Dropping something here I think you'll appreciate — I just published a new piece, The Politics of an Overthinker, about what happens when you stop treating your overthinking mind as the problem and start listening to what it's actually been trying to say. Read it here → https://juliaw.substack.com/p/the-politics-of-an-overthinker And tomorrow, Saturday July 11th at 4pm EST, I'm going live on Substack with Jessica Huckabay for what I know is going to be a really rich conversation — we're getting into writing, faith, motherhood, and the honest parts of building something meaningful. Come hang with us → https://open.substack.com/live-stream/265815?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android&r=1r75qd Would love to see some familiar faces there. 💛

I wanted to share a small entrepreneur/founder milestone because it connects to something I’m learning in real time: visibility is part of building the business. I was invited to participate in the BGV TikTok Telethon hosted by Black Girl Ventures on Thursday, June 18. It’s a full-day livestream centered around entrepreneurship, access to capital, economic opportunity, and founder storytelling. I’m honestly nervous, but I decided to say yes anyway. As an author and creative entrepreneur, I’m learning that it’s not enough to create the books, journals, workbooks, products, and ideas quietly behind the scenes. At some point, we also have to learn how to talk about the work, the mission, the story, and the business behind it. For me, Kismet Wonders is more than a store. It’s connected to storytelling, healing, creativity, apparel, books, and products that speak to women who are rebuilding, becoming, and learning to see themselves fully. This opportunity reminded me that entrepreneurship is not just about selling a book. It’s about building a platform, sharing the why behind the work, and being prepared when visibility opportunities show up. I’m doing it nervous, but I’m doing it anyway — and I’m taking that as growth.

Hello everyone, I’m exploring a Department of Education SBIR Phase IA opportunity connected to education technology, children’s literacy, and social-emotional learning. One requirement is securing a school or children’s organization participation letter for feedback/usability activities if the proposal is awarded. I’m looking for guidance on how to approach schools, early learning centers, after-school programs, libraries, literacy nonprofits, or education organizations for this type of partnership. Has anyone here worked with schools, education organizations, pilot programs, grant-funded projects, or participation letters before? I’d be grateful for any advice, direction, or suggestions on where to start. Thank you!

BPC! (I’m Excited but also wanted to share some tips) I am so excited because today I received word that I was selected as one of the speakers for an event celebrating its 126th year! What makes this even more exciting is that there were more than 640 speaker submissions. The moment I saw how competitive it was, I knew I couldn’t submit just a basic application. I sent in a complete speaker package that included my book, speaker sheet, media articles, and my Author Brand Card. I truly believe that extra effort helped give me an edge. When you’re pitching yourself for speaking opportunities—especially for larger events—don’t be afraid to invest a little in how you present yourself. Sometimes it’s not just about what you say; it’s about how professionally you position yourself. I can’t wait to share the flyer and invite every one of you to come see me speak! What’s even more amazing is that just a few years ago, I attended this event as a guest. I was blown away by the caliber of people in the room. There were leaders, business owners, elected officials, and representatives from cities across the United States and around the world. I remember sitting there inspired by the speakers on stage. Now, I’m one of them. God is good. P.S. I also shared this speaking opportunity with all of our Elite members inside the WhatsApp group because I want our community to have access to the same opportunities that continue to open doors for me.

I’m currently working on my June marketing strategy for my website and books, and I created this short reel as a product storytelling piece. The featured product is my Everything She Survived Became Art Tee, and the concept is a woman in an art gallery becoming the artwork herself. This connects with the themes in my books and journals — healing, survival, softness, identity, and becoming. I’m trying to create more content that ties the product back to the emotional world of the brand instead of just posting a mockup or product photo. Would love feedback on whether this type of visual storytelling makes the product feel more connected to the larger brand. Shop: kismetwonders.store