Summary
In this episode of the Poet Up Podcast, we engage in a lively discussion about racial unity, personal experiences at concerts, and the journey into poetry. We explore how education and performance shape a poet's career, the importance of business acumen in the arts, and the influence of military life on creativity. The conversation also touches on community engagement and the diverse avenues available in the poetry scene. This conversation explores the journey of Josephus and the evolution of the Poetry Cafe, highlighting the importance of community, networking, and overcoming adversity in the arts. From its inception in 2009 to its expansion into a radio show and national platform, the discussion emphasizes the significance of local investment and the potential for international opportunities. Josephus shares personal anecdotes about challenges faced and the lessons learned, ultimately inspiring listeners to embrace growth and creativity in their own artistic endeavors. In this engaging conversation, we explore the importance of community in poetry, the value of language learning, and the significance of supporting artists through album purchases. We discuss the Grammy spoken word category, the journey of creating an album, and of course, we freestyle.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Life Updates
04:25 Exploring the Journey into Poetry
09:36 Transitioning from Hobby to Profession
13:50 Connecting with the Audience through Poetry
17:58 Navigating Friendships and Creativity
22:14 Inspiration from Def Poetry
26:48 Community Engagement Through Poetry
30:30 International Poetry and Opportunities
34:24 Leveraging Opportunities for Growth
42:42 The Journey of Poetry Cafe
43:12 From Local to National: Expanding Reach
45:00 Overcoming Challenges and Seizing Opportunities
45:49 Growth Through Adversity
46:59 The Importance of Community and Sharing Knowledge
48:03 The Value of Language Learning
49:31 Cultural Perspectives on Language Acquisition
50:21 Fun and Games: That's Cap Segment
51:58 Grammy Considerations and Spoken Word Poetry
54:23 Creating a Cohesive Album Experience
56:40 The Creative Process Behind the Album
57:37 Balancing Art and Family Life
58:34 The Journey of an Artist
59:29 Inspiration from Fellow Artists
59:58 The Importance of Supporting Artists
01:01:19 Audience Engagement and Feedback
01:02:21 Promoting the Album and Its Singles
01:03:18 Connecting with the Community
01:04:30 Freestyling and Fun Moments
01:07:21 Shoutouts and Global Reach
Check out Josephus at www.josephusiii.com and buy his latest album Changing The World One Poem At A Time. Follow Josepus on IG @josephusiii
Freestyle Beat courtesy of Mall Chi
PoetUp Crew:
Twitter/X: @PoetUpPodcast @MallChi @MrBluz @jayward2030
IG: @PoetUpPodcast @MallChi @bluzbluzbluz @jward 2030
Facebook: @PoetUpPodcast
Email us: thepoetuppodcast@gmail.com
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Thank you for listening
Summary
In this episode, we engage in a lively conversation with Frank Expression, exploring his journey from a trumpet player to a poet. We discuss the significance of time, resilience, and determination in the creative process, as well as the challenges he faced, including overcoming Bell's Palsy. The conversation also delves into the business side of poetry, the importance of consistency, and the role of supportive relationships in artistic growth. Frank shares insights on building a poetry platform and the necessity of understanding the mechanics of running creative events. In this engaging conversation, we explore the journey of success in the creative arts, emphasizing the importance of determination, collaboration, and community building. We discuss the challenges and triumphs of organizing events, the significance of profitability, and the need for transparency in the arts. The dialogue also touches on the evolution of information sources in the digital age and offers valuable advice for new poets navigating a new city. And of course, we freestyle.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Swearing-In Ceremony Insights
05:39 Frank's Journey into Poetry
11:29 Reflections on Family and Loss
16:14 Determination and Rehabilitation
22:45 First Dates and Personal Growth
26:03 Vision and Purpose in Life
27:08 Engineering and Creativity
28:53 Relocating for Creative Growth
30:45 Building a Poetry Platform
31:43 Navigating Venue Conversations
32:43 The Importance of Consistency
34:28 Collaborating for Success
35:51 Profitability and Growth
38:10 Community Over Competition
39:34 Creating Exceptional Experiences
41:00 Reflecting on Success
41:30 Reflecting on Show Experiences
42:57 The Importance of Real Numbers in Events
44:27 Enhancing the Show Experience
45:36 Building Community Through Poetry
46:48 Establishing Yourself as a Poet in a New City
48:48 Understanding the Business Side of Poetry
51:04 The Evolution of Information Sharing
52:58 Musical Influences and Personal Growth
55:25 Sports Moments and Personal Reflections
56:44 Upcoming Poetry Events and Platforms
57:43 Freestyle Challenge and Creative Flow
01:01:12 Global Listener Shoutouts and Community Engagement
For all of Frank's info go to his IG @frank_expression
Freestyle Beat: Arpeggios by Mall Chi
PoetUp Crew:
Twitter/X: @PoetUpPodcast @MallChi @MrBluz @jayward2030
IG: @PoetUpPodcast @MallChi @bluzbluzbluz @jward 2030
Facebook: @PoetUpPodcast
Email us: thepoetuppodcast@gmail.com
Rate us, review us tell a friend to tell a friend about us.
Thank you for listening
Summary
In this episode of the Poet Up podcast, we engage in a lively conversation with Jah Smalls about his journey from New York City to Charlotte, the creation of the Black Charlotte Project, and the importance of community and storytelling in poetry. We discuss the cultural misconceptions about the South, the aspirations for Grammy recognition, and the emotional impact of the project on both participants and listeners. And as always, we freestyle.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Opening Thoughts
06:49 Journey from NYC to Charlotte
12:06 The Impact of Community and Culture
17:55 The Future of Black Charlotte and Its Legacy
39:44 Unity Through Poetry
45:01 Stories of Competition and Identity
49:35 New York vs. The South: A Cultural Exchange
51:30 Humor and Anecdotes: Life Experiences
57:08 The Black Charlotte Project: A Celebration of Community
01:10:22 PoetUp Intro Slide.mp4
Jah Info: IG @The_JahSmalls @grannaesboyz @respectdamic
Freestyle Beat: MallChi
PoetUp Crew:
Twitter/X: @PoetUpPodcast @MallChi @MrBluz @jayward2030
IG: @PoetUpPodcast @MallChi @bluzbluzbluz @jward 2030
Facebook: @PoetUpPodcast
PoetUp YouTube: @PoetUpPodcast
Email us: thepoetuppodcast@gmail.com
Rate us, review us tell a friend to tell a friend about us.
Thank you for listening
Summary
In this episode of the Poet Up Podcast, we engage in a deep and inspiring conversation with Ebony Payne, a multifaceted artist and survivor. We discuss Ebony's recent health scare after being bitten by a brown recluse spider, her journey of survival, and the importance of advocacy in healthcare, especially for marginalized communities. The conversation shifts to Ebony's work in memorializing African American history and culture, her thoughts on social justice, and the role of artists in these movements. We also touch on personal growth, the significance of leaving comfort zones, and the intersection of fashion and art. Finally, we explore Ebony's aspirations in music, including her Tiny Desk audition, and conclude with a freestyle session that encapsulates the spirit of creativity and resilience.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene
03:59 Survival and Resilience: Ebony's Journey
09:58 The Importance of Advocacy in Healthcare
16:11 Memorializing History: A Divine Purpose
20:02 Restorative Justice and Community Engagement
25:01 The Power of Uprooting and Transformation
30:05 Fashion as Art: Self-Expression and Identity
39:58 The Spiritual Connection in Fashion
41:12 Investing in Dreams and Talents
44:56 The Journey of Mackie and Black Spades
48:44 The Power of Small Gestures
49:42 Restorative Justice and Self-Identity
56:14 Tiny Desk Audition Experience
01:09:18 Freestyle and Creative Expression
01:16:19 Capsule Collection Launch with Black Spades
Ebony Info:
IG: @ebonypayneenglish
Freestyle Beat: MallChi
PoetUp Crew:
Twitter/X: @PoetUpPodcast @MallChi @MrBluz @jayward2030
IG: @PoetUpPodcast @MallChi @bluzbluzbluz @jward 2030
Facebook: @PoetUpPodcast
PoetUp YouTube: @PoetUpPodcast
Email us: thepoetuppodcast@gmail.com
Rate us, review us tell a friend to tell a friend about us.
Thank you for listening
In part 2 of this episode of the Poet Up Podcast, we talk with Rudy Francisco, exploring the intersection of poetry and corporate sponsorship, the importance of hard work and talent, and the evolving landscape of performance art. We discuss innovative ideas for poetry slams, the value of believing in oneself, and the significance of being coachable in the pursuit of artistic excellence. We also touch on personal experiences in the poetry scene, aspirations for future projects, and the importance of building platforms for poets.
Rudy Francisco info:
IG: @rudyfrancisco
TikTok: @RudyFrancisco
Website: rudyfrancisco.com
Chapters
00:00 The Impact of Performance Anxiety
16:00 First Experiences and Poetic Process
17:40 The Pursuit of Perfection in Art
20:13 Imposter Syndrome and Self-Expectations
23:27 Game Show: That's Cap
32:28 Future Aspirations and Creative Independence
37:11 Freestyle Challenge and Creative Expression
Freestyle Beat: MallChi Beat
PoetUp Crew:
Twitter/X: @PoetUpPodcast @MallChi @MrBluz @jayward2030
IG: @PoetUpPodcast @MallChi @bluzbluzbluz @jward 2030
Facebook: @PoetUpPodcast
Email us: thepoetuppodcast@gmail.com
Rate us, review us tell a friend to tell a friend about us.
Thank you for listening
In the first of this two part episode, we delve into the intricacies of poetry, performance, and the realities of tour life. We discuss Rudy's journey from writing his first poem about a crush to becoming a celebrated poet with appearances on major platforms like Jimmy Fallon. The conversation highlights the connection between sports and poetry, the importance of preparation, and the challenges of maintaining integrity in corporate gigs. Rudy shares insights on the competitive nature of slam poetry and the necessity of continuous growth in one's craft.
Rudy Fancisco Info:
IG: @rudyfrancisco
TikTok: @rudyfrancisco
Freestyle Beat: Mall Chi Beat
PoetUp Crew:
Twitter/X: @PoetUpPodcast @MallChi @MrBluz @jayward2030
IG: @PoetUpPodcast @MallChi @bluzbluzbluz @jward 2030
Facebook: @PoetUpPodcast
Email us: thepoetuppodcast@gmail.com
Rate us, review us tell a friend to tell a friend about us.
Thank you for listening
In this episode we discuss a variety of topics including the recent Grammy Awards, the evolution of hip hop, and the impact of artist rivalries. We talk about Lil Wayne's absence from the Super Bowl, the significance of Kendrick Lamar's Grammy wins, and the emergence of new artists like Doechii. We also talk about the state of poetry in the music industry and concludes with a fun segment called 'That's Cap!'
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene
03:48 Music News and Grammy Highlights
09:31 The State of Hip Hop
15:33 Kendrick vs. Drake: The Ongoing Battle
21:38 Grammy Performances and Reactions
29:42 Poetry and the Grammy Awards
32:54 The Authenticity of Spoken Word Poetry
39:28 The Impact of Grammy Nominations on Future Artists
43:38 Kendrick Lamar and the Grammy Controversy
50:20 New Segment: That's Cap!
56:33 Freestyle Session and Closing Thoughts
Freestyle Beat: A Mall Chi Production
PoetUp Crew:
Twitter/X:@PoetUpPodcast @MallChi @MrBluz @jayward2030
IG:@PoetUpPodcast @MallChi @bluzbluzbluz @jward 2030
Facebook:@PoetUpPodcast
YouTube:PoetUp YouTube
Email us:thepoetuppodcast@gmail.com
Rate us, review us tell a friend to tell a friend about us.
Thank you for listening
I'm over it I've done this more times than what I'd like to admit. Just know it's about our friend Tavis (RIP) and we talk junk about stuff and throw shots at CB and 5th Horseman (didn't forget your name this time)
Anyway it's a good episode and you should listen. Mall Chi out
We are back again folks!
In this episode, we chat with 2023 Women of the World Slam champion Ayanna Florence about her poetic beginnings and other things.
Follow Ayanna on IG and X(formerly Twitter) @poetnextdoor
Freestyle Beat: made by DJ D.R.
PoetUp Crew:
Twitter: @PoetUpPodcast @mallchi @MrBluz @jayward2030
IG: @PoetUpPodcast @mallchi @bluzbluzbluz @jward2030
Facebook: @PoetUpPodcast
Email us at thepoetuppodcast@gmail.com
Rate us, Review us tell a friend about us. Thank you for listening.
We are back folks! Talking about the Grammy's and other shenanigans. Elijah Craig makes an appearance, sorry there's no timestamps we're rusty.
Freestyle Beat: A Beat taken from YJB made by Mall Chi
PoetUp Crew:
Twitter: @PoetUpPodcast @mallchi @MrBluz @jayward2030
IG: @PoetUpPodcast @mallchi @bluzbluzbluz @jward2030
Facebook: @PoetUpPodcast
Email us at thepoetuppodcast@gmail.com
Rate us, Review us tell a friend about us. Thank you for listening.
In this episode we chat with Emmy winning poet, linguistic supervillian, sports announcer and cultural critic Jugga Levert. We talk about how poetry is what makes JG survive (8:45) his family and sports (11:45) who's tougher Urban Meyer or Scott Woods (17:00) Jay Ward uses "poet voice" reluctantly at first (24:40) We discuss JG's broadcasting career and winning an Emmy (29:00) Bluz forgets Jay Ivy (39:10). We talk about JG wanting to do a one man show (43:20) discuss if poetry slams should have professional judges (46:10) JG makes comparisons of poets to rappers (55:20) Moody love the kids (58:50) and of course we freestyle (61:15)
JG Info: Using the stage name JG The Jugganaut, John Gibson is a 2013 National Poetry Award winner. Through his work, John gives vivid and insightful accounts of life as a black American without shying away from the painful or the humorous. JG has represented the city of Columbus three times at The National Poetry Slam, making it to the semifinals of the competition in 2013. John is a graduate of Bowling Green State University and currently serves as host and curator of The Ness Open Mic Experience poetry show in Columbus, Ohio.
Follow JG on IG and Twitter: @blamejg and on Facebook: Jugga Levert
Freestyle Beat by @mallchi
PoetUp Crew: Twitter: @PoetUpPodcast @mallchi @MrBluz @jayward2030
IG: @PoetUpPodcast @mallchi @bluzbluzbluz @jward2030
Facebook: @PoetUpPodcast
Email us at thepoetuppodcast@gmail.com
Visit our website: www.poetuppodcast.com
Rate us, Review us tell a friend about us. Thank you for listening.
In this season finale episode we chat with screenwriter, singer, poet, dancer and all around dope artist Carlos Robson. We discuss musical influence (8:33) family life (12:00) Mall Chi goes on a tangent (22:48) that magic thing (29:55) Terry Creech, dream crusher (34:10) we circle back and give a proper treatment to Eye Am Bic's TV show (36:15) what the college circuit is like for poets (41:15) Dr. Carlos,Dr. Y.E.L.L.O.W.S.T.O.N.E. (58:10) Jordan Bailey crashes the party (68:28) Mall Chi has the hiccups (74:00) and of course we freestyle (74:55) and you get Drizzy Jay Ward (80:50). Thank you listening.
Carlos Robson Info:
Carlos Robson is a spoken word poet, playwright, and teaching artist. As a competitive “slam” poet, he’s has competed in local, regional, national and international competitions, winning the National Poetry Slam championship in 2007 and again in 2008 as a member of the North Carolina based team, SlamCharlotte. He has performed in all corners of the nation, on Broadway and internationally, and is a co-founder of the Charlotte based artist collective the Concrete Generation. Twice nominated for APCA Spoken Word Artist of the Year, Carlos has performed at over 100 colleges and universities. In 2009, Carlos co- wrote and appeared in the play “Miles & Coltrane: blue(.)” directed by Quentin Talley, which appeared off-Broadway and at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in Edinburgh, Scotland.
Follow Carlos on IG and Twitter: @carlosthepoet
Visit his website www.carlosrobson.com
Freestyle Beat by @scarterway
PoetUp Crew:
Twitter: @PoetUpPodcast @mallchi @MrBluz @jayward2030
IG: @PoetUpPodcast @mallchi @bluzbluzbluz @jward2030
Facebook: @PoetUpPodcast
Email us at thepoetuppodcast@gmail.com
Visit our website: www.poetuppodcast.com
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In this episode we chat with singer, songwriter Laurence Maher. We somehow talk fulcrums and levers (1:26) Laurence talks his beginnings (13:10) Laurence didn't want to go to college for the girls (17:00) The WAP brought Laurence to Charlotte (22:10) he learns music heals (30:10) we get into the intricacies of music with Jay Ward's bookmark (36:30) we make up words (38:20) Jay Ward drops Bible knowledge (47:05) Laurence wants you to just do it (57:20) and he did 50 pushups? (59:39) Have you ever seen a coal in mid stage on it's way to a diamond (1:04:35) and of course we freestyle (65:55)
Freestyle Beat by @MallChi
PoetUp Crew:
Twitter: @PoetUpPodcast @mallchi @MrBluz @jayward2030
IG: @PoetUpPodcast @mallchi @bluzbluzbluz @jward2030
Facebook: @PoetUpPodcast
Email us at thepoetuppodcast@gmail.com
Visit our website: www.poetuppodcast.com
Rate us, Review us tell a friend about us. Thank you for listening.