The Poetry Lab Podcast

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 it's tough. Visit thepoetrylab.com to find the Sh...

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 to embrace new creative paths. Visit thepoetrylab...

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 develop a content strategy. Finally, she emphasizes...

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 thepoetrylab.com to find the Show Notes for this ep...

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're stuck, inspired by the mentoring of poet Shira E...

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 thepoetrylab.com to find the Show Notes for this epis...

In this episode, we explore five common mistakes new writers make during the submissions process and how to avoid them. From crafting the perfect bio note to navigating correspondence with editors, let's demystify the submissions process by making these minor tweaks to your publication strategy. Visit thepoetrylab.com to find the Show Notes for this episode. The Poetry Lab Podcast is produced by L...

What is a writing sprint and how can they enhance your writing productivity? In this episode, Lori explains how you can overcome writer's block and generate a lot of words for your project. She covers the essentials of planning a writing sprint and practical tips to help set you up for success. Writing sprints are highly adaptable and allow writers to experiment with different ways of engaging wit...

Where are the free, reliable resources that elevate your writing game without breaking the bank? In this episode, we explore our top writing tools, from Grammarly to free Craft Chapbooks, our favorite poetry-centric podcasts to the best of BookTok. Whether you're an emerging poet or a seasoned writer, it won't hurt to refresh yourself on these practical tips and resources designed to help you thri...

In this episode, bridgette takes inspiration from Ntozake Shange's 1976 choreopoem, for colored girls who have considered suicide / when the rainbow is enuf and compiles a list of five collections by Black women that you should know. Listen in as bridgette chooses one collection from each of the past five years and explains why you should know it. Visit thepoetrylab.com to find the Show Notes for...

In this episode, Lori shares six books she loves to help boost your creativity. We've all had creative dry spells, but immersing yourself in the creative struggles and triumphs of other writers can help. The best creative books remind you that inspiration is everything, you only have to be yourself, you are not alone, and creating doesn't have to be painful. Stick around for a bonus inspiration ex...

Meet poet and professor, bridgette bianca. In this episode, bridgette shares how a chance encounter with E. Ethelbert Miller led to a deeper reflection on her future, leading her to get an MFA instead of pursuing a doctorate in English. For bridgette, landing a tenure track position at a community college opened her up to be able to draft her debut collection, be/trouble . If the educational path...

What does your revision process look like? In this episode, Danielle reveals how most of her writing happens in revision and shares her essential revision tactics. It's never too late to re-approach your writing practice, and revision might just be your missing link. Take these practical prompts and rethink, reimagine, and refine your work. Tune in and discover how poets become their best poems. V...

Why is a website crucial for your writing career? In this simple, but effective walkthrough Lori covers the must-haves for your site, what can wait, and shares best practices to ensure your online presence stands out. Tune in and take the first step toward creating your digital calling card. Or, if you already have a website, check your progress against Lori's sitemap recommendations. Visit thepoe...

What's your summer crush? Lori's ideas for creative expansion highlight some of the best of what summer has to offer. 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 thepoetrylab.com to find the Show Notes for this episode. The Poetry Lab Podcast is produced by Lori Walker and Danielle Mitchell. Hosted by Danielle Mitch...

What are the essential ingredients you need to write about the hardest things in your life? In this week's episode of The Poetry Lab Podcast, Danielle draws from her experiences as a California Creative Corps grantee, creating a project based on her personal hardships. What happens when a traumatic event becomes the focus of your art and career? Listen in as Danielle shares three actionable steps...

In this episode, join Lori as she shares the productivity strategies she finds most effective. From batching tasks to time blocking, setting timers, and utilizing apps like Refocus, Lori offers a range of tips to help you manage your creative career and what to do if the whole system collapses! Lori also emphasizes the importance of finding a system that works for you and knowing when to take a br...

Welcome to the blitz poem! In this episode, Marilyn invites listeners to sit down, grab a bevy, and get to writing their first blitz. The blitz is a 50-line poem form with specific rules for a surprise outcome. Marilyn shares her personal struggle with dedicating time to creative writing and invites listeners to join her in exploring the blitz as a quick and fun writing exercise. Join us on this l...

Ever found yourself questioning your capabilities, poet? In this episode, Lori invites the imposter in for a chat exploring what Imposter Syndrome is, how it can manifest, and why it might be affecting you. Fun fact: up to 70% of people say they grapple with Imposter Syndrome at some point in their lives. Remember, you're not alone! Lori, ever-practical, shares valuable tips and tricks to conquer...

Get ready for the annual Association of Writers and Writing Programs Conference with Danielle. In this episode, we'll master outfit planning, travel tips, and your conference schedule. Whether you want to score great deals at the bookfair or attend inspiring off-sites, we've got you covered, friend. You can even engage virtually if you're not traveling to the conference this year. Danielle's most...

Ever wondered why poets are irresistibly drawn to the moon? In this episode, Jess explores this timeless connection. By delving into poetry's association with Cancer, and its dance with Venus, Jess reveals the subtle yet undeniable bond that draws poets to lunar inspiration. Listen now to discover once and for all why the moon is your ultimate muse. Visit thepoetrylab.com to find the Show Notes fo...

Just like superheroes, every creative project has its own origin story – this is ours! Join us, the hosts of The Poetry Lab Podcast, in our inaugural roundtable talk. Take an unfiltered, behind-the-scenes look at our early recording hurdles, our scriptwriting evolution and the grand battle against imposter syndrome. The truth? This sh*t is harder than it looks, but it is not impossible. This episo...

An autodidact is a self-taught person, someone who takes initiative in learning and acquiring knowledge independently, often outside traditional educational settings—and our community is FULL of them! In this episode, we reveal the 3 most common personality types that come through our doors and how we are equipped to serve them. Listen to find out not only where you fall in the spectrum of adventu...

What is a chapbook? We're glad you asked! In this episode, Danielle explains what a chapbook is and what to keep in mind as you set out to create one. From structuring the collection to invigorating your creative process, Danielle will dish on the intricacies and joys of ordering your manuscript, where to find good advice, and what to do if you're feeling daunted. The goal of this episode is to de...

In this episode, Lori helps listeners get in tune with one of poetry's greatest and most economical resources: the poetry anthology. Learn the five kinds of anthologies Lori loves and the potential drawbacks of each. If you're looking for a way to explore poetry without over-committing to collections and keeping it light on your pocketbook, the mixed tape is your best bet. Listen now to find out h...