Best Poetry Lab Podcasts (2025)

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#55 Creative Burnout vs. Life Burnout (and How to Tell the Difference) 12:26

Play Pause

24d ago12:26

12:26

Creative burnout and life burnout can look similar, but they need very different kinds of care. In this episode, Lori breaks down how to tell the difference, what questions to ask yourself, and how to give your mind and body the support they need. It's part reflection, part toolkit, and full of permission to rest. Visit thepoetrylab.com to find the…

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S4 EP 10 | Sophia Thakur 1:11:30

2d ago1:11:30

1:11:30

Internationally acclaimed award-winning artist, best-selling author and performance poet - Sophia Thakur shines in this live recorded episode of the Apples and Snakes Podcast. Sophia has performed shows all over the world and tickets are always in high demand, usually selling-out within hours of going on sale. Her debut poetry book ‘Somebody Give T…

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Yes, Virginia, There's a Magi & Night before Christmas 31:18

3d ago31:18

31:18

Send us a text Join us as we look at three very different holiday tales, including the editorial. Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus, the O. Henry short story, The Gift of the Magi, and the Christmas poem, Twas the Night Before Christmas. Kelley discusses the importance of each of these works and how the rendition of Twas the Night Before Christ…

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When a Bell Rings - Holiday Rebroadcast 37:43

5d ago37:43

37:43

Send us a text Join us as ghosthunter Jack Bronson gets some divine intervention on Christmas Eve from Em, an angel who needs to help Jack so she can get back into the good graces of her "boss" with the help of Keith, the ghost. We have a wonderful cast of voice actors, including: Mezi Mulugeta as Em Dean Atkinson as Jack Bronson Brandon Winget as …

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S4 EP 9 | Suli Breaks 1:00:59

9d ago1:00:59

1:00:59

Suli Breaks exudes confidence and knows how to captivate an audience.His TEDxHousesofParliament speech, viewed over 300,000 times, showcases his ability to captivate audiences with his words. His reputation as a powerful speaker has led to invitations to prestigious events such as the United Nations National Commonwealth Day. In this episode, Suli …

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S4 EP 8 | El Crisis 59:36

16d ago59:36

59:36

Word. Power. Sound. These are the connotations synonymous with El Crisis. Known for his fusion of rap, chant, gospel, song and storytelling, El Crisis has been described as a “modern day Griot and Bard” and has a substantial catalogue of works that spans over 67 pieces. In this episode, the conversation takes an analytical look at how community and…

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S4 EP 7 | Reece Williams 52:41

23d ago52:41

52:41

Reece Williams is a Mancunian poet of Jamaican and Trinidadian heritage whose debut collection ‘This Kind of Black’ was released this year. He has performed internationally and is celebrated for his works that speak as much in performance as they do on page. He often wrestles with being British, ideas surrounding identity and intergenerational trau…

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S4 EP 6 | Keith Jarrett 58:11

1M ago58:11

58:11

In a previous Apples and Snakes’s blogs, Keith Jarrett wrote “I got into performance poetry by accident – and it’s probably the best accident I’ve had”. Since then, he produced his collection ‘Selah’ and poetry pamphlet’ I Speak Home’. His writing regularly explores race, faith, sexuality and belonging. With sharp wit and intelligence, Jarrett is a…

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S4 EP 5 | Zakariye Abdillahi 52:19

1M ago52:19

52:19

Young artist, member of Roundhouse Poetry Collective and Hippodrome Origins, Zakariye Abdillahi talks with Yomi about being present and patient within poetry. His works often touch on the overlaps between masculinity, faith, and building a career in poetry at your own pace. His gentleness is evident in his soft voice on stage, used with intention. …

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#54 Sit Down and Write: Eco Poems 14:46

1M ago14:46

14:46

An eco poem explores the relationship between humans and the natural world through the lens of environmental change. In this episode, Leo reflects on shifting landscapes, shares Jane Hirshfield's "Common Pigeon" (used with permission), and offers prompts and resources to help listeners write their own eco poems. Visit thepoetrylab.com to find the S…

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S4 EP 4 | Travis Alabanza 46:09

1M ago46:09

46:09

Poet. Performer. Cultural changemaker. In just a few years Travis Alabanza has become one of the most exciting young performance artists in the queer arts scene. In this episode, Travis joins Yomi to unpack how poetry has sparked their wider creativity from fashion and theatre to fearless performance. They dive into their groundbreaking sell-out sh…

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S4 EP 3 | Salena Godden 56:21

2M ago56:21

56:21

Her poems are gritty and fierce, and she is a bold and fearless author, memoirist, broadcaster and poet of Jamaican-Irish heritage. Salena Godden and Yomi get to grips in an intimate conversation around the duality of the artist - from writing monster to gigging monster, and the solitude of creation against the performance on stage. She performs he…

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#53 Building Brave Spaces in Community 13:23

2M ago13:23

13:23

What does it mean to lead from a place of authenticity? In this episode, Ravina shares how facing imposter syndrome shaped her path to creating brave spaces rooted in honesty and care. Stay to the end for a short reading list and a writing prompt to help you craft your own intentional space. Visit thepoetrylab.com to find the Show Notes for this ep…

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S4 EP 2 | Dean Atta 1:02:23

2M ago1:02:23

1:02:23

Filmmaker, poet and writer for all ages, award-winning Dean Atta is also a member of Malika’s Poetry Kitchen and a patron of LGBT+ History Month. He encourages writers to lean all the way into topics they love, no matter how small or niche. His works are celebrated for tackling themes of racism and self-acceptance. He’s the author of the poetry col…

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S4 EP1 | Kareem Parkins Brown 58:59

2M ago58:59

58:59

Kareem Parkins Brown joins Yomi and together they share how humour, grief and real life have influenced his writing. Kareem’s work often touches on nostalgia and friendship, with surrealism playing a major role in his existential poetry talk show. He performs his poem ‘What I’ve Learned (after Aja Monet), a poem that looks at memory and social comm…

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#52 Things to Remember When Planning a Literary Event 14:14

2M ago14:14

14:14

Every great literary event starts with a "why." Join bridgette as she shares a decade of hard-won lessons from the LA poetry scene, from curating unforgettable readings to keeping the mic open with intention. Let's talk about what it really takes to plan a lit event—vibes, budgets, and boundaries and all. Visit thepoetrylab.com to find the Show Not…

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A River Between Chaos and Zen - Poetry Episode 1 23:20

3M ago23:20

23:20

Send us a text Join Max as he discusses his poetry, heart spillings, and mind lightning. He explores two of his poems, A Passing of Vision and The Snake. He also looks at The Desiderata, which is an inspirational poem. Max will explore different poets each week, give his commentary, and open it to other poets who would like their poems read on the …

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#51 Saying No to Creative Hustle Culture 17:50

3M ago17:50

17:50

By The Poetry Lab

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#50 The First Time I Forgot My Poem on Stage 14:05

3M ago14:05

14:05

Ever blanked on stage? Ravina has—in front of her entire high school. What could've been the end of her poetry journey became a lesson in resilience, community, and remembering that showing up is the real win. In this episode, learn how support, self-compassion, and a little reframing can turn setbacks into stepping stones. Visit thepoetrylab.com t…

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#49 How to Write Collaborative Poems 9:10

5M ago9:10

9:10

Collaborative poems can break creative blocks wide open. In this episode, Leo shares her experience writing with partners and groups, along with tips and playful exercises to help you try it yourself. Whether you're stuck or just craving connection, collaboration can reignite your writing in unexpected and joyful ways. Visit thepoetrylab.com to fin…

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#48 5 Lessons Learned from How We Do It: Black Writers on Craft 15:42

5M ago15:42

15:42

In this episode, bridgette shares five powerful personal lessons from How We Do It: Black Writers on Craft, edited by Jericho Brown. With insight from writers like Rita Dove, Frank X Walker, and E. Ethelbert Miller, this episode explores how Black writers define craft on their own terms, offering healing, joy, revolution, and permission to speak di…

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#47 The Myth of Writing Discipline (and What to Do Instead) 15:28

5M ago15:28

15:28

Feeling stuck in the shame of not writing "enough"? In this episode, Lori Walker dismantles the myth of writing discipline and explores how to build a sustainable creative practice rooted in rhythm, curiosity, and compassion. It's not about writing every day—it's about finding your way back, again and again. Visit thepoetrylab.com to find the Show …

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#46 How Not to Be Your Own Worst Enemy 12:00

6M ago12:00

12:00

In her debut episode, new host Ravina Wadhwani gets real about a struggle many creatives face: standing in our own way. With warmth and vulnerability, she reflects on impostor syndrome, self-sabotage, and the pressure to succeed even when we've already achieved so much. This episode is a compassionate reminder that your magic deserves room to breat…

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Ellie in the Closet - audio book 4:10

6M ago4:10

4:10

Send us a text Join Max as he reads Ellie in the Closet, which is the heartwarming story of Ellie, a shy rainbow lizard who longs to be accepted just like any other kid. When her bright scales make her a target for teasing, Ellie hides away in her closet, believing no one could ever see her as beautiful. But everything changes when a kind new frien…

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#45 Finding Your Voice: Performance Tips for the Stage 12:32

6M ago12:32

12:32

Sharing your poems aloud can feel intimidating, even though poetry is rooted in oral tradition. In this episode, host bridgette bianca offers practical tips for reading your work with confidence and clarity, along with heartfelt advice on how to connect with your voice and your audience on stage. Visit thepoetrylab.com to find the Show Notes for th…

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#44 Yoga for Creative Writers 29:02

6M ago29:02

29:02

What if yoga could boost your writing practice? In this episode, Lori explores how movement and mindfulness can support your creativity. She shares the unique benefits of yoga for writers and walks you through a simple, seated sequence you can do right at your desk—no mat required. Visit thepoetrylab.com to find the Show Notes for this episode. The…

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#43 How Do We Cope in These Times? The Practice of Resistance 15:29

7M ago15:29

15:29

In this episode of The Poetry Lab Podcast, we meet new host Leonora Simonovis (Leo), who brings us into her world as a writer living in exile. She reflects on how creative practice becomes a form of resistance and invites you to explore your own. Through personal insight and gentle guidance, Leo models everyday acts of resilience and reminds us tha…

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#42 Self-Care for Writers: Finding Calm When the World Feels Overwhelming 25:47

7M ago25:47

25:47

Feeling overwhelmed? In this episode, Lori shares quick, effective self-care tools to help writers stay grounded and creative, even in chaotic times. Learn how to check in with yourself, calm your mind, and build a self-care routine that actually works. Visit thepoetrylab.com to find the Show Notes for this episode. The Poetry Lab Podcast is produc…

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Shapeshifter & Atlanta Fringe 45:42

7M ago45:42

45:42

Send us a text Join Max, Kelley and their daughter Danielle as they discuss the production of Max's one man spoken word album, Shapeshifter. It was a labor of love that almost didn't happen when Max got sick in February, and it was due at the end of March. Luckily, Danielle help guide the project and found a recording studio at the local library an…

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S3 EP20 | Amen Noir - Maintaining Presence 1:04:39

8M ago1:04:39

1:04:39

In the final episode of the season, Amen Noir and Yomi talk on the spoken word scene over the years and what gives strength to presence on stage, they touch on music and the power of harnessing your vulnerability. They discuss the importance of archiving in documenting the Black British cultural journey within the scene. Apples and Snakes: The Podc…

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S3 EP19 | Belinda Zhawi - Connecting to your voice 1:00:00

8M ago1:00:00

1:00:00

Yomi is joined by Belinda Zhawi where they delve into how Belinda uses sound and voice in her work to transport audiences. They discuss the influences that fed into their craft and the legacies and contexts that come into storytelling. Belinda shares her poem ‘Sin Blue Note’ Apples and Snakes: The Podcast is hosted by Yomi Sode with Sound productio…

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S3 EP18 | Asmaa Jama - Honour your words 49:20

9M ago49:20

49:20

In this episode, Yomi is joined by Asmaa Jama. They talk about the interdependencies that writing and visuals have had on Asmaa’s work and creative journey. They discuss the importance of embodying and honouring your words through your work, allowing yourself to take up space and reach audiences. Asmaa shares her poem ‘Sympathy for Ishaq, after …

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S3 EP17 | Emmanuel Sugo - 'Its a natural language' 52:45

9M ago52:45

52:45

Join Yomi and Emanuel Sugo as they discuss the intersection of poetry, fitness, and cultural storytelling and the many other doors that poetry has opened for them. Emmanuel shares his poem ‘Diamonds Are Forever remixed by A Series of Unfortunate Events known as Kim Kardashian.’ Apples and Snakes: The Podcast is hosted by Yomi Sode with…

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Community, Excellence, & Service: The CEO for the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), Janeen Uzzell, comes to MIT - EP 17 46:42

10M ago46:42

46:42

The CEO of the National Society of Black Engineers, Janeen Uzzell, heads to the lab at MIT to chat about her early years at NC A&T, the NSBE mission, programs, leadership, and family. We also hear about the upcoming NSBE 50th celebration in Chicago and check-in with a few students and alumni. Janeen is awesome - she also lectured for our 2.009 stud…

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Sophia's Carol 36:13

1y ago36:13

36:13

Send us a text Medium Sophia Gardeen must examine her life choices with the help of Charles Dickens, Bob the Atheist ghost, and the spirits of two hip grandmothers on an especially haunted Christmas Eve. Includes the voice talents of: Kelley Cody-Grimm as Sophia Gardeen and Little Sophia Benja Petty at Bob the Atheist Ghost Max Grimm as Charlies Di…

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When a Bell Rings 37:43

1y ago37:43

37:43

Send us a text Join us as ghosthunter Jack Bronson gets some divine intervention on Christmas Eve from Em, an angel who needs to help Jack so she can get back into the good graces of her "boss" with the help of Keith, the ghost. We have a wonderful cast of voice actors, including: Mezi Mulugeta as Em Dean Atkinson as Jack Bronson Brandon Winget as …

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Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus! 3:17

1y ago3:17

3:17

Send us a text A special rendition of the classic holiday story and editorial written by New York Sun's Francis P. Church for an editorial on September 21, 1897. The voice talent includes Carlos Tovar, Blerta Xhelili, Estella Love-Rice, and Kelley Cody-Grimm. This is a collaboration between OTC Productions and Creative Actors Lab. For more on Creat…

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S3 EP16 | Vanessa Kisuule - The power of performance 58:52

1y ago58:52

58:52

This week, Yomi speaks to Vanessa Kisuule where they talk on the transformative power of performance. This episode delves into evolution of craft, the balance between page and stage and the profound impact of community and collaboration, discussing the richness of voices that are reshaping the poetry landscape. Vanessa shares her poem ‘Daffodil’ Ap…

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#41 How to Suggest Poetry Books to Your Local Library 12:50

1y ago12:50

12:50

Looking to fill your library's poetry section with more diverse, exciting reads? In this episode, learn the step-by-step process for suggesting poetry books to your local library. Your recommendations can bring indie authors and fresh voices into the spotlight—and make poetry more accessible to your community. Visit thepoetrylab.com to find the Sho…

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Professor Ely Sachs on Guided Discovery, Plus a Trip to Lobby 7 - EP 16 51:54

1y ago51:54

51:54

We take our mobile studio to Lobby 7 and kibitz with students, while Bill recruits unsuspecting visitors (with mixed results). MIT Professor Ely Sachs, the pioneer in 3-D printing, then spends time with us in the lab talking about education, learning, and his over two decades developing Guided Discovery - his pedagogy that has been foundational at …

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#40 Bootstrapping Your Book Launch 23:22

1y ago23:22

23:22

Many authors are surprised to learn they have to market their books. While a book launch can be uncomfortable, it's necessary to sell books. In this episode, Lori walks you through how to bootstrap your book launch. She tells you what you need to set up ASAP and how to create a timeline so that your launch runs smoothly. But because book launching …

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The Demonis - The Deadliest Family in America - Part 2 28:28

1y ago28:28

28:28

Send us a text Nero and Malaria hatch a plan to deal with Larry Linberg and his photo development store after a shocking discovery. Manson and Esther befriend Saffronia and her brother Nelson after the Mayor's son and daughter bully them. The Demonis also face heightened scrutiny from their nosey neighbor. Warning: Adult Themes and Content Directed…

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#39 Finding Your Fire: The Role of the Writer in Challenging Times 10:55

1y ago10:55

10:55

What is the role of the writer when the world feels like it's on fire? In this episode, poet and professor bridgette bianca shares how she rediscovered her creative spark during challenging times. Drawing on wisdom from Baldwin, Giovanni, and Sanchez, she offers insights on how writers can turn hardship into inspiration and keep creating, even when…

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The Demonis - The Deadliest Family in America - Part 1 32:23

1y ago32:23

32:23

Send us a text After going on the run after a botched murder, the Demoni family settles into the simple small town of Simpleton, a perfect vision of 1960s suburban utopia–or so it seems! As they learn more about the unsavory characters in town, they know that they have their work cut out for them, which includes cutting down those who exploit the i…

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#38 What Beyoncé Teaches Us About Crossing Genres 17:19

1y ago17:19

17:19

Breaking free from genre constraints can expand your creative possibilities. In this episode, we explore how writers working in multiple forms can transition between genres successfully, inspired by Beyoncé's Cowboy Carter. With mini case studies and practical insights, we offer valuable lessons for poets, novelists, and non-fiction writers looking…

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#37 Maximize Your Reach: The Writer's Guide to Optimizing Your Social Media Presence 22:18

1y ago22:18

22:18

Many writers wonder, "Do I really need to be on social media?" The short answer is yes! But how do you stand out? In this episode, Lori shares how writers can optimize their social media presence, particularly on Instagram and TikTok. She covers the importance of choosing the right profile picture and crafting a strong bio. She dives into how to de…

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#36 Fill Your Cup: Autumn Edition 11:25

1y ago11:25

11:25

In this episode Lori shares some of her favorite activities for engaging with autumn. These ideas highlight some of the best of what autumn has to offer. Plus! visit the show notes page for Lori's delicious chili recipe. Whether you partake in these ideas or they spark new ideas, the goal is to fill your cup so you can create some new art. Visit th…

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S3 EP15 | Muneera Pilgrim - Witness your journey 55:46

1+ y ago55:46

55:46

In this week's episode, Muneera Pilgrim joins Yomi in discussing her experience as a poet, coming from a hip hop background. They touch on the journey you take in seeing your worth and believing in yourself and how they were able to embody that. Muneera shares her poem 'Dear Boy’ Apples and Snakes:The Podcast is hosted by Yomi Sode with Sound produ…

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#35 How to Create Poem Titles: 5 Techniques for Naming Your Work 21:30

1+ y ago21:30

21:30

Explore five key strategies for creating attention-grabbing, meaningful poem titles. Whether your titles come easily or feel like the final battle in your revision process, we'll find you some practical tactics to use the next time you need the perfect title. Stay tuned to the end where Danielle shares a special bonus prompt to guide you when you'r…

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#34 Sit Down and Write: Collage Poems 13:55

1+ y ago13:55

13:55

Ever wonder how to turn seemingly random words into a powerful poem? In this episode, bridgette bianca introduces you to the art of collage poetry, guiding you step-by-step through the process of creating your own. You'll hear her build a poem live on the podcast and learn about four occasions when collage poetry can elevate your writing. Visit the…