The Art Box - Episode 470 - Grand Lodge Writers Retreat with Minadora and Tammy - A Fabulous Chat

What happens when two creatives, brought together by friendship and a shared belief in the transformative power of writing, decide to create a place where creativity can breathe? In this episode of The Art Box, Steve welcomes Tammy Bendetti and Minadora Macheret, founders of the Grand Lodge Writer's Retreat in Grand Junction, Colorado. Tammy, an award-winning poet whose work celebrates cycles, motherhood, and the natural world, and Minadora, an accomplished poet, educator, and university professor whose writing explores inheritance, grief, disability, and folklore, share the remarkable story of how a social media friendship became a creative partnership with a mission to help writers slow down, reconnect, and rediscover their voices. Together, they discuss the writing process, the importance of creative community, the value of silence, and why some of our best work begins when we simply give ourselves permission to listen. More than a conversation about writing, this episode explores friendship, vulnerability, and the belief that creativity flourishes when we make room for wonder, reflection, and one another. Whether you're an experienced writer or someone who has always dreamed of putting words on a page, you'll leave inspired to embrace your own creative journey. Find our more about the Grand Lodge Writers Retreat at: https://www.grandlodgewritersretreat.com/