Quintessential Poetry

Quintessential Poetry

by Dr. Michael Anthony Ingram
Arts
Season 6
Quintessential Poetry Spotlight Tribute: Genevieve F. Ray (1987-2026)
We dedicate this rebroadcast to the loving memory of British poet and spoken word artist Geneviève F. Ray (1987–2026). This conversation is one of the brightest moments ever captured on Quintessential Poetry, a quintessential poetry podcast rooted in spoken word and literary expression. Recorded on a Saturday morning across continents (January 23, 2023), this interview reveals Genevieve at her most luminous—honest, funny, vulnerable, brilliant, and fully herself. In this episode, Genevieve speaks about poetry as a living companion neurodiversity and self‑understanding ancestry, identity, and belonging mental health and survival her one‑woman show Free Roaming Adult Woman the courage it takes to tell the truth Her voice—her laughter, her pauses, her fire—remains a gift. This interview stands as a portrait of who she was when the world wasn’t watching, only listening. About Genevieve Ray: Genevieve was a poet, performer, educator, and community builder whose work uplifted countless voices. Her debut poetry collection, Free Roaming Adult Woman, is still moving readers around the world. May her words continue to rise. May her fire continue to guide. 00:00 Welcome to Quintessential Poetry + Meet Genevieve Ray 01:55 What Is Poetry? Genevieve’s Definition & Why It’s Human Nature 03:49 Finding Her Voice: Pandemic, Identity, Neurodiversity & Advocacy 08:44 Why Poetry Matters: Access, Flexibility & Community Conversations 10:38 Why ‘Genevieve Firepoint’? The Phoenix Metaphor & Creative Rebirth 13:56 Performance: “Free Roaming Adult Woman” (and the Encore) 18:35 Literary Roots & Early Power of Poetic Language (William Blake) 23:43 Reading Together: William Blake’s “The Tyger” + Craft Talk 26:19 Guard Down or Wall Up? Persona, Truth, and the Poet’s Self 28:39 Performance: “For Eulogies” + Does Writing Poetry Hurt? 35:53 Themes & Mission: Love, Protest, Teaching, and Empowering Others 38:37 Performance: “Doubt” + Process—How Poems Start, End, and Get Edited 44:20 Performance: “The Muse Will Not Lift” + Influences & Theater Voice 50:10 Writing for Connection: Making Language Accessible 52:55 From Page to Stage: What Spoken Word Means 54:45 The Poet’s Role Today: Emotional Journalism & Ancestry 57:22 Can Poetry Be About Anything? From Rocks to Stamps 01:07:38 Mentorship & Finding Your Voice: “Collect the Gems, Build the Crown” 01:14:21 Mini Poetry Concert: “Trance (Six Minutes)” & Ophelia Reimagined 01:18:43 Destiny, Surprise, and What Poetry Gives Back 01:24:25 What’s Next Creatively: Travel, Collaborations, One-Woman Show 01:26:15 Poetry UK Behind the Scenes: Building Community on Facebook 01:29:33 Where to Follow Genevieve + Final Farewell
S6 · E431
Feb 22, 2026
1:34:37
Quintessential Poetry Presents Jacqueline James: God Gave Me Poetry. I Give Back To Help Change The World
This episode of the Quintessential Poetry podcast, a quintessential poetry podcast rooted in spoken word and literary expression, aired December 24, 2025, chronicles Jacqueline James’ ongoing artistic evolution through new poems, fresh insights, and expanded dialogue. Author of 19 books, Jacqueline reflects on her creative journey in excerpts from our 2024 interview, now fully remastered and re-edited for new audiences. Selected as a Staff Favorite by the New York Podcast Association, this episode showcases Jacqueline’s extraordinary journey—from raising five children to writing seventeen books in a single year. Her warmth, wisdom, and poetic brilliance make this 2025 release one of the most powerful installments in the Timeless Classics series. What You’ll Discover in This Updated 2025 Edition: • Literary Brilliance — new poems and expanded reflections that showcase Jacqueline’s mastery of language, rhythm, and storytelling. • Artistic Expression — how she transforms lived experience into art, blending humor, faith, and emotional truth with a signature poetic voice. • Wellness & Healing — her groundbreaking use of poetry to support seniors with dementia, nurture children’s literacy, and promote emotional resilience. • Spiritual Insight — the faith journey behind her poems, including how divine inspiration shaped her creative rebirth and her mission to uplift others. • The Radiance of Black Womanhood — Jacqueline’s extraordinary evolution from dormancy to prolific creation, embodying the power, grace, and brilliance of a Black woman’s journey. More About Jacqueline James: Jacqueline is a multidimensional artist whose work spans spiritual poetry, children’s literature, social justice verse, and educational storytelling. She brings poetry into senior residential communities, where her words become a form of cognitive care—helping elders stay connected, engaged, and emotionally grounded. Through her work with the YMCA, she nurtures young voices and builds early literacy with compassion and creativity. She also crafts personalized keepsake poems for families navigating grief, transforming memory into something sacred and enduring. Jacqueline’s poetry doesn’t simply move listeners. It restores, uplifts, and reshapes the way we understand healing, community, and the power of a Black woman’s voice. Blog Post https://www.quintessentialpoetry.com/blog/a-journey-through-poetry-the-inspirational-world-of-jacqueline-james/ 📖 BONUS MATERIAL: This 2025 release includes poems recorded exclusively for the Timeless Classics limited series. Download the PDF collection here: https://pdflink.to/a930e69d/ About Quintessential Poetry Quintessential Poetry is an award-nominated global podcast featuring more than 500 poets across 475+ episodes, reaching 350,000+ listeners worldwide. Created and hosted by four‑time Pushcart Prize nominee Dr. Michael Anthony Ingram, the podcast celebrates diverse voices in contemporary poetry and spoken word, offering a space where creativity, culture, and community flourish. Connect With Us Website: www.quintessentialpoetry.network Facebook: Quintessential Poetry Network Instagram: @quintessentialpoetry
S6 · E430
Dec 21, 2025
1:08:10
Quintessential Poetry Presents Mike Jurkovic: The Poet Who Makes Jazz Sing and Words Swing|Poems
🎷EPISODE 2: MIKE JURKOVIC Poetry That Swings, Sings, and Refuses to Sit Still This episode is the second installment of Timeless Classics, a series created to bring you the most memorable talks from the Quintessential Poetry Podcast archives—a quintessential poetry podcast rooted in spoken word and literary expression. This episode revisits Dr. Michael Anthony Ingram's interview with celebrated poet, author, spoken word artist, and music critic Mike Jurkovic. Mike is the host of an acclaimed jazz radio show, as well as the Ulster County Poet Laureate for 2025. As a poet, Mike's work is a wonderful blend of humor, wisdom, and folksy charm. The vivid imagery and surrealist style that characterize his poetry have brought him widespread renown. His understanding of rhythm's importance is another defining feature of his jazzy, melodic, lyrical poetry. Rhythm is an inherent part of Mike's poetry. BACKGROUND Mike is originally from the South Bronx and has lived in Ulster County, New York, for over 30 years. He is the president and co-founder of Calling All Poets, a prominent poetry organization in the Hudson Valley that has been fostering poetic expression for 26 years. His widely read poetry collections and acclaimed poetry readings often explore themes of everyday life, absurdity, and human connection, making them relatable and impactful. THE CONVERSATION This conversation, originally recorded live on May 13, 2024, explored the deep connections between jazz improvisation and poetic rhythm, how music and poetry inform each other, and the art of making complex ideas feel accessible and inviting after being edited and remastered for rebroadcast. From getting nauseous listening to Bob Dylan at 14 to becoming a poet who puts a backbeat in every line—this is Mike's journey. "This conversation has rhythm. It has laughter. It has depth." 📖 BONUS: Podcast includes six poems from Mike Jurkovic exclusively for Timeless Classics (in order): The Whereabouts of Heaven, Your North Star Still stirs (Sojourner Truth), Mama's Meatballs (off Jerome Avenue), Charming Ineptness You’ve Taken to Heart, Only Here and Saltwater Taffy with Nick Bisanz. WHEN Catch the episode on Monday, December 22, 2025, at 8:00 PM (EST) by visiting the Quintessential Poetry website at https://rss.com/podcasts/quintessential-poetry/2393065. OR Visit this link on YouTube to listen to the episode: https://youtu.be/o2Swis9mWRQ?si=hRKd17ksu2EwEGsd About Quintessential Poetry: The award-nominated podcast, Quintessential Poetry, has featured 500+ poets across 450+ episodes, reaching 350,000+ listeners globally. Created and hosted by four-time Pushcart Prize nominee Dr. Michael Anthony Ingram, the podcast celebrates diverse voices in contemporary poetry and spoken word. Connect with us: Website: www.quintessentialpoetry.com Facebook: Quintessential Poetry Instagram: @quintessentialpoetry Keywords: poetry podcast, spoken word, John Patrick Robbins, contemporary poetry, literary interviews, American poets, creative writing, poetry performance, literary podcast, Dr. Michael Anthony Ingram, poetry community, alternative poetry, P.S. We're nominated for Best Arts & Literature Podcast! Vote by Dec 25: https://shorturl.at/EGtV5 🏆
S6 · E429
Dec 20, 2025
1:12:09
Quintessential Poetry Presents John Patrick Robbins - Raw, Unfiltered Poetry From The Mad Editor
Welcome to the premiere episode of Timeless Classics—a curated series bringing you the most memorable conversations from 450+ episodes of the Quintessential Poetry podcast, a quintessential poetry podcast rooted in spoken word and literary expression. Dr. Michael Anthony Ingram, host of this episode, returns to his impactful conversation with John Patrick Robbins. John is the editor-in-chief of ten magazines, one of which is the Rye Whiskey Review. Nominated for the Pushcart Prize, he is also a renowned author of Southern Gothic-style short stories and poetry. This conversation focuses on his poetry collection, 'Are We Dead Yet?' published by Black Circle Publishing in 2023 (https://www.amazon.com/Are-Dead-John-Patrick-Robbins/dp/B0BL52F4HH). The poetry book reached the number one spot on the Amazon charts. Dark and unapologetic, Robbins delivers poetry that is both raw and unfiltered. Robbins stands out as one of the most innovative and thought-provoking figures in the realm of contemporary poetry. His unabashed candor and biting humor invigorate the poetry scene. Here is a link to a bonus collection of his three poems: https://pdflink.to/e372857d/. What You Will Discover: Why this conversation continues to resonate with audiences worldwide. His uncompromising approach to writing and performance Behind-the-scenes stories from the poetry circuit Insights on authenticity in creative work The intersection of rebellion and artistry in modern poetry About Quintessential Poetry: The award-nominated podcast, Quintessential Poetry, has featured 500+ poets across 450+ episodes, reaching 350,000+ listeners globally. Created and hosted by four-time Pushcart Prize nominee Dr. Michael Anthony Ingram, the podcast celebrates diverse voices in contemporary poetry and spoken word. Connect with us: Website: www.quintessentialpoetry.com Facebook: Quintessential Poetry Instagram: @quintessentialpoetry Keywords: poetry podcast, spoken word, John Patrick Robbins, contemporary poetry, literary interviews, American poets, creative writing, poetry performance, literary podcast, Dr. Michael Anthony Ingram, poetry community, alternative poetry,
S6 · E428
Dec 19, 2025
52:05
Exploring the Power of Poetry with Kolawole Alatishe: A Quintessential Poetry Book Club Discussion
Join host Dr. Michael Anthony Ingram for the first Quintessential Poetry Book Club discussion featuring renowned poet and peace advocate Kolawole Alatishe in this quintessential poetry podcast conversation rooted in spoken word and literary expression. Kolawole shares readings from his impactful poetry collection 'Human Togetherness,' which delves into themes of global unity, hope, and moral development. Through powerful verses, Kolawole addresses significant issues such as poverty, climate change, social injustice, and the importance of community. Additionally, Kowale discusses his personal journey, the role of poetry in bridging cultural divides, and his vision for future works. Discover how poetry can be a transformative force as Kolawole Alatishe and Dr. Ingram explore the essence and potential of poetic expression.
S6 · E427
Apr 19, 2025
1:13:25
The Universal Power of Poetry: A Conversation with Laura Grevel|Poems
Join host Dr. Michael Anthony Ingram as he inaugurates the newly rebranded Quintessential Poetry platform with acclaimed poet and spoken word artist Laura Grevel in this quintessential poetry podcast conversation rooted in spoken word and literary expression. In this episode, Laura shares profound insights from her extensive life across five different countries. Exploring her poetic influences, the importance of capturing human stories, and the themes that drive her work, Laura reads a number of her poetic pieces. Topics range from migration and identity to politics and nature. Additionally, she discusses the unique power of poetry to inspire empathy, touching on her personal experiences and the universal emotions encapsulated within her words. Listen as they explore the essence of poetry, its ability to convey deep human truths, and Laura's fascinating journey as a poet.
S6 · E426
Apr 19, 2025
1:11:15
Quintessential Poetry Presents Caroline Adler Micó: Poetry Beyond Boundaries
Hello, everyone, Hello, everyone, Welcome to a special episode of The Quintessential Poetry Podcast, a quintessential poetry podcast rooted in spoken word and literary expression, celebrating National Poetry Month’s universal theme of family and our sub-theme, Poetry Beyond Borders. In this episode, we feature Caroline Adler Micó, a French multidisciplinary poet who embodies the spirit of poetry without limits—offering a powerful spoken word poetry reflection that transcends borders and connects listeners across cultures. This episode honors French director, teacher, author, and scenarist France DeMarcy, whose contributions to the arts and storytelling resonate far beyond borders. The theme of family reminds us of the deep connections that bind us together, whether through birth, choice, or bonds that defy categorization. Poetry Beyond Borders amplifies this idea, showcasing how poetry transcends geographical, cultural, and linguistic boundaries to create shared human experiences. In this episode, we feature Caroline Adler Micó, a French multidisciplinary poet who embodies the spirit of poetry without limits. Caroline shares her journey of transforming personal challenges into poetic innovation, exploring themes that connect us across cultures and experiences. Her artistic path spans multiple disciplines, from earth sciences to avant-garde cinema, creating a rich tapestry of creative exploration. Throughout the podcast, discover Caroline's poetic influences, the intersection of vulnerability and strength in her work, and her advice for emerging poets. Caroline's poetry, spoken entirely in her native French, achieves an extraordinary brilliance, inviting listeners into a deeply authentic and transformative experience. While translations are available for listeners (link below), the episode offers a profound opportunity to experience poetry in its most powerful form—through the musicality and emotion of its original language. Caroline's poetic voice transcends borders, connecting us across languages, cultures, and experiences, illustrating the universal depths of human expression. Join us on this journey as we celebrate the power of poetry to unite us as one global family. 00:41 Special Episode: Poetry Beyond Boundaries 01:27 Interview with Caroline Adler Micó 01:58 Exploring the Essence of Poetry 08:59 Themes and Inspirations 23:12 Cultural Influences and International Perspectives 31:40 The Role of Poets in Society 33:38 Advice for Emerging Women Poets 36:03 Creative Processes and Future Plans 49:52 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Translations will now be available upon request from Quintessential Poetry at quintessentialpoetry@gmail.com. https://docs.google.com/document/d/12g-zFIsSAzu2KmCe1ypYiHB9SW0649T3NCOyVGx15dw/edit?usp=sharing
S6 · E425
Apr 5, 2025
50:34
Dee Allen: QLPORYT Interview and Poetry Reading - Audio Version|Poem
In this episode, Dr. Michael Anthony Ingram interviews Dee Allen, a poet whose work explores the complexities of identity, resilience, and personal truth, in this quintessential poetry podcast conversation rooted in spoken word and literary expression. Bio: African-Italian performance poet based in Oakland, California. Active on creative writing & Spoken Word since the early 1990s. Author of 9 books--Boneyard, Unwritten Law, Stormwater, Skeletal Black [all from POOR Press], Elohi Unitsi [Conviction 2 Change Publishing], Rusty Gallows: Passages Against Hate [Vagabond Books], Plans [originally Nomadic Press, now re-issued from Black Lawrence Press], Crimson Stain [ EYEPUBLISHEWE] and his newest, Discovery [ Southern Arizona Press] -- and 73 anthology appearances under his figurative belt so far. Episode Summary: As the episode unfolds, Dee's definition of poetry is explored, as well as his views on the insane nature of modern reality, and the political and environmental issues that motivate his work. Throughout the episode Dee shares personal anecdotes, including his first live performance experience, and reads poems from his latest book, 'Discovery.' The conversation also touches on his influences, such as Langston Hughes, Robert Hayden and Sonia Sanchez. It also examines his thoughts on the poet's role in society, the editing process, and the ways in which his remarkably authentic, powerful and distinctive work contributes to the development of empathy and understanding between groups of different sociocultural and ethnic origins. Book: Discovery https:/www.amazon.com/dp/1960038540
S6 · E423
Aug 1, 2024
1:13:51
Jules Stevenson: QLPORYT Interview and Poetry Reading - Audio Version
Jules Stevenson is a 21-year-old poet, artist, and social media influencer from Selkirk, Manitoba, featured in this quintessential poetry podcast conversation exploring trauma, resilience, and literary expression. She began writing in her early teens as a means of coping with anxiety, depression, anorexia, sexual trauma, abuse, and suicide. Over the years, her writing has evolved into an incredibly intimate and honest body of work. At 16, Jules self-published her first book, ‘atrophy,’ a collection focused on anorexia. Her work frequently explores themes of trauma, the body, feminism, and mental health. In 2023, her poem 'An Apology to My Cat' went viral on TikTok, with over 12.6 million views. This global reaction led to the self-publication of her poetry memoir, ‘self portraits of a girl collapsing violently inward,’ which focuses on sexual and digital trauma during the COVID-19 pandemic. Jules has garnered several accolades in the poetry community, including winning first place at Slamdemic, third place with her team at Poetry in Voice, and securing second place multiple times at Poetry Battles. In 2024, she represented her province at the Canadian Individual Poetry Slam, showcasing her talent on a national stage. She was also selected by the Manitoba Council for International Cooperation to co-author and perform a poem on gender equality at the legislature for International Development Week. Currently, Jules spends her time working as a barista, writing, and enjoying the company of her beloved cats, Moth and Lamp. Website https://www.juliestevenson.ca Social Media https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQrLpVSQGKS-pI_6KRe1GJw https://www.tiktok.com/@recently.depressed
S6 · E422
Jul 30, 2024
57:31
QLPOR-YouTube Presents David Leo Sirois: Pre-Recorded Interview and Reading
Bio: David Leo Sirois is a Canadian-American poet published 153 times in 26 countries, featured in this quintessential poetry podcast conversation highlighting his global literary reach and spoken word presence. His work has been translated into 13 languages (such as Hindi, Bengali, French, Spanish, Greek, & Romanian). He hosts Spoken World Online, the Zoom arm of SpokenWord Paris. His first collection is called Humbledoves (Poems to Pigeons & Plants). He won Third Prize in Winning Writers' Wergle Flomp Humor Poetry Contest. Sirois has been honored for his “admirable contribution to world literature” by The Fertile Brains, a renowned literary group in India. He teaches workshops online for The Bombay Review, as well as The Poetry Academy of Poetry Global Network. His poetry has appeared in journals such as The Bombay Review, Artemis Journal, The Poetry Village, One Hand Clapping, The Bastille, Poetry Super Highway, & Terre à Cièl (which also publishes his translations of French poetry). Sirois has been featured on countless international programs, podcasts & interviews. His poetry has appeared in films and music. He is also a singer/songwriter, radio DJ, & a film/TV/theater actor. He is currently submitting five finished manuscripts for publication and writing several more. Book Humbledoves (poems to pigeons & plants): https://a.co/d/5MRB33i Ko-Fi tip jar: https://ko-fi.com/davidleosirois0412
S6 · E421
Jul 24, 2024
1:01:15
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