In this episode of The Attitude Lounge Podcast, I sit down with Arielle Arbushites, MSW, LSW, CPLC, ACHP-SW, a poet, published writer, and social worker whose work beautifully brings together storytelling, connection, grief, and the experiences that shape our lives. As a writer, Arielle’s poetry collection, Toast While the World Burns, was recently published by Bottlecap Press, and her work has also appeared in professional journals. Her first book "cracking at the Heels" was her first poetry collection sold in 2024. She has two more books being published by two different presses later this year (2026). Poetry is one of the ways she gives voice to thoughts, emotions, and lived experiences. She also brings her voice and perspective to The Cozy Corner Counseling Services as a blog writer, using the written word to explore topics that connect with everyday life and emotional well-being. As a social worker specializing in hospice and grief, Arielle supports individuals and families through some of life’s most tender moments. That same compassion carries into her community service work with seniors at Heather Glen Assisted Living, where she spends time listening to residents, helping preserve their life stories, memories, and reflections, and even writing personalized poetry for some of the residents. Through stories, letters, and poetry, she helps turn their experiences into meaningful words that can be treasured and shared. We talk about the intersection of writing, grief, memory, purpose, and legacy, and the importance of slowing down, listening, and creating space for people to tell the stories that matter to them. Because every life holds a story, and your story matters. Arielle's book, Toast While the World Burns, is availableto order through Bottlecap Press. Be sure to follow Arielle's work on socia media to stay connected with her writing, poetry, and latest projects @Writingthewayhome Youtube, Instagram and Facebook. B-Roll Photo Credits: Photography and video featured in this episode courtesy of @girldadcolin and @writingmywayhome Remember: Asking for help is not a sign of weakness. Knowing when you need support, and taking the step to seek it, is part of honoring your mental health and staying true to yourself. If you are in need of immediate assistance, please contact your local crisis county hotline, go to your nearest emergency room, or call 911. County Resources: Lehigh County Crisis Intervention: 610-782-3127 Northampton Country Crisis Intervention: 1-610-252-9060 Carbon County Crisis Intervention: (610) 377-0773 Monroe County Crisis Intervention: (570) 421-2901 Pikes Country Crisis Intervention: (570) 296-6484 National Resources: National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255 National Crisis Text Line: Text741741 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call/Text 988 The Attitude Lounge experience is made even more special through the generosity of our amazing community partners; Earthshine Holistics, Halo Scent Fragrance Bar, Panchita’s Kitchen, and Bea’s Baked Art! 💛 Thank you for being part of The Attitude Lounge family and helping us make every guest feel welcomed, valued, and celebrated! You may support this podcast by subscribing to YouTube, and following us on Instagram, Facebook, & TikTok Thank you, AdDiTude