We had the good fortune of connecting with Darien Douglas and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Darien, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
Determination is the most important factor behind my success. Life comes with all types of challenges, but I always stayed committed even when my path veered.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’m excited to show the youth that reading is fundamental. It’s cool, don’t let anybody tell you a book will not teach you anything. I began writing essay first, then worked my way into storytelling. To become a professional writer i studied the greats before me, such as James Baldwin, Langston Hughes, and Maya Angelou. Going to college prepared me to become a business man. When I had no where to start. I began putting the pieces to the puzzle together, I didn’t know where to start but i knew I was going to finish. I learned it all from research and began my own publishing company after completing my first two books by myself.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I was born and raised in Chicago, home of the best Pizza and Coney Dogs. The Navy Pier is a good place to get an overall feel of the city. Then, I spent 15 years in Atlanta, GA the wings are the best there! I believe we created the sauce Lemon Pepper there. It’s always a good vibe.
Now, I’m in Columbus, Ohio building my brand. Where I’ve been for the last 7 years.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
First, I would like to thank my Grandmother for being my rock. The book that changed my life and gave me interest to become a writer was Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison. I started from writing music to journaling practicing my craft. When I became an adult i knew i wanted to tell my story, my way. So I wrote and published my first book in 2019. I would love to shoutout my mentors in my life that kept me motivated. I Thank you!

Website: https://linktr.ee/Journymnco?fbclid=PAAabfUIThlpg7OpREFoAXuxCozFWC28y57aYSYaa7mK0LPr49LOYNNad6Rxs

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/journymnco_llc/

Other: https://store.bookbaby.com/book/WAYTT1 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08B39CDW1?ref_=pe_3052080_276849420

Image Credits
By: Darien Douglas

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