The Poetry Vessel Podcast

The Poetry Vessel Podcast is a video-based podcast that explores creativity, consciousness, and—of course—poetry. Hosted by Malibu’s 5th Poet Laureate, Nathan Hassall, and co-created with his wife, Rachael. The podcast brings together voices from across multiple disciplines—poets, neuroscientists, musicians, psychologists, and more—to examine how language, emotion, and art shape the way we experience the world.Listeners are also invited to become part of the dialogue. Submit your Poetry at www.thepoetryvessel.com/submit for consideration for feature on The Poetry Vessel Podcast.

The Poetry Vessel Podcast is a education podcast hosted by The Poetry Vessel, with 59 episodes on record and a Required Pod Score of 80.

The Poetry Vessel hosts The Poetry Vessel Podcast, a education show with 59 episodes published.

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  Episode #60

  #60 - 5 Things That Are More Important Than Getting Published

  Oct 4, 202617 minS1

  Stop stressing over publication and rediscover the true joy of writing poetry! In this episode of The Poetry Vessel Podcast, Rachael and Malibu Poet Laureate Emeritus Nathan Hassall break down why getting published is actually one of the last things you should worry about when learning about how to write poetry. Instead, we explore the five foundational aspects of writing that matter far more—including mastering the craft, reading extensively and studying your contemporaries, developing a consistent daily writing practice, finding your unique voice, and mastering the art of revision—plus a special bonus tip at the end. BEST BEGINNER - ADVANCED CRAFT BOOKS: - A Poetry Handbook by Mary Oliver - https://amzn.to/4ywrUI4 - The Poetry Home Repair Manual: Practical Advice for Beginning Poets by Ted Kooser - https://amzn.to/4ytHZy5 - That Wondrous Pattern: Essays on Poetry and Poets - https://amzn.to/4ALv0Jx CHECK OUT MORE FROM TPV: JOIN OUR FREE POETRY COMMUNITY: https://www.thepoetryvessel.com/signup SUPPORT THE POETRY VESSEL: https://www.thepoetryvessel.com/donate ALL OTHER LINKS: https://linktr.ee/nathanhassall HOW POETRY CHANGES YOUR BRAIN ONLINE COURSE (W/ DISCOUNT): https://www.nathanhassall.com/changeyourbrain CHAPTERS: 0:00 Why Getting Published Is the Wrong Goal for New Poets 0:22 Why the Act of Writing Matters More Than Publication 1:26 What to Read: Essential Poetry Books and Critical Thinking Tips 4:53 How to Build a Consistent Daily Writing Practice 7:29 How to Find and Refine Your Unique Poetry Voice 9:32 Why Mastering the Art of Revision Will Transform Your Poetry 15:24 How to Find and Build a Supportive Poetry Community PODCAST DISCLAIMER: The views, opinions, discussions, and statements expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and are intended to represent their personal opinions and perspectives. Listener discretion is advised. The Poetry Vessel is not responsible for the accuracy or reliability of any information presented and disclaims any liability arising from the use of or reliance on any information presented in this podcast. FTC DISCLAIMER: Some of the links above may be affiliate links, which means that if you click on them we may receive a small commission. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. The commission is paid by the retailers, at no cost to you, and this helps to support our channel and keep our videos free. Thank you!

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  Episode #59

  #059 - How to Edit Your Poem Like a Pro (10 Tips)

  Sep 27, 20269 minS1

  Discover 10 poetry writing and poem editing tips in this brief and punchy video. JOIN OUR FREE POETRY COMMUNITY: https://www.thepoetryvessel.com/signupDrawing on over twenty years of practice, Malibu Poet Laureate Emeritus Nathan Hassall outlines ten essential poetry editing strategies to help poets transition from raw draft to polished verse. This poetry editing guide examines foundational elements of revision—from interrogating syntax, diction, and sensory concreteness to evaluating the strategic weight of silence and form. Whether you are refining a lyric poem or restructuring stanzas for narrative impact, these tips offer a helpful framework to sharpen your creative output and continue your quest for how to write a poem that deeply affects your readers.As always, we at The Poetry Vessel hope you enjoy!CHECK OUT MORE FROM TPV: SUPPORT THE POETRY VESSEL:https://www.thepoetryvessel.com/donate ALL OTHER LINKS: https://linktr.ee/nathanhassall HOW POETRY CHANGES YOUR BRAIN ONLINE COURSE (W/ DISCOUNT):https://www.nathanhassall.com/changeyourbrain CHAPTERS:0:00 Introduction: What is Poetry Editing?0:20 Tip 1: Set Your Ego Aside0:41 Tip 2: Take a Break From Your Draft1:11 Tip 3: Identify the Theme, Narrative, and Emotion2:10 Tip 4: Scrutinize Every Word and Verb3:22 Tip 5: Read Your Poems Aloud4:09 Tip 6: Use Concrete vs. Abstract Language4:51 Tip 7: Avoid Overly Complex Words (Clarity is Key)6:14 Tip 8: Check for Fresh Language and Avoid Cliches6:59 Tip 9: Shift Stanzas and Experiment with Form8:50 Tip 10: Harness the Power of the Unsaid (Silence in Poetry)PODCAST DISCLAIMER:The views, opinions, discussions, and statements expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and are intended to represent their personal opinions and perspectives. Listener discretion is advised. The Poetry Vessel is not responsible for the accuracy or reliability of any information presented and disclaims any liability arising from the use of or reliance on any information presented in this podcast.FTC DISCLAIMER:Some of the links above may be affiliate links, which means that if you click on them we may receive a small commission. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. The commission is paid by the retailers, at no cost to you, and this helps to support our channel and keep our videos free. Thank you!

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  Episode #58

  #058 - How I Wrote an Award-Winning Poetry Book ft. José Enrique Medina

  Sep 20, 20261h 17mS1

  What's the secret to writing award-winning poetry? JOIN OUR FREE POETRY COMMUNITY: https://www.thepoetryvessel.com/signup In this episode of The Poetry Vessel Podcast, Malibu Poet Laureate Emeritus, Nathan Hassall, sits down with award-winning contemporary poet José Enrique Medina to discuss the making of his award-winning poetry chapbook, Haunt Me, published by @RattlePoetry José shares insights from his 2025 Rattle Chapbook Prize-winning collection, Haunt Me, which was his first poetry book he published at 55 years old. Tune in as we dive deep into the philosophy of writing books versus individual poems, bilingual poetry, the mechanics of grief and humor, and how memory and ghosts shape contemporary verse. LEARN MORE ABOUT JOSÉ ENRIQUE MEDINA: - Website: https://medinawrites.com/ - Buy Haunt Me: https://rattle.com/publications/haunt-me/ - Follow José on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/medinawrites/ CHECK OUT MORE FROM TPV: SUPPORT THE POETRY VESSEL: https://www.thepoetryvessel.com/donate ALL OTHER LINKS: https://linktr.ee/nathanhassall HOW POETRY CHANGES YOUR BRAIN ONLINE COURSE (W/ DISCOUNT): https://www.nathanhassall.com/changeyourbrain CHAPTERS: 0:00 Introduction to the Poetry Vessel podcast and guest José Enrique Medina 1:38 - Reading the title poem "Haunt Me" 3:17 - Designing the Cover Art and Imagery for Haunt Me 7:38 - Winning the 2025 Rattle Chapbook Prize 9:55 - The Metaphor of Ghosts and Memory in Contemporary Verse 14:48 - Discussing the new book Man without a Skirt and writing an epic poem 19:38 - Using Humor to Balance Grief and Heavy Subjects in Poetry 25:48 - Reading the poem "My dream name is Sinfalda" 28:19 - Bilingual Writing, Translation, and Built-In Editors 50:54 - Childhood Memories, Private School, and Feeling Like a Phantom 58:15 - Poem Reading "Even Without a Body" 01:01:22 - What Chickens and Poetry Residences Have in Common 01:08:00 - My First Lesson as a Poetry Mentor PODCAST DISCLAIMER: The views, opinions, discussions, and statements expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and are intended to represent their personal opinions and perspectives. Listener discretion is advised. The Poetry Vessel is not responsible for the accuracy or reliability of any information presented and disclaims any liability arising from the use of or reliance on any information presented in this podcast. FTC DISCLAIMER: Some of the links above may be affiliate links, which means that if you click on them we may receive a small commission. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. The commission is paid by the retailers, at no cost to you, and this helps to support our channel and keep our videos free. Thank you!

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  Episode #57

  #057 - How to Read (And Even Enjoy) Poetry

  Sep 13, 202622 minS1

  You've never tried reading it like this. JOIN OUR FREE POETRY COMMUNITY: https://www.thepoetryvessel.com/signup In this episode of The Poetry Vessel podcast, hosts Rachael and former Malibu Poet Laureate Nathan Hassall reveal how to read poetry with confidence and ease, offering practical tips to help beginners enjoy verse without feeling self-conscious or intimidated. By busting common myths—like the idea that every poem has a secret code to crack—they explore the neuroscience of metered rhyme versus free verse, the connection between song lyrics and poetic form, and why your personal interpretation matters more than the poet's intent. Discover simple strategies to analyze poems using sensory details, read aloud for texture, build daily reading rituals with haiku, and connect with vibrant poetry communities. Whether you want to overcome early school anxieties or deepen your creative expression, learn how approaching literature with curiosity and playfulness can unlock the transformative joy of reading poetry every day. EVERYTHING ELSE: Linktree: https://linktr.ee/nathanhassall HOW POETRY CHANGES YOUR BRAIN COURSE (LIMITED TIME DISCOUNT): https://www.nathanhassall.com/changeyourbrain SUPPORT US ON PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/cw/ThePoetryVessel CHAPTERS: 0:00 - Why People Avoid Poetry (And How to Overcome It) 1:32 - Rhyme vs. Free Verse: What Neuroscience Says About Preference 3:05 - Mindset Tips Before Reading Your First Poem 5:02 - The secret to Reading Poetry 6:42 - Why Poems Don't Have One Meaning 11:16 - How to Trust Your Personal Response to Art 12:11 - Embracing Play, Joy, and Curiosity in Language 14:03 - Nathan's Favorite Poet 15:26 - How to Analyze a Poem 16:46 - The Power of Local Poetry Communities 19:28 - Daily Rituals: How to Easily Incorporate Poetry Into Your Routine 21:28 - Starting Small: Why Reading Daily Haiku Works PODCAST DISCLAIMER: The views, opinions, discussions, and statements expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and are intended to represent their personal opinions and perspectives. Listener discretion is advised. The Poetry Vessel is not responsible for the accuracy or reliability of any information presented and disclaims any liability arising from the use of or reliance on any information presented in this podcast. FTC DISCLAIMER: Some of the links above may be affiliate links, which means that if you click on them we may receive a small commission. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. The commission is paid by the retailers, at no cost to you, and this helps to support our channel and keep our videos free. Thank you!

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  Episode #55

  #055 - Why Modern Men are Starving for Poetry

  Aug 30, 202626 minS1

  This is why men should read more poetry (and everyone else for that matter). In this episode of The Poetry Vessel podcast hosted by Malibu Poet Laureate Emeritus, Nathan Hassall, we explore why men need poetry now more than ever and how engaging with verse offers a powerful antidote to modern manosphere culture and anti-empathy rhetoric. Highlighting critical male mental health statistics, neuroscientific research on emotional intelligence (EQ), and personal stories of navigating grief and self-expression, we break down how reading and writing poetry builds moral imagination, strengthens romantic relationships, and fosters real community. No matter who you are—whether you are looking to boost your creative expression, understand yourself on a deeper level, or find a supportive artistic network, discover how embracing poetry can transform your mindset, improve your mental well-being, and redefine modern masculinity. JOIN OUR FREE POETRY COMMUNITY: https://www.thepoetryvessel.com/signup EVERYTHING ELSE: Linktree: https://linktr.ee/nathanhassall HOW POETRY CHANGES YOUR BRAIN COURSE (LIMITED TIME DISCOUNT): https://www.nathanhassall.com/changeyourbrain SUPPORT US ON PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/cw/ThePoetryVessel CHAPTERS: 0:00 - Why Men Need Poetry (The Real Red Pill) 1:12 - Resisting Anti-Empathy Culture in the Manosphere 3:36 - How Poetry Deepens Self-Understanding & Connection 4:29 - Brain Science & Why Empathy Is a Strength, Not Weakness 5:36 - Beyond Stoic Stereotypes: Giving Voice to Emotion 6:48 - A Poet's Journey: Overcoming Ridicule & Finding Healing 8:58 - Grief, Loss, & Writing to Process Trauma 11:23 - Using Poetry in Trauma Therapy & Everyday Expression 13:37 - Neuroscience Benefits: Empathy, EQ, & Mood Boosts 16:18 - Poetry as Moral Imagination & Authentic Leadership 18:47 - Spotting Red Flags: Beware Influencers Who Tell You Not to Read 20:23 - Building Stronger Romantic & Platonic Relationships 22:03 - Connecting Through Local Poetry Readings & Open Mics 24:41 - Active Listening & Finding Your Voice ADDITIONAL SOURCES: - Soto-Angulo, C. (2026, February 11). Boys don't cry: The growing male loneliness epidemic. The Loyola Phoenix. https://loyolaphoenix.com/2026/02/boys-dont-cry-the-growing-male-loneliness-epidemic/ - Rollano, C., Pérez-González, J.-C., & Román-González, M. (2026). A framework for understanding the manosphere. Social and Personality Psychology Compass. https://doi.org/10.1111/spc3.70123 * McQuillan, S. (2023, November 19). How poetry can change your life. Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/cravings/202311/how-poetry-can-change-your-life * Pacheco, E. I. H., & Mansur, S. S. (2023). Poetry and brain: Interfaces for empathy development. https://doi.org/10.33552/ACCS.2023.03.000562 * Fowler, K. A., Kaplan, M. S., Stone, D. M., Zhou, H., Stevens, M. R., & Simon, T. R. (2022). Suicide among males across the lifespan: An analysis of differences by known mental health status. American Journal of Preventive Medicine. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9437900/ If you need support know there is help and you’re not alone. Visit findahelpline.com to find support now. PODCAST DISCLAIMER: The views, opinions, discussions, and statements expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and are intended to represent their personal opinions and perspectives. Listener discretion is advised. The Poetry Vessel is not responsible for the accuracy or reliability of any information presented and disclaims any liability arising from the use of or reliance on any information presented in this podcast. FTC DISCLAIMER: Some of the links above may be affiliate links, which means that if you click on them we may receive a small commission. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. The commission is paid by the retailers, at no cost to you, and this helps to support our channel and keep our videos free. Thank you!

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