Poet Business Institute

Starving Artist Or Self-Saboteur?

Starving artist is an accepted trope, and for poets, the term has become an expectation of sorts. However, there are dangers that come with this label, as the name can become an identity that can then change our behavior in ways that work against us. The first step to confronting this vicious cycle is better understanding the concept of a starving artist and what makes it an identity people actually become--often without their conscious choice. Much of this comes from the protections and comforts that being a starving artist gives. Let's discuss!This is an episode of Arts & Offers, the video podcast dedicated to the intersection of poetry, art and business to help you live on poetry. Our regular hosts are the founder of diVERSES, poet Geoff Anderson, and poet Mathias.Welcome to our channel! In this video, we delve into the captivating world of poetry, exploring how asking questions while reading can unveil its hidden treasures and profound truths. Whether you're a seasoned poetry enthusiast or just beginning your journey into verse, this discussion will inspire you to approach poetry with curiosity and insight.🔍 What You'll Discover:The importance of questioning while reading poetry.Practical tips for asking insightful questions.How questioning enhances comprehension and appreciation.Examples of question-driven analysis applied to popular poems.Strategies for incorporating questioning into your own reading practice.The broader benefits of critical thinking fostered through poetic inquiry.🎓 Join us as we embark on a journey of discovery through the rich landscapes of poetry, where every question unlocks a new layer of meaning and understanding. Don't miss out on this opportunity to deepen your connection with literature and broaden your perspective on life.Let's embark on this poetic journey together and uncover the profound truths that lie within the lines. Share your thoughts and insights in the comments below—we'd love to hear from you!00:00 – Introduction: Starving Artist or Self-Saboteur01:23 – Benefit 1: Self-Assurance and Avoiding Capitalism02:31 – The Reality of Money and Ethics in Business05:01 – Benefit 2: Sacrifice as a Badge of Commitment06:33 – Benefit 3: Labels, Expectations, and Guidelines09:14 – Benefit 4: Identity and the Sense of Belonging10:59 – Benefit 5: Status and the "Sellout" Narrative13:10 – The Influence of Traditional Institutions and Academia14:08 – The Impact of the Starving Artist MindsetdiVERSES poetry was founded by poet Geoff Anderson is currently based in Columbus, Ohio#ArtsAndOffers #diverses #poetry

How To Make Your Poetry Discoverable By Partnering

Are you an artist or poet struggling to get your work noticed? In this video, we dive deep into Daniel Priestley’s "Key Person of Influence" concepts to help you transition from a hobbyist to a professional building a life around your art.We explore why being "findable" online is the cornerstone of a successful poetry business. It’s not just about posting; it’s about creating a digital presence that allows your audience to spend time with you, learn from you, and ultimately trust you enough to invest in your work.In this video, you’ll learn:The "Findability" Factor: Why who Google says you are defines your brand's impact.Creating Value: How duplicating yourself through content (podcasts, blogs, videos) builds a 24/7 relationship with your audience.The Power of Partnerships: Why you shouldn't grow alone and how to leverage affiliate marketing and collaborative "bundles" (like poetry workshops documented on film).Professionalism in Art: Technical essentials for partnerships, including contracts and clear systems to avoid "gray areas."Whether you’re just starting your art business or looking to scale through strategic relationships, these insights will give you the clarity needed to reach the right people without spending a fortune on ads.Welcome to the Creative Companionship Book Club, where we take business texts and discuss how to use their techniques to create a poetry business we'd be proud to run. This is our third dive into Daniel Priestley's Key Person Of Influence, which is a book centered on finding ways to stand out and provide unique insights and help in our field of interest so that we are competing against no one. *Welcome also to our poetry channel at diVERSES! Whether you're a seasoned poetry enthusiast or just beginning your journey into writing, this discussion will help inform your development in poetry🔍 What You'll Discover:The importance of questioning while reading poetry.Practical tips for asking insightful questions.How questioning enhances comprehension and appreciation.Examples of question-driven analysis applied to popular poems.Strategies for incorporating questioning into your own reading practice.The broader benefits of critical thinking fostered through poetic inquiry.🎓 Join us as we embark on a journey of discovery through the rich landscapes of poetry, where every question unlocks a new layer of meaning and understanding. Don't miss out on this opportunity to deepen your connection with literature and broaden your perspective on life.Let's embark on this poetic journey together and uncover the profound truths that lie within the lines. Share your thoughts and insights in the comments below—we'd love to hear from you!diVERSES was founded by poet Geoff Anderson in Columbus, Ohio to help writers achieve creative and financial independence #poetry #CreativeCompanionship #diverses00:00 - Introduction: The concept of being "Findable"00:47 - Objectives of an online presence: Impact and reach01:52 - Creating opportunities for people to spend time with you03:42 - The correlation between education and spending04:01 - Addressing the fear of "bothering" followers04:52 - Advantages of current online presence: Ease and cost06:15 - Clarity and targeting the right audience07:10 - Building partnerships to grow faster07:42 - Affiliate marketing as a growth strategy08:25 - The power of collaborative bundles and experiences10:14 - Guidelines for successful partnerships10:36 - The 3-person outreach strategy11:43 - Technical essentials: Contracts and systems13:21 - Conclusion and call to action

How To Read Poems Aloud Better (For Slam Or Page)

Want to read poems aloud better? Are you a poet, speaker, or artist looking to make a more significant impact? In this workshop, Geoff from diVERSES shares how to transform your communication skills by mastering the art of vocal contrast. Whether you're on a stage or in a meeting, in a conversation or an interview, your voice is your most powerful tool—learn how to use it to its full potential.What You’ll Learn in This Video: In this session, we dive deep into the concept of contrast and how it keeps your audience engaged. We work through live exercises with volunteers to demonstrate:Speed Contrast: How to use pacing to build tension or emphasize key points.Pitch Variation: Tapping into your full vocal range to avoid a monotone delivery.Firmness vs. Softness: Mastering the emotional weight of your delivery through volume and intensity.Body Language Secrets: Why movement is the "hidden" element of a dynamic performance.diVERSES is a platform dedicated to showing that you can make a living through poetry and effective communication. We believe that becoming a better communicator helps you become the most authentic version of yourself.00:00 - Introduction: Your voice as a powerful tool00:44 - Meet Jeff: Communication & poetry as a living01:35 - Preparation: Grab your poems for practice02:01 - The Big Concept: What is Contrast?02:47 - Common Pitfalls: Same pace & pitch patterns03:23 - Exercise 1: Exploring Speed with Ty05:41 - Applying Speed Contrast to a Poem09:03 - Exercise 2: Exploring Pitch with Andy13:08 - Embracing Uncomfortable Pitch Ranges14:54 - Applying Pitch Contrast to a Poem16:00 - Exercise 3: Firmness vs. Softness with Debbie18:24 - Finding Power in Firm Delivery21:16 - Applying Firmness & Softness to a Poem22:32 - Recap: The Elements of Contrast24:04 - Final Secret: Body Language & Movement

Should Your 9-5 Be Art (Even Poetry?!)

Are you ready to take your art from a side hustle to a full-time career? In part 2 of our "Arts & Offers" series, Geoff and Mathias dive deep into the mindset shifts and practical realities of becoming a professional artist.Watch Part 1: https://youtu.be/rvDfo-lwCbIGet a free audio/mp3/podcast version at https://open.spotify.com/show/4vAdMbaunOPziRoovm0K5PThe Semester Workbook: Coming soon! A practical guide to help you achieve creative and financial independence at www.diversespoetry.com/booksWrite with us at the Substation! www.diversespoetry.com/aboutsubstationWe discuss how to find joy in the "un-creative" parts of the business (like file naming and bookkeeping), how to manage your time when you finally leave the 9-to-5, and why the universe might be testing your commitment to your craft. Whether you're a poet, filmmaker, or visual artist, this conversation is packed with insights on seizing opportunities and embracing the uncomfortable changes that come with creative entrepreneurship.Key Topics Covered:The "Work" of Art: Learning to love the tasks that grow your business.Time Management: Transitioning from a structured job to total creative freedom.The Power of Mindset: Moving from "I have to" to "I get to."Recognizing Opportunities: How to know when it’s time to lean into your path.Personal Growth: Using social media as a tool for development, not just connection.#poetry #poem #diverses0:00 – Finding joy in the "work" aspects of art1:37 – Transitioning from a structured lifestyle (like a 9-to-5) to being a full-time artist2:44 – Managing time and mind space when art becomes your career4:35 – The power of mindset: "I have to" vs. "I get to"5:50 – Dealing with the tasks you dislike (like naming files or bookkeeping)10:44 – Seizing unique opportunities when they intersect with your passion12:19 – Recognizing when you're on the right path13:42 – How the universe tests your commitment to your craft15:07 – Being your own "first believer" and embracing uncomfortable change17:32 – Overcoming the fear of stepping fully into your identity as an artist19:02 – Final thoughts: Is it time for you to go professional?

3 Signs Art Should Be Your Job (Or Your Hobby)

Are you ready to turn your art into a career, or is it better kept as a hobby?In this episode of Arts and Offers, poets Geoff Anderson and Mathias dive into the big question: Should you go all-in on your creative passion? Deciding to transition from a hobbyist to a professional artist, poet, or filmmaker is a major life choice. We break down three essential considerations to help you decide if the "pro" life is right for you.In this video, we discuss:Identifying Demand: How to tell the difference between polite applause and actual customers who are ready to pay for your work.Creative Compromise: Will monetizing your art ruin your love for it? We talk about constraints and finding new avenues for existing work.The Business Reality: The truth about being your own marketing director, accountant, and bookkeeper—and the reality of late invoices!Whether you’re a poet with a manuscript ready to go or a creator feeling rushed by your 9-to-5, this conversation is for you.This is an episode of Arts & Offers, the video podcast dedicated to the intersection of poetry, art and business to help you live on poetry. Our regular hosts are the founder of diVERSES, poet Geoff Anderson, and poet Mathias.Welcome to our channel! In this video, we delve into the captivating world of poetry, exploring how asking questions while reading can unveil its hidden treasures and profound truths. Whether you're a seasoned poetry enthusiast or just beginning your journey into verse, this discussion will inspire you to approach poetry with curiosity and insight.00:00 - Intro: The reality of being a professional creator00:30 - Welcome to Arts and Offers00:43 - Catching up: Film festivals and new projects01:49 - Announcement: The Poetship cohort program02:56 - Today’s topic: Art as a career vs. a hobby03:30 - Consideration #1: demand04:30 - The difference between applause and customers06:29 - Recognizing unique value through invitations08:03 - Consideration #2: compromise09:28 - Balancing full-time work and creative energy11:05 - Finding new avenues for existing work13:31 - Understanding the business responsibilities (Marketing, Accounting, etc.)16:00 - The reality of late invoices and financial risk17:50 - The weight of bills on the creative process20:48 - Consideration #3: enjoyment🔍 What You'll Discover:The importance of questioning while reading poetry.Practical tips for asking insightful questions.How questioning enhances comprehension and appreciation.Examples of question-driven analysis applied to popular poems.Strategies for incorporating questioning into your own reading practice.The broader benefits of critical thinking fostered through poetic inquiry.🎓 Join us as we embark on a journey of discovery through the rich landscapes of poetry, where every question unlocks a new layer of meaning and understanding. Don't miss out on this opportunity to deepen your connection with literature and broaden your perspective on life.Let's embark on this poetic journey together and uncover the profound truths that lie within the lines. Share your thoughts and insights in the comments below—we'd love to hear from you!diVERSES poetry was founded by poet Geoff Anderson is currently based in Columbus, Ohio#ArtsAndOffers #diverses #poetry