Poet Business Institute

diVERSES
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How do you turn into a professional poet, using poetry as a vehicle to financial and creative freedom? Poet Business Institute consists of talks and workshops centered around craft development, voice development, and business development focused on poetry. I'm Geoff Anderson (@geoffandersonstensentences), a Cave Canem fellow, a Callaloo fellow, and founder of a pronunciation business, Fluent American. All of the lessons I've learned from running my own business I am applying to poetry. Let me show you the paths I'm taking, the experiments I'm testing, and the lessons I'm learning.

  1. How To Make Your Poetry Discoverable By Partnering

    1d ago

    How To Make Your Poetry Discoverable By Partnering

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

    14 min
  2. How To Read Poems Aloud Better (For Slam Or Page)

    2d ago

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

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

    25 min
  3. Should Your 9-5 Be Art (Even Poetry?!)

    3d ago

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

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

    19 min
  4. 3 Signs Art Should Be Your Job (Or Your Hobby)

    4d ago

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

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

    21 min
  5. Why A Product Is Not An Artist's Enemy

    Jun 9

    Why A Product Is Not An Artist's Enemy

    How can poets and artists stop selling their time and start building a sustainable business? In this episode of the Creative Companionship Book Club, we dive into Step 3 of Daniel Priestley’s "Key Person of Influence": Product Ecosystems.We explore how to redefine "products" as insights and ideas, and how you can create a multi-level ecosystem—from free content like YouTube videos to premium coaching and digital products. If you’ve ever felt like "productizing" your art feels too commercial, this video will show you a more authentic way to scale your creative work.In this video, you’ll learn:Why your most valuable product isn't your time, but your insights.How to build an ecosystem that feeds itself (with examples).The difference between digital products and services for artists.10 essential questions to ask before you launch any new creative offer.How to specialize by linking poetry with other niches.Welcome to the Creative Companionship Book Club, where we take business texts and discuss how to use their techniques to create a poetry business we'd be proud to run. This is our third dive into Daniel Priestley's Key Person Of Influence, which is a book centered on finding ways to stand out and provide unique insights and help in our field of interest so that we are competing against no one. *Welcome also to our poetry channel at diVERSES! Whether you're a seasoned poetry enthusiast or just beginning your journey into writing, this discussion will help inform your development in poetry🔍 What You'll Discover:The importance of questioning while reading poetry.Practical tips for asking insightful questions.How questioning enhances comprehension and appreciation.Examples of question-driven analysis applied to popular poems.Strategies for incorporating questioning into your own reading practice.The broader benefits of critical thinking fostered through poetic inquiry.🎓 Join us as we embark on a journey of discovery through the rich landscapes of poetry, where every question unlocks a new layer of meaning and understanding. Don't miss out on this opportunity to deepen your connection with literature and broaden your perspective on life.Let's embark on this poetic journey together and uncover the profound truths that lie within the lines. Share your thoughts and insights in the comments below—we'd love to hear from you!diVERSES was founded by poet Geoff Anderson in Columbus, Ohio to help writers achieve creative and financial independence #poetry #CreativeCompanionship #diverses00:00 – Intro: Why you already have a product00:44 – Daniel Priestley’s Step 3: Product Ecosystems01:49 – Real-world example from personal experience03:44 – Defining the functions of your product levels04:20 – A new definition of "Product" for artists05:12 – Why ideas need to spread (Seth Godin reference)06:40 – Digital products vs. Services08:00 – The advantages of productizing your art10:52 – Two types of products to start with11:51 – The power of delaying "the ask"13:04 – Why you should share your secrets14:09 – Specializing: Linking art with another niche15:52 – 10 questions to ask before you launch19:01 – Final thoughts and next steps#diverses #creativecompanionship #poetry

    19 min
  6. 4 Myths Poets Believe About Business

    Jun 6

    4 Myths Poets Believe About Business

    Are you an artist or poet who feels like "business" is a dirty word? In this video, we dive into four common myths that hold creatives back from reaching their full potential and achieving financial independence.We often hear that selling cheapens art or that "real" artists shouldn't have to market themselves. But the truth is, if you believe your work can improve people's lives, you have a responsibility to get it in front of them. Join us as we refute these misconceptions and explore how to view business as an act of generosity toward your audience.In this video, we cover:The Psychology of Pricing: Why charging for your art actually enriches the story and connects you with the right audience.Marketing as Advocacy: Why your role as an artist includes getting your work seen by those who need it most.The Myth of "Good Work" Finding its Way: How to stand out in an abundant world by leaning into your unique "Blue Ocean."Business without Manipulation: How to serve the "smallest viable audience" with integrity and choice.Resources For Your Poetry Business: The Semester Playlist: A free guide on this channel to help you start living on your own terms: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aq8WM0VbKq4&list=PLdlbw-VbM6baqZYsq__SRZU9AABsNUQ5C&index=16The Semester Workbook: Coming soon! A practical guide to help you achieve creative and financial independence.00:00 - Introduction: Addressing negativity towards business in art00:27 - Refutation 1: Does selling cheapen the art?01:28 - The psychology of buying and what it says about the consumer03:51 - Refutation 2: Do "real" artists need to market themselves?04:24 - Identifying your audience: Creating for yourself vs. others05:47 - The responsibility of the artist to advocate for their work06:26 - Refutation 3: If my work is good enough, will people find it?08:09 - Exploring the "Blue Ocean" concept for unique artistic positioning09:39 - Refutation 4: Is business inherently manipulative?10:45 - Serving the "smallest viable audience" through generosity12:36 - Conclusion and resources for creative independenceWelcome to the Poet Business Institute series, where we discuss the needs and considerations involved in living on poetry. Whether it is understanding basic business principles or mindsets, creating a poetry offer to give to the world, or understanding what's involved in starting a poetry career, the Poet Business Institute is here to bring you closer to your artistic life goals.#poetry #poetbusinessinstitute #diversesdiVERSES was founded by poet Geoff Anderson in Columbus, Ohio to help writers achieve creative and financial independenceGet a free audio/mp3/podcast version at https://open.spotify.com/show/4vAdMbaunOPziRoovm0K5PWrite with us at the Substation! www.diversespoetry.com/aboutsubstation

    13 min
  7. How To Collaborate With Artists (& What to Expect)

    Jun 4

    How To Collaborate With Artists (& What to Expect)

    This is the full conversation with poet Erin Boggs and poet Geoff AndersonIf you're just here for part 3, head on over to 28:00If you want to publish mixed media, nontraditional poetry or writing, there are challenges! There's formatting, there's distribution, there's finding the publisher or self-publishing, there's editing! To make the process of publishing nontraditional work and mixed-media easier, diVERSES's founder poet Geoff Anderson enters into discussion with poet Erin Boggs (https://erinboggs.art/) to discuss the strategy she used to create a book of translation, poetry, art, and music called A Journey Of Iceland. Erin's background in publishing and international connections have helped her release a one-of-a-kind work that can give you the inspiration and tips you need to bring your own unique work into the world.Welcome to our channel! In this video, we delve into the captivating world of poetry, exploring how asking questions while reading can unveil its hidden treasures and profound truths. Whether you're a seasoned poetry enthusiast or just beginning your journey into verse, this discussion will inspire you to approach poetry with curiosity and insight.🔍 What You'll Discover:The importance of questioning while reading poetry.Practical tips for asking insightful questions.How questioning enhances comprehension and appreciation.Examples of question-driven analysis applied to popular poems.Strategies for incorporating questioning into your own reading practice.The broader benefits of critical thinking fostered through poetic inquiry.🎓 Join us as we embark on a journey of discovery through the rich landscapes of poetry, where every question unlocks a new layer of meaning and understanding. Don't miss out on this opportunity to deepen your connection with literature and broaden your perspective on life.Get a free audio/mp3/podcast version at https://open.spotify.com/show/4vAdMbaunOPziRoovm0K5PWrite with us at the Substation: www.diversespoetry.com/aboutsubstation#poetry #poem #diversesLet's embark on this poetic journey together and uncover the profound truths that lie within the lines. Share your thoughts and insights in the comments below—we'd love to hear from you!diVERSES poetry was founded by poet Geoff Anderson is currently based in Columbus, Ohio

    41 min
  8. Why 19th Century Poets Wrote Instagram Poetry

    Jun 4

    Why 19th Century Poets Wrote Instagram Poetry

    In this episode of Fine Print, we’re giving a close read to Emerson’s "This Is My Wish For You." While he’s a pillar of the literary canon, a modern look at his work reveals some surprising challenges—and techniques—that every poet should know when submitting to journals today.In this video, we break down:The "Instagram Poetry" Label: Why short, rhythmic poems are often pigeonholed and how to add complexity to your work.Mastering Meter & Rhythm: How Emerson uses dactyls and trochees to suggest order, and why breaking your own meter can create powerful tension.The Power of a Title: Why the title "This Is My Wish For You" might be doing more work than any other line in the poem.Finding "The Turn" (Volta): Why editors look for that 2/3 mark shift and how to move from concrete moments to self-actualization (using Maslow’s Hierarchy as a guide!).Pattern Subversion: How to identify the repetitive habits in your own writing and subvert them to grab an editor's attention.Whether you're writing for a traditional journal or a social media feed, understanding these structural "rules" can help your poetry resonate more deeply.New to Fine Print? Every Wednesday at 11AM New York, we take a close look at a single poem to learn more about the craft of poetry. If you'd like to join me on screen to analyze a piece, reach out in the comments!Check out another Fine Print episode where we focus on the importance of word choice on emotion: https://youtube.com/live/Sflbi0kNDe4Or where we talk about agency and which characters are in control in a poem: https://youtu.be/V20Q55GjvzYGet a free audio/mp3/podcast version at https://open.spotify.com/show/4vAdMbaunOPziRoovm0K5PWrite with us at the Substation: www.diversespoetry.com/aboutsubstation0:00 - Intro: Would Emerson be published in 2026?0:59 - Reading: "This Is My Wish For You"1:35 - Modern context: Is this "Instagram Poetry"?2:03 - Analyzing the meter and rhythm3:12 - Using meter to suggest order vs. tension4:04 - The "Greatest Tension": Title vs. Reality6:51 - Looking for "The Turn" (Voltas) in poetry7:27 - From concrete moments to self-actualization9:01 - Final Verdict: Would it get published today?10:19 - Subverting patterns in your own writing10:59 - Outro and Community Question#diverses #fineprint #poetry

    12 min
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About

How do you turn into a professional poet, using poetry as a vehicle to financial and creative freedom? Poet Business Institute consists of talks and workshops centered around craft development, voice development, and business development focused on poetry. I'm Geoff Anderson (@geoffandersonstensentences), a Cave Canem fellow, a Callaloo fellow, and founder of a pronunciation business, Fluent American. All of the lessons I've learned from running my own business I am applying to poetry. Let me show you the paths I'm taking, the experiments I'm testing, and the lessons I'm learning.

Information

  • Creator
    diVERSES
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    301
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © diVERSES
  • Show Website
    Poet Business Institute