For the month of November, we chose the latest offering from Charlamagne Tha God, the author of the New York Times bestseller, Black Privilege. In his newest addition, Shook One, Charlamagne details his relationship with fear and anxiety, and how that relationship played a pivotal role in his life since his childhood. Like most people he’s had fears in school, relationships, and fear of not finding his way and possibly getting caught up like so many of his friends and family back home in Moncks Corner, South Carolina. 

Even after achieving national prominence as a radio personality, Charlamagne still found himself paralyzed by thoughts that he isn’t going to be able to take his career to the “next level.” But now he is working through these problems with help from mentors, guests on his show, and therapy. He knows therapy and showing weakness is in itself anxiety producing in the black community, but this is one of the reasons he wants to own his truth—to clear a path for others to not feel shame dealing openly with their mental health.

Vlog or Review Nov. 30