MEET THE AUTHOR
JD Mass, PSYD — Activist, Author & Racial Healing Advocate
What does it take to heal racism, not just talk about it? JD Mass, PsyD has spent his life finding out. Raised at the intersection of race and community, he’s an entrepreneur, organisational psychologist, and the author of Race for What? A book that challenges readers to finally finish the work.
From the Courts to the Boardroom
Before writing about race, JD built businesses. He co-founded a tennis teaching organisation, then stepped into the music industry to help structure Nelly’s early ventures, including Apple Bottoms Jeans and Derrty Entertainment. A finance degree. An entrepreneurial instinct. And a growing question he couldn’t shake: Why do we keep creating a world that divides us?
Building Community From the Inside Out
After his work with Nelly, JD joined the African Hebrew Israelites of Jerusalem, a community of Black American expatriates living in Israel. It was here he discovered what genuine community building looks like: rooted in health, peace, and shared purpose. That experience became the foundation for everything that followed.
From Psychology to Anti-Racism Activism
In 2017, JD earned his Doctorate in Organisational Psychology. He went on to work deeply within white anti-racism groups in Los Angeles and St. Louis, and it was a single conversation with a Black man in the justice movement that changed the direction of his work: “What are the actual steps to healing racism?” That question became Race for What?
Connect with Our Author
Whether you want to book JD for a speaking event, read his book or hear more about his story check out the options below.
Get the Book
Available as a paperback, ebook, and audiobook. Start the journey wherever you are.
Hear JD’s Story
Listen to the Same Difference Podcast, honest conversations about race, healing, and what’s actually possible.
Book JD to Speak
JD brings lived experience and doctoral-level insight to stages, panels, and workshops. Available for keynotes and DEI engagements