Dr. Yolanda Thomas

At latitude 32.40848000 and longitude -91.18678000 lies the city of Tallulah, Louisiana in the parish of Madison. This quaint, rural paradise is the place I call home. Growing up there was like living in our own version of Mayberry, USA. None of the residents considered each other strangers. We were either family or surrogate family. Eating and sleeping over at a pal’s home was a normal occurrence. What our elders said was law. At any deviance, you could find your behind being tanned by one of your friends’ parents as well as your own. At times we argued or fought, but we always made up afterwards. Killing over something so petty was virtually unheard of and absolutely frowned upon by everyone. Such amazing closeness provided us with an incredibly strong, cohesive community. Growing up, I was blessed to have not only a beautiful family, but also an enormous extended family. I am beyond excited to introduce the Q2 family to a member of that family – Ms. Yolanda Thomas.

Authors bare the burden of constant scrutiny. The pressure is not only external but also internal. Our thoughts, intentions, abilities and every other aspect of the writing process are open to measurement. Often, we become our own worst critics. Self-doubt and brutal bouts with depression and anxiety are aspects writers seldom speak of. Tragically, a great portion of the analysis is heaped upon us by readers who haven’t penned a word since their final report in high school. Getting published and into the public eye is another epic hurdle that many never have the connections or fortune to get over. Even the activity of just reading a good book is under attack! The dumbing-down of our children is all-too-real and relevant. An ignorant consumer is preferable to an educated one in the greed-filled eyes of the seller. Home schooling is only effective if the parents are well-educated. You simply cannot be a proficient teacher of things you are novice or mediocre at. When all of this is taken into account, its no wonder most people never attempt to become authors. This is why we must celebrate litterateurs like Yolanda, who conquer these fears to share their precious works with us. This queen is a courageous keeper of that literary flame you’ve heard me speak so frequently of. The same flame that certain entities are hell-bent to snuff out. Support is how we strengthen our ranks! Here is our interview.

Where are you from and how did you get into writing?

I’m originally from Tallulah, Louisiana, born and raised.  I’ve been shaped by a rich tapestry of faith, culture, family legacy, and personal triumphs. My Dad was a writer and I remember receiving my first diary as a teenager.   I started journaling in high school as part of our mandatory writing assignments and writing soon became an outlet during seasons when I didn't have anyone to talk to.   As an adult I journaled my prayers, dreams, and revelations which eventually evolved into full stories and devotional work. I realized I had something powerful to say when others began to find healing and hope through my spoken and written words.

How long have you been an author?

I’ve been writing for many years, but I formally stepped into my role as an author with the release of my first published book “Shifting Crown”.  Since then, my work has expanded to include children’s books, spiritual workbooks, and personal development resources for My clients.

Do you remember when you actually realized that you were good enough to be a professional?

Yes, I remember the night of my high school graduation, 1987, when My English teacher, Mrs. R. Duncan, approached me about My final exam.  We had to write a story on returning home for our tenth-year class reunion and she said she was completely outdone.  She told me if she had known I could write like that she would have redirected me in another direction.  Years later, people began quoting both my spoken and written words back to me as encouragement.  It was confirmation that MOST HIGH had anointed my pen and I realized that I was no longer writing for a hobby—I was writing to transform lives. That moment of recognition fueled my decision to write professionally and unapologetically.

Who are some of your inspirations?

My greatest inspiration is My Dad the late Minister Ezell W. Thomas.  Although My Dad never published a book, he was a seasoned writer.  I also draw strength and creative fire from my family, especially my grandchildren, whose innocence and courage breathe life into my characters. Authors like C.S. Lewis, Frank Peretti, and Maya Angelou have deeply influenced my approach to storytelling—merging faith, imagination, and purpose.

What styles do you write in (fiction, non-fiction, poetry…)? Of these which is your favorite?

I write in a blend of styles: fiction, spiritual non-fiction, devotionals, poetry, and journaling workbooks. My favorite is spiritually inspired fiction and poems, as it allows me to infuse biblical truths into my personal testimony through engaging imaginative stories that leave lasting impact.

What themes drive the visions of your work?

My work is deeply rooted in spiritual growth, overcoming trauma, identity restoration, and the empowerment of the next generation. I write to teach, heal, and equip others with biblical truth and practical wisdom. Themes of faith, identity, warfare, and healing frequently drive my narratives.

What are the proudest moments in your career as an author?

One of my proudest moments was completing my first book Shifting Crown,” a book that lays the foundation for spiritual redemption through the seven spirits of GOD; and my first Children's book, “The Garden Chronicles - Discovering the Power Within,” a personal book series utilizing My grandchildren as the main characters who overcome life issues such as fear, peer-pressure, identity crisis, spiritual warfare, and more while embracing their divine gifts under the leadership of their Grandmother Dooley. Another proud moment is when my book “Healing for Bleeding Sheep Ministries-Overcoming Trauma Journaling Workbook,” began to be used in several small groups and healing centers to touch the lives of those recovering from trauma, especially sexual abuse.

Have you ever found yourself “creatively blocked” as a writer? If so, what methods did you use to overcome it?

Yes, of course I have.  I experienced creative blocks—usually when I’m emotionally or physically drained. I overcome them by resting in God’s presence, praying, worshiping, walking in nature, and revisiting past journaling revelations. Sometimes I switch to a different writing project until the inspiration flows again.

What was the biggest disappointment in your writing and how did you deal with it?

One of my disappointments was delaying the release of a book I knew was needed because I doubted my written voice. I dealt with it by remembering that obedience is better than perfection. I reminded myself that someone’s healing was tied to my “yes” and decided to publish boldly reminding myself Incan always revise and update my writings.

What are your future visions for your work and what do you believe will be the future directions of writing and reading in general?

My vision is to expand both my children’s series “Landie the Magical Chocolate Cow” and “The Garden Chronicles” as well as my “Healing for Bleeding Sheep Ministries - Overcoming Trauma Journaling Workbooks” into a global movement—through books, animated content, workshops, curriculums, and merchandise. I dream of seeing My book, “Shifting Crown” become a miniseries.   Attention Regina King!!!  I believe the future of writing will be more immersive, interactive, and healing-centered, especially in digital spaces. Readers will seek truth, authenticity, and transformation through entertainment.

What is something that most people do not know about you?

Most people don’t know that I Am A Survivor.  My story is not just survival—it’s Psalms 23 in motion. I’ve walked through the valley of trauma: sexual, physical, spiritual abuse and more.  But Yahweh-Ra’ah, my Shepherd, restored my soul. Every scar became a stepping stone, catapulting me into purpose. Now I write from a place of healing, anointed to prepare tables for others. Surely goodness and mercy follow me—and this is still my prophetic promise: No weapon ever formed against me shall prosper. I am an Ordained 5-Fold Minister and Diplomatic Licensed Master - Pastoral Life Coach and Faith Based Therapist with a divine assignment to restore broken crowns and bleeding hearts.

What advice would you give to a new or struggling author?

Write even when no one is reading—because your words matter, even in silence. Don’t strive for perfection; strive for purpose. Perfection paralyzes, but purpose propels.

Get mentorship, stay accountable, and give yourself permission to publish what you have, right where you are. Someone is waiting to heal through your honesty, your testimony, and your truth.

As a woman who has triumphed over deep personal trauma and emerged with an unshakable voice, I live by my truth and personal mantra I use as my ministry and business logo: “My Crown May Shift, but It Won’t Fall Off!”  Let this be a reminder—yes, you may wobble, but you won’t break. Keep writing. Keep rising. Keep showing up. Your story carries the power to set someone else free and you too.

Where can we view and purchase your work?

You can purchase my books at:

Shifting Crown

My Truth: Overcoming Trauma Journaling Workbook 1

The Garden Chronicles: Discovering The Power Within

Landie The Magical Chocolate Cow

Landie The Magical Chocolate Cow Counting Adventure

Calendly (for coaching and speaking engagements):

Email: dryolandathomas@gmail.com

Phone: 682-215-2860 (follow the voice prompts)

Bio - Dr. Yolanda L. Thomas is an Ordained 5-Fold Minister, Diplomatic Licensed Master-Pastoral Life Coach / Faith Based Therapist, founder of Healing for Bleeding Sheep Ministries – Fix Your Crown Foundation, a General of the Black Panther Party Power Movement United, and President of The New Black Wall Street X. She is author of 5 Published Books, and several workbooks offered through her Ministry and Life Coaching Services.  Her work weaves the power of scripture, lived experience, prophetic insight and childlike imagination to bring healing, education, and transformation. Yolanda is also a mother of 4, grandmother of 6, and warrior in YAHWEH’s army, and anointed to bring healing, peace, and spiritual restoration to all generations.

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The Table

I was asked the question, “to the table, what do I bring?”  And surprisingly My response didn’t come with physical things. 

I thought for a moment before I casually spoke, I wanted to make sure of the words I carefully chose.

I know I Am a Bride of the King of Kings - so this question caused Me to pause and really think.

Do I answer with material or worldly things? Do I dare speak of My inheritance? Do I try to explain My businesses or even mention My ministry? 

So, I blinked My eyes and silently said a quick prayer; I stared into My inner being, then My lips parted and I said:

I bring Wise Words of Wisdom and Peace to soothe your mind,

I'm blessed with Words of Knowledge—to keep you divinely aligned.

I have Understanding also to guide you in all that you do;

I’m Clothed in Might from Holy Spirit to help carry you through.

I’m anointed with Joy for sorrow and Healing to stop all pain,

By the Spirit of the LORD, freedom you will gain.

Discernment to see YAHWEH, His truth I will show,

As I Prophecy to You His mysteries are shown.

I have Tongues of the learned, rich with heavenly fire,

Interpretation like a pen - repeating as heaven inspires.

I have the Gift of Faith to believe the impossible,

I’m Clothed in Patience, My Love a manifested superpower.

Now hear Me good as I reveal the fruits that I bring; they are planted deep and spiritually grown, Holy Spirit is the root.

Love, the foundation where all things begin.

Joy, unshaken, it’s not built on sand.

Peace, like a river, deep and wide,

The Shalom that completes You on every side.

I bring Long-suffering, enduring beyond the strain,

With Gentleness to calm the strongest winds.

Goodness, pure with no hidden aim,

Faithfulness unwavering, even through growth and change.

Meekness, I’m humble, clothed in grace,

Temperance, steady, controlling My space.

Now these Fruits I bring, grown by GOD’s hand,

Planted in YESHUA—the Rock on which I stand.

With GOD’s Seven Spirits burning bright in Me,

The Spirit of the LORD, HE is my daily light, shining to help You see.

Wisdom, my compass, Counsel, my shield,

Understanding, my lamp in every field.

Knowledge—so rich so full so deep;

Might, for every battle His sword and shield I keep.

And Fear of the LORD, my holy awe,

His reverence that has perfected every law.

Now My Grace Gifts, I serve as a holy art:

My Perception sharp, and ministry is My heart.

A Teacher of truth, exhorting with fire,

I Give freely as My heart’s desire.

With ruling, I steward with honor and pace,

And showing mercy, I just mirror My FATHER’s grace.

I bring all this to the table not by strength of my own,

But by YAH’s Spirit in Me—His Seed He has sown.

I Am a Poetic Weaving of 7 Spirits, 9 Gifts, 9 Fruits, with 9 Graces;

and Yes I do bring it all in fullness, and all with favor.

I looked him in his eyes confident with My response; I smiled real hard and clasped My hands together:

With the same boldness I asked him the same question…

“Now You tell Me what do You bring to the table?!”

Written by: Yolanda L Thomas

May 12, 2025

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