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In Volume Four: Chapter Sixteen, we welcome Teaching Artist, Poet, Spoken Word Artist and Author of the new book Mouths of Garden, friend of The Podcast Barbara Fant.Connect with Barbara:Twitter: @bloombarbfantWebsite: barbarafant.comIG: @bloombarbfantRecorded spoken word performances in this Chapter include:Brandon Alexander Williams: Black Women StudiesIG: @brandonalexanderwilliamsTwitter: @moderndaygroitWebsite: moderndaygriot.netRick Dove: A Poetic ConceitIG: @rickdoveWebsite: rickdove.co.ukTwitter: @multistableRJ Wright: Soldiers CreedIG: therealrjwrightCrystal Valentine: I am Black before woman in FebruaryWebsite: crystalvalentinepoetry.comIG: crystalvalentine94Anita D: And The Psych Ward SaysWebsite: anitadpoetry.comIG: anitadpoetryTwitter: @anitadpoetryConnect with, then listen and subscribe to the following podcasts we recommend:The Words I Never Said podcastIG: @gods_ink_spokenwordLife as We Grow It podcastIG: @lifeaswegrowitTwitter: @lifeaswegrowitThe Spoken World podcastTwitter: @spokenpodcast Website: thespokenwordpodcastIG: @thespokenworldUnspoken Words podcastIG: @unspokenwordspodcastTwitter: @beckythepoetYouTube:  Unspoken WordsWebsite: beckythepoet.comJourney with Mpho podcastIG: @journeywithmphoWebsite: journeywithmpho.com

In Volume Four: Chapter Fifteen, we welcome Teaching Artist, Poet, Host of the podcast The Word Trap, Writer, and Author fr the poetry collection Rotten Soup, Zulmie Da Poet.  Zulmie was born in New York and completed her undergraduate degree at Norfolk State University in Norfolk, Virginia with a Bachelor of Arts in History Liberal Arts and completed graduate studies at Regent University in Virginia Beach, Virginia with a Master’s in Practical Theology. She fell in love with poetry in middle school and started writing poetry in high school. She is the Author of “Rotten Soup”  and currently resides in Lawrenceville, Georgia. She is an Educator professionally and conducts poetry workshops and is an advocate of self-love. Zulmie also hosts an IG Live biweekly show,  Zulmie’s Poetic Family and Friends in which she interviews fellow poets and creatives. Connect with Zulmie:Twitter: @zulmiedapoetWebsite: zulmie.comIG: @zulmiedapoetRecorded spoken word performances in this Chapter include:Andra Gibson: For the Days I Stop Wanting to Have a BodyIG: @andrwgibbyTwitter: @andreagibsonWebsite: andreagibson.orgDasan Ahanu: Conversation with GodIG: @dasanahanuWebsite: dasanahanu.comTwitter: @dasanahanuBarbara Fant: Brown Bodies BendingIG: @bloombarbfantWebsite: barbarafant.comTwitter: @bloombarbfantEphraim Nehemiah: 5 Stages of Grief for the LivingTwitter: @ephraimnehemiahWebsite: ephraimnehemiah.comIG: @ephraimnehemiahMoody Black: 8 LettersWebsite: iammoodyblack.comIG: iammoodyblackTwitter: @iammoodyblackConnect with, then listen and subscribe to the following podcasts we recommend:The Words I Never Said podcastIG: @gods_ink_spokenwordLife as We Grow It podcastIG: @lifeaswegrowitTwitter: @lifeaswegrowitThe Spoken World podcastTwitter: @spokenpodcast Website: thespokenwordpodcastIG: @thespokenworldUnspoken Words podcastIG: @unspokenwordspodcastTwitter: @beckythepoetYouTube:  Unspoken WordsWebsite: beckythepoet.comJourney with Mpho podcastIG: @journeywithmphoWebsite: journeywithmpho.com

In Volume Four: Chapter Fourteen, we welcome Teaching Artist, Poet, Performance Poet, Writer, Advocate, Author of the poetry collection Carnival, and co-founder of the Spoken Lit Movement, a Los Angeles-based arts organization designed to uplift and support poets both in and out of  L.A. , Alyesha Wise.Alyesha is a published poet and TEDx speaker from Camden, N.J. Currently residing in LA, she is a teaching artist for Street Poets, Inc., an organization serving juvenile injustice-involved youth with mentorship and arts programming. Alyesha is a 2-time Women of the World Poetry Slam finalist with a stellar competing and coaching record. She has been featured on platforms and in publications such as Huffington Post, Bustle, Afropunk, PBS, POPSUGAR, Buzzfeed, and more. Other collabs include the ACLU of Southern California, Brave New Films, and  the Google Interstellar Project Connect with Alyesha:Twitter: @mswiseWebsite: alyeshawise.comIG: @alyeshawiseRecorded spoken word performances in this Chapter include:Black Chakra: I Spit FireIG: @blackchakra88Twitter: @blackchakra88YaYa: Ling LingIG: @yayazhangpoetOompa: Space-Time ContinuumIG: @oompoutloudWebsite: oompoutloud.comTwitter: @oompoutloudAlyesha Wise: TraumaAlyesha Wise: CannibalConnect with, then listen and subscribe to the following podcasts we recommend:The Words I Never Said podcastIG: @gods_ink_spokenwordLife as We Grow It podcastIG: @lifeaswegrowitTwitter: @lifeaswegrowitThe Spoken World podcastTwitter: @spokenpodcast Website: thespokenwordpodcastIG: @thespokenworldUnspoken Words podcastIG: @unspokenwordspodcastTwitter: @beckythepoetYouTube:  Unspoken WordsWebsite: beckythepoet.comJourney with Mpho podcastIG: @journeywithmphoWebsite: journeywithmpho.com

In Volume Four: Chapter Thirteen, we welcome teaching Artist, Poet, Performance Poet, Writer, Advocate, and Author of the upcoming poetry collection Refuse To Disappear, Dr Tara Betts.Kankakee, IL born and Chicago-based Dr. Betts is the Author of two full length poetry collections Arc and Hue and Break the Habit, and has published a number of chapbooks including Switch, Can I hang, and Circling Unexpectedly. Dr. Betts received her BA in communications from Loyola University, her MFA in creative writing from New England College, and her PhD in English/Creative Writing from Binghamton University. Her newest full length poetry collection Refuse to Disappear will be released this June via Word Works Books Connect with Tara:Twitter: @tarabettsIG: @chitownbettsRecorded spoken word performances in this Chapter include:Meccamorphosis: Penny DreadfulsIG: @meccamorphosisWebsite: meccamorphosis.comTwitter: @meccaverdellAsis Sampson: 90's LoveIG: @theasiaprojectTwitter: @theasiaprojectWebsite: theasiaproject.comDua Saleh : Pins and NeedlesIG: @doitlikeduaWebsite: duasaleh.comTwitter: @doitlikeduaJavon Johnson: Black and happyIG: @javonismTwitter: @javonismAman Batra: IkeaIG: @amankbatraTwitter: @amankbatraWebsite: amankbatra.comConnect with, then listen and subscribe to the following podcasts we recommend:The Words I Never Said podcastIG: @gods_ink_spokenwordLife as We Grow It podcastIG: @lifeaswegrowitTwitter: @lifeaswegrowitThe Spoken World podcastTwitter: @spokenpodcast Website: thespokenwordpodcastIG: @thespokenworldUnspoken Words podcastIG: @unspokenwordspodcastTwitter: @beckythepoetYouTube:  Unspoken WordsWebsite: beckythepoet.comJourney with Mpho podcastIG: @journeywithmphoWebsite: journeywithmpho.com

 In Volume Four: Chapter Twelve, we welcome North Carolina-based Poet, Writer, Life Coach, Animal Advocate, and Entrepreneur, Jolanda Malone. Jolanda's non-profit organization Beartha was founded in January 2001 and named in honor of her grandmother Bertha. She says of living with her grandmother " growing up in the South Bronx we lived in a house that felt like a mansion. She always welcomed her home to neighbors , friends, families, people that needed help, and furry friends. She helped so many people get on their feet, rescued stray cats, and provided a safe haven that made people feel welcomed. Bertha means "Bright One" and she surely did Brighten my life and inspired me to make a community that Humans, Animals, and Nature will be important and can come together. This Non-Profit Organization is in Honor of her and how to left the world a better place than she found it".She says that the core values of the organization is to L.I.V.E.:Love: To Live a Life where you leave the world a better place than you found it through moving in LOVE Inspire: We want to INSPIRE people to love their self and others  Visualize: To Visualize your dreams and goals and Know you are capable of leaving the world a better place than you found it. Educate: To Educate the community on how they can leave the world a better place. Connect with Jolanda:Website: beartha.orgIG: @beartha919Recorded spoken word performances in this Chapter include:Ashley Lumpkin: InheritanceIG: @lumplestiltizkenWebsite: lumplestiltizken.comTwitter: @alumpGabriel Ramirez: Whenever I Look Over My BalconyIG: @ramirezpoetTwitter: @ramirezpoetWebsite: ramirezpoet.comSummer Durant : Future not FetishIG: @summeraenWebsite: summeraen.comTwitter: @summera3nSteven Willis: How The Hood Loves You BackIG: @stevenantoinewillisWebsite: stevenwillispoetry.comTwitter: @stevenawillisIfrah Hussein: Tell UsIG: @ifrahhusseinTwitter: @ifrahhussein_Connect with, then listen and subscribe to the following podcasts we recommend:The Words I Never Said podcastIG: @gods_ink_spokenwordLife as We Grow It podcastIG: @lifeaswegrowitTwitter: @lifeaswegrowitThe Spoken World podcastTwitter: @spokenpodcast Website: thespokenwordpodcastIG: @thespokenworldUnspoken Words podcastIG: @unspokenwordspodcastTwitter: @beckythepoetYouTube:  Unspoken WordsWebsite: beckythepoet.comJourney with Mpho podcastIG: @journeywithmphoWebsite: journeywithmpho.com

In Volume Four: Chapter Eleven, we welcome Poet, Spoken Word Artist, Author of the Chapbook Sprig of Lilac, Kelsey Bigelow. Her debut spoken word album Depression Holders and Secret Keepers is available now via all streaming platforms and via her website. Kelsey Bigelow is based in Des Moines. She aims to be the motivator and mentor people don't always get in life. In her work, she molds incredibly specific emotions into something human, digestible, and cathartic. She believes we grow in empathy by talking about our shared experiences, no matter how difficult. As a multi-slam champion, published poet, workshop leader, and more, Kelsey is on a mission to show others two things: ​1. You can live the life you dream. 2. It does get better. Connect with Kelsey:Website: kelkaybpoetry.comIG: @kelkaybpoetryRecorded spoken word performances in this Chapter include:Jus Marvin: My DepressionIG: @jusmarvinpoetryMelissa Newman-Evans: 9 Things I Would Like to Tell Every Teenage GirlWebsite: melissanewmanevans.comTaalam Acey: Willie Lynch LLCIG: @taalamaceyWebsite: taalamacey.comTwitter: @taalamaceyBella: InterpretationIG: @bella_soulElizabeth Acevedo: HaorIG: @acevedowritesWebsite: acevedowrites.comTwitter: @acevedowrites.comConnect with, then listen and subscribe to the following podcasts we recommend:The Words I Never Said podcastIG: @gods_ink_spokenwordLife as We Grow It podcastIG: @lifeaswegrowitTwitter: @lifeaswegrowitThe Spoken World podcastTwitter: @spokenpodcast Website: thespokenwordpodcastIG: @thespokenworldUnspoken Words podcastIG: @unspokenwordspodcastTwitter: @beckythepoetYouTube:  Unspoken WordsWebsite: beckythepoet.comJourney with Mpho podcastIG: @journeywithmphoWebsite: journeywithmpho.com

In Volume Four: Chapter Ten, we welcome Teaching Artist, Poet, Spoken Word Artist, Slam Poet, and Author of the book The Autobiography of Absence, Ephraim Nehemiah. A published writer, educator and nationally touring performer. Their work sits comfortably in the Black cultural lineage of griots who are dedicated to using truth to document and critique the world around them. Ephraim holds a B.A. in Pan-African Studies from Kent State University where they were awarded the Undergraduate Poetry Prize and Maggie Anderson Scholarship. Ephraim is also the co-founder and former coach of Kent State’s award-winning collegiate poetry team that competed annually at the College Unions Poetry Slam Invitational from 2015-2018. Ephraim is the recipient of grants from PEN America, Gabrielle Bouliane Foundation, The Cleveland Foundation, and received fellowships from The Karamu House Performing Arts Theatre, Baldwin House Urban Writing Residency, and The Watering Hole Winter Retreat. Ephraim’s poems appear in various journals and publications such as Anxy Magazine, Flypaper, Lake Effect Anthology, UHURU Magazine, and Knights Library Magazine, where the poem "Jesus Christ Tries Talking to His Father Again" was nominated for a Pushcart Prize. Their performances have been featured on TEDx Talks, Button Poetry, AfroPunk, Season 1 of Free Tuition, and various other channels. They are a 2021 National Poetry Slam Champion, Baltimore’s 2020 Grand Slam Champion, 2019 Rustbelt Poetry Slam Finalist, and a 2018 Individual World Poetry Slam final stage performer. Connect with Ephraim:Website: ephraimnehemiah.comIG: @ephraimnehemiahRecorded spoken word performances in this Chapter include:Shanelle Gabriel: VanityIG: @shanellegabrielWebsite: shanellegabriel.comGayle Danley: ToughIG: @gaylednaleyTwitter: @poetgayledanleyWebsite: gayledanleypoet.comGod's Ink of Spoken Word: PenniesIG: @gods_ink_spokenwordWebsite: theinkmag.comEphriam Nehemiah: 5 Stages of Grief for The LivingIG: @ephriamnehemiahWebsite: ephriamnehemiah.comEphriam Nehemiah: Afrofuturistic Fairy God BeingIG: @ephriamnehemiahWebsite: ephriamnehemiah.comConnect with, then listen and subscribe to the following podcasts we recommend:The Words I Never Said podcastIG: @gods_ink_spokenwordLife as We Grow It podcastIG: @lifeaswegrowitTwitter: @lifeaswegrowitThe Spoken World podcastTwitter: @spokenpodcast Website: thespokenwordpodcastIG: @thespokenworldUnspoken Words podcastIG: @unspokenwordspodcastTwitter: @beckythepoetYouTube:  Unspoken WordsWebsite: beckythepoet.comJourney with Mpho podcastIG: @journeywithmphoWebsite: journeywithmpho.com

In Volume Four: Chapter nine, we welcome Vanessa Verse. Vanessa was born and raised in South Seattle, Washington. Both of her parents are from the Philippines and immigrated to the states. Coming from a Filipino family, talking about feelings and emotions was uncommon in the household. Turning to poetry was an outlet when she felt that no one would listen or understand.She's most recognized for her work as a Volunteer Victim Advocate and Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) outreach performances. As an airman, she has been highlighted as a #KnowYourMil artist.  In the middle of 2021, she received her third assignment and moved back to the states. Vanessa is excited by opportunities to grow, learn, network, and create.  Whether performing at open mics, competing in poetry slams, or facilitating and attending writing workshops, Vanessa has connected with supporters and other artists globally. Her audience responds with their own stories, energy, and hearts that connect with her words and style of storytelling. Connect with Vanessa:Website: thevanessaverse.comIG: @thevanessaverseRecorded spoken word performances in this Chapter include:Anita D: RunIG: @anitadpoetryWebsite: anitadpoetry.comLyrical Faith: Pinterest WeddingIG: @lyricalfaithpoetryTwitter: @bylyricalfaithChristopher Michael: Black Feels LikeIG: @mrmichael310Website: 310brownstreet.comTwitter: @mrmichael310Nia Calloway: Do Not Put Me In a VaseIG: @niacallowayWebsite: niacalloway.comDamien McClendon: On Surviving a LynchingIG: @blackpenmagicConnect with, then listen and subscribe to the following podcasts we recommend:The Words I Never Said podcastIG: @gods_ink_spokenwordLife as We Grow It podcastIG: @lifeaswegrowitTwitter: @lifeaswegrowitThe Spoken World podcastTwitter: @spokenpodcast Website: thespokenwordpodcastIG: @thespokenworldUnspoken Words podcastIG: @unspokenwordspodcastTwitter: @beckythepoetYouTube:  Unspoken WordsWebsite: beckythepoet.comJourney with Mpho podcastIG: @journeywithmphoWebsite: journeywithmpho.com

In Volume Four: Chapter Eight of The Podcast, we welcomed Educator, Poet, Spoken Word Artist, Author of the book God, Love, Death, and other Synonyms, and 2021 Richmond Virginia Poet Laureate, Roscoe Burnems. Richmond Virginia native, Douglas Powell/Roscoe Burnems is a poet, published author, spoken-word artist, comedian, educator, father, husband, and Richmond, VA's inaugural poet laureate, who has dedicated his craft to entertaining and educating.  Performance poetry has afforded him the opportunity to enlighten and entertain crowds across the country; he's been seen everywhere from coffee shops, schools and universities, theaters, and arenas. In 2019 he added a TEDx Talk to his list of accomplishments, speaking at a TEDxYouth event in November of 2019. He is no stranger to community and youth engagement. He has been a staple in the Arts Education scene for years and highlighted arts integration as a host for PBS/VPM's The Art Scene. Connect with Roscoe:Website: roscoeb.webs.comIG: @roscoeburnemsRecorded spoken word performances in this Chapter include:Kyla Jenee Lacey: Pulled Out a Knife on HimIG: @kylajlaceyWebsite: thatswritekyla.comTwitter: @kyla_laceyMatthew Cuban Hernandez: ReasonsIG: @matthewcubanofficialWebsite: matthewcuban.comTwitter: @matthewcubanNatasha Hooper: A Letter to Whomever is NextIG: @thenatashadeeWebsite: thenatashadee.comTwitter: @thenatashadeeRoscoe Burnems: KissIG: @roscoeburnemsWebsite: roscoeb.webs.comRoscoe Burnems: MomIG: @roscoeburnemsWebsite: roscoeb.webs.comConnect with, then listen and subscribe to the following podcasts we recommend:The Words I Never Said podcastIG: @gods_ink_spokenwordLife as We Grow It podcastIG: @lifeaswegrowitTwitter: @lifeaswegrowitThe Spoken World podcastTwitter: @spokenpodcast Website: thespokenwordpodcastIG: @thespokenworldUnspoken Words podcastIG: @unspokenwordspodcastTwitter: @beckythepoetYouTube:  Unspoken WordsWebsite: beckythepoet.comJourney with Mpho podcastIG: @journeywithmphoWebsite: journeywithmpho.com

 In Volume Four: Chapter Seven of The Podcast, we welcomed Poet, Writer and Author of the book Hypethically the Craziest Shit I've Ever Done, T.C. Blackwell.TC is a novelist, publisher, and lifelong storyteller. Her first novel “The Lies Behind My Eyes” was published in 2019. The novel is dedicated to her twin sister who passed away before the novel was completed.  Hypothetically The Craziest Sh%t I’ve Ever Done!?!  Was published 4 months later. TC Blackwell specializes in crafting funny adventures with a heaping dose of romance. She holds a B.A. in Criminal Justice and shares an incredibly unique passion for helping young adults bridge the literacy gap. Connect with TC Blackwell:Website: tcblackwell.comIG: @t.c.blackwellRecorded spoken word performances in this Chapter include:Jay Ward: Gentrification IG: @jayward2030Website: jwardpoetry.comTwitter: @jayward2030Masterpiece: SlingshotIG: @masterpiecepoetWebsite: masterpiecepoetry.comTwitter: @masterpiece83FreeQuency: The "I'm Sorry" PoemIG: @mwendersinsuspendersWebsite: frequencyspeaks.comTwitter: @freethamightyGabriel Ramirez: Whenever I Look Out My BalconyIG: @ramirezpoetWebsite: ramirezpoet.comTwitter: @ramirezpoetRonald Banks: FearIG: @ronaldlbanksWebsite: ronaldlbanks.comTwitter: ronaldlbanksConnect with, then listen and subscribe to the following podcasts we recommend:The Words I Never Said podcastIG: @gods_ink_spokenwordLife as We Grow It podcastIG: @lifeaswegrowitTwitter: @lifeaswegrowitThe Spoken World podcastTwitter: @spokenpodcast Website: thespokenwordpodcastIG: @thespokenworldUnspoken Words podcastIG: @unspokenwordspodcastTwitter: @beckythepoetYouTube:  Unspoken WordsWebsite: beckythepoet.comJourney with Mpho podcastIG: @journeywithmphoWebsite: journeywithmpho.com

In Volume Four: Chapter Six of The Podcast, we welcomed Poet, Playwright, Essayist, and Author of the new poetry collection Green River Valley, Robert Lashley.Robert is a 2016 Jack Straw Fellow, Artist Trust Fellow, and nominee for a Stranger Genius Award. He has work published in The Seattle Review of Books, NAILED,  Poetry Northwest, McSweeney’s, and The Cascadia Review. His poetry was also featured in such anthologies as Many Trails to The Summitt, Foot Bridge Above The Falls, Get Lit,  Make It True, and It Was Written. His previous books include THE HOMEBOY SONGS (Small Doggies Press, 2014), and UP SOUTH (Small Doggies Press, 2017).Connect with Robert:Website: misterlashley.weebly.comIG: @misterlashleyRecorded spoken word performances in this Chapter include:AkeemJamal Rollins: Suicide NoteIG: keemyjamElizabeth Acevedo: Afro-LatinaIG: @acevedowritesWebsite: acevedowrites.comTwitter: @acevedowritesGigi Bella: SlutIG: @gigibellagWebsite: gigibellapoetry.comMoody Black: PricelessIG: @iammoodyblackWebsite: iammoodyblackTwitter: @iammoodyblackShaveh: 2 GodsIG: @iamshavehWebsite: iamshaveh.comConnect with, then listen and subscribe to the following podcasts we recommend:The Words I Never Said podcastIG: @gods_ink_spokenwordLife as We Grow It podcastIG: @lifeaswegrowitTwitter: @lifeaswegrowitThe Spoken World podcastTwitter: @spokenpodcast Website: thespokenwordpodcastIG: @thespokenworldUnspoken Words podcastIG: @unspokenwordspodcastTwitter: @beckythepoetYouTube:  Unspoken WordsWebsite: beckythepoet.comJourney with Mpho podcastIG: @journeywithmphoWebsite: journeywithmpho.com

In Volume Four: Chapter Five of The Podcast, we welcomed Educator, Poet, Spoken Word Artist, Author of the book Side Effects of Remembering the Litte Things and the 2019 Portland Grand Slam Champion, Bella.Connect with Bella:IG: @bella_soul_Recorded spoken word performances in this Chapter include:L3thal Po3t: SuperheroIG: @l3thalpo3tWebsite: lethalpoet.netEbony Stewart: White Men Say Weird Things to MeIG: @gullyprincessWebsite: ebpoetry.comTwitter: @ebpoetryYaw: Poetry ServiceIG: @kingyaw_Bella: InterpretationIG: @bella_soul_Muna Abdulahi: Pronounce Us CorrectlyIG: @munaabdulahi_Twitter: @munaabdulahi_Connect with, then listen and subscribe to the following podcasts we recommend:The Words I Never Said podcastIG: @gods_ink_spokenwordLife as We Grow It podcastIG: @lifeaswegrowitTwitter: @lifeaswegrowitThe Spoken World podcastTwitter: @spokenpodcast Website: thespokenwordpodcastIG: @thespokenworldUnspoken Words podcastIG: @unspokenwordspodcastTwitter: @beckythepoetYouTube:  Unspoken WordsWebsite: beckythepoet.comJourney with Mpho podcastIG: @journeywithmphoWebsite: journeywithmpho.com

 In Volume Four: Chapter Four of The Podcast, we welcomed Teaching Artist, Poet,  Spoken Word Artist and Author, Gayle Danley. Gayle also is the founder of Grief Friend, a resource for those moving through the experience of losing a loved one, the founder of Lessons in Poetry - a virtual curriculum that produces teaching videos and poetry lessons for learners in grades K-8, and she is the host of the podcast Classy which can be heard on all podcast platforms. Gayle is one of the nation’s most sought after inspirational writers and speakers on the topics of the power of performance poetry, healing from grief, and honoring those whose life work is serving others. Gayle uses this national platform to say “let’s stop pretending we aren’t hurting. Let’s truly reach out to one another and walk the difficult path of loss step by step, together.” She has been featured on CBS 60 Minutes, written about in the Washington Post, the New York Times and the Baltimore Sun. Gayle’s Listen with Love training session teaches the art of listening as a way to achieve the highest path of healing for those of us who are suffering loss.  Connect with Gayle:IG: @gayledanleyWebsite: gayledanleypoet.comTwitter: @poetgayledanleyRecorded spoken word performances in this Chapter include:Crystal Valentine: Little Known FactIG: @crystalvalentine94Twitter: @crystalvalentinWebsite: crystalvalentinepoetry.comNayo Jones: On Nate ParkerIG: @nayobeknowinPropaganda: Twenty YearsTwitter: @prophiphopIG: @prophiphopWebsite: prophiphop.comSteven Willis: Ebonics 101IG: @stevenantoinewillisTwitter: @stevenawillisWebsite: stevenwillispoetry.comSiaara Freeman: For Cleveland Ohio, My HomeIG: @shes_a_badmamajammaTwitter: @thatswhatsisaidConnect with, then listen and subscribe to the following podcasts we recommend:The Words I Never Said podcastIG: @gods_ink_spokenwordLife as We Grow It podcastIG: @lifeaswegrowitTwitter: @lifeaswegrowitThe Spoken World podcastTwitter: @spokenpodcast Website: thespokenwordpodcastIG: @thespokenworldUnspoken Words podcastIG: @unspokenwordspodcastTwitter: @beckythepoetYouTube:  Unspoken WordsWebsite: beckythepoet.comJourney with Mpho podcastIG: @journeywithmphoWebsite: journeywithmpho.com

 In Volume Four: Chapter Three, we welcomed Pastor of Hope Village NYC, Poet and Author of the new book God Speaks Through Wombs, Drew Jackson. Drew is a poet who came late to writing poetry, although he would say that his love for the art form began with hip-hop, learning to put words together from Nas’ Illmatic. He writes at the intersection of justice, peace, and contemplation, having a passion to contribute toward a more just and whole world.  Born in Williamstown, NJ, Drew currently calls New York City home. He holds a B.A. in Political Science from the University of Chicago and an M.A. in Theology from Fuller Theological Seminary. While he’s not traversing the world of poetry, Drew spends his time pastoring Hope East Village, a church that he planted in March of 2018. Drew also serves as the President of Pax, an organization focused on promoting the peace of Jesus in the 21st century. Connect with Drew:IG: @d.jacksonpoeticsWebsite: djacksonpoetics.comTwitter: djacksonpoeticsRecorded spoken word performances in this Chapter include:Aris Kian: Ancestry.comIG: @darlingitssundayTwitter: @rosewaterframesWebsite: ariskian.comDarius Simpson: GenocideIG: @_dariussimpsonWebsite: dariussimpson.comTwitter: @_dariussimpsonLionheart: Pretty HurtsTwitter: @lionheartfeltIG: @lionheartfeltWebsite: lionheartfeltonline.comLoyce Gayo: How We ForgetIG: @loycegayoTwitter: @loycegayoWebsite: loyceg.github.ioJavon Johnson: Black and HappyIG: @javonismTwitter: @javonismConnect with, then listen and subscribe to the following podcasts we recommend:The Words I Never Said podcastIG: @gods_ink_spokenwordLife as We Grow It podcastIG: @lifeaswegrowitTwitter: @lifeaswegrowitThe Spoken World podcastTwitter: @spokenpodcast Website: thespokenwordpodcastIG: @thespokenworldUnspoken Words podcastIG: @unspokenwordspodcastTwitter: @beckythepoetYouTube:  Unspoken WordsWebsite: beckythepoet.comJourney with Mpho podcastIG: @journeywithmphoWebsite: journeywithmpho.com

 In Volume Four: Chapter Two, we welcomed Poet , Writer, Spoken Word Artist, and friend of The Podcast, Kennie Sings. Kennie, making her third appearance, discusses her new podcast Hidden Lines Podcast, performing virtually vs performing live on stage after COVID, bad poetry, and more.Connect with Kennie Sings:IG: @kennie_singsRecorded spoken word performances in this Chapter include:Jae Nichelle: Friends with BenefitsIG: @croptopassassinTwitter: @croptopassassinWebsite: jaenichelle.comAlysia Harris: In Situations Like ThisIG: poppyinthewheatWebsite: alysiaharris.comTwitter: @poppinthewheatRoscoe Burnems: Metaphysics for White Privilege Twitter: @roscoe_is_dougIG: @roscoeburnemsWebsite: roscoe.webs.comJustin Morris: We Have a ResponsibilityIG: @the_headcoachPrentice Powell: ConfessionWebsite: prenticepowell.comIG: @prenticepowell1906Twitter: @followprenticeConnect with, then listen and subscribe to the following podcasts we recommend:The Words I Never Said podcastIG: @gods_ink_spokenwordLife as We Grow It podcastIG: @lifeaswegrowitTwitter: @lifeaswegrowitThe Spoken World podcastTwitter: @spokenpodcast Website: thespokenwordpodcastIG: @thespokenworldUnspoken Words podcastIG: @unspokenwordspodcastTwitter: @beckythepoetYouTube:  Unspoken WordsWebsite: beckythepoet.comJourney with Mpho podcastIG: @journeywithmphoWebsite: journeywithmpho.com

 In the premiere of Volume Four, we welcomed Poet and Author of the book Thou Shall Not, Sharnnell Spivey. Thou Shall Not is a suspenseful thriller that concerns a group of people interconnected by their personal and professional relationships. The attraction that comes from breaking the seven deadly sins and the 10 Commandments affects each person in the novel, whether it is the handsome and successful businessman, Collin, or the drug-addicted street urchin, Carmen. No matter who a person is or how enviable their life might seem, he or she is bound to have some type of struggle, whether God is part of their lives or not. What ultimately matters is that God can forgive and provide a fresh start, as long as the heart is truly repentant. A clean slate is possible through the Lord, even if a person has done something as wicked as kill.Connect with Sharnnell:IG: @sharnnellsWebsite: sharnnellspivey.comFacebook: @lowlyvineTwitter: @sharnnellsRecorded spoken word performances in this Chapter include:Alyesha Wise: FlowersIG: @alyeshawiseTwitter: @mswiseWebsite: alysehawise.comFlynn Dexter: Grief is not a Morning PersonIG: @_dexterrrificWebsite: flynndexter.comChristopher Diaz: AgainTwitter: @lightbulbchrisIG: @lightbulbchrisEdwin Bodney: Good MorningTwitter: @edwinbodneyIG: @mx.oceanElizabeth Acevedo: A Letter to my BelovedWebsite: acevedowrites.comIG: acevedowritesTwitter: @acevedowritesConnect with, then listen and subscribe to the following podcasts we recommend:The Words I Never Said podcastIG: @gods_ink_spokenwordLife as We Grow It podcastIG: @lifeaswegrowitTwitter: @lifeaswegrowitThe Spoken World podcastTwitter: @spokenpodcast Website: thespokenwordpodcastIG: @thespokenworldUnspoken Words podcastIG: @unspokenwordspodcastTwitter: @beckythepoetYouTube:  Unspoken WordsWebsite: beckythepoet.comJourney with Mpho podcastIG: @journeywithmphoWebsite: journeywithmpho.com

Volume Three: Chapter Twenty is the final Chapter in this volume and we are featuring six of our favorite live performances of his past volume.Featured Spoken Word Performances featured in this Chapter included:Tonii2Eyes - Title Unknown (performance from Chapter Three)IG: @tonii2eyesTarika Holland - What its Like being Me (performance from Chapter Thirteen)Website: is0latedbeauty.comShanelle Gabriel - Aim High (performance from Chapter Four)Website: shanellegabriel.comSabrina Ali - I Want You Back (performance from Chapter Seventeen)IG: @sabsie_aliJ. Rose - Tell Me King (performance from Chapter Two)Website: therosegardenevents.comDasan Ahanu - My People of Ash and Soot (performance from Chapter One) Website: dasanahanu.com

 In Volume Three: Chapter Nineteen, we welcome Life Coach, Poet, Spoken Word Artist, author of the book Lunar honey and artist, Holly Toomer. Holly is also the host of Conversations with Belle, which can be heard via all podcast platforms.Connect with Holly:IG: @bellewoodzPurchase her book: Lunar HoneyRecorded spoken word performances in this Chapter include:TJ Dema: DreamsIG: @tjdemaTwitter: @tjdemaWebsite: tjdema.comShanelle Gabriel: Title Not KnownTwitter: @shanellegIG: @shanellegabrielWebsite: shanellegabriel.comMeccamorphosis:Weird ScienceWebsite: meccamorphosis.comIG: @meccamorphosisTwitter: @meccaverdellGina Loring: My Black is the Color of SunshineIG: @ginastarlightWebsite: ginaloring.comConnect with, then listen and subscribe to the following podcasts we recommend:The Words I Never Said podcastIG: @gods_ink_spokenwordLife as We Grow It podcastIG: @lifeaswegrowitTwitter: @lifeaswegrowitThe Spoken World podcastTwitter: @spokenpodcast Website: thespokenwordpodcastIG: @thespokenworldUnspoken Words podcastIG: @unspokenwordspodcastTwitter: @beckythepoetYouTube:  Unspoken WordsWebsite: beckythepoet.comJourney with Mpho podcastIG: @journeywithmphoWebsite: journeywithmpho.com

In Volume Three: Chapter Eighteen of the podcast we welcomed Poet, Spoken Word Artist, writer and Entrepreneur, James NguyenConnect with James:IG: @jqnstudiosWebsite: jqnstudios.comRecorded spoken word performances in this Chapter include:Alexis Henry: SapiosexualIG: @caffeinatedlivingTwitter: @wokelivingWebsite: caffeinatedliving.comJasmine Mans: I Know You Didnt Mean to Kill HimTwitter: @poetjasminemansIG: @poetjasminemansWebsite: jasminemans.comNicquaB: Be RelaxedYouTube: @nicquabIG: @nicquabFacebook: @nicquabChristopher Michael: Purse SnatchersTwitter: @mrmichael310IG: @mrmichael310Website: mrmichael310.comConnect with, then listen and subscribe to the following podcasts we recommend:The Words I Never Said podcastIG: @gods_ink_spokenwordLife as We Grow It podcastIG: @lifeaswegrowitTwitter: @lifeaswegrowitThe Spoken World podcastTwitter: @spokenpodcast Website: thespokenwordpodcastIG: @thespokenworldUnspoken Words podcastIG: @unspokenwordspodcastTwitter: @beckythepoetYouTube:  Unspoken WordsWebsite: beckythepoet.comJourney with Mpho podcastIG: @journeywithmphoWebsite: journeywithmpho.com

 In Volume Three: Chapter Seventeen, we welcomed Activist, Poet, Spoken Word Artist, Musician and Model, Sabrina Ali.  Sabrina is an Arab Spoken Word Poet and musician from Cincinnati currently pursuing her PhD at the University of Illinois at Chicago. Sabrina is focusing her dissertation on the use of ‘Spoken Word Poetry as an innovative form of narrative pedagogy to educate healthcare students, educators, and practitioners about identity-based oppression and the consequential identity-based health inequities.’ Just outside of Columbus, Sabrina founded a spoken word poetry-hiphop literacy program for incarcerated male youth at a juvenile correctional facility as well as a music program at an affirmative action preschool, both of which still thrive today. Sabrina performed a TEDxTalk at The Ohio State University on “Societally-Induced Self-Hatred of Minorities.' Sabrina is passionate about harnessing creativity, innovation, and the power of the narrative to progress toward societal equity. Connect with Sabrina:IG: @sabsie_aliFacebook: @sabsie_aliRecorded spoken word performances in this Chapter include:Jay Ward: Gentrification IG: @jward2030Twitter: jward2030Website: jwardpoetrypoetry.comNatasha Miller: The Difference Between a Girlfriend and a WomanTwitter: @tmillerpoetryIG: @natashatmillerToni Payne: Love is LikeWebsite: tonipayneonline.comIG: @officialtonipayneTwitter: @tonipayneLionheart: Pretty HurtsTwitter: @lionheartfeltIG: @lionheartfeltWebsite: lionheartfeltonoline.comConnect with, then listen and subscribe to the following podcasts we recommend:The Words I Never Said podcastIG: @gods_ink_spokenwordLife as We Grow It podcastIG: @lifeaswegrowitTwitter: @lifeaswegrowitThe Spoken World podcastTwitter: @spokenpodcast Website: thespokenwordpodcastIG: @thespokenworldUnspoken Words podcastIG: @unspokenwordspodcastTwitter: @beckythepoetYouTube:  Unspoken WordsWebsite: beckythepoet.comJourney with Mpho podcastIG: @journeywithmphoWebsite: journeywithmpho.com