Kennedy Ryan - How Reading Fiction Helps Us Raise Our Standards and Practice Self-Care
Mar 19, 2024
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New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, Kennedy Ryan, talks about finding self-love through reading romance novels, the benefits of fiction for men and women, and the importance of nuanced representation. She shares insights into her writing journey, favorite books, and the impact of setting high standards for yourself. From self-publishing success to TV adaptations, Kennedy dives into the world of romance fiction with a focus on self-care and empowerment.
Reading fiction can raise standards and aid in self-care by emphasizing self-love and healing.
Understanding one's 'why' in writing is crucial for transformative writing journeys.
Black romance novels serve as empowering safe spaces for Black women, challenging stereotypes and promoting self-worth.
Deep dives
Self-Care Practices and Reading Habits
Self-care is central in the podcast, focusing on the importance of balancing various aspects of life, with a strong emphasis on self-care. The host mentions reading as a key self-care practice, emphasizing its significance in her life. Through a fan girl moment, the podcast welcomes Kennedy Ryan, known for writing romance novels, diving into personal experiences and intellectual curiosity driving her storytelling.
Writing Motivations and Creative Process
The podcast delves into the creative motivations behind writing, emphasizing intellectual curiosity, creative conviction, and artistic urgency as essential elements. Kennedy Ryan discusses the evolution of her writing journey, highlighting the transition from nonfiction work to writing romance novels. The importance of understanding one's 'why' in writing and its transformative impact on the writing path are emphasized.
Genre Evolution and Representation in Romance Novels
A discussion ensues about the transformation and popularity of romance novels, especially in recent years. The podcast touches on the renaissance of romance as a genre, attributed partially to the pandemic and the rise of Book Talk on TikTok, fostering community and acceptance of reading romance. Kennedy Ryan emphasizes the safety, joy, and satisfaction found in romance novels, challenging stereotypes and promoting diverse representation and nuanced storytelling, focusing particularly on marginalized communities like the autistic community.
Importance of Representation in Black Romance Novels
Black romance novels provide a safe space for Black women to see themselves being loved, respected, and celebrated, which is often lacking in white supremacist culture. These novels serve as an act of resistance against societal messages that undermine their beauty and worth, affirming that they deserve joyful endings and love. By creating safe spaces through Black romance, authors challenge stereotypes and empower readers to embrace their beauty and worth.
Balancing Writing and Self-Care
The author, Kennedy Ryan, discusses the importance of self-care in between writing projects, highlighting the need for breaks to recharge. She finds solace in spending time with her family, reading, taking walks, and enjoying massages. Ryan emphasizes how taking breaks and caring for oneself is vital for maintaining creativity and mental well-being amidst the demands of writing. By prioritizing self-care, she rejuvenates her mind and body, ensuring a balanced approach to her creative endeavors.
#225: Today’s episode is dedicated to the literary lover girls.
Today I have the pleasure of sitting down with New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, Kennedy Ryan. From spicy characters to strengthening women’s relationships with themselves, Kennedy shows us the parallels between romance fiction and key lessons we’re all learning on our healing journeys. She also takes us behind the scenes of the latest romance novel in her Skyland series, This Could Be Us (Don’t worry, we don’t share any spoilers!) and shares how she’s learned to create impact, reclaim her story, and love herself first through the pages.
Whether you’re a lover of romance fiction, are tapped into BookTok, or are looking for ways to practice more self-love and acceptance, you’ll love the gems that are dropped in this episode from start to finish.
We also talk about…
Kennedy’s journey from self-publishing to bestselling author
Kennedy’s novel “Before I Let Go” being opted for a television series
Kennedy’s favorite book recommendations
Why reading romance novels can be beneficial for men and women
Why reading is such an effective form of self-care
Feeling seen in fiction and the importance of nuanced representation
Setting the bar for yourself and becoming the love of your own life
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Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.