Today, we dive deep into the world of reading, writing, and the remarkable journey of Panama Jackson, my partner-in-crime and fellow book lover. Right off the bat, we explore how Panama cultivated his incredible reading habits and his knack for weaving cultural commentary into everything he does. From hilarious anecdotes about his past—like that unforgettable voicemail from Oprah—to his experiences growing up as a military brat, Panama shares how these moments shaped his perspectives on life and literature. We also touch on the significance of black books, emphasizing that they matter not just for representation but for the legacy they create for future generations. So grab your favorite drink, kick back, and let’s get into this enlightening chat about books, culture, and everything in between!Takeaways: Panama Jackson emphasizes the importance of developing a reading habit through diverse genres that shape perspectives. The conversation reveals how storytelling, especially in Black literature, serves as a powerful tool for identity and cultural expression. Derek and Panama discuss the impact of supportive friendships in their writing journeys, highlighting how community fosters growth. They explore how personal experiences, like Panama's encounter with Oprah, illustrate the unexpected ways recognition can validate a writer's work. Mentioned in this episode:Sky Full of Elephants AdAfrican AncestryWe are the pioneers of genetic ancestry tracing for Black people globally, reconnecting you to your specific African roots–the country and the people. Our scientists compare your DNA markers to the largest African reference database in the world in order to find your African origin up to 2000 years ago.African Ancestry

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