00:01:12 Introductions: Welcome to 9toLIFE 00:08:05 Discovering the Power of Language & Reading 00:11:15 Surprising Opportunity in Science && Engineering 00:14:45 Unexpected Challenges & Course Change to Publishing 00:17:09 Project Management and Briefing Designers in Publishing 00:22:14 Internship - Starting Blackbird Books 00:24:20 Disdain for self-help books 00:32:37 The Big "Boo-Boo" in the Book: Typos & Errors 00:36:29 Low Standards for Bestsellers in SA 00:40:46 The Importance of Publishing Black Stories 00:48:49 The Challenge of Marketing for Publishing Houses 00:51:03 Questioning the Practice of Buying Own Books 00:59:25 The Challenges of Stock Returns and Negative Balances 01:07:00 Feelings of Intimidation 01:07:43 The Festival Organiser's Scandal and Possible Comeback 01:12:52 Podcasting as a Light and Fluffy Informative Medium 01:16:01 Killing the game! 🎙️ Welcome to 9toLIFE, the podcast that brings you fascinating career and life journeys of exceptional individuals! In this week's episode, we have the pleasure of featuring Thabiso Mahlape, a visionary publisher and founder of Blackbird Books, a groundbreaking publishing house in South Africa. Join us as we delve into Thabiso's inspiring story, exploring her journey through the literary landscape, her passion for promoting African narratives, and the challenges and triumphs she has encountered along the way. 🌟 In this episode, Thabiso shares her journey of discovering the power of language and reading, which ignited her passion for storytelling. Initially embarking on a path in science and engineering, she unexpectedly found herself drawn to publishing, recognizing the need to create a home for authentic African voices that were often overlooked. Thabiso discusses her transition into publishing and the challenges she faced, revealing the resilience that fueled her course change. As a project manager in the publishing industry, Thabiso provides insight into the process of briefing designers and the intricacies of bringing a book to life. Her experiences and internship in the field led her to establish Blackbird Books, becoming a launchpad for black narratives that were deserving of attention but were not getting the recognition they deserved. Throughout the episode, Thabiso shares her disdain for popular self-help books and highlights the importance of publishing black stories that capture the essence of African experiences authentically. She emphasizes the need for creativity in writing and addresses unique challenges faced by authors, such as the portrayal of sex as a fat woman. Thabiso delves into the world of marketing for publishing houses, discussing the challenges they face in promoting diverse stories and books. She also questions the practice of buying one's own books to artificially boost sales, advocating for transparency in the publishing industry. As we explore Thabiso's journey, she candidly recalls memorable events and shares her thoughts on the scandal surrounding a festival organiser and the potential for a comeback. Additionally, she discusses podcasting as an informative medium, sharing her insights on the impact of this versatile platform. Don't miss this inspiring and candid conversation with Thabiso Mahlape as she continues to make waves in the literary world with Blackbird Books. Join us as we explore her journey of empowering African voices and showcasing the beauty of their narratives. Subscribe, share, and tune in to our podcast as we continue to uncover remarkable stories and inspiring journeys from individuals who have embraced the 9toLIFE philosophy.