources. Budget your time and money intentionally for acts of generosity. Whether it’s tithing, volunteering, or supporting a cause, plan your giving just like you plan your necessities.
    3. Give from the Heart, Not Obligation. Each day, before giving, pause and reflect: “Am I giving out of love, gratitude, or guilt?” Choose to give cheerfully—trust that what you offer, no matter how big or small, brings joy to God and others.
    Word of the Day: ABUNDANCE
    • Encouragement: Today, remember that God is a God of abundance, not scarcity. When you give, you step into the flow of God’s blessings, both receiving and becoming a channel for His goodness. Never underestimate the impact of a generous heart. The more you give, the more you make room for God’s abundance in your life.
    Closing and InvitationAs you reflect on today’s lesson, consider this: Your generosity is not just a gift to others; it’s a key to unlocking more joy, love, and abundance in your own journey. Stand in the middle of the garden of your life and think—what seeds of generosity can you plant today?Join me tomorrow as we review all we’ve covered over the last week—a day of reflection to celebrate our growth and set intentions for the days to come. Don’t miss it!Remember your affirmation throughout the day: I give cheerfully and abundantly.See you tomorrow for a time of reflection and celebration!

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/da-crew-podcast--5763835/support.
    続きを読む 一部表示
    18 分
  • Visionary Queen Angela sit down and have conversation with our AUTHOR OF THE WEEK July 27 through August 2nd ROLANDA PYLE
    2025/07/19
    Visionary Queen Angela sit down and have conversation with our AUTHOR OF THE WEEK July 27 through August 2nd ROLANDA PYLEOur Visionary sat down and chatted with Rolanda and it went like this…Queen Angela asked…Can you share a little about your journey—what inspired you to become both a social worker and an author?As a young girl, all I knew is that I wanted to help people. I was quiet and introverted as a child, but loved writing. I always preferred writing to talking. My 8th grade teacher told me that I had a creative writing ability and that stuck with me. So I kept journals and then began to write poetry and short stories. I also became a social worker and worked in several aspects in the field.Queen Angela asked…How does your background in social work influence the themes and messages in your writing, especially your children’s books?I have written poems and articles about a lot of what I have seen in my career. My children's book is about a child who has to go live with her grandmother. One of the aspects of the field I worked is grandparents raising grandchildren. I also have a poem dedicated to those grandparents and have written poems about growing older, family issues, tribute to Veterans, etc.Queen Angela asked…What is the most rewarding part of writing poetry for you, and how do you hope your poems impact your readers?For me the most rewarding part of writing poetry is that I get to express the way I feel. I really feel that I have a lot to say and wouldn't get to say it in any other way. The other thing about writing for me is that it is like leaving a legacy. My poems will outlive me and hopefully touch and impact readers for generations to come. I believe and I have heard that in every poem I write that someone somewhere can identify with it and needs it.Queen Angela asked…Can you tell us about a particular child or family whose story inspired one of your books or poems (without revealing personal details)?That's easy, because that particular child is me and my family. I grew in a home with my siblings and my dad. My mother left when I was toddler, and my paternal grandmother stepped in to help my dad raise us. But I never felt complete and knew that somehow through my own experience that I wanted to help others. It wasn't until I read the required reading in Junior High, the book, "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings" by Maya Angelou that I felt healed because I found someone else who had lived through a similar situation. That's why I wrote my children's book, I wanted younger children to read it and to identify with it.Queen Angela asked…What are some of the most common challenges you see children and families face today, and how do your books address or shine a light on these issues?Hunger, Homelessness, Being raised by someone other than your parent, sickness, illness and disease, fear, young black men being killed, rejection, hopeless....and the list goes on. My 2 poetry books address these issues and so much more through my poems. My devotional is a compilation, where authors tell their stories, and I'm sure folks can relate. And the children's book is for children who go to live with a relative.Queen Angela asked…As a writer of inspirational, where do you find your hope and motivation, especially on difficult days?I find motivation through my time of devotion with God and from hearing from others about what they went through and how they overcame. I believe, that no matter what I'm going through, if God brought me through it in the past, He will again.Queen Angela asked…What is your favorite poem or children's story you’ve written, and why does it hold a special place in your heart?Well, I told you about my children's book, "Grandma's Hands " already. One of my favorite poems is my poem "FINALLY". I wrote it as I was publishing my first book. For years, folks told me I should publish my poems and after many years, I "finally " did. Another favorite is "Harlem". I was born in Harlem, my parents met and both loved Harlem along with other family members. When my family came up here from South Carolina and from Barbados via Boston, they all ended up in Harlem. So along with the rich culture of Harlem, it holds a special place for me because of that.Queen Angela asked…How do you balance your career in social work with your creative writing pursuits?I'm retired from full time work, and only do consultant work, so I have much more time to focus on my creative writing pursuits.Queen Angela asked… What advice would you give to aspiring writers, especially those who want to tell stories that uplift and inspire?I would advise someone early in their journey to hang in there. First it is always good to get with others, who can advise, instruct and mentor you. So join an author’s group or get with other authors. I would also say to seek and know what direction you want to go in. Do you want to publish a book or write songs or write plays or just tell your story ...
    続きを読む 一部表示
    1 分
  • DAILY DEVOTION WITH QUEEN ANGELA Day 19 Embracing Joy Scripture Focus Nehemiah 810-…for the joy of the LORD is your strength.
    2025/07/19
    Day 19: Embracing JoyScripture Focus: Nehemiah 8:10"…for the joy of the LORD is your strength."AffirmationThe joy of the Lord is my strength.INTROIn a world that often equates joy with fleeting happiness and ideal circumstances, God invites us to discover a deeper, unshakable joy that comes from Him alone. Joy is not just an emotion—it is a spiritual force, a gift that sustains us even when life feels overwhelming. Today, we embrace the truth that joy is found in God, and that His joy empowers us to rise above our challenges.Backstory: Understanding Nehemiah 8:10Nehemiah 8:10 comes at a significant moment in the history of God’s people. The Israelites had just returned to Jerusalem from exile, and under Nehemiah’s leadership, they had successfully rebuilt the walls of the city against tremendous opposition. However, physical restoration was just the beginning—their spiritual restoration was still needed.On this day, all the people gathered as Ezra the scribe read the Law of Moses to them. As they heard God’s word, conviction swept over them and they began to weep, realizing how far they had strayed from God. But Nehemiah, along with Ezra and the Levites, told them not to mourn or weep, for this day was holy to the Lord. Instead, they were encouraged to celebrate—a festival of joy—because “the joy of the Lord is your strength.” The leaders assured the people that God’s joy, not their shame, would be their sustaining power as they began anew.This scripture reminds us that joy isn’t just about feeling good—it’s a divine strength that enables us to move forward, even when we are broken or afraid.Thanks for reading Da Visionary Queen Angela Thomas Smith ! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.DIVE DEEPER:3 Powerful Takeaways1. Joy is Rooted in God’s PresencePsalm 16:11: You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore. True joy doesn’t depend on our circumstances or emotions; it thrives in God’s presence. When we spend time with Him, meditating on His word or simply opening our hearts in worship, we are filled with a joy that is real, lasting, and soul-satisfying.2. Joy Gives Us Spiritual StrengthNehemiah 8:10: “...for the joy of the LORD is your strength.” When Nehemiah addressed the weary Israelites, he reminded them that their strength did not come from themselves, but from God’s joy. This same principle applies to us: Joy from the Lord fuels our endurance, uplifts our spirits, and empowers us to persevere through every trial.3. Joy is a Witness to a Watching WorldRomans 15:13: May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope. Our joy is a testament to God’s goodness—even in hard seasons. When we radiate joy through faith and hope, those around us see something supernatural at work, drawing them closer to the source of our strength.Thanks for reading Da Visionary Queen Angela Thomas Smith ! This post is public so feel free to share it.Share3 Ways to Apply This Lesson TODAY1. Cultivate Joy through WorshipSet aside intentional time today—whether it’s five minutes or an hour—to worship God. Listen to uplifting music, sing, or simply sit quietly in awe of who He is. Worship creates an atmosphere for God’s presence and opens your heart to renewed joy.2. Choose Gratitude in Every SituationWhatever your circumstances, find at least three things for which you are grateful and thank God for them specifically. Gratitude refocuses your mind on God’s goodness and ignites deeper joy.3. Spread Joy to OthersLook for opportunities to share joy with someone else—a smile, a word of encouragement, or a simple prayer. Acts of kindness don’t just bless others—they multiply joy in your own life and expand God’s kingdom.EMPOWERING WORD FOR TODAYToday, remember you are not meant to carry the weight of the world alone. God’s joy is available and abundant for you—no matter how you feel or what you face. When the world presses in, let His joy rise up and give you supernatural strength. You have permission to release every heaviness and to embrace the lightness that comes from God’s presence.Leave a commentWord of the Day:RadiateSpeak this word into and over your life, declaring:"Today, I choose to radiate the joy of the Lord. His strength flows through me, brightening my heart, my words, and my actions. No matter the circumstance, I will shine with the supernatural joy He provides, lighting the way for myself and others. The joy of the Lord is my strength, and today, I radiate His goodness everywhere I go."Carry this word in your heart all day long, and let God’s joy be the strength that empowers, uplifts, and shines through you.Powerful CloseAs you move forward today—and every day—declare boldly, “The joy of the Lord is my strength!” Let God’s joy rise within you, ...
    続きを読む 一部表示
    13 分
  • BASIC BLAQUE AFTER DARK EVERY 1ST & 3RD FRIDAY
    2025/07/19
    🌠 Spotlight: Basic Blaque After Dark 🌠Join us every 1st and 3rd Friday night on Da Crew Podcast for a transformative experience with Basic Blaque After Dark.This unique segment is dedicated to meeting you exactly where you are—offering authentic conversations, resources, and real-life insight. We’re committed to creating a space where you can be educated, empowered, and encouraged on your journey through life.Whether you’re searching for inspiration, community, or just a moment to reflect, our hosts and special guests will help you navigate life’s challenges and celebrate its victories—together.Make it a date: 🗓️ Every 1st & 3rd Friday ⏰ Live on Da Crew PodcastWhy tune in?
    • Engaging interviews and open discussions
    • Expert advice and relatable stories
    • A supportive, uplifting community
    Join us and invest in your personal growth. Invite a friend and be part of a conversation that matters!Listen, learn, and live empowered—after dark.#BasicBlaqueAfterDark #DaCrewPodcast #FridayNightLive #Empowerment #Community #TuneIn

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/da-crew-podcast--5763835/support.
    続きを読む 一部表示
    48 分