Conscious Culture Publishing
BHC: Now on to what may well be the best part of all... learning about your publishing company. Tell us how you got started?
MM: I launched Conscious Culture Publishing in 2016 with the goal of the company becoming the leading creator in African historical fiction and diverse multicultural content. Leveraging 3D technology, Conscious Culture Publishing creates highly-detailed illustrations and animations that bring African histories, mythologies, and legends to life.
BHC: What do you feel a writer needs to start their own publishing company?
MM: First and foremost... resilience. In other words, know the “why” when you consider starting a publishing company. If you’re trying to make a bunch of money or if you're starting it for people to think you’re cool, you won’t last. You won't. You must have something in your heart or soul for why you want to do this. And you're definitely going to need tenacity to help you succeed.
BHC: Do you want each book to stand on its own, or are you trying to build a body of work with connections between each book?
MM: I'm definitely trying to build a body of work and a universe like Stan Lee’s universe.
BHC: Does Conscious Culture Publishing publish other writers’ books or does it publish only your own?
MM: Only my own because I have a lot of stories in my head and I’d like to get them out as soon as possible.
BHC: We completely understand. So how long does it take you to write a book? Also, what do you feel is the best way to market your books?
MM: It takes me a year to write and illustrate a book. As for marketing, I enjoy going to in-person events like Comic Book Festivals, Black Cultural Events, in-person school presentations, and also Black conferences. This way I can meet consumers and actually see their reactions and get their feedback.
