What if poetry is less about self-expression and more about survival?Poet and author Armin Tolentino joins host Mohammad Bader for a thoughtful conversation about writing, grief, migration, identity, folklore, and the search for home.Armin, a former Poet Laureate of Clark County, Washington, discusses his poetry collection We Meant to Bring It Home Alive, including the powerful images of dragons, astronauts, oceans, and bird storms. He explains how poetry can help us process difficult emotions, make sense of an uncontrollable world, and create connections between readers and writers.The conversation also explores Filipino folklore and Armin’s children’s book Myth Wakers: The Mananangal, the importance of preserving cultural stories, and his experience leading writing workshops with incarcerated youth.You’ll hear Armin’s advice for aspiring writers, including why you don’t need to wait until you feel ready to call yourself a writer, how freewriting can unlock unexpected ideas, and why creative residencies can give artists the space to reconnect with their work.This episode is for poets, writers, teachers, readers, and anyone who believes stories can help us understand ourselves and one another.

In this episode,Parfait Bassalé shares insights from his book "The Way of Befriending,' exploring how building bridges through courage, curiosity, and compassion can transform relationships and organizations. We delve into stories of belonging, the power of art, and practical steps to foster genuine connection in a divided world.

Key Topics

• The concept of othering and its impact on human connection
• The three pillars of befriending: courage, curiosity, compassion
• Stories of belonging and the role of art and music
• Systemic befriending in organizations and communities
• Immediate actionable steps to foster connection and inclusion

• Chapters00:00Introduction to the Journey of Building Bridges01:01Meet Parfait Bessali and the Concept of Othering02:28The Story of the Man at the Door and Belonging07:27The Roots of Tribal Identity and Building Walls13:44The Three Pillars: Courage, Curiosity, Compassion22:59The Role of Art, Music, and Poetry in Healing42:26The Core Message: Be the Unexpected Friend44:24The Stacy Story: The Power of Unexpected Friendships47:17The Meaning of Home and Connection48:16Closing Remarks and Call to Action