When Writing Gets Personal: Two Authors on Vulnerability and Voice

Nov 20, 2025

Dr. Jonathan Mathias Lassiter, a clinical psychologist and author, shares insights from his debut book, 'How I Know White People Are Crazy.' He explains the struggle of using a bold title and the emotional costs of exposing personal stories. Jonathan discusses the importance of maintaining authenticity while navigating the editing process, including his collaboration with editor Krishan Trotman. With a mix of personal and clinical perspectives, he offers wisdom on finding one's voice and the role of vulnerability in writing.

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ADVICE

Make Invisible Work Visible

Acknowledge the invisible work behind visible success and build realistic expectations.
Invite support from close collaborators so creative projects are sustainable.

INSIGHT

In-Law Conflict Is A Role Problem

In-law conflict often stems from women getting cast as either victim or villain within family systems.
Aligning spouses and centering the marriage increases resilience and reduces recurring family tensions.

ANECDOTE

Preempt From Your Dream Editor

Tracy's submission drew fierce interest and a preempt from her dream editor, prompting an emotional yes.
Choosing an editor who truly understands your vision can outweigh a larger auction payday.

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In part one of this week’s author interview, CeCe Lyra connects with clinical psychologist, couples therapist, and bestselling author Dr. Tracy Dalgleish to talk about her new book ‘You, Your Husband and His Mother’—a candid look at one of the biggest sources of relationship tension: in-laws. It’s a conversation about courage, creativity, and the messy beauty of human connection—plus a peek behind the curtain of the book world.

In part two of this week’s episode, CeCe chats with Dr. Jonathan Mathias Lassiter — psychologist, author, and polymath — about his debut book ‘How I Know White People Are Crazy (and Other Stories): Notes from a Frustrated Black Psychologist. They talk about why he fought to keep his bold, unforgettable title and much more! It’s raw, inspiring, and full of wisdom for any writer learning to stand firm in their voice — even when the world gets uncomfortable.

Learn more about Dr. Lassiter:

Jonathan Mathias Lassiter, PhD is a polymath whose mission is to help others heal and thrive. He is a licensed clinical psychologist, author, speaker, and educator. Dr. Lassiter has been featured on NBC, PBS, Sirius XM, Forbes, and more. His psychotherapy practice is based in New York City.

Follow Dr. Jonathan Lassiter:

Instagram: @lassiterhealth

Book: How I Know White People are Crazy and Other Stories: Notes from a Frustrated Black Psychologist

Private Practice: Lassiter Health Initiatives

Note: CeCe Lyra is a literary agent at Wendy Sherman Associates. If you’d like to query CeCe, please refer to the submission guidelines at www.wsherman.com. Carly Watters is a literary agent at P.S. Literary Agency, but her work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly on this podcast are solely that of her as a podcast co-host and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, policies, or position of P.S. Literary Agency.

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