It's All Poetry

Copy is Poetry with a Purpose (with Nicki Krawczyk)

Nicole Cloutier — Thu, 27 Aug 2026 04:44:00 -0400

Oh hello, to all you "Penciling Poets," "Lithoing Lexophiles," and "Verbalizing Vocababulists." We're continuing this season's theme of 'Mentor'tainers as Nicole sits down with the creator of the Comprehensive Copywriting Academy and longtime mentor, Nicki Krawczyk, to discuss the word copy.

They explore the word's many meanings, from its older roots in reproduction and news to its modern role in marketing and persuasion. Together, they trace how the word evolved across centuries, why it still causes confusion, and how it connects to ideas like abundance, power, and creative strategy.

So, let's order some hors d'oeuvres for the table, pick a fight with our favorite AI model, and get ready to learn the best-kept secret in writing as we define copy. And remember... your handwriting doesn't matter.

Further Research

You can find Nicki and the Comprehensive Copywriting Academy here - https://thecca.co/
As always, you can reach the team at itsallpoetry.podcast@gmail.com

Tending Your Digital "Garden" (with Podge Thomas)

Nicole Cloutier — Thu, 20 Aug 2026 04:44:00 -0400

Oh, hello to all you "Planting Poets," "Laboring Linguists," and "Weeding Word Nerds," and welcome to Episode 60 of It's All Poetry. This week's episode is an absolute treat as Nicole is joined once again by Notion teacher, digital gardener, and, of course, mentor, Podge Thomas. The two sit down for a wonderfully thought-provoking conversation about the word garden.

Together, Nicole and Podge dig into the surprising history of gardens, the connection between tending plants and tending ideas, and why reclaiming curiosity is one of the most meaningful acts of resistance.

So get ready to bring your curiosity back to life, find some joy in what you've made, and hopefully know something today that you didn't yesterday as we talk garden. And remember... the office plants are not as real they look.

Further Research -

Be sure to check out Podge's Website - https://www.podgethomas.com/

As always, you can reach the team at itsallpoetry.podcast@gmail.com

Every Seed Destroys Its “Container” (with Catherine LaSota)

Every Seed Destroys Its "Container" (with Catherine LaSota) — Thu, 13 Aug 2026 04:44:00 -0400

Oh, hello to all you Packaged Poets, Localized Linguists, and Encapsulating Etymologists! And welcome back to Season 5 of It's All Poetry! We're so glad to have you here and greatly appreciate you joining us. This season is all about mentors, and to start things off, we have a captivating conversation about container.

Nicole sits down with creativity advisor, director of cross-disciplinary programs in higher education, and mentor Catherine LaSota. They trace container all the way back through its etymology and discover a bit of tension between “holding and stretching,” “support and restraint,” and “protection and control.” They also discuss the more nefarious side of container and why the best and most important creative containers are the ones you build yourself.

So throw away your used-up candle collection, decorate your walls with piano guts, and fill a discarded toilet with plaster as we dive down the proverbial rabbit hole (rabbit container?) of words and weird art. And remember... all the cool people have multiple beverages.

Further Research

Be sure to check out Catherine's work -catherinelasota.com
As always, you can reach the team at itsallpoetry.podcast@gmail.com

Building Your Own Boycott (with Alexa Speed)

Nicole Cloutier — Thu, 11 Jun 2026 04:44:00 -0400

Oh, hello to all you Picketing Poets, Lie-In Linguists, and Walkout Word Nerds.

In this week's episode, Nicole is joined by Alexa Speed, an old friend, former colleague, and the creator behind Cut Off The Spigot.

Nicole and Alexa dive into the unexpected and surprisingly recent history of the word boycott. A word born in rural Ireland that became a global tool for resistance.

So grab your picket signs, fill your water bottles with "billionaires' tears," and remember that here, we have "No Kings" as we define boycott.

*Also just a heads up this episode may set off your home smart devices. Thanks for listening!*

Further Research

Be sure to check out Cut Off the Spigot - https://cutoffthespigot.com/
Also on Substack - https://cutoffthespigot.substack.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cutoffthespigot
Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/cw/CutOfftheSpigot
As always, you can reach the team at itsallpoetry.podcast@gmail.com

Ritual is a Non-Negotiable (with Juliette Joseph)

Nicole Cloutier — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 04:44:00 -0400

Oh, hello to all you Punctilious Poets, Long-Standing Linguists, and Venerable Vocab-ulites. In this week's episode, Nicole is joined by the founder of Kindred and Kin, Juliette Joseph, to discuss the word ritual.

Together, Nicole and Juliette trace its meaning from the present-day little rituals that help keep us sane back to the ancient rituals that were meant to keep the Earth spinning.

So, let's forget the daily routine, pour a nice warm bath (Lego optional), and press that proverbial reset button. And remember: healing yourself is a non-negotiable... as we define ritual.

Further Research

You can find out more about Kindred and Kin here - https://kindredandkin.com/
Also check out their Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wearekindredandkin/
As always, you can reach the team at itsallpoetry.podcast@gmail.com

The Ache of Belonging (with Sara El- Sayeh)

Nicole Cloutier — Sun, 31 May 2026 04:44:00 -0400

Oh, hello to all you Partnered Poets, Like-Minded Linguists, and Gregarious Grammatists. In this week's episode, Nicole sits down with writer, facilitator, and mother Sara El-Sayeh to discuss the word belonging.

As Nicole and Sara trace the roots of the word, they uncover surprising connections between longing, community, and the human need to be woven into something larger than ourselves.

So take a break from the chaos, cook a random meal with a friend, and keep an eye out for wandering cats... as we define belonging.

Further Research

Be sure to check out Sara's Instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/sara.el.sayeh/
And Sara's Substack Blaqube here - https://blaqube.substack.com/
As always, you can reach the team at itsallpoetry.podcast@gmail.com

Into the "Mystic" (with Cecily Sailer)

Nicole Cloutier — Thu, 21 May 2026 04:44:00 -0400

Oh, hello to all you psychic poets, legendary linguists, and veiled verbalists. In this week's episode Nicole sits down with tarot reader, creativity coach, and writer Cecily Sailer to discuss the word mystic.

Together they trace the word from Greek initiation rites and Christian mystics to modern tarot and awe inspiring moments.

So let's order up some Connecticut Pizza, sit down to solve this mysterious puzzle, and keep an eye out for owls.... as we define mystic.

Further Research

You can find Cecily here - https://www.typewritertarot.com/
And be sure to check out Cecily's Podcast "Your Creative and Magical Life" wherever you listen to podcasts.
As always, you can reach the team at itsallpoetry.podcast@gmail.com

Confronting Art (with Tara Leaver)

Nicole Cloutier — Thu, 14 May 2026 09:23:51 -0400

Oh, hello to all you pioneering poets, luxurious linguists, and visionary verb-ivores. In this week's episode Nicole sits down with painter and artist, Tara Leaver to discuss the fascinating word art.

Together, they wander through etymology, creativity, discipline, abstraction, suffering, collaboration, and the tension between structure and freedom.

So get ready to taste all the flavors, take a deep dive in the ocean, and pick up where nature ends... as we define art.

Further Research

Check out Tara's website here - https://taraleaver.com/
Find her Instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/taraleaverart/
As always, you can reach the team at itsallpoetry.podcast@gmail.com

The Gravity of Power (with Leila Rao)

Nicole Cloutier — Thu, 07 May 2026 04:44:00 -0400

Oh, hello to you Potent Poets, Luring Linguists, and Vigorous Verbivores. In this episode, Nicole sits down with the founder of Cultural Cartography, Leila Rao, to discuss power.

From its centuries-old household roots to the unseen ways it shapes our relationships, our workplaces, and how we view ourselves.

So cancel that “power lunch,” pass out the coffee, and let’s defy gravity as we define power.

Further Research

You can find Leila Rao on her LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mappedbyleila

As always, you can reach the team at itsallpoetry.podcast@gmail.com

Between Prayer & Practice (with Cody Cook-Parrott)

Nicole Cloutier — Thu, 30 Apr 2026 04:44:00 -0400

Oh, hello to all you Prepping Poets, Line-Running Linguists, and Seasoning Semanticists. In this week’s episode, we welcome back the writer, artist, and the always wonderful Cody Cook-Parrott.

Nicole and Cody sit down to discuss the word practice. From its roots in alchemy, travel, and transformation to the modern mindset of grind, punishment, and proficiency.

So grab your coziest quilt, snuggle up with your favorite Gemini, be present in the process, and remember… practice is already perfect.

Further Research

You can find all things Cody Cook-Parrott here - https://www.codycookparrott.com/

Also get Cody's newest Book The Practice of Attention

Be sure to check out Cody's Podcast Common Shapes
As always, you can reach the team at itsallpoetry.podcast@gmail.com

A Sad Pleasure & The Meaning of Nostalgia (with Adrienne Sloan)

Nicole Cloutier — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 16:44:00 -0400

Oh, hello to all you Pining Poets, Longing Linguists, and Wistful Word Nerds. In this week’s episode, Nicole sits down with artist-researcher and psychotherapist Adrienne Sloan to discuss the word nostalgia.

In searching for its meaning and origin, they go from dinosaurs and extinct sounds to perfume and a “contagious” wartime sickness.

So, get your “animal brains” ready, listen closely for “whispers,” and remember: it’s okay to get a little homesick as we define... nostalgia.

Further Research

Check out Adrienne's website here - https://adriennesloan.com/
As well as We Are A Murmuration - https://weareamurmuration.com/
As always, you can reach the team at itsallpoetry.podcast@gmail.com

Radical Takes Root (with Jen Gurecki)

Nicole Cloutier — Thu, 09 Apr 2026 04:44:00 -0400

Oh, hello to all you Progressive Poets, Eccentric Elegists, and Bohemian Balladeers. In this week’s episode on “Radical,” Nicole has a thought-provoking conversation with the founder of Coalition Snow and Zawadisha, Jen Gurecki.

They discuss the meaning of “radical,” how it became associated with extremism, and why reclaiming it is so important in today’s political and cultural landscape.

So, let’s all snack on some black licorice, feed our imaginary owls, and embrace our eccentricities… as we use our outside voices inside and define “Radical.”

Further Research

You can find out more about Jen Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/yogurecki/

Be sure to check out Jen's podcast Lady Parts and Substack - https://coalitionsnow.substack.com/p/introducing-the-lady-parts-podcast
Also check out Coalition Snow and Zawadisha - https://www.coalitionsnow.com/ https://www.zawadisha.org/

As always, you can reach the team at itsallpoetry.podcast@gmail.com

Defining 'Jewel' & Handcrafting Joy (with Erika Rose Mark)

Nicole Cloutier — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 04:44:00 -0400

Oh, hello to all you Polished Poets, Exquisite Etymologists, and "Gaudy Gifts who love to gab" and welcome to It's All Poetry. In this Episode, Nicole is joined by the splendid silversmith and jewelry maker Erika Rose to discuss and define the word jewel.

Nicole and Erika explore the meaning of jewel as a word shaped over centuries, and as a practice shaped day by day at the jewelry bench.

So, adorn yourselves in turquoise, grab your ring pop and candy necklace, and remember to "shine on you crazy diamonds"... as we hammer out the definition of jewel.

Further Research

Check out Erika's website - https://lumenrosejewelry.com/

Also her Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lumenrosejewelry/

As always, you can reach the team at itsallpoetry.podcast@gmail.com

Sustain, Maintain, & Entertain: Redefining Sustainability (with Kim Grob)

Nicole Cloutier — Thu, 26 Mar 2026 04:44:00 -0400

Oh, hello to all you Planet-Friendly Poets, Renewable Rhapsodists, and Symbiotic Scribes. In this week’s “energy-efficient” episode, Nicole talks with content strategist, storyteller, and co-founder of the sustainability marketing agency Right On!, Kim Grob.

Together they unpack the complicated and sometimes controversial word sustainability. From overused buzzword to something quietly pushed to the back burner in today’s era of “greenhushing,” they discuss how great storytelling and getting specific can bring some much needed energy back to the "S" word.

So pop in a piece of your favorite chewing gum, tend to your tenets, and let’s align with natural forces… as we define sustainability.

Further Research

Find out more about Kim and Right On at their website: https://wearerighton.com/

As always, you can reach the team at itsallpoetry.podcast@gmail.com

Becoming Aware & Defining Conscious (with Verena Borell)

Nicole Cloutier — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 04:44:00 -0400

Oh, hello to all you Perceiving Poets, Lucid Linguaphiles, and Observing Epeolatrists (that’s a deep cut). In this episode of IAP, Nicole looks inward with the help of astrologer, writer, and somatic practitioner Verena Borell.

Together, they explore childhood wonder, spiritual hierarchies, the body’s wisdom, and the idea that awareness often unfolds like a spiral.

So give your nervous system a break, say yes to a “Full-Body Yes Life,” and prepare for a soft return… to yourself, as we define conscious.

Further Research

Learn more about Verena’s work, writing, and offerings on her website: https://www.verenaborell.com/en

Listen to Verena's The Soul & Soma Podcast, on your favorite platform.

As always, you can reach the team at itsallpoetry.podcast@gmail.com

Defiant Play & Defining Creativity (w/ Michaela Ayers)

Nicole Cloutier — Thu, 12 Mar 2026 04:44:00 -0400

Oh, hello to all you playful poets, language lovers, and verbivores. In the second episode of season four, Nicole is joined by the founder of Nourish, Michaela Ayers. Michaela is a facilitator, interdisciplinary artist, creative caregiver, and our new favorite Nebraskan.

Join Nicole and Michaela as they go from coloring outside the lines to feeding social revolution through creative acts of defiance. They search for etymological roots in ancient goddesses and look to change our reality by simply imagining an alternative.

Now, raise your hand if you're an artist, build yourself an altar, and most importantly… give yourself permission to come out and play as we define creativity.

Further Research

Learn more about Michaela’s experiential studio and join Michaela’s 5-week virtual collage cohort (starting in April) https://nourish.community/

Listen to Black Her Stories, Michaela’s podcast celebrating the creative power of Black women, past and present. https://nourish.community/podcast/

As always, you can reach the team at itsallpoetry.podcast@gmail.com

The Space Between Drafts: Redefining “Edit” (with Emily Doucet)

Nicole Cloutier — Thu, 05 Mar 2026 04:44:00 -0500

Oh, Hello to all you polished poets, reword nerds, and lexomancers. We are back! And in our "first draft" episode of season 4, Nicole is joined by the founder of Framing Devices, Emily Doucet. Emily is a writer, a researcher, and editor. Which makes her perfect for this weeks deep dive.

Emily and Nicole trace the word "edit" through publishing houses, cutting room floors, and genetic laboratories. They also discuss how it can be used for curation, cultural gatekeeping, and collaboration.

So break out the White-Out and red pens, be prepared to "kill your darlings", and remember... nobody's perfect, as we define edit.

Further Research

Emily Doucet's Website - https://www.framingdevices.com/
Pre-order Emily's Book - https://www.dukeupress.edu/inventing-nadar
As always, you can reach the team at itsallpoetry.podcast@gmail.com

Tending to your creative life (with Dr. Kate Henry)

Nicole Cloutier — Thu, 22 Jan 2026 04:44:00 -0500

Nicole is joined by Dr. Kate Henry, productivity coach and author of Tend To It, for a thoughtful conversation about gardens, grief, and living with intention.

In This Episode, You’ll Discover…

How chronic illness reshaped Kate’s relationship with productivity
The difference between tending something and trying to control it
Why care doesn’t always need an outcome to be meaningful
How small, private rituals can sustain a creative life

Further Research

- Newsletter- Tending with Dr. Kate Henry https://buttondown.com/KateHenryPhD
- Tend To It: A Holistic Guide to Intentional Productivity by Dr. Kate Henry
- Honing In - https://katehenry.com/honingin/
- Kate's Website - https://katehenry.com/
- The Tending Years: Understanding Your Child's Earliest Rituals by J.L. Shattuck
- Music referenced in this episode; Hammer and a Nail by The Indigo Girls and Revolutionary Love by Ani DiFranco
- As always, you can reach the team at itsallpoetry.podcast@gmail.com

Steady & She Goes (with Amanda Laird)

Nicole Cloutier — Thu, 15 Jan 2026 04:44:00 -0500

In this episode, Nicole sits down with the founder of Slow and Steady Studio, Amanda Laird. The two explore steadiness as something alive, wobbly, and deeply human. From burnout and business growth to nervous systems and bent knees, this conversation redefines what it means to stay steady when everything feels like it’s shifting.

In This Episode, You’ll Discover...

Why steadiness often looks more like wobbling than standing still
How burnout can become a doorway to a deeper kind of stability
What riding a bike, surfing, and running a business all have in common
Why “steady growth” is a beautiful contradiction — and how to live inside it
How staying close to yourself matters more than staying on track

Further Research

Explore Amanda’s work at Slow and Steady Studio
Subscribe to Amanda’s weekly newsletter, The Slowdown for thoughtful insights on marketing, growth, and staying human in business

As always, you can reach the team at itsallpoetry.podcast@gmail.com

Visibility & The Radiant Risks of Being Seen (with Britt Broekhaus)

Nicole Cloutier — Thu, 08 Jan 2026 04:44:00 -0500

In this episode, somatic astrologer Britt Broekhaus and Nicole peer into why being seen is so often terrifying, how invisibility can feel like a refuge, and what the rhythms of the sun and moon can teach us about the seen and unseen.

In This Episode, You’ll Discover...

Why visibility is inherently risky
How astrology reframes visibility as cyclical rather than constant
The surprising connection between radiant energy and being perceived
Why invisibility can be protective, nourishing, and necessary

Further Research

You can find Britt Broekhaus at her website https://somaticastrology.co/

As always, you can reach the team at itsallpoetry.podcast@gmail.com

Grief & Making Space for Something New (with Uma Girish)

Nicole Cloutier — Thu, 01 Jan 2026 04:44:00 -0500

In this episode, Nicole and grief companion Uma Girish unpack grief as a loss of connection, a physical experience, and an invitation to live more meaningfully.

In This Episode, You’ll Discover…

Why beginning a new year with the word grief can be unexpectedly liberating
How grief lives in the body, not just the mind
Why shame so often sneaks into the grieving process
What it means to companion grief instead of trying to “fix” it
How grief can become a doorway to deeper compassion and purpose

Further Research

Explore Uma Girish’s work as a grief companion at https://www.umagirish.com
Listen to Uma’s podcast Being Fully Me (all seasons available wherever you listen to podcasts)
Subscribe to Uma’s weekly(ish) Substack newsletter via links on her website

As always, you can reach the team at itsallpoetry.podcast@gmail.com

What an "entangled" web we weave (with M. Barney)

Nicole Cloutier — Thu, 18 Dec 2025 04:44:00 -0500

Two-Spirit Shoshone and Hoopa doula, writer, and public health storyteller Madison Murphy Barney joins Nicole to explore entanglement as intimacy, responsibility, ancestry, and hope. And why none of us were ever meant to do this alone.

In This Episode, You’ll Discover…

How codependency and connection aren’t the same thing
What quantum physics reveals about collective responsibility
Why caring for your small corner of the world actually matters
How ancestors, children, and mushrooms are all part of the same web

Further Research

Subscribe to M’s Substack Our Medicine for weekly reflections and teachings: ourmedicine.substack.com
Learn more about Madison’s forthcoming book Our Ancestors Want Us to Be Mushrooms (out Spring 2026)
Explore ideas around quantum entanglement, collective care, and public health storytelling

Ways to Contact or Connect with the Guest

Website: madisonmurphybarney.com

Instagram: @madisonmurphybarney

Substack: ourmedicine.substack.com

"Productivity" but with boundaries (with Dr. Taylor Allbright)

Nicole Cloutier — Thu, 11 Dec 2025 04:44:00 -0500

What if the word productive isn’t just about getting things done — but a reflection of centuries of moral judgment, capitalist pressure, and deeply internalized self-worth stories? (I mean, duh).

In this beautifully honest and thoughtful conversation, Nicole is joined by executive function coach Dr. Taylor Allbright to untangle the heavy (and often conflicting) layers of what productivity means — especially for high-achieving folks with ADHD, creatives, perfectionists, and anyone tired of tying their value to their output.

Taylor and Nicole explore how the meaning of “productive” has evolved from fruitful fields to frazzled calendars and offer a gentler, more compassionate vision of what it could mean instead.

In This Episode, You’ll Discover…

What 1828’s dictionary can teach us about productivity and self-worth today
Why procrastination might actually be productive (just not how you think)
The ADHD-perfectionism loop and how it distorts your sense of accomplishment
A radical reframe for resting when you feel like you “should” be working
How Taylor defines “leading your ideas into reality” — and why it’s more fruitful than chasing gold stars

Further Research:

Download Taylor’s Five-Minute ADHD Reset → taylorallbright.com
Read up on Dr. Devon Price, whose work on laziness and productivity is referenced in the episode
For more episodes mentioned, check out: “Fallow” with Sarah Loertscher (ep. 21) & “Trust” with Taylor Lecours (ep. 25)

Ways to Contact or Connect with Taylor:

Website + resources: https://taylorallbright.com/
Instagram: @taylorallbrightcoaching
Sign up for her newsletter to get practical ADHD support + new coaching offerings

Connect with the podcast team at itsallpoetry.podcast@gmail.com

“Wealth," money, and meaning (with Rachel Duncan)

Nicole Cloutier — Thu, 04 Dec 2025 04:44:00 -0500

“Wealth” often sounds like a number. But what if it’s actually a feeling? In this cozy conversation, financial therapist Rachel Duncan shares her personal and professional journey redefining wealth as stability, safety, and values-driven living.

Tune in to learn…

Why the word wealth feels quieter—and maybe safer—than rich
How inherited shame around money can shape our financial choices for decades
What a “value that grows on its own” really looks like in practice
Why comparison has no place in a healthy definition of wealth
How to rethink your financial goals (and wants) without guilt

Resources & Links:

Book Mentioned: Die Broke by Stephen M. Pollan & Mark Levine
Show Reference: LOOT (with Maya Rudolph)
Connect with Rachel:
The 7 Day Mindful Spending Email Course: https://www.moneyhealingclub.com/challenge
The Money Healing Club Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more: https://pod.link/1780264127
Connect with the podcast team at itsallpoetry.podcast@gmail.com

Growth, Balance, and Fish “Scales” (with Sarah Kuiken)

Nicole Cloutier — Thu, 06 Nov 2025 04:44:00 -0500

Is scale about climbing higher, shedding layers, or finding balance? Nicole sits down with writer and longtime collaborator Sarah Kuiken to explore this multitasking word that spans fish, ladders, piano keys, and marketing funnels. Expect laughter, etymology, and the occasional side quest into AI, gratitude, and why scaling your joy might just be the truest form of growth.

In This Episode, You’ll Discover...

- The three ancient roots of “scale” — and what they reveal about modern ambition

- Why “growth for growth’s sake” rarely feels good, and what to do instead

- The unexpected connection between AI, creativity, and the human need for control

- How scaling *down* can be just as powerful as scaling up

- What copywriting and fish have in common

- A surprisingly poetic lesson on joy, balance, and peeling back what no longer fits

Further Research & Mentions

- Sarah’s business: https://strikeanerve.com/ — Copywriting, strategy, and brand storytelling for creative entrepreneurs.

- Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-kuiken

- Mentioned: Louis Grenier and his book on “truffle-hunting for marketing truths”

- Related resources on the etymology of scale from Latin scala (“ladder”) and Old Norse skál (“bowl”)

- Neil Patel’s research on AI vs. human SEO — for those curious about the evolving relationship between tech and creativity

Everyday “Magic” (with Sarah Dittmore and Kaitlyn Gulock)

Nicole Cloutier — Thu, 30 Oct 2025 04:44:00 -0400

What makes something truly magical? The ritual? The mystery? Or simply the act of believing something more is possible? In this episode, Nicole sits down with (Sarah Dittmore and Kaitlyn Gulock), co-hosts of The Empress and the Fool, to explore the word “magic" —from its earliest roots in science and spirit, to the quiet everyday moments that shimmer with potential.

In This Episode, You’ll Discover...

- how childhood wonder teaches us our first lessons in belief and imagination

- why the unknown can be both terrifying and deeply empowering

- the surprising link between science, spirituality, and “the art of the possible”

- how intention and synchronicity shape the magic of everyday life

- what the tarot’s Magician card can tell us about creativity, control, and illusion

Resources & Links:

- Listen to The Empress and the Fool podcast – exploring all things mystical and meaningful from the perspective of two curious witches at sarahdittmore.com/podcast

- Read more from Sarah Dittmore (The Mystic Auntie) and explore her tarot readings, spellwork, and workshops at sarahdittmore.com

- Check out Kaitlyn Gulock’s design work and visuals on Instagram https://instagram.com/koi.arts.studio

- All music is by Jack Pierce

- Connect with the podcast team (i.e., Nicole!) at itsallpoetry.podcast@gmail.com

- Sign up for weekly marketing prompts that don’t feel gross [here](https://www.nicolecopy.com/prompts).

Don't pay "attention," give it (with Amelia Hruby)

Nicole Cloutier — Thu, 16 Oct 2025 04:44:00 -0400

What if attention isn’t a currency to be spent, but a gift to be given? Feminist creator Amelia Hruby invites us to reimagine the way we relate to focus, presence, and the constant pull of the digital world. Together we explore what it means to reclaim your attention from the systems designed to monetize it, and how giving attention (rather than paying it) can become a radical act of care.

In this episode, you’ll discover…

Why flipping from paying attention into giving attention changes how your day feels (and who’s in charge of it)
The sneaky myth of “scarce attention” and what’s actually being commodified on social media

A gentler approach to focus: tending what you desire instead of gripping what you “should”

Resources mentioned:

Deep Listening by Pauline Oliveros
Saving Time by Jenny Odell
The Social Dilemma (doc) + Jaron Lanier’s Ten Arguments for Deleting Your Social Media Accounts Right Now

Finally, make sure to grab Amelia’s new book: Your Attention Is Sacred Except on Social Media — available directly from Amelia: ⁠offthegrid.fun/attention⁠ (bundles include audio!).

"Money" is an admonishing goddess (with Katie Scott)

Nicole Cloutier — Thu, 18 Sep 2025 17:15:30 -0400

What if I told you that “money” was once the name of a goddess? That’s right—long before debit cards and two-day shipping, the Romans worshipped Juno Monetta, the goddess whose temple literally minted coins. Today, financial coach Katie Scott joins Nicole to unearth how ancient warnings, modern shame, and personal money stories shape the way we think about value.

In This Episode, You’ll Discover…

The Roman goddess hidden in the word “money” and why she still haunts our bank accounts
Why even accountants struggle to manage money—and what that means for the rest of us
How budgeting flips the script from reactive to proactive (and why that feels like freedom)
The sneaky beliefs about wealth that might be sabotaging your goals without you realizing it

A surprising metaphor for money that might change the way you see it forever

Get Katie's free CFO Starter Kit (the tool Nicole swears transformed her copywriting business) and Katie's other resources at: morewithmoney.com/academy

Instagram: @katie.morewithmoney

Connect with the It’s All Poetry team (a.k.a. Nicole!) at itsallpoetry.podcast@gmail.com

Music by Jack Pierce 🎶

"Pirate" Energy in a Structured World (with Rachel Ropeik)

Nicole Cloutier — Thu, 04 Sep 2025 04:44:00 -0400

How did a word rooted in plunder and violence become a symbol of creativity, courage, and rebellion? In this swashbuckling episode, Nicole is joined by educator and strategic mischief-maker Rachel Ropeik to explore the word pirate — from its violent etymological roots to its reclaimed modern spirit.

Together, they unpack the surprising history behind pirate codes, the difference between stealing and venturing, and what it really means to be a pirate with a heart in today’s world.

In this episode, you’ll discover…

Why pirates might have invented early versions of health insurance and income equality
The lesser-known meaning at the root of the word “pirate” (spoiler: it’s not theft!)
How “pirate energy” meets “institutional energy” — and what happens next
Why rebellion without purpose isn’t enough
How Rachel brings mischief, movement, and play into her everyday work

Further Research & Episode Extras:

Rachel’s membership community is open!✨ Consortium of Arts-Related Entrepreneurs (CARE)

rachelropeik.com/care

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Use code POETRY15 for 15% off your first payment!

We also talked about...

The Only Life That Mattered — The story of Anne Bonny, Mary Read, and “Calico Jack” Rackham
Pirate codes and voting rights among 18th-century pirate crews
Pirates of the Caribbean, Our Flag Means Death, and of course… animated Fox Robin Hood

Connect with Rachel Ropeik

Website: rachelropeik.comNewsletter (sign up via the site!)
Socials: @theartropeik

To leap, to quiver, to "dance!" (with Jess Grippo)

Nicole Cloutier — Thu, 24 Apr 2025 07:57:23 -0400

What if dancing again could heal something you thought was unchangeable? In this episode, Jess Grippo joins Nicole to talk about dance as more than choreography. It’s expression. It’s story. It’s healing. Together, they explore how movement changes across a lifetime, what dance reveals about our inner world, and why it’s never too late (or too awkward) to start dancing again.

Tune in to discover:

The unexpected connection between tantrums and tap shoes
Does dance require music?
What “prescribed vs. improvised” says about how we approach dance (and life?)
How dance became a sacred ritual long before it was a performance
What happens when you stop waiting to be good and start moving anyway

A few quotes:

“At that young age, I already felt that pressure of having to perform. And I did not like it.” – Jess
“The more experience we have, the more pressure we feel to be good. But sometimes, younger me just went for it.” – Jess
“It felt like if I could dance, it would change my life.” – Nicole

Resources & Links:

Jess’s book: Dance with This Book – Available via jessgrippo.com
Watch the dance history doc Uprooted for more on jazz and resistance: uprootedfilm.com
Explore the 13-Day “Dance Again” series at youcandanceagain.com

Website: jessgrippo.com and youcandanceagain.com
Instagram: @jessgrippo
TikTok & YouTube: @jessgrippo
Join the Dance Again Studio: Online classes and creative challenges via her website

"Focus" is a hearth, not a spotlight (with Christina Jones)

Nicole Cloutier — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 04:44:00 -0400

Today I’m joined by the incredible Christina Jones—brand photographer, creative coach, and (fun fact) the first guest I’ve ever met in real life! Christina did my most recent brand shoot, and let me tell you… it was an unexpectedly emotional experience. There’s something deeply vulnerable about being the focus of the lens, and Christina held that space so beautifully.

In this episode, we unpack the word focus—in parenting, photography, business, and life—and how it can mean everything from presence to pressure to play. Plus, we get delightfully off-topic in the best way: Jenga, barre class, Instacart, and family dance parties all make an appearance.

In This Episode, You’ll Discover…

what a fireplace, a camera lens, and your to-do list might all have in common
how the word focus shifted from warmth and gathering to clarity and command
why Christina thinks Jenga might be the ultimate metaphor for intentional attention
how over-focusing can make your whole life shrink down to the size of your laptop screen
the quiet magic of choosing what you focus on—and what gets to blur in the background

Ways to Connect with Christina

Christina’s brand photography and mentoring: christinajonesphoto.com
Come say hi to her on Instagram: @christinajonesstudio

This “funnel” has holes — marketing, metaphors, and consent (with Cleoniki Kesidis)

Nicole Cloutier — Thu, 27 Mar 2025 08:06:21 -0400

In this episode, Nicole welcomes back her very first repeat guest (🥳), Cleoniki Kesidis, copywriter extraordinaire and fellow funnel-skeptic. The two dig into the uncomfortable origins and metaphors behind the word funnel, asking why such a common marketing term so often feels…well, kinda icky.

What starts as a conversation about email sequences and sales paths becomes a beautifully winding journey into ethical marketing, customer autonomy, and a whole lot of metaphors.

Let’s talk about the words we use in the marketing systems we build.

In this episode, you’ll discover…

Why “funnel” might not be the best metaphor—and a few alternates
What cows, tornadoes, and Temple Grandin have to do with marketing
The overlooked power of sequencing and why your audience deserves an exit

Why the best funnels feel more like ecosystems (and how to start designing yours)
What to do if you find yourself IN a funnel as a business owner (which you will, like, all the time)

A few quotes:

“It doesn’t feel like a friendly place to exist. It’s like you’re Dorothy and your house has been picked up and you’re being tossed around inside a tornado.”

“You want the sand to leave. You’re not trying to catch everybody.”

“When we talk about optimizing, it’s not about making every number as high as it can go.”

“When you’re an entrepreneur, you are always in a funnel.”

Connect with Cleo:

Grab Cleo's free resource: Everything You Need to Sell Your Evergreen Course Consistently at cekcopywriting.com
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/cleonikikesidis (she’s so good here)

Curious about ethical sales and lead magnets that don’t feel gross? Check out Nicole’s newsletter for prompts and ideas: nicolecopy.com/prompts

From clay tablets to AI: What does it mean “to write?” (with Katie Wolf)

Nicole Cloutier — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 04:44:00 -0400

What does it really mean to write? Is it an act or a process? And can AI truly replicate it? In this episode, writer, editor, and book coach Katie Wolf joins Nicole to break down the layers of the word write—from its ancient roots to the modern fear of simply getting started.

Katie shares her personal journey with writing, how self-doubt held her back for years, and the unexpected ways she overcame it. The two also discuss AI (of course) and the psychological tug-of-war between writing in private and sharing our work publicly.

In This Episode, You’ll Discover…

The surprising, ancient origins of the word write (hint: it wasn’t always about, well, writing)

Why writing feels both deeply personal and inherently performative

How our biological fear of being seen still affects writers today

How ancient storytelling was closer to performance art than private reflection (and what that means for writers today).

Whether AI-generated writing is “real” writing—and how it’s already reshaping the creative process.

A Few Quotes:

"The writing process is loaded with moments of absolute joy—and absolute frustration." – Katie Wolf

"The fear of being seen keeps us from even doing the behind-the-scenes work of writing." – Nicole

"If you want to write a book, you want to write a book. AI can't do that for you." – Katie Wolf

"Writing is just telling the truth—over and over again, in different ways." – Nicole

Ways to Connect with Katie:

🔗 Follow Katie on Instagram & TikTok: @katiewolfwrites

🎙 Listen to Katie’s podcast, Your Big Creative Life

📚 Explore writing tips & coaching from Katie: thekatiewolf.com

Trailer: Season 3 (We're getting weirder)

Nicole Cloutier — Mon, 17 Mar 2025 04:44:00 -0400

Hi, welcome to season three of It's All Poetry.

My name is Nicole Cloutier, your host and resident word nerd... and for someone who her whole life has been told how quiet and shy she was and thought she would never ever start a podcast, this is a pretty exciting milestone.

So as we enter season three, I find myself re-reflecting on what this podcast actually is, why I'm doing it, why we're all here, what we're creating.

I did a lot of journaling, and here's what I've got for you: As you might already know, I run a copywriting studio as my "day job," which is something that I've been doing for more than a decade. And for a while in that business, I've been touting this line:

words are magic.

And when I say that in marketing, I mean "words are magic" in that they can alchemize into money if you know how to use them towards that end. But I also mean it quite literally, like In the makeup, in the erythral thing that words are made of, they are raw magic.

And being human is telling stories with those words. Stories about ourselves, stories about the world we live in. We even tell stories about the words that we use. Take money, for example, which is a word we will talk about this season . What stories do you tell yourself about that word? And these words, they all have past lives, if you will.

Some of them carry centuries old stories that we don't even consciously know, but we feel them. So one of our main purposes in this podcast to bring us back to our thesis is to look back at the past lives of words so that we can really understand them AND in doing so, lighten some of the power they have over us.

I'm sure you'd love to do that with a word like money, right? I know I would. Or productivity, or even scale, for my fellow business owners. And yes, we are going to be talking about all those words this season.

So, here we are. And that's what we're doing, and all I can promise you is that you'll learn something fun every episode, especially if you like words, but even if you don't.

And you'll meet my amazing guests who are mostly solopreneurs, small business owners, who use the words that we choose every day. And hey, if you ever want to chat with me about words, please send me an email. I'm always open to having discussions or bringing someone on as a guest Please do not hesitate to, to reach out.

And with that, welcome to season three of It's All Poetry. I can't wait to share these conversations with you.

28. What "intuition" looks like (with Lauren Levine)

Nicole Cloutier — Thu, 21 Nov 2024 04:44:00 -0500

Have you ever wondered if you even had an intuition? Or if it was buried under years and years of people-pleasing, shoulds, etc? That’s how I felt …. before this conversation. But not after.

Lauren Levine—a movement teacher, psychic medium, and someone whose intuition practically glows—opened my eyes to what intuition really is: a skill.

In this episode, we unpack what it means to connect with that quiet knowing inside of us, how to tell the difference between intuition and fear, and why your messy, beautiful life experiences might actually be sharpening your ability to hear it.

Tune in to learn…

Why intuition isn’t something you’re born with—it’s something you can grow.
What intuition feels like when it’s real.
How movement and mindfulness can help you hear your inner voice more clearly.
Why your past experiences might be helping, not hindering, your intuition. (This blew my mind).

Resources & Links:

Lauren’s Website: Explore Lauren Levine’s offerings in movement and psychic mediumship at LaurenLevineMovement.com.
Follow Lauren on Instagram: Daily insights and updates at @LaurenLevineMovement.
Resources on Intuition: Learn more about the science behind the caudate nucleus and its link to intuitive decision-making.

27. The art and heart of "design" (with Sarah Jutras)

Nicole Cloutier — Thu, 14 Nov 2024 04:44:00 -0500

What does “design” truly mean, and how does it shape more than just our screens? Sarah Jutras, founder of Huzzah Studio and creator of the "Freelance for Life" Substack, joins Nicole to take a deep dive into the expansive world of design—from user experience and app development to designing a fulfilling freelance life. With a journey rooted in childhood crafts and inspired by mentors and Italian art, Sarah reveals her unique philosophy of design as both a creative process and a plan for living with purpose.

In This Episode, You’ll Discover…

How Sarah’s early inspirations in design shape her approach to lifestyle design today
What it means to "design" a freelance career and why it’s about more than just aesthetics
The philosophical roots of design—from crafting family experiences to creating UI with impact
Insights into life-centered design and how it challenges traditional UX/UI for broader, meaningful outcomes

A Few Quotes:

“Everything is design. Everything.” — Paul Rand, echoed by Sarah Jutras
“Design is at the intersection of art and plan—it has life in it.”
“Freelancing is a creative practice; everything is an experiment.”
“Ultimately, all problems of design merge into one great problem: design for life.”

Further Research:

Sarah’s Substack and courses can be found at Freelance for Life – freelanceforlife.com
Check out Huzzah Studio – huzzah.studio
Resources on Paul Rand’s philosophy on design and “life-centered” UX

Ways to Contact or Connect with Sarah:

Website: huzzahstudio.com
Substack & courses: freelanceforlife.com
LinkedIn: Sarah Jutras

As Sarah reminds us, “everything is an experiment.” Consider how you design your days, your work, and your relationships. What would life look like if you brought the creativity of design into your own daily choices?

26. Landscapes, prayers, and other ordinary magic (with Cody Cook-Parrott)

Nicole Cloutier — Thu, 07 Nov 2024 04:44:00 -0500

When Cody Cook-Parrott joined me to explore the word "landscape," I thought we'd talk about pretty views and garden design. Instead, we discovered poetry hiding in 1800s dictionary definitions, learned that landscape is secretly related to friendship (what?), and somehow ended up having a fascinating conversation about compost. As one does.

In this episode you'll discover...

Why looking up old dictionary definitions might be Cody's new favorite hobby (the 1828 version is particularly delightful)
A fresh perspective on collaborating with land (and what that actually means)
The surprisingly (or not so surprisingly?) deep connection between prayer and creativity
A whole new way to think about the spaces we inhabit, both inside and out

The Goods

Cody's new book "Look About You: A Book of Ordinary Prayers" arrives November 19th! Pre-order by Nov 12th to get it release week:

⁠Through Cody's website⁠ (comes with thoughtfully chosen extras)
Or find it wherever books are sold online

If that link's not working, just head to Cody's website (www.codycookparrott.com) and click "Online Shop."

We also mentioned:

Agnes Varda's "The Beaches of Agnes" (which contains the most perfect quote about landscapes and memory)
"70 Degrees of Wisdom" by Rachel Pollack (for insights into ordinary magic)

Questions? Email me: ⁠itsallpoetry.podcast@gmail.com⁠

Want email reminders for this podcast? Head to nicolecopy.com/prompts

A small suggestion: After listening, you might want to spend some time watching leaves dance in the wind. Just putting that out there. 🍂

25: "Trust" is a basket of grapes (with Taylor Lecours)

Nicole Cloutier — Thu, 31 Oct 2024 04:44:00 -0400

So how is trust like a basket of grapes? Guess you have to listen to find out. :)

In this episode, Nicole sits down with Taylor LeCours, a fellow copywriter and brand strategist, to explore the word "trust" - diving deep into its meanings, etymology, and implications for both business and personal relationships. You’ll also get some impromptu (and very valuable!) copywriting lessons!

In this episode you'll learn:

How trust and hope are intertwined, and why both are essential? (up for debate!)
Why the etymology of "trust" feels more like an ingredients list than a progression.
Why trust points are becoming increasingly important in marketing.
How returning things you don't want builds your self-trust!
The delicate balance of building trust ethically in copywriting

Resources Mentioned:

Take Taylor's Brand Archetype Quiz: Available on her Instagram
Connect with Taylor on Instagram (especially during her current rebrand!) @theideahaven

Looking to connect further?

Connect with the It's All Poetry podcast team (i.e., Nicole!) at itsallpoetry.podcast@gmail.com
Sign up for weekly marketing prompts that don't feel gross at nicolecopy.com/prompts
Find show notes and links at nicolecopy.com/its-all-poetry

Music by Jack Pierce

24: "Intimacy" & power (with Shivani Mehta Bhatia)

Nicole Cloutier — Thu, 17 Oct 2024 04:44:00 -0400

"We all have it. We all have problems with it. We all want it. And we all also are really terrified of the ways in which we want it."

In this episode, Nicole Cloutier sits down with Shivani Mehta Bhatia, founder of Tulsi Strategies and host of the Intimate Practice podcast to talk about the word "intimacy."

Tune in to learn…

The etymology of "intimacy" and how it relates to both internal and external experiences
Why intimacy is not just about romantic relationships, but a fundamental aspect of human connection and self-understanding
How power dynamics and societal structures influence our capacity for intimacy
The interconnection between intimacy, vulnerability, and imagination in creating social change
Practical ways to develop "relational skills" and foster deeper connections with ourselves and others

Looking for more info about Shivani? Here's where you can find her:

Listen to Shivani's podcast, Intimate Practice, wherever you get your podcasts
Sign up for Shivani's newsletter at www.shivani.co
Check out "The People's Syllabus," Shivani's curated reading list for a liberatory revolutionary summer
Learn more about Shivani's work in equity and justice at Tulsi Strategies

Resources & Links:

All music is by Jack Pierce

Connect with the podcast team (i.e., Nicole!) at itsallpoetry.podcast@gmail.com

23. "Pleasure" = to be approved? (with Sarah Diedrick)

Nicole Cloutier — Thu, 03 Oct 2024 04:44:00 -0400

What if the word 'pleasure' has been whispering "approve me" all along?

Today, I'm thrilled to dive deep into a word that's more complicated than it seems: pleasure. In this episode, Sarah Diedrick (writer, sex educator, yoga teacher) and I explore the multifaceted nature of pleasure and its importance in our lives.

In this episode, you'll learn:

How the definition of pleasure has evolved over time and its connection to approval
The difference between seeking pleasure and being receptive to it
How our nervous system impacts our ability to experience pleasure
The cultural messages we receive about pleasure and how they shape our experiences
The importance of communication in relationships and pleasure
How pleasure intersects with work, rest, and daily life

Highlights from our conversation:

Sarah shares her journey of expanding her understanding of pleasure beyond just sex
We discuss the importance of playfulness and receptivity in experiencing pleasure
We explore how trauma and stress can impact our ability to be open to pleasure
We delve into the connection between pleasure and approval, and how it shapes our experiences
Sarah explains the differences between spontaneous and responsive desire, and how understanding these can improve relationships
We talk about the challenge of communicating our needs and desires, especially in intimate situations
We share our thoughts on the pleasure of food and how it connects to all our senses and community

Resources mentioned:

Emily Nagoski's book "Come As You Are"
Judith Lasseter's teachings on perception
Kara Lowenthal's thought work

Connect with Sarah:

Instagram: @sarahdiedrick
Newsletter: "Intimate Distance" on Substack

Connect with me at itsallpoetry.podcast@gmail.com And sign up for my weekly marketing prompts that don't feel gross at nicolecopy.com/prompts

22: "Performance" is a collective agreement (with Melinda Beck)

Nicole Cloutier — Thu, 26 Sep 2024 04:44:00 -0400

These days, "performance" is often used with a negative connotation. We don't want anything we do to look like a performance... we'd much rather be authentic.

But what if performance is necessary for collective growth and acknoledgement and celebration. That's Melinda Beck's argument — and honestly, I'm on board.

In this episode, you'll discover:

The surprising etymology of "performance" and how its definition has evolved over time.
Why performance isn't just about the stage - it's woven into our daily lives and social interactions
The complex world of "performing authenticity" in modern media and marketing
How performance serves as a powerful collective agreement and ritual in our society
A behind-the-scenes peek at the casting call process in voiceovers
Why we shouldn't give performance such a bad rap - it's actually a form of consideration for your audience
The mind-blowing way performance can literally sync heartbeats in an audience

Plus, Melinda shares a mini acting lesson that changed my perspective on what it means to truly perform.

Check out Melinda's work at artistmelindabeck.com
Give Melinda's audio fiction "Moss Hollow" a listen on most podcast platforms
Learn about the Belle of Louisville, where Melinda currently works in public programming

Connect with It's All Poetry:

Have thoughts about the episode? I'd love to hear from you! Email me at itsallpoetry.podcast@gmail.com
Want weekly marketing prompts that don't feel gross? Sign up at nicolecopy.com/prompts

21: It’s not failure… we’re going “fallow” (with Sarah Loertscher)

Nicole Cloutier — Thu, 19 Sep 2024 04:44:00 -0400

In this episode, I sit down with bookkeeper, jewelry designer, and budding mushroom farmer Sarah Loertscher, to explore the poetic (and yet also rather technical) word "fallow." Together, we unpack the complexities of creative rest, the shame often associated with taking breaks, and the natural cycles of productivity and regeneration.

In this episode you'll learn:

The etymology and varied meanings of "fallow," from its agricultural roots to its metaphorical applications in creative life
How to reframe periods of rest or non-productivity as necessary and natural, rather than as failure
The difference between choosing to go fallow and accidentally finding yourself in a fallow period
Why "quit" might be too harsh a word for creative pauses, and how "going fallow" offers a gentler alternative
The unexpected connections between farming, creativity, and personal growth
The challenge (and potential benefits) of doing absolutely nothing for two hours a day

Looking for more info about Sarah? Here's where you can find her:

Explore Sarah's jewelry work at sarahloertscher.com
Learn about her bookkeeping services at HeyPrism.com
Keep an eye out for updates on Cloverfield Farm, Sarah's mushroom farming venture
Connect with the It's All Poetry podcast team (i.e., Nicole!) at itsallpoetry.podcast@gmail.com
And sign up for weekly marketing prompts that don't feel gross at ⁠⁠nicolecopy.com/prompts

20: "Connection," human design, and friendship (with Kyle Wood)

Nicole Cloutier — Thu, 12 Sep 2024 04:44:00 -0400

Sometimes a word surprises me with how spiritual it is. Connection is one of those words. It seems to be a word without time or space. A web just connecting everything to everything else.

My guest is Kyle Wood, a business coach for group fitness instructors and also a human design coach.

As such, this episode covers quite some ground:

From Legos to friendship — what is connection really?
What role does Human Design play in the way we connect?
How has connection changed over time (think the internet, covid, etc)?
How do we deal with the pain of broken connections?
And more.

Resources & Links:

Learn more about Kyle Wood at bootcampideas.com
He also has his own podcast with a cohost called “Well Designed” (the human design one, not the interior design one 😉).
All music is by Jack Pierce
Connect with the podcast team (i.e., Nicole!) at itsallpoetry.podcast@gmail.com
Sign up for weekly marketing prompts that don’t feel gross here.

19: "Authenticity" - from murder to marketing (with Leanne Knight)

Nicole Cloutier — Thu, 25 Jul 2024 04:44:00 -0400

How did a word once meaning "murderer" become the holy grail of modern branding? In this episode, Nicole and guest Leanne Knight trace the surprising journey of "authentic" from its dark origins to its pivotal role in today's business world.

And a question: In a world obsessed with genuineness, how can we truly embody authenticity in our personal and professional lives?

In this episode you'll learn...

The fascinating etymology of "authentic" and how its meaning has evolved from "murderer" to "genuine self"
Why being "authentic" isn't just about doing whatever you want, and how it relates to personal ethics and responsibility
How to effectively use "authentic" in your marketing without sounding cliché
A fresh perspective on balancing selfishness and authenticity in both life and business

Where to find our guest:

Connect with Leanne on Instagram: @authenticvisionmedia
Find Leanne on LinkedIn: Leanne Knight
Join Leanne's free monthly Graphic Design Clinic: authenticvisionmedia.com/events
Learn more about Leanne's work: authenticvisionmedia.com

Resources

All music is by Jack Pierce
Connect with the podcast team (i.e., Nicole!) at itsallpoetry.podcast@gmail.com
Sign up for weekly marketing prompts that don’t feel gross here.

18: “Decolonization” & the legacy of the plantation in our workplace (with Podge Thomas)

Nicole Cloutier — Wed, 03 Jul 2024 04:44:00 -0400

In today’s episode, I sat down with the amazing Podge Thomas, founder of Small Business Co-Pilot. Our word? “Decolonization,” especially how it relates to our workplaces. I know it sounds heavy (and it is), but it’s also important,

Podge brings a unique perspective as a business strategist passionate about reimagining workplace practices. Our conversation covers:

The etymology and history of words like "colonize" and "decolonization"
How colonial legacies continue to influence our work environments
Practical approaches to reimagining hiring processes and other business systems
Using tools like Notion to build more equitable workplace structures

Podge's insights challenge us to question ingrained practices and envision more human-centered approaches to work. Her expertise reminds us that we don't have to replicate harmful corporate structures - we can create something better.

Key takeaways:

The importance of transparency in hiring processes
How to build trust from the first interaction with potential employees
Practical tips for decolonizing business operations

I'm grateful to Podge for sharing her wisdom and helping us reimagine what work can look like. Her perspective is invaluable as we strive to create more equitable and fulfilling work environments.

Resources mentioned:

Podge's website: smallbusinesscopilot.com
Email Podge: podge@smallbusinesscopilot.com
Free Employee Stewardship Guide: podge.gumroad.com

All music is by Jack Pierce

Connect with the podcast team (i.e., Nicole!) at itsallpoetry.podcast@gmail.com

17: Your "career" is not a race... or is it? (with Rianne BeCraft)

Nicole Cloutier — Thu, 13 Jun 2024 04:44:00 -0400

One of my favorite things about diving deep into words in these episodes is tracing how the history of the word affects the way we use it today. Even if that old definition feels incredibly different from what we know. “Career” is a perfect example.*

Today, I explore that word with career coach, Rianne BeCraft. I’ve worked with Rianne through some of my own career transitions, and I’m so excited to share a bit of their expertise with you.

*Hint: “rat race” is more apt than you think. 😉

In this episode you’ll learn…

The history of the word “career” and how that history created the way we view “careers” today.
How to approach “career” with intuitive pragmatism (it’s less of a contradiction than it sounds!).
A quick exercise that will help you make more intuitive decisions in your career.

Resources & Links:

Free Resource- The Meaningful Life Manual: 4 Critical Questions for Purpose-Driven People Who Want to Enjoy More in Life
Book a free, 30-minute consult call with Rianne (+ listeners get 20% off a single coaching session)
Rianne’s website: www.rbecraft.com
Instagram: @riannebecraft
We also talk about the work of Lindsay Mack, who you can learn more about here: www.lindsaymack.com

All music is by Jack Pierce

Connect with the podcast team (i.e., Nicole!) at itsallpoetry.podcast@gmail.com

16: "Revolution" - how cycles lead to change (with Lisa Jara)

Nicole Cloutier — Thu, 30 May 2024 04:44:00 -0400

At first glance, the two definitions of “revolution” might seem to contradict each other:

Motion of anything which brings it to the same point or state.
A material or entire change in the constitution of government.

The first definition implies a return to the same point repeatedly, while the second suggests a complete and abrupt change of course.

This week, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Lisa Jara, a menstrual and (peri)menopausal health activist for women and non-binary menstruators, to explore the rich and varied dimensions of the word "revolution." Lisa's work helps individuals navigate their cyclical experiences with more ease and self-trust, making her an ideal guest for this truly fascinating conversation.

Tune in to learn:

How the concept of revolution as a cyclical return can lead to profound changes in our lives.
The importance of acknowledging and working with our natural rhythms.
Insights into the personal and communal impacts of redefining and reclaiming the word "revolution."

Looking for more information about Lisa Jara? Here’s where to find her:

Learn more about Lisa Jara on her website lisa-jara.com (and don’t forget to sign up for her Moonday Musings newsletter—it’s a must-read!).
You can also find her on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook @_lisajara.

15: "Wilderness" - the word, the myth, the construct (with Erin Monahan)

Nicole Cloutier — Fri, 17 May 2024 04:44:00 -0400

In this episode of "It's All Poetry," Nicole and guest Erin Monahan explore the complex and dangerous implications of the word (and construct) "wilderness."

This discussion delves deep into the colonial roots and violent connotations associated with "wilderness," as well as its intersection with issues of race, privilege, and systemic oppression. Erin, a trauma-informed coach and activist, shares insights on how these themes connect to broader social justice movements, including the rights of indigenous peoples and environmental justice.

Tune in in order to...

Unpack the word "wilderness" and discover how it shapes our understanding of nature and culture.
Dive into the myths surrounding "wilderness" and how they influence environmental and social policies.
Examine how "wilderness" serves as a construct that affects global discussions on freedom and occupation.
Gain insights into the implications of viewing nature through a colonial lens and the importance of decolonizing our perspectives.

Mentioned in this episode:

Feminist Killjoy Propaganda Summit: An upcoming event featuring discussions that will continue this conversation in more depth, with more voices.
Get your exclusive 15% discount for the summit here: https://terracollective.podia.com/?coupon=FUCKJOHNMUIR

Resources for Continuing the Conversation (notes by Erin):

Jolie Varela of Indigenous Women Hike
Reclaiming the Nüümü Poyo (The People's Trail), or the so-called John Muir Trail
Terra Incognita Media website
Five Weeks of Feminist Killjoy Propaganda! 15% off with coupon code: FUCKJOHNMUIR
The Terra Podcast episode 13: Nature is Political and John Muir's Racist Legacy
Free Resource! Toxic Masculinity in the Outdoor Industry Cheat Sheet
Terra Incognita Media Instagram @terraincognitamedia
Erin Monahan's website and Instagram @erin.k.monahan as a trauma-informed, anti-capitalist mindset and business coach
Zitkala-Sa was John Muir's contemporary and Indigenous writer and activist: https://www.pbs.org/wnet/americanmasters/zitkala-sa-american-indian-composer-author-activist-qqjsyq/15380/
https://www.nps.gov/people/zitkala-sa.htm
"The Soft-Hearted Sioux" a short story about the impact of Indian boarding schools and ongoing colonization by Zitkala-Sa
Harriet Jacobs was a Black writer and abolitionist and also a contemporary: https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/aia/part4/4p2923.html
Seeing White podcast hosted by John Biewan and Chenjarai Kumenyika, and The Repair, which the first episode dives into exactly what we were discussing!
Episode 1 is called "In the Beginning" -- I get chills when I listen to this episode! Both series are by Scene on Radio out of Duke University.
Dispossessing the Wilderness by Mark David Spence

14: The curious history of "hypnosis" (with Laurnie Wilson)

Nicole Cloutier — Thu, 02 May 2024 04:44:00 -0400

What do you think of when you hear the word “hypnosis?” Is it a on-stage comedy act? Or a deep healing modality?

This week, I was so honored to sit down with Laurnie Wilson, a seasoned hypnotherapist, yoga teacher, and intuitive guide, to explore the history, transformative power, and misunderstood aspects of the word (and practice) “hypnosis.”

Diving into this word also served as a good reminder that often the practices we, well, practice today, are much older than the English word we use to identify it.

Tune in to learn…

The evolution of “hypnosis” from ancient practices to modern therapeutic techniques.
Common misconceptions about hypnosis and how the history of the word has influenced our perception of the word today (hint: it's about so much more than "sleep").
Insights into the cultural and personal narratives that shape our understanding of hypnosis.
A few practical tips for getting started with hypnosis, even if it sounds a bit scary.

Looking for more info about Laurnie Wilson? Here’s where to find her:

Learn more about Laurnie Wilson on her website laurniewilson.com (don’t forget to sign up for her newsletter. It’s awesome!)
You can also find her on Instagram @laurnie.wilson
Or on TikTok @laurnie.wilson

All music is by Jack Pierce

Connect with the podcast team (i.e., Nicole!) at itsallpoetry.podcast@gmail.com

13. "Listening" is a tender act (with Amelia Hruby)

Nicole Cloutier — Thu, 25 Apr 2024 04:44:00 -0400

Today, Nicole Cloutier is thrilled to sit down with Amelia Hruby, a writer, podcaster, and founder of the feminist podcast studio, Softer Sounds. Together, they explore a word we so often take for granted... "listen."

In this episode you'll learn...

The etymology, history, and rich philosophical nuances of the word "listen."

How listening—more than just hearing—is an act of tending (and attending) that can transform our understanding of the world around us.
Why "active listening" is actually a redundant phrase (and why deep listening is much more rewarding for all involved).

Looking for more info about Amelia? Here's where you can find her:

Discover Amelia's work in creating more inclusive and thoughtful media spaces at softersounds.studio
Learn more about Amelia's other projects and writings at ameliahruby.com
Learn how to ditch social media without losing all your clients on Amelia's podcast: offthegrid.fun

Connect with the It's All Poetry podcast team (i.e., Nicole!) at itsallpoetry.podcast@gmail.com

And sign up for weekly marketing prompts that don’t feel gross at ⁠nicolecopy.com/prompts

12: To "embody," to collect into a whole (with Elle Bower Johnston)

Nicole Cloutier — Thu, 18 Apr 2024 04:44:00 -0400

"Embody" is a popular word in the spiritual and online realm -- which makes it a very important word to get to know a bit better. And there is no one better to explore this word with than the one and only Elle Bower Johnston.

Elle is a breath work specialist, rest teacher, embodiment guide, and body witch. Together, Nicole and Elle tackle what it means to "embody" our experiences, why we should do it in the first place, and what being a body even means...

...you know, the little questions.

In this episode you'll learn:

The meaning of "embody" and its significance in personal and spiritual contexts.
Personal stories from Elle on how breathwork has been a transformative tool for her and her clients.
The vital connection between individual well-being and collective health.
Practical advice on starting your own embodiment and breathwork practices.

Resources & Links:

You can learn more about Elle at their website: ellebowerjohnston.com

Connect with the podcast team (i.e., Nicole!) at itsallpoetry.podcast@gmail.com
And sign up for weekly marketing prompts that don’t feel gross at nicolecopy.com/prompts

11: Reflections (& advice?!) on starting a podcast

Nicole Cloutier — Tue, 19 Mar 2024 04:44:00 -0400

When I started this podcast, I promised myself that I would commit to 8 episodes, and here we are! Episode 11!

So I thought I would take a moment to celebrate AND check-in. I'll tell you what I've loved so far, what I didn't love, and what I'm going to do differently moving forward (because spoiler alert, I'm gonna keep going!).

This episode is for anyone who’s been thinking of starting a podcast, been putting off starting a podcast, who thinks they’d never start a podcast but are willing to be swayed, or you know... anyone who’s just curious.

(There's also an open invitation to pitch me if you want to do my social media... pls!)

Links and Resources:

In this episode we talk about the tools I use (Audacity + Spotify for Podcasters + Zoom).
I also mention this resource that helped me get started: Softer Sound's 8 simple steps to launching a podcast

And we still have a couple spots left in my upcoming workshop: Copy is a story is a story (a workshop).

https://www.nicolecopy.com/workshop

10: Wishing on a genie (a copywriting lesson) 🧞

Nicole Cloutier — Tue, 12 Mar 2024 04:44:00 -0400

Today is a rare solo-episode / mini-copywriting lesson all about learning how to craft your words with the same precision and care of making wishes on a genie.

Tune in to learn:

My most crucial (yet often misunderstood) copywriting tip.
Exactly how to create the kind of copy that turns words into money.
All about an opportunity write better copy, make friends, and work 1:1 with Nicole.

More info on the workshop at nicolecopy.com/workshop

All music is by Jack Pierce

Connect with the podcast team (i.e., Nicole!) at itsallpoetry.podcast@gmail.com

9: Where does the "self" begin — or end? (with Jenine Camins)

Nicole Cloutier — Tue, 05 Mar 2024 04:44:00 -0500

You are a "self..." right? But what does that mean exactly? And if we don't know the meaning of self, then can we even begin to fathom the meaning of "self-care"? These are just some of the questions we tackle in today's episode with guest, Jenine Camins.

Jenine is a life coach who specializes in guiding women through personal and professional transitions.

Tune in to learn...

The history and etymology of a word that has perhaps the MOST profound impact on who we are and the way we live.
How self-awareness acts as the foundation for navigating life's transitions, from career changes to personal development.
The role of self-compassion and acceptance in overcoming challenges and building a fulfilling life.
How the idea of "self" varies across culture and time... and how important that is to the way we treat each other.

Resources mentioned:

Bruce Feiler's Concept of "Lifequakes"
The meaning of "self" across cultures
Jenine's Free Self-Talk Guide

All music is by Jack Pierce

Connect with the podcast team (i.e., Nicole!) at itsallpoetry.podcast@gmail.com

8: Life is an act of "translation" (with Amy Hallberg)

Nicole Cloutier — Tue, 27 Feb 2024 04:44:00 -0500

In Webster’s 1828 dictionary, “translate” is first defined as: “To bear, carry or remove from one place to another.” Isn’t this a fascinating way to think about the way we use the word today to talk about language? It evokes travels, evolutions, even the hero’s journey to the underworld and back…

In today’s episode, Nicole and her expert guest, Amy Hallberg, do a deep dive on the word “translate,” and what it means to us now and through time.

Tune in to learn…

How the concept of translation extends beyond language, influencing our understanding of culture, identity, and self-expression.
The historical and personal significance of translation in Amy's life, including the impact of the Berlin Wall's division on language and culture in Germany.
Insights into the evolution of the word "translate" and its profound implications in various contexts, from culture and literature to technology and medicine.
What the word “translate” means when it comes to our bodies and our health (aka DNA translation!)

Learn more about Amy Hallberg at www.amyhallberg.com. Here, you can find more information about her work as a story coach, book writing mentor, and author.

Amy Hallberg also hosts the "Courageous Wordsmith" podcast, which can be found on your favorite podcast platform.

Mentioned Resources:

Webster's Dictionary, 1828 Edition. Octavia Butler's "Parable of the Sower"
The How Stuff Works episode that talks about DNA translation: How mRNA Vaccines Work
All music is by Jack Pierce
Connect with the podcast team (i.e., Nicole!) at itsallpoetry.podcast@gmail.com
Sign up for weekly marketing prompts that don’t feel gross here.

7: The language of dreams (with Rachel Strivelli)

Nicole Cloutier — Tue, 20 Feb 2024 04:44:00 -0500

Ever wake up from a dream so vivid you swear it was real? Or have you woken with just one word or image swirling around in your brain that you can’t quite make sense of? This week, Nicole Cloutier is thrilled to host Rachel Strivelli, an intuitive guide and author of "Talk to the Trees," who brings her wealth of knowledge on dreams, psychic intuition, and the transformative power of art.

Tune in to hear…

All about the fascinating language of dreams and how it differs from the language we use everyday.
Practical advice on how to build self-trust with your own dream language so that dreams can help you make decisions in your waking life.
The role of dreams as a boundless source of creativity — and examples from history.
An impromptu copywriting lesson for sales pages (odd topic for dreams, I know, but I promise it'll make sense!)

Resources & Links:

Where you can find Rachel: rachelstrivelli.com

Rachel's Social Media: Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Facebook, and LinkedIn @RachelStrivelli
All music is by Jack Pierce
Connect with the podcast team (i.e., Nicole!) at itsallpoetry.podcast@gmail.com
Sign up for weekly marketing prompts that don’t feel gross here.

6: Everyone loves to hate on "should" — and other words (with Elise Aabakken)

Nicole Cloutier — Tue, 13 Feb 2024 04:44:00 -0500

Words, like all living things, evolve. Which means they also branch away from each other and sometimes you have to look at a word from multiple angles, and in multiple languages, to get a full picture of what it means and the effect it has on those of us who speak it.

In this episode I'm joined by Elise Aabakken — who is a coach, a dancer, an artist, and performer at Disneyland Paris, and a speaker of many languages.

Today we focus on four words. Tune in to learn:

Why everyone loves to hate on "should." Is this something we should get on board with or re-examine?
One word that might serve us better than lusting after "confidence"
The difference between "want" and "desire" and which one you might want to aim for.

Where you can find Elise:

Resources & Links:

All music is by Jack Pierce
Connect with the podcast team (i.e., Nicole!) at itsallpoetry.podcast@gmail.com
Get your copy of Mapping Your Content By The Moon: nicolecopy.com/moon

5: Poetry in times of turmoil (with Mazarine Treyz)

Nicole Cloutier — Tue, 06 Feb 2024 04:44:00 -0500

I’m going to be honest, we go a lot of places in this episode. The throughline? Poetry. Poetry and how we organize our values, poetry and rituals, poetry and manifestation, poetry at the end of a crumbling empire…

I told you. We touch on a lot. Tune in to hear:

Why we (i.e., humans) choose “words of the year” — and another ritual you might want to try.
A few poems! And how poetry defies timelines.
Why poetry and art matter (on both a global AND personal scale) in times like these.

Resources & Links:

Learn more about today’s guest at https://mazarinetreyz.com

The poem she reads at the end is “From the French” from her chapbook, The Faberge Wrecking Ball

Mazarine also read:

Boundless Awareness by Michael A Rodriguez, pg 160, 176
Calligraphy, Midnight on Your Left by John Godfrey
A Ringing Bell, Pierre Reverdy, Selected Poems Translated by Kenneth Rexroth
Who Am I VIII, The Tame Magpie by Paul Violi

Mentioned:

A Cultural History of the Modern Age by Egon Friedell

Oxen Should Have Very Small Foreheads, The Pillow Book of Shei Shonagon The List Poem by Larry Fagin

Quotes:

"The Role of the Artist is to Make the Revolution Irresistible" - Toni Cade Bambara

All music is by Jack Pierce

Connect with the podcast team (i.e., Nicole!) at itsallpoetry.podcast@gmail.com

Sign up for weekly marketing prompts that don’t feel gross here.

4: Ethics & Copywriting — aka "The Marketing Ick" (with Cleoniki Kesidis)

Nicole Cloutier — Tue, 30 Jan 2024 10:41:00 -0500

The marketing ick — we all suffer from it from time to time (yes, even a couple of well seasoned copywriters). For Nicole, the ick caused her to actually quit copywriting for a few years. She likes to think she came back better for it, but the truth is that ethical marketing requires constant check-ins.

That's part of what fellow copywriter Cleoniki Kesidis and Nicole get into on this episode.

Tune in to learn…

Why we feel so icky about marketing (and how you can do it anyway).
A very (very) brief historical overview of marketing as we know it today (and why the mad men of all mad men might have been right about a few things?)
Some marketing practices you should 100% avoid if you want long-term growth.
Cleo’s #1 practical tip for ethical copywriting.

Resources & Links:

Learn more about Cleo (and sign up for her upcoming workshop!) at https://cekcopywriting.com/write-your-heart-out-workshop/
We also talked about our mutual admiration for Simone Seol
And a copywriting course that we took together (where we met!), the Comprehensive Copywriting Academy
All music is by Jack Pierce
Connect with the podcast team (i.e., Nicole!) at itsallpoetry.podcast@gmail.com
Sign up for weekly marketing prompts that don’t feel gross here.

3: Everyone's talking about "somatics." Here's exactly what it is and how it can help you heal (with Jesse Rosenblum)

Nicole Cloutier — Tue, 23 Jan 2024 04:44:00 -0500

“Somatics” — such a hot word right now. It feels like every other TikTok therapist is talking about it. Which on one hand is great — we love that people are paying more attention to their bodies. But before we get caught up in meme culture, let’s take a step back and dive into what somatics really means and how it can be a part of your healing journey.

In today’s episode, certified Somatic Practitioner Jesse Rosenblum teaches us:

What somatics actually is and what you can expect from somatic therapy.
How to recognize the body as not just a physical entity, but as the primary medium through which we experience life (a central theme in somatic therapy).
How somatics differs from other body-centered practices like yoga.
How to apply the principles of somatics to your branding so that you can market your business in a way that feels good.

Resources & Links:

Learn more about Jesse at liminalsoma.com
Jesse is also on Instagram at @liminalsoma
Jesse mentions the book Anchored by Deb Dana for further research
All music is by Jack Pierce
Connect with the podcast team (i.e., Nicole!) at itsallpoetry.podcast@gmail.com

2: "Beauty," marketing, and Helena Rubenstein (with Alicia Maxwell)

Nicole Cloutier — Tue, 16 Jan 2024 14:46:55 -0500

“Beauty” … such a loaded word, isn’t it? (I hear it’s even been known to sink a ship or two.)

No matter what we think we think about "beauty," the truth is that the concept impacts EVERYTHING in our lives — from art to the environment to our health to the way we spend our dollars and the way we see ourselves.

This week, I chat with Alicia Maxwell (aka your beauty bestie) about the words we use when we talk about beauty so that we can view this broad and ever-relevant topic from a new angle.

A few things we touch on:

The history behind the word “beauty” and its impact on, well, the way we live (nbd, right?).
The inseparability of beauty and marketing, including Helena’s Rubenstein’s invention of “oily,” “dry,” and “combination” skin. Maybe you’ve heard of them?
Beauty’s role in our health and sustainability — ie, can we really trust the brands that call themselves “green?”

Resources & Links:

Learn more about our guest, Alicia Maxwell, here: https://youronlinebeautybestie.com/cleanbeauty
All music is by Jack Pierce
Connect with the podcast team (i.e., Nicole!) at itsallpoetry.podcast@gmail.com
Sign up for weekly marketing prompts that don’t feel gross here.

1: Why a podcast about words?

Nicole Cloutier — Fri, 05 Jan 2024 03:33:00 -0500

Words! The building blocks of our societies, beliefs, the way we view our lives and those we share our lives with.

Today, we’re just breaking the ice with a little chat about why so many of us think we’re not good writers — and how we can change that so that we can, you know, build our lives as we’d like to.

It’s short, sweet, and will set you up for our course of study on language.

Resources & Links:

I mention an excerpt from Daniel Woodrell’s Winter’s Bone (a great read).
All music is by Jack Pierce
Connect with the podcast team (i.e., Nicole!) at itsallpoetry.podcast@gmail.com
Sign up for weekly marketing prompts that don’t feel gross here.

Getting your messaging ready for the new year? Here's a free tarot spread to create congruent messaging in 2024 (and, ya know, beyond).

0: It's All Poetry - The Words That Build Our Worlds

Nicole Cloutier — Sun, 03 Dec 2023 10:46:11 -0500

Welcome to It's All Poetry, a podcast about words and how we use them. I know, big topic! Ultimately, my goal is for you to fall so deeply in love with words that you can use them to create a world that you want to live in — whether that's by making money off of your own product, negotiating a raise, or writing a poem that brings a whole auditorium to tears.

Words are magic and if you don't believe that yet, let me show you.

My name is Nicole Cloutier and I'm a copywriter with over a decade of experience helping brands and people make money through words. I also teach entrepreneurs how to use words build connections and make money in their own businesses.

Links & Resources

Music is by Jack Pierce
Sign up for free weekly marketing prompts at nicolecopy.com/prompts