Poetic Beings with Will Small

YO! Here's a one-off special edition episode for ya, featuring some delightful chats I recently got to have as part of 'Neighbourhoods', a new event in Long Jetty that launched in June 2021. Go check out @neighbourhoods_cc on Instagram if you haven't already! As part of this epic creative smorgasboard I got to be part of a cool creative experiment. I sat in the back of a cafe for the morning and recorded live conversations with different creatives/photographers. I'm briefly resurrecting this podcast channel to share them with you. Listen in to hear my chats with: Grace Picot Coastal Incidental Danielle Higgins Reed Plummer Tim Freer Shout-out to Sharon Aldrick, who I also had a beautiful chat with on the morning, but due to some technical difficulties the recording of her chat was sadly lost. Go support her work, as well as all these other legends, and get behind your local artists of all stripes. Big love also to Tim Boreham (go back and listen to that legend's episode of Poetic Beings), who was the driving force behind Neighbourhoods. And Central Coast Council who supported this event.

FRIENDS. This is the last episode of Poetic Beings....maybe not forever, but at least for a while.I'm going to be giving more dedicated time and energy to Man;Kind poddy (so go over there if you want to keep hearing my voice) - all links at leadbystory.com.au/mankindpodcast. But, THIS is a special episode to finish my season of 'poems for a pandemic'. My mate Dylan gets real and shares openly and vulnerably about his experience of the pandemic in relation to his mental health, as well as giving us a poem he wrote. Our conversation is a window into some of the challenges that many people were experiencing prior to COVID-19 - and maybe it could be a wake-up call to us, to look out for people in our context, who could use some connection. Thanks so much for listening to Poetic Beings! I may not be recording any new episodes now, but there's a solid back-log there, so please share with your friends, family, English teachers, strange poet friends etc. You can buy the Poetic Beings book here: https://www.willsmall.com.au/store/p4/poeticbeingsbook.html

I've been lucky enough to interview some incredible humans in recent years, but this one is pretty dang special. I recently connected with Sam Illingworth, who has a PhD in atmospheric physics, and a passion for connecting science and the arts. He makes a brilliant poddy called 'The Poetry of Science', and uses poetry to facilitate learning experiences for both scientists and non-scientists. I loved hearing Sam's thoughts on the valuable relationship science and poetry are able to have, and I'm sure you will also.If you enjoy the Poetic Beings podcast, I'd love it if you would take 2 minutes to leave a rating/review on apple podcasts or share this episode with someone you think would dig it!Huge gratitude to my Patreon community who generously support the creation of this show: www.patreon.com/willsmallSearch 'The Poetry of Science' to check out Sam's podcast, or connect with his work here: https://www.samillingworth.com/

My friend Rachael Williams joins me for another poem for the pandemic!I also mention Uncontained Festival of the Podcast. You can check that out at:leadbystory.com.au/uncontainedfacebook.com/leadbystoryAND...Season 2 of Man;Kind podcast is launching this Friday, May 29th! Conversations about healthy manhood in the modern world. Subscribe to that bad boy and help me spread the word.https://www.leadbystory.com.au/mankindpodcast

Listening to this episode is pretty dang good decision, but brace yourself, Andrew's poem might take you to some deep places! I was blown away by what he shared here, after I asked him to write a poem for the times we're living in. It's a gift. You're welcome.You can read all my poems for a pandemic here: https://www.willsmall.com.au/blog/poems-for-a-pandemicConnect with Andrew here: https://www.instagram.com/andrewcoxpoetry/Find out about unContained festival of the podcast here: https://www.facebook.com/events/1280466062163863/

More poems for a pandemic! In this episode I share two more I've written recently and then an interview with my good friend Roje Ndayambaje, who also wrote a poem for these times we are living in. You can see the words to Roje's poem below: As we standstatic with fear in this confluence our feet torn between the norm and the chaos navigating reality with forlorn faceslet’s walk in it courageously though these unannounced storms have been placed upon us causing our spines to fold in fear and for someto beg with the same palms that they pray with but stilllet’s search for joy like Paul in jailacknowledging our ego and nurturing compassion in this solitudewe must solidify our connection to self, to neighbour becoming archaeologists of stories and excavating each other intentlylifting up the weak and immersing the lonely with love removing the stains on a darkened soul this is the purpose we were made for and these times a testament the streets are filled with ghosts and memories but there is hope in Italy, in Spainhomes have become sanctuaries like they were intended brothers bellowing salutations on balconies this virus will not fracture us though it seems we are fading we will not languish finding the holy in hellhospitals have become chapels of silent prayers and God hears God hears, and he is in control And maybe beneath this this torrent of uncertainty There is a dormant silver lining And maybe this is the only sabbath long enough in our lifetime To correct and rebuild, to be still and let the earth breathe.

In this episode I share two 'poems for a pandemic' I've recently written, and I chat to my friend Marissa who also wrote one after I asked my poet friends to join me in writing these. Below are the words to Marissa's poem: The Hopeful Calm, Marissa Niven~~~Surreal.Definition:Having the qualities of surrealismExample:To live through a time you know history will look back on,Whilst doing nothing noteworthyAnd yet in doing soMaking historyThis situation is surreal to meYou got people too scared to go into the streets,While neighbours ignore fears and say cheers to breaking the rules,You'll find no social distancing hereShopping aisles turned to fight clubs,City streets to forgotten histories,Pharmacies look like crime scenes, taped up cause the visual makes it impossible to ignore the new boundariesMaybe that's why there's a reminder on every screen...News headlines never change,Just the numbers do,And it's easy to forget that each number is a name, and each name is a person, and each person is a story-...a story with an unsatisfying end…And still we have leaders who manage to pretend that things aren't so badAnd I wonderDo they see the same news we do?Do they see their people dropping in the streets?Hear the pleas of their doctors to help them?Or do they only care about who can buy the best publicity and make profit from tragedy?And as is the way with Tragedy,She brought her brother RageAngrily he searches for someone to blame for his sister's griefBut blame is a funny thingFor rage leads to blame, and blame leads to rage, and all too soon tragedy is born again anew,And I fear for the people who those grieving will blameA 2 year old stabbed in a parking lot can attest to thatDrowning in the pains of the world,And the ignoranceAnd the griefIt's easy to believe that hope she has left us…But ask Pandora what remained…When the box is opened,And the evils have been unleashedHope still stays.A quiet but steady light to fight the fright of perpetual nightAnd in this wayWe look past the noise of the world in panicAnd find the hopeful calmWe find it in the music played from balconies in cities,Closed down but never forgotten,In wild eyes of nature as she sends her children to reclaim what we have borrowed,In the sky's, clear for the first time in how many years,In the smiles of children, reminders of innocence still safe from all of thisAnd with our quiet hopeful calm,We wait for this to passFor while this fear may be loudIt is hope who's music lasts.

My friend Olivia Wolfe was doing a semester of study abroad in Manchester - but due to COVID-19 she has returned home to Aus. During her quarantine period, I asked her to write a poem to share on this podcast. And man, did she deliver. We had a chat about this moment we find ourselves in, the importance of creativity and of course, Olivia shared her wonderfully insightful and profound poem.

Amongst the enormous disruption of a global health pandemic...I wonder if we might learn something from the humble centipede?Here's a thought and a poem for you today, where ever you are.However you are experiencing this right now, I hope that you find wonder amidst the wounds and peace amidst the pain.

I was mowing the lawn (probably because we're self isolating at home and I got bored) and my mind was racing with creative thoughts. Which is kind of weird timing? But maybe not. Maybe we need to lean into our creativity as we process this strange time in history. Maybe as the well oiled machine of society is forced to a halt...we could recover some of our vulnerable humanity? Here are a few thoughts I recorded - and a call to your inner creative. You have one. Whoever you are. I'm planning to record more of these as this thing plays out. Poems, conversations and reflections for this unique time we are living through. If you're interested in some creativity amidst the chaos, come along for the ride.Grace and peace to you.

The Poetic Beings epilogue. Thoughts on the process. A taster of the book. An update on what I'm making next. And a poem for you, dear listener! Buy the Poetic Beings book at: https://www.willsmall.com.au/store/p4/poeticbeingsbook.html

Tim Boreham is one of the creators of the North Journal, "a story telling publication that aims to bring together a conversation of like minded people on both a local and global scale." It's a beautiful publication you can find predominantly in cafes around Sydney's Northern beaches (but you can also grab copies online here: http://www.thenorth.co/)Along with his wife Grace, Tim also runs an amazing little coffee spot/bakery called Flour & Co, in Toowoon Bay.It was so fascinating to me hearing some of Tim's story and realising that the seeds of being a writer and seeking out interesting human stories were there from very early on in his life. I loved hearing about road-trips with his Mum and sister as a kid, the house he rented with a mate where North Journal was born and just generally exchanging thoughts about creative process. ALSO, I'm about to release a Poetic Beings BOOK! 12 poems + original artworks by my friend Grant Molony.There will be limited copies of this special book available, but you can guarantee you'll get one of the first copies if you sign up to become one of my Patreon supporters:$5USD a month - get the book sent to you upon release.$10USD a month - your name will be in the acknowledgments of the book (Sign up by Feb 16).Head to patreon.com/willsmall to sign up.

Mariko Konno is an artist and illustrator with Japanese and Scottish heritage. The Japanese side of her family are from one of the towns that was most impacted by the 2011 Tsunami. We had a rich conversation about culture, family and art and how they can intersect in unexpected ways. And as always, a poem at the end inspired by the interview. This one is called 'The Convergence'.Check out Mariko's work at https://www.instagram.com/marikoartist/. ALSO, I'm about to release a Poetic Beings BOOK! 12 poems + original artworks by my friend Grant Molony. There will be limited copies of this special book available, but you can guarantee you'll get one of the first copies if you sign up to become one of my Patreon supporters:$5USD a month - get the book sent to you upon release.$10USD a month - your name will be in the acknowledgments of the book (Sign up by Feb 16).Head to patreon.com/willsmall to sign up.

Dave Berlach is the co-founder/director of Bohemian Traders (along with his wife Emily).I first met Dave a few years back when he asked me to perform poetry at a gig he was hosting in his backyard. It was an amazing night. And a great introduction to this thoughtful, well-read, generous and philosophical guy. Over the last few years I've had the occasional privilege of sharing a beer with Dave. The conversation is always rich and varied and leaves me feeling inspired. These are the exact kind of conversations that made me want to podcast in the first place - when you have such a good chat with someone that you immediately wish a bunch of other people could have been part of it. So, here you go. A chat with Dave that you get to be part of. We talk about permaculture, the importance of story, the gift of critical thinking and a stack of other good stuff.And it ends with a poem that references surfing, Tim Winton and tomatoes.

Danielle Habib is honestly one of the most kind-hearted, resilient, compassionate people I have ever met. As if it's not enough to spend your working life in the area of high crisis family and domestic violence, she then gives her spare time to advocating for refugees and seeking to educate her community about issues of social justice. What motivates someone to be like that? Listen to my chat with Danielle to hear her answer. Plus a poem that references pyramids, hip-hop and shoes. Support the Poetic Beings podcast at patreon.com/willsmallCheck out my other creative work at willsmall.com.au or leadbystory.com.au

Trent Brailey is a digital creator and storyteller. Founder of Forrest Buddy Creative. He's got a deep diversity of experience and a stack of stories to tell. He's also just a top guy and I could listen to him speak for ages. I think both Trent and I felt like this conversation reminded us of some of the important, real stuff. I hope it will do the same for you.Read more about what it means to help me create Poetic Beings through Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/willsmallCheck out my other work at willsmall.com.au or leadbystory.com.au

Lewis Jonker is many things. Lover of KFC. Rider of Jet Ski. Appreciator of Whisky. Sometimes magician. Occasional poet. Youth Pastor.He's been a friend and creative collaborator of mine for many years now. We've written poems impersonating each other. We've hosted countless spoken word nights. We've made fun of each other's fashion choices. But this conversation was something special. A snapshot into the deeper parts of Lewis and his unfolding story. And a poem that tries to capture the magic behind the magic.Join me in creating Poetic Beings by becoming a Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/willsmallCheck out my other work at willsmall.com.au or leadbystory.com.au

It's only one week until Christmas! Is this episode a Christmas special? Not really? But kind of, yes? I love this time of year. For many reasons, but one being the opportunity to look back and look forward...to reflect while in the 'in between' space. In this last mini ep before I re-launch full length interview + poem episodes (on Jan 7th), I share some thoughts about the last 12 months in my world, and some things I'm learning which you might be able to relate to in yours?Plus I break down what the whole Patreon thing is about and shout out a few friends who are generously creatively backing me. Read more about what it means to help me create Poetic Beings through Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/willsmallCheck out my other work at willsmall.com.au or leadbystory.com.au

Hello friends!I thought I'd release a couple of 'mini eps' while I've hit the pause button on my longer-form interview/poem episodes.In this one, I'm inviting you into a glimpse of the process behind making this show. There's a sneek peak from my chat with Trent Brailey, as well as some creative musings/encouragement for makers of all kinds.There's also a little teaser for the other podcast I've just released: 'Man;Kind'. I'm really stoked with how it's turned out, and if you're a fan of Poetic Beings, I think you'll like Man;Kind, so head on over and hit subscribe! There's a whole batch of episodes for you to binge on.Join me in creating Poetic Beings by becoming a Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/willsmallCheck out my other work at willsmall.com.au or leadbystory.com.au

This is roughly half-way through what I'm considering 'Season 1' of Poetic Beings.I've got more episodes ready to release, but thought I'd hit the pause button/poetic line break, to let you know about some other projects I'll be focusing on during November. Including the launch of a very special podcast I've been working on called 'Man;Kind' and a series of Spoken Word events called SpeakUP Poetic Justice.If you come to this poddy for the poems, not to worry, there's one at the end of this episode still. It's dedicated to my son Noah.I'll also post up a trailer here shortly for my new show, and who knows, maybe a bonus poem or two over the next few weeks. More of my interviews/poems will be returning shortly! In the meantime, go catch up on the previous episodes and leave me an iTunes review if you're digging it.Join me in creating Poetic Beings by becoming a Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/willsmallCheck out my other work at willsmall.com.au or leadbystory.com.au

Kristy Fox is one of the three women behind She the Change (formerly known as Circle Movement).Her bio puts it this way: "Speaker + serial creative + co-founder of the global women's movement- Circle Movement, Kristy has earned her stripes working with + motivating women. With over 20 years experience in the youth, community and not-for profit sector.Kristy's been described as a visionary go-getter. When she speaks, people lean forward, eager to make a difference in their world."I completely agree with every one of these words. Kristy is an amazingly inspiring human, and it was an absolute joy to dig a little deeper into her story and the movement she has helped to create.Plus I wrote my first ever poem featuring an emoji.Join me in creating Poetic Beings by becoming a Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/willsmallCheck out my other work at willsmall.com.au or leadbystory.com.au

Phill Pallas is a social work lecturer and PhD candidate at the University of Newcastle.He's currently doing research on the 'entanglements' between non-Indigenous social work programs in Indigenous community contexts. Phill shared with me his personal backstory that led him to this work, and more significantly the relationships and community he is now deeply embedded in. It's a powerful story that has impacted me personally along with many others.Honestly, Phill is one of my favourite people on earth. It was a pleasure to interview him for this project and then write a poem about his story.Join me in creating Poetic Beings by becoming a Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/willsmallCheck out my other work at willsmall.com.au or leadbystory.com.au

Anne-Marie Heath is the director of The Art House, a beautiful theatre in Wyong committed to developing the capacity of the Central Coast in the area of arts and culture.She is also a visionary and I have always loved hearing her speak about the future she sees for this place she has found herself.We sat in the green room at The Arts House and Anne-Marie shared her story with me. We spoke about travel, leadership and the power of the arts. Then I wrote a poem about Anne-Marie.Join me in creating Poetic Beings by becoming a Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/willsmallCheck out my other work at willsmall.com.au or leadbystory.com.au

Olivia Wolfe is a writer, spoken word poet and all-round incredible human.I met her last year in a project I ran called 'The Street Poets' and was blown away by her beautiful style of writing and clear fire for using her voice for justice.

Louise Sawilejskij is a pretty incredible human. With amazing dreads and a huge heart, she's the kind of person who works behind the scenes to make things happen that we often take for granted. She's the founder of Nala Music Management, and shared with me some of her story leading to where she is today.We spoke about the music industry, mental health and self care. And afterwards, I wrote a poem about Lou.Become a Patron of the Poetic Beings podcast at patreon.com/willsmallCheck out my other work at willsmall.com.au or leadbystory.com.au

Ben and his partner Tiana are the creative geniuses behind The Savoy, Long Jetty. It's a 1950's cinema that they refurbished and turned into a buzzing bar and cultural venue, launched around one year ago.Ben shared with me the story of bringing it back to life, as well as how his own experiences led him to take on such a substantial project.Afterwards I wrote a poem trying to capture the story of both Ben Pearce and The Savoy. You can hear it at the end of the episode.Become a Patron of the Poetic Beings podcast at patreon.com/willsmallCheck out my other work at willsmall.com.au or leadbystory.com.au

Imagine if Humans of New York walked into a Poetry Slam.My name is Will Small. I use poetry to capture snapshots of what it means to be human. There's no better inspiration for this than real life humans in their natural habitat. I've been having conversations with all kinds of beautiful passionate, interesting humans. Uni students. Business owners. Teachers. Artists. Activists. In each of these conversations a poem is hiding. I'm going to find it and write it. And I'm inviting you to come along for the ride and hear the conversations that spark my creative process.Join me in creating Poetic Beings by becoming a Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/willsmallCheck out my other work at willsmall.com.au or leadbystory.com.au