What happens when a passion for social justice meets a gift for storytelling? You get Nikki Payne. By day, Nikki works as a civic anthropologist, making government services more accessible. But by night, she's a celebrated novelist, using her words to challenge the status quo and write Black women into the spotlight. Nikki's debut novel, Pride and Protest, has earned widespread acclaim, and she's joining us on Was It Chance to discuss how her diverse pursuits fuel her creativity. From her childhood love of documentaries to her current work in philosophy and fiction, Nikki is proof that embracing multiple passions can lead to something truly remarkable. Get ready for an inspiring conversation about the power of creativity, the importance of representation, and the journey of a woman who refuses to be limited by convention.

Grab both of Nikki’s books: Pride and Protest, Sex, Lies and Sensibilities

Checkout Nikki’s podcast Unbound.

Connect with Nikki on Instagram or her website.

• Make sure to follow this podcast everywhere you find podcasts, leave a rating and a review, and slip into our Instagram DMs at @wasitchance.
• More about Heather via @heather_vickeryandco on Instagram, @Braveheather on TikTok, and listen to The Brave Files
• More about Alan via @theatre_podcast on Instagram and listen to The Theatre Podcast with Alan Seales

EPISODE TAKEAWAYS

• The Power of Persistence: Nikki's story is a testament to the power of perseverance in the face of rejection. Her novel went from being deemed a failure to finding national success, showing that potential can be found in work others may initially overlook.
• Diversity Drives Innovation: By placing Black women at the center of her stories, Nikki is challenging the lack of representation in classic literature and offering fresh perspectives. Her background in anthropology ensures diverse viewpoints enrich her characters and plots.
• Writing as Social Change: Nikki sees her work as a way to spark a movement and incite change. She's proof that fiction has the power to challenge the status quo and push for a more equitable world.
• The Financial Reality of Creative Pursuits: While Nikki's story is one of success, she's candid about the financial challenges of making a living as a writer. Her journey highlights the need for more sustainable models to support emerging authors, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds.
• Embracing Multi-Passionate Creativity: Nikki's work as both a civic anthropologist and novelist shows the value of embracing multiple passions. Her diverse pursuits fuel her creativity and offer unique lenses through which to view the world.