Season 7 Episode #20 My Debut Novel: A Journey of Purpose, Culture, and The Orange Blossom

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when a folktale whispered by your mother becomes the novel your heart can't stop writing? In this deeply personal episode, I pull back the curtain on my transformation from educator and podcast host to debut novelist with "The Orange Blossom."For years, I've carried the story of the Orange Vendor Woman—a Liberian tale about finding your purpose and refusing to be diverted from it. This story became more than just a teaching moment for my student teachers; it became the seed of my creative rebirth. When one student teacher named Angel gifted me a painting of oranges, little did she know she was planting the visual reminder that would eventually bloom into my first novel.My manuscript journey wasn't without its struggles. Those first 33 pages sat untouched in my Google Docs for three years while self-doubt whispered in my ear. But with the encouragement of my mastermind group and a transformative writing retreat, I developed a disciplined writing routine complete with character mood boards, family trees, and personalized playlists for each character. The novel spans decades of Liberian history, honoring the multidimensional nature of my culture that too often gets flattened in Western narratives.This isn't just fiction—it's preservation. "The Orange Blossom" is my love letter to Liberian women, to our resilience, and to anyone questioning their path. Sometimes our purpose isn't flashy or loud; sometimes it's sweet and sun-ripened, just waiting to be harvested. Subscribe to my newsletter for weekly updates as we approach the fall publication date, and join me on this beautiful journey from classroom to bookshelf. Your support means everything as I step into this new chapter of my creative life. Support the showCOME SAY Hey!!Instagram: @cultrallyjebeh_Facebook: @JebehCulturalConsultingPinterest: @Jebeh Cultural Consulting LinkedIn: @Jebeh Cultural ConsultingLeave a Review on our Podcast! We value your feedback!Buy My Book: The Orange Blossom  https://a.co/d/dRgzqgB 🎉 Show your support and rock the culture!Check out the official Cultural Curriculum Chat™ merch — from cozy beanies to statement mugs that celebrate community, curiosity, and inclusive storytelling. Grab your favorite pieces and rep the movement! ➤ https://jebehedmunds.com/merch-shop/👉 Every purchase helps support the podcast and our mission to amplify diverse voices.Follow our BlogEnroll In Our Mini CoursesEnroll In My Digital Course: How To ...