In this engaging conversation, Mel shares her journey through poetry, the impact of hearing loss, and the emotional support provided by her pet, Kirrie. She discusses the importance of eco-poetry and environmental awareness, as well as the creative processes that shape her work. The dialogue highlights the power of storytelling in poetry and reflects on personal growth and future aspirations.Takeaways• Mel's journey through poetry began as a way to connect with others during the pandemic.• Hearing loss has significantly impacted Mel's life and creative expression.• Pets, like Kirrie, provide essential emotional support and companionship.• Eco-poetry serves as a means to raise awareness about environmental issues.• Creative processes can evolve over time, influenced by personal experiences.• Storytelling in poetry can help convey complex emotions and experiences.• Mel emphasizes the importance of making poetry accessible to all.• Collaboration and community play a vital role in Mel's creative endeavors.• Mel's work aims to inspire and educate others about hearing loss and environmental awareness.• The journey of a poet is often intertwined with personal growth and reflection.Sound Bites"Poetry can be a vehicle for therapy.""I wanted to make a difference.""I think that's a good thing as well."🎨 Would you like to join us in Art Hub? Art Hub is an inspiring and supportive membership for artists to make more authentic art. Ruth and I run this friendly art community. Find out more information here… https://debbiechatfield.co.uk/pages/a... Where to Connect with Us: 🌟 Debs Chatfield Website: https://debbiechatfield.co.uk/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/debbiechatf... Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DebbieChatfi... Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/debbiecha... 🌟 Ruth Egon Website: https://ruthegon.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ruth_egon_a...Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RuthEgonArt/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/ruthegonart/🎵 Original Music by Tom Egginton Track: Best Of Jazz Instrumental 📖 Chapters of Our Chat:00:00 Introduction to Mel's Creative Journey01:19 Early Inspirations and Education03:07 Pursuing a Degree in English04:58 Transitioning to Writing Professionally06:51 Embracing Performance Poetry07:19 The Journey into Performance Poetry09:51 Building a Community through Open Mics12:18 The Journey of Mel's Writing and Publishing14:59 Dyslexia-Friendly Publishing: A New Approach16:59 Exploring Community Projects and Poetry Festivals19:31 The Impact of Personal Experiences on Writing22:21 Children's Literature and Creative Inspiration25:01 Nature's Influence on Creativity and Grief27:46 The Therapeutic Power of Poetry30:59 Exploring Grief Through Poetry33:09 Creative Connections and Shared Journeys36:29 Navigating Sudden Hearing Loss41:18 Adapting to New Realities41:29 Navigating Hearing Loss and Its Challenges43:57 The Role of Hearing Dogs in Daily Life46:53 The Impact of Kiri on Mel's Life49:17 Writing for Awareness: Children's Literature on Hearing Loss52:10 Engaging Young Minds: Poetry and Interactive Learning57:07 Navigating Life Post-Pandemic59:49 The Journey of Eco-Poetry01:02:47 The Impact of Performance on Poetry01:05:30 Books and Community Engagement01:08:05 Creative Processes and Personal Projects01:10:00 Exploring the Relationship Between Sound and Memory01:13:09 The Power of Form in Poetry01:15:33 Art, Creativity, and Wellbeing