Give your brain a poetic pause with these podcasts!
Poetry is no longer a fading art—it’s experiencing a strong comeback, thanks in part to the rise of “Instapoetry”, popularized by figures like Canadian poet and activist Rupi Kaur. Reading poetry offers numerous perks—sparking your creativity and according to a Harvard Business Review article, even enhancing your problem-solving skills. It offers a moment to pause and reflect, something that can be particularly beneficial for entrepreneurs faced with the relentless pressure of growing their ventures.
However, with our busy schedules, who has the time to sit and pore over pages of poetry? That’s where poetry podcasts come in, offering a perfect solution for busy entrepreneurs. By tuning into these podcasts, you can transform your perspective on the world, seeing it through a different lens—all while on the go. This article will introduce you to some of the finest poetry podcasts out there, helping you find your next auditory obsession that truly resonates with you.
1. Poem Talk
Poem Talk’s official website
You’re likely familiar with the Poetry Foundation if you’re a literature enthusiast—they’re your go-to resource for all things poetic. Coming straight from this poetry haven is Poem Talk, a podcast that mixes contemporary and classic poems with engaging discussions around them. The dialogues are rather informal and conversational instead of strict, didactic sessions so as to cultivate a deeper appreciation and resonance with poetry among listeners.
Hosted by Al Filreis, a professor at the University of Pennsylvania and the director of the Kelly Writers House, Poem Talk has graced the airwaves since 2007. Each episode adopts a roundtable format, with Filreis joined by a rotating cast of poets, critics and scholars. This collaborative setup allows for diverse interpretations and insights into the selected poem. Notable guests have included Tracie Morris, Rachel Blau DuPlessis and Charles Bernstein, among others.
Available on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube and the official website
Episode length: 45–55 minutes
2. The Slowdown: Poetry & Reflection Daily
The Slowdown’s official website
Since its launch in November 2019, The Slowdown has been providing listeners with a daily dose of poetry intended to offer a moment of reflection. It is currently hosted by award-winning poet Major Jackson, author of six poetry collections, including Razzle Dazzle: New & Selected Poems.
In each weekday episode, Jackson reads a selected poem from an emerging or established poet, along with a brief introduction and his personal anecdotes that relate the poem to broader life themes. His reflections encourage listeners to consider the poem’s relevance to their own lives and the larger world. With episodes lasting only a few minutes, The Slowdown offers a quick yet profound opportunity to pause and reflect amid the hustle of daily life.
Available on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Amazon Music
Episode length: six to seven minutes
3. Poetry Off the Shelf
Poetry Off the Shelf on Apple Podcast
Poetry Off the Shelf has been hosted by Helena de Groot and produced by the Poetry Foundation since 2016. It explores the diverse world of contemporary poetry and the creative process through in-depth conversations with acclaimed poets.
Each episode, which lasts less than an hour, is like a mini-documentary on poetry. You’ll hear in-depth conversations with acclaimed poets like April Gibson, Declan Ryan and Monica Rico about themes ranging from love and loss to drama and creativity. De Groot’s approach of interviewing guest poets ensures that every episode feels intellectual yet accessible, making it a standout in the genre.
Available on: Spotify and Apple Podcasts
Episode length: 45 minutes to one hour
4. A Mouthful of Air
A Mouthful of Air’s official website
Launched in 2021, A Mouthful of Air is hosted by poet Mark McGuinness, who aims to reconnect listeners with the oral tradition of poetry. This podcast calls for listeners to appreciate the spoken word and its ability to convey complex human experiences.
Each episode is devoted to a single poem. Contemporary poets are invited to read their works and delve into the stories behind them, featuring pieces such as “Reddest Red” by Z.R Ghani and “Pregnant Teenager and Her Mama” by Carrie Etter.
For those who adore the classics, there are solo episodes where McGuinness analyzes works like “Ode on a Grecian Urn” by John Keats or “To His Coy Mistress” by Andrew Marvell. He discusses their themes, structures, and influences in a way that brings these complex poems to life, offering commentary that could rival any university lecture in terms of depth and insight.
Available on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Google Podcasts
Episode length: 30–40 minutes
5. The Shakespeare and Company Interview
From Shakespeare and Company’s official website
Recorded live at the iconic Shakespeare and Company bookshop in Paris, this podcast embodies the store’s storied literary tradition—a meeting place for writers and readers in Paris for over 70 years. Since its 2015 launch, it has featured long-form conversations with internationally acclaimed authors, hosted by the store’s Literary Director, Adam Biles.
Each episode offers a glimpse into the creative process of new authors and poets. Listeners can enjoy hearing writers and poets read excerpts from their newly launched books or anthologies, sometimes accompanied by insights from renowned literary figures. With recent guests like Roxy Dunn (debutant writer), Ishion Hutchinson (Jamaican poet and essayist) and Michael Donkor (British author) on the show, the podcast collection provides a window into the vibrant Parisian literary scene, accessible from anywhere in the world.
Available on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts and the official website
Episode length: 40 minutes to one hour
6. Commonplace: Conversations with Poets (and Other People)
Commonplace’s official website
Created by Rachel Zucker in 2016, Commonplace features intimate and compelling interviews with contemporary poets and other artists. Zucker’s approach is to explore the significance of ordinary objects and experiences in their work, all the while highlighting the emotional and intellectual connections between the guest artists themselves.
With Commonplace, Zucker aims to make poetry more relatable and accessible, presenting it as an integral part of the human experience. She invites listeners to engage with poetry through the lens of personal stories and everyday realities, making it an inviting and relatable art form for all.
Available on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts, Amazon Podcasts and the official website
Episode length: about 1.5 hours
7. Interesting People Reading Poetry
Interesting People Reading Poetry’s official website
Interesting People Reading Poetry, created by brothers Brendan and Andy Stermer in 2017, brings poetry to life through its short, sound-rich format. Each episode features a notable figure from various fields reading a poem that has significantly touched their life. This approach fosters a deeper connection between the listener and the poem, allowing for an exploration of themes and emotions beyond traditional academic analysis.
Additionally, the podcast features special “Poetry Playlist” episodes, where three thematically connected poems are enhanced with a musical score, creating a soothing, immersive listening experience much like a carefully curated music playlist. While there are currently only 35 episodes, each one offers a unique and enriching dive into the world of poetry.
Available on: Spotify and Apple Podcasts
Episode length: five to 20 minutes
Whether you’re seeking intellectual discussions or a relaxing escape, these poetry podcasts provide an enriching listening experience. For entrepreneurs and professionals, these shows can be particularly beneficial, providing not only a source of inspiration but also a mental break to rejuvenate and tackle challenges with fresh perspectives.
So, as you navigate the demands of your busy schedule, consider giving these podcasts a listen. They might just transform your view of the world and introduce you to a new dimension of poetry—one that speaks to you in profound and unexpected ways.
Also read:
- How to Start a Profitable Podcast for Your Business: A 5-Step Guide
- 5 More Business Podcasts You Need to Listen To
- Why You Should Start a Podcast for Your Business
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