MAKE POETRY WEIRD AGAIN

Nols sits down in the crypt in february with Hebah Aboud and Cassie with a special feature from Richie Bliss of Ava' Word.Hebah Aboud is a poet, writer and community organiser. She runs poetry events in Rome and London. Check out @ancharnia for her poetry events. Cassie is a writer, art consultant and creative director from London @ceceqtRich Bliss is a poet and open mic host from London checkout @richblisswords and @avawordpoetryThis episode is from the original residency @thecryptgallerylondon in february 2026 before the first Hold Space Festival in April. We are back at the crypt gallery for our next residency and festival 1-6th October 2026.Unlike other podcast episodes this is a long conversation about all areas of life, faith and pain. Poetry gets in through the cracks.Being a field recording the editing has been difficult and the atmospheric sounds of the crypt seeps in.See tickets below to our next festivalHOLD SPACE POETRY FESTIVAL OPENING CEREMONY Tickets, Thursday 1 October • 7 PM - 9 PM | EventbriteHOLD SPACE POETRY FESTIVAL DAY TICKET Tickets | Multiple Dates @ Crypt Gallery, London | Pay What You Can to £11 | OutSavvyWe are fundraising for the festival with the below open micsHOLD SPACE: OPEN MIC Tickets | Multiple Dates @ HWK LONDON, London | Pay What You Can | OutSavvy

Nols sits down in HWK in Hackney Wick to speak to MIKE the beautiful soul that has allowed MPWA to take up residence in their venue over the summer for the HOLD SPACE POETRY FESTIVAL FUNDRAISER OPEN MICS (see link below for tickets)mike runs HWK, a venue in hackney wick and the home of hold space open mic nights through summer 2026. he talks to nols about what it takes to run a space that holds poetry the logistics, the losses, and the unexpected joys.they get into wedding poems: why people want them, and what it means to write something true for someone else’s most public moment. and they talk about the poetry of running a venue the rhythms, the silences, the crowd energy that doesn’t show up on a spreadsheet.HWK is a third space, cafe, bar, venue and courtyard and our summer residence. The pizza is great too.www.hwklondon.comhold space open mic starts on the 13th May 2026 6-9pm tickets below.bi-weekly at hwk, hackney wick, through summer 2026. free to attend. all welcome.find out more and grab your spot →HOLD SPACE: OPEN MIC Tickets | Multiple Dates @ HWK LONDON, London | Pay What You Can | OutSavvy

Nols Nathankski gets spiritual with Chloe Smith a South Londoner who fell in love with reading and words 8 years old by reading the magical far away tree.Chloe then discovered poetry through substitute teachers at school. She was published as a young writer in primary school. As a teenager she navigated hormones and layers of identity through journaling, leaning towards song lyrics, leaving poetry alone. It was only hitting 30 when she revisited poetry and braved the open mic scene. Curating her own night in Croydon (@skibabble, which is on a hiatus) putting together day festivals and holding safe spaces for the community to express and progress. Chloe is a spiritual seed, who loves the art of good questions and longs to press through the veil of what is known to comprehend the great familial unknown.Chloe and Nols make poems with prompts from Adam RW of Storytime London.Get Chloe's book here;https://www.londonpoetrybooks.com/?s=Small+pockets+of+mischief

Fresh from our Hold Space Poetry Festival in the Crypt Gallery @nolsnathankski was given tickets for @spitnights biggest ever show @theroundhouse in Camden by his friend the sensational poet Hebah Aboud. @hebah_aNols decided to make some guerrilla radio by gauging audience reactions to a sell out night of spoken word & improv jazz in front of 1500 in a legendary venue.The response from the crowd was overwhelmingly positive, but the night was a bit too big and loud for Nol's tiny neurodivergent brain and this episode also celebrates the peace that comes from smaller and quieter spaces.The night was headlined by superstar poets @georgiejones @maureenonuwali @caitlinoryan and @harrybaker - who it turns out Nols weirdly went to school with, something he obviously couldn't stop telling bemused interviewees.This episode is a series of chaotic field recordings interviewing members of the audience and staff at the roundhouse who nols forgot to make notes of the insta handles of- please tag yourselves! Friend of the show @that1thea makes an appearance!Nols did get 3 poems from a SUPER SPECIAL GUEST POET at the end of the night - live outside the Roundhouse! Listen until the end to find out who it was...Prompt: Write a poem to perform in front of 1500 people.To support Hold Space Poetry Festival's return in October and keep it Free entry please come to one of our pay-what-you-can fundraiser open mic nights at HWK throughout summer!HOLD SPACE: OPEN MIC Tickets | Multiple Dates @ HWK LONDON, London | Pay What You Can | [email protected]

Nols Nathankski flys through the sky with Jo Morrigan Black (They/Them/It)Jo is a Paris-born writer, visual artist and performance poet. They have worked with indigenous leaders in Colombia, left stray feathers in Berlin and stalked the streets of Dublin as a vampire. Their stage performances combine Spoken Word, physical theatre and surrealist costuming to celebrate the queer and the unknowable in us all.Jo’s writing dwells in journals such as Poetry Ireland Review, Abridged and The Storms, where it was nominated for the Pushcart Prize. Their work has been commissioned by the Runoviikko Festival in Finland, presented by the Irish Writers Centre and archived at The Linen Hall, Belfast.Showcased by Culture Ireland at Edinburgh Fringe 2025, their self-produced drag poetry show CARPET MUNCHER was shortlisted for the Binge Fringe Queer Performer’s Award and chosen as a Snack Mag Storytelling Top Pick. Jo was awarded a place in Island Of Many Voices 2026.Bio — Jo Morrigan Black@mothpoet - instagramJo made this Paris open mic documentary: https://youtu.be/Mg5vTTrPDFk?is=dlneTUaUJokRdif6 The song referenced All the Trees of the Field Will Clap Their Hands: ​https://youtu.be/JHul8vzXsV8?is=qfjTCMjhf3Ua_4bQJo is currently Reading: Marlon James, Moon Witch, Spider KingJo and Nols make poems with prompts from Stevie Grant @steviepoemsKeep this podcast flyingwww.Ko-fi.com/makepoetryweirdagainwww.patreon.com/makepoetryweirdagain

Nols sits down on a rainy February day with Jake Nathan a poet and artist, from East London. They talk about mental health, masculinity, social justice and being working class in England.The show explores how Jake went from hip hop to open mic and the challenges of open mic burn out.Jake is a multiple-time poetry slam winner and grand poetry slam champion. Based in Essex, he performs his poetry and teaches workshops across the country.Jake has featured at the Faversham Literary Festival, Essex Writers’ House Festival, Margate Bookie Festival and the Medway River Lit Festival. His poems have been featured on BBC Radio and various podcasts. His page poetry has been published by Anti-Heroin Chic, Thanet Writers and elsewhere.A Life in the Day of Nathan Jake (Incomplete) is the debut pamphlet from Jake . Combining two of his passions, the pamphlet is composed of poems written to the titles of hip-hop songs. A Life in the Day of Nathan Jake (Incomplete)Nols and Jake make poems with prompts from Kestral Gaia.Keep this podcast runnin' on the patreonwww.patreon.com/makepoetryweirdagain

Nols Nathankski provides all you need to know about the Hold Space Poetry Festival.A sober gift to the London Open Mic scene in collaboration with the Crypt Gallery running from the 1st - 7th April 2026.A festival dreamed up and produced in only 2 weeks to run during the most sacred days of the Christian calendar. Of course it begins on APRIL FOOLS DAY!After an open call fifteen poets will take up residence in The Crypt Gallery underneath St Pancras New Church for seven whole days during Holy Week 2026. Yes, its a crypt. Yes, there are 557 departed souls down there. Yes, it's going to be SEVEN days of back to back open mic.A week of free experimental poetry, workshops, open mics, and a zine built page by page across the week. Entry is free throughout. Workshops are mainly free with some paid and pay what you can with booking.1–7 April 2026 · The Crypt Gallery, 165 Euston Road, London NW1 2BAWhat's on:Wed 1 Apr — Residency opens. Set-up, intentions. Opening Ceremony & Open mic from 6pmThu 2 Apr — Podcast recordings. Scary Stories workshop with Stevie Grant. Open mic from 6pmFri 3 Apr (Good Friday) — Live podcast recordings. Writing from the ashes workshop with the Trashfire poet. Zine Day. Good Friday Open Mic.Sat 4 Apr (Holy Saturday) — Penance tea ceremony and workshop. Podcast recordings. Open mic from 6pmSun 5 Apr (Easter Sunday) — Sensual Small Poem workshop with Alexia Chrysostomou. Open mic from 6pmMon 6 Apr — Saying the Unsayable workshop facilitated by Nols. Zine workshop. The River Returns Home immersive performance fundraising for Ukrainian charities + Open Mic.Tue 7 Apr (Easter Tuesday) — Zine assembly and distro. Closing performances + Open mic.The resident poets — give them a follow:Pia Fajelagutan / The Piss I Call Art — Abu Dhabi-bred word wrangler, debut collection Whiskey For The Uninitiated. Feral charm, unfiltered verse.Emma Keun — London-based, published in Kite String II–IV, four honourable mentions from Dark Poets Club.Luigi Coppola / The Only Emperor — featured at Glastonbury, Tate Modern, Southbank Centre. Slam champion. Debut from Broken Sleep Books. linktr.ee/PoetryPreacherMaria Cohut — Romanian writer in Brighton . Debut collection Multiple Exposures out 2026 on Flight of the Dragonfly.Maddy Kilsbury McMurray — non-binary poet, neurodiversity advocate, LGBTQIA+ community stalwart.Oscar Rodriguez — Salvadoran American poet. Diaspora, generational trauma, noise music, queer liberation. Does it all at once.Em Cosgrove / Girl Can't Sing Well — spoken word artist. The body, decay, rebirth, and campy humour. Hyper-visual.Bee Wylie — witchy wordsmith from the West Midlands. Debut book Dream Weaving coming through Hay House. Exploring spirituality, grief, love.Tadgh Haran — trans poet, London. Work in Anthropocene, Scab, Perverse, Tentacular. Writes out of anger and curiosity. Sobriety anchors everything.Jordan Minga — Afro British, first-gen Ugandan, from Peckham. Poet and visual artist. Self-identity, spirituality, intergenerational discourse. Refuses to ask permission.Tom Bland - Tom has published Camp Fear and The Death of a Clown, with Bad Betty Press. His work has been nominated for the Polari Prize and have been on Dennis Cooper's yearly Fav Books List. He writes on the relationship between language and sexuality, trauma and liberationLeatrice — originally NYC, now UK. Memory, obsession, mental illness. Co-hosts Oxford DIY Pride. Debut collection Yearbook Signing.H Phillips — started performing poetry in early 2025 and has not stopped. Surreal social satire, tranquilised emotions, characters. @haitch_speaksByuka Makodru — trans, disabled, migrant writer. Mixing immersive performance, ritual, visual art. Writing with ash. Poetry as liberation.Get tickets for all events here: OutSavvy - Make Poetry Weird Again tickets and events. Book tickets instantly via the OutSavvy app or website for Make Poetry Weird AgainFind us:Instagram: @[email protected]

Nols Nathankski makes a very chaotic field recording of day 4 in the Crypt gallery London during the February residency. Expect all kinds of phantasmagorical goings on.Nols made poems with N00mi, Rosie Reed Gold, Jo Delvauney, Pid'Or, Choral Poetique and Tanyeli Taze.The episode is endurance art and some have said impossible to listen to!You be the Judge!Give the poets a follow;@n00m_i@[email protected]@choralepoetique@ptplays@sweetamanita@[email protected] nols doing this @makepoetryweirdagain

Nols Nathankski sits down to tell stories with Adam RW, a poet, writer and literary tour guide based in London. Adam runs Bookmarked, a literary walking tour company, and Storytime, a weekly storytelling night. His first poetry collection was published in December 2023.Adam and Nols discuss the creation of Story Time, and it's unique place in the London Open Mic Scene. They talk to what makes a good story and make plans on how to get George Saunders, Karl Ove Knausgard and Nikolai Gogol (RIP) to perform at Story Time.Nols and Adam make stories with prompts from Maddy Kilsby-McMurray.The next story time is at Galeria Objets in London on the 18th March 2026 Hosted by Kofi Achina & Adam, stories from Georgie Jones, Takunda, Tony Bell & open mic spots.Storytime at Galleria Objets: Live story-telling night Tickets, Wednesday, Mar 18 from 7 pm to 10 pm | EventbriteFollow the @TheAdamrw and @storytimelondon

Nols Nathankski sits down with Maddy Kilsby-McMurray a non-binary poet & writer based in Southend-On-Sea, UK. Maddy describes writing as their therapy, a way to process a world that is too harshand too fast for their queer, disabled heart. Nols and Maddy talk 'Trash fire poetry' written in haste and often destined to be burnt. They fortunately burn less poems now.Maddy and Nols make poems from Teresa Check out Maddy's work - www.trashfirepoet.com Instagram - @trashfirepoetMaddy shouts out southend pride - @southendprideTranspire - @transpire_southendSt Mark's Church - @stmarkschurchsouthendSouth Street Coffee house - @southstreetcoffeehouseRJ Learmouth - @j.learmouth.artDangerous Poetry Night Pride PoetryKeep this podcast's fire alivewww.patreon.com/makepoetryweirdagain

Nols Nathankski makes poems in the crypt on Day 2 of the Make Poetry Weird Again Residency.No other poets show up so Nols has a bit of an existential crisis about the project and works through a series of prompts. Does his pages and meditates on what a successful residency is. Mainly he speaks his poems to walls and ghosts.The prompts are below.Write a poem that erodes. What is it made of ? What does it degrade into?Make a poem for the departedMake a remembrance poem for someone you wish you knew better.Make a poem for the last day of judgement.Make a poem with an echo that you have to tell to be quiet.Make a poem of several rooms - tell us about them.Make a poem that resonates - end in a great hum!Come to the crypt and keep Nols company on the 19th and 20th February 3-6pm.Keep us from the wolves.www.patreon.com/makepoetryweirdagain

Nols Nathankski sits down in the Crypt gallery with Teresa Rendell, a poet and creative director based in London. Teresa makes sense of the world in fairy tales and nursery rhymes. Her poetry deals with very serious themes of childhood trauma, listener discretion is advised.Nols and Teresa speak to the London open mic scene and how to put together a one person show. @choralpoetique provide songs in the background.They make poems with prompts from the crypt residency on Day 1.Teresa shouts out the following poets and open mics.WordspaceSteve Tasane White Feather PoetryKofi Achina Heart of the Community Chelsea BeechwoodKrystal SisodiaEchoverset’ART @t_tartpressIf Poet’s Ruled the WorldTed Temple host of spitnights and groove verseCosmic PumpkinCamden Women’s Writing Festival Tickets for the show (the three poems we did on the podcast are part of the show)https://www.citizenticket.com/events/etcetera-theatre/a-year-in-the-life/A YEAR IN THE LIFEWritten & Performed by Teresa Rendell“Actually really enjoyable, but obviously horrid” - a close and supportive friend“Very impressive” - my therapistTeresa’s debut spoken word show, A YEAR IN THE LIFE, reflects on (an imprecise) calendar year through poetry and one hell of a yap.This collection is full of pathos, dark humour, deeply personal stories, andpseudonyms. Teresa captures the realities of processing a sexual assault, while grieving the death of her dad.It’s been a rough ride, so buckle up, for 45 minutes on the dangers of publictransport, a nightmare full of spiders, and just how frustrating recovery can be.Keep Nols making poemswww.patreon.com/makepoetryweirdagain

Nols Nathankski sits down in the crypt with Dan Webber an award winning LGBTQ+ poet, performer, producer and events coordinator based in Derby. Who while yet to win a slam won Nols's heart with his tales of gothic queerness.The pair made poems as part of day 3 of the Make Poetry Weird Again Residency at the Crypt Gallery in London.Dan can be found on insta @imgenrefluidFind out more about his practice below.https://www.derbypoetryfestival.com/https://www.derby.ac.uk/departments/school-of-humanities-law-creative-arts/dracula-returns-to-derby/https://nottinghampoetryfestival.com/https://imgenrefluid.com/Keep us sucking bloodwww.patreon.com/makepoetryweirdagain

Nols Nathankski's field recording of day 1 of the crypt gallery residency.Nols has created a series of poetry prompts on day 1 of the residency.Poets are welcome to come to the crypt between 16th - 20th February 2026 to create poems and perform them under penance conditions.Prompts.Write a poem to the people underground who are not sleeping.Write a prayer to say goodbye to winter.Write a poem to say hello to the spirits in this tomb.Write a poem you could carve into the inside of your coffinWrite a sonnet to an unloved placeWrite a ballad of two lovers that meet in the cryptwrite a pome describing how being here feels use only taste, touch and smell.Find a place in the crypt. Stand there until a poem comes to you. Write.Make a poem for the front doors of the crypt.Make a last will and testament - but as a poem.Make a poem to whisper into a wall. Go and whisper it in the crypt.Find a word to sum up the crypt. Use it 5 times in your poem.Write a poem from the perspective of the cold.Make a poem out of fragments of words from the crypt.Make a poem for whatever is behind this vent.Nols meets various visitors to the crypt over the course of the day. Teresa Rendall pops in to make a podcast and the pair make poems together as well as read some of Teresa's poem's together.Keep this residency going by joining the patreonwww.patreon.com/makepoetryweirdagain

Nols Nathankski and his friend the Bulgarian Pop Star Ivka Fox decided to record a catch up episode onFriday 13th February 2026 to talk to Ivka's new role as a pole dancer at a central London strip club and how this has influenced her writing.However the bad luck lived up to its favourite Friday and two attempts at recording failed due to a black out and an unexplained technical error.This show is an attempt to recreate the episode using voice note recordings of Ivka's new poems and a demo of Ivka's new track "Break Up Sex"This is the first episode of the podcast produced during the crypt gallery residency.Nols is making poems and podcast episodes in a central London tomb.If you want to reach out to ivka her instagram is @ivka_369Keep this podcast awake in the dreamwww.patreon.com/makepoetryweirdagain

Nols Nathankski sits down with Kestral Gaian (They/Them) Queer Writer and Poet, to talk about making poems on the Tube, The best sandwich and why we need to make poems that burn down data centers.Nols and Kestral make love poems with prompts from Kim Addonizio's book Ordinary Genius.You can buy Kestal's poetry book Tubelines below!Tubelines – Reconnecting Rainbows PressThey can be found at www.kestr.alInstagram: @kes.tr.alBluesky: @kestr.alKeep this podcast going by subscribing to the Patreon.www.patreon.com/makepoetryweirdagain

OPEN CALL TO POETS! MAKE POETRY WEIRD AGAIN PRESENTS PENANCE RESIDENCY @ THE CRYPT GALLERY, LONDON. We are very excited to announce that we will be having our first PENANCE residency at the historic Crypt gallery in London. FREE ENTRY FOR ALL. From @nolsnathankski : "Hey lovely human 🌒 I wanted to invite you to PENANCE at the Crypt Gallery, beneath St Pancras Church, running 16–20 February 2026. As someone who’s been part of Make Poetry Weird Again, it would be really special to have you there. PENANCE is about making poems under simple constraints, being properly present together, and seeing what happens. Across the week there’ll be PENANCE sessions, open working time, and daily podcast recordings in the space. Some sessions will be small and invitation-based, others more open. It’s completely free. No pressure to perform beyond what feels right. Turning up, listening, writing, or just being there is enough. If you’re up for it, let me know which day or days might work and I’ll share more details closer to the time. Would love to share the crypt with you 🖤 Nols" All poets that make poems under Penance conditions will have completed A poetry 'residency' and will receive an email confirmation of the same. There will be Penance prompts for all who attend to make poems under strict rules. - No Phones - No Vapes/Smoking - No alcohol Poets can work to automatic prompts and perform them in the space to be recorded on the podcast. All poets are welcome to simply come and make poems in the space. Nols will be making podcasts with poets, artists and whoever shows up! There will be workshops and a performance event. With details on how to book coming soon. If you are interested in attending on any date and wish to be recorded or have a great idea for making poems in a crypt. Send us a DM or email [email protected]. Share this with a poet you know or just people who like making things in crypts. There is no heating in the crypt so dress appropriately! The crypt is still the final resting place of 557 people so we must respect their presence. Keep Nols warm by signing up to the patreon. www.patreon.com/makepoetryweirdagain

We put on a wake for Nols Nathankski's pamphlet "Oh, Nols!" at Burley Fisher Books on the 12th February 2026. The event Sold Out but only 6 poets and a wizard showed up so Nols turned the event into an impromptu poetry workshop which you can hear in its badly recorded entirety.When life gives you lemons - eat cake and make poetry.The prompts we worked to wereWrite an elegy for NolsLove is...(resentment)Huge thanks to Sam and Una of Burley Fisher Books for hosting the night so gracefully.Massive thanks to the poets that joined us.Redeeming Features Josh Hallam and his puppyStevie Grant Haitch Tanyeli Taze Tom OldhamNeva Ziv Keep the sponsors from freaking out www.patreon.com/makepoetryweirdagain

Nols Nathankski inspired by Kiik Araki-Kawaguchi makes an episode on stage craft at the open mic for beginners and people wondering whether they should come to a local open mic. His only expertise being his own addiction to performing at the open mic. Nols provides his own insights about performing at the open mic and gives examples of reading from your phone, from paper and straight from the dome. This show is an attempt at a performance workshop from an enthusiastic amateur. If you would like to provide your own expertise get in touch!The sponsors are freaking out that the show is bombing so this a desperate attempt for attention, much like every performance should be at the open mic. Keep the sponsors happy by signing up to the patreon.www.patreon.com/makepoetryweirdagain

Nols Nathankski gets to stan one of his favourite poets Kiik Araki-Kawaguchi who is the author of THE BOOK OF KANE AND MARGARET (FC2 / UAP) and Nols favourite poetry book of 2025 - DISINTEGRATION MADE PLAIN AND EASY (Piżama Press). Kiik is also a mentor and educator at Western Washington University.A chance encounter with Kiik's poetry online, led to Nols being forever changed. Kiik makes weird gentle poems, channelling voices that help him process feelings. The poems are delightfully surreal and speak to Nol's commitment to being very silly at the end of the world.Nols and Kiik make poems with prompts from Tyger Soul.Kiik performs some of his about the author poems and a poem for his children called Burial.Check out Kiik's website below;About – Kiik A.K.Buy his deluxe edition here - Disintegration Made Plain and Easy (Digital Deluxe) — [neonpajamas]Keep Nols meeting his poetic heroes by subscribing to the Patreon.www.patreon.com/makepoetryweirdagain

Nols Nathankski takes a trip to the Word Zoo with host Tyger Soul. They talk about the last decade in the scene, the best tomatoes and how to jam with a band as a poet.The Word Zoo happens every 1st Thursday of the month, at The Others in SToke Newington. There are always Open Mic slots, a chance to say your poems or songs with our houseband Vibe Machine, plus featured acts and a book raffle. Search The Word Zoo for tickets and more info. Tyger Soul likes poems that bite. You'll often find him on a mic or traversing the country with his band Vibe Machine. All socials are @_tygersoul and @the_word_zoo They make poems with prompts from LeatriceKeep this poem biting on patreonwww.patreon.com/makepoetryweirdagain

Nols Nathankski takes to the sofa with Erika Loch. They talk shared open mic experiences and how to find quiet to write.Erika is a poet, lyricist, and a creative and commercial writer – writing in defiance of modern book burning, she leaves messages for those who seek to read between the lines. Erika collaborates with artists, brands, galleries, and organisations – she takes commissions via WORDS by Erika Loch and hosts monthly open mics @wordsoutloudchichesterFind out more about Erika below!www.erikaloch.com | @erika_loch | @theunknownpoetproject (Instagram)They make prompts by Hedde Annersberg from Stockholm

Nols Nathankski its down for a cup of tea with Leatrice. An American Poet who is now living in Oxford.Leatrice makes intricate poems exploring early relationships, memory and connection.The pair discuss the stress of slam scores, the difference between New York & London open mics and making poems on the tube.Nols and Leatrice make poems with prompts from Vidya Gosain.Leatrice shouts out the following Open Mics:@oxfordpoetrylibrary@33artsy (Leatrice will be reading on 5 Feb 2026)@poetrymondaysjamboreeLeatrice shouts out the following Poets:@garretandbasement @maybeitsmoberley@phoebn@sophias1000daychallenge@thewrongjam@alilewispoetOthers:@reconnectpress (my publisher)@cailin.in.character (best friend & cover designer)Link to the "official" Yearbook Signing playlist—there's a song for the title, each poem, and the little epigraph/signature page at the end: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0V9mEQPegOTX8GLz2UCuxg?si=ac29bfb2d6364c61You can buy Leatrice's book here: Yearbook Signing – Reconnecting Rainbows PressKeep Nols in poetry books by subscribing to the patreon.www.patreon.com/makepoetryweirdagain

Nols Nathankski and Vidya Gosain sit down to cook about disenfranchisement at the open mic. Changes in the scene and how to give space to people with lived experience of racism and homophobia.Vidya (she/her) is a writer who finds the comedy and tragedy in everyday life; constantly searching for meaning in mundanity and trying to tell you stories about what she finds. Her favourite colour is green and her favourite chef is Anthony Bourdain. They make poems with prompts from Kim Addonizio's book Quiet Genius.First ever open mic night: @[email protected] poetry night - @voicesinpower_ / host: @imsuperdope_The book I mention at 58 mins is called "Big Magic (Creative Living Beyond Fear)" by Elizabeth Gilbert (@elizabeth_gilbert_writer)Favourite poets / poet shout outs:@sumnerbrook@theadamrw@zakariyyee@[email protected]@hannahwallwork87Favourite open mics / open mic shout outs:@everythingpoetrynight@storytimelondon@rhymesandstitches@versespoetrynightKeep this podcast cooking and Nols eatingwww.patreon.com/make poetryweirdagain

Nols Nathankski presents a fuck you to writing retreats and writing holidays. In this episode Nols will take you through some ideas of how you can find time every week to find a place to attack from. Not spending loads of money. Not going away anywhere. How to reclaim your time and dedicate it to your work.This episode looks at where to write, what sort of schedule you should set yourself and how you can comfortably and cheaply focus on your writing without having to go much further than a local library, church or cafe. Nols provides example schedules and prompts for how to begin and end writing sessions. Focusing on attention, rest and encouragment.If you have a writing practice you wish to share get in touch, we would love to hear from you!Keep this show going on patreon.www.patreon.com/makepoetryweirdagain

Nols Nathankski meets Hedde Annerberg (@heddeee_) who is a grassroots poetry organiser & writer from Stockholm. You can find their events @openmicpoetrynight ; if you're in Stockholm and can present your self there, they'd love to hear what you have to bring.They send their love to everyone who is a part of these nights; to co-host Ryan without whom they would not be doing this; to @alabaster_deplume for sending them to this podcast & for the work he does; to you, here, reading this, possibly listening, thank youA whatsapp group conversation about which open mics to attend while here, turned into an invitation to record an episode about Hedde's English speaking open mic in Stockholm. Nols and Hedde talk about making poems in the face of societal collapse and fascism. Why people need to be needed more, and their new pamphlet that they have just released.Nols and Hedde make prompts from GwilymHedde shouts outAlabaster de Plume@theopenmicpoetrynightLets get this podcast internationalwww.patreon.com/makepoetryweirdagain

Nols Nathankski sits down with Emma Keun, (she/her) to discuss following your butterflies, the queering of religious imagery and the best places to get emo at the open mic.Emma is published online (Dark Poets Club) and in hard copy anthologies (Kite String II and III; via Word Space, an open mic and poetry collective). She lives in London and when not performing or writing, attempts making and growing things. She has a poetry website https://elkwrites.substack.com/and can be found on Instagram as @elkwrites000555.Nols and Emma make poems from Kim Addonizio's Ordinary Genius: A Guide for the poet within.Emma Shouts out@wordspace@lostsouls@steviepoems@s-barks LGBTQIA open mic @ Morocco Bound Everything Poetry @ The Walrus, LambethFirepit Tales @ Firepit Art Gallery, GreenwichThat Goddamn Poetry Jam @ Fiddlers Elbow, Kentish TownPoets in PutneyCrossword LyricSee Emma perform at Stokey Bookshop on the 22nd January 2026 as part of a fundraiser for Hackney Night shelter.Support this podcast on our patreon.com/makepoetryweirdagain

Nols Nathankski sits down with Gwilym a Goth poet living in Wales. They talk about making gothic love poems in grave yards. They talk to the catharsis of poetry, vegan cooking and the end of the world.Nols and Gwilym make poems from prompts from Stevie GrantGwilym's book is called Talking Headstones and can be purchased through his linktreehttps://linktr.ee/Praxis_Studios?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bioGwilym shouts out his all time favourite artist - Suzi Sabotagehttps://gothsforpalestine.bandcamp.com/album/goths-for-palestine-vol-iihttps://suzisabotage.bandcamp.com/?search_item_id%3D2777158925%26search_item_type%3Db%26search_match_part%3D%253F%26search_page_id%3D5002153631%26search_page_no%3D0%26search_rank%3D1Some Great Goth musichttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=27HaBqJgfBMhttps://luxmala.bandcamp.comhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ll5wq7_2B3ghttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fTC-vGWJaDQGwilym gives a big shout to Romanian Poet Paul Damian.https://eruptingspirit.comIf you want to fund Nol's decadent lifestyle please support the patreon.www.patreon.com/makepoetryweirdagain

Nols Nathankski talks about self publishing "Oh, Nols!" his first poetry pamphlet and why you should self publish to. This episode was pre-recorded to be released after his surgery on the 13th January 2026...just in case he dies on the operating table.Nols discusses his feelings of uncertainty about the pamphlet and examines Maurice Blanchot's philosophy of literature to try and finds a weird friend in a dead French philosopher.In this episode Nols talks to the triumph and despair of self publishing your first poetry pamphlet. The weirdness of sending poems into the world to not be yours anymore.Who owns poems and what happens when it is not you reading them at an open mic?This is a poetic existential crises with some new poems thrown in and bits from the pamphlet.Expect poetic despair and a desperate request to join the patreon so the box of pamphlets does not haunt Nols like a ghost.Nols printed his pamphlet at the burley fisher bookshop community press:Merch – Burley Fisher BooksIf Nols is still with us, he will be hosting a wake for the pamphlet at the shop on Thursday 12th February 2026 at 6pm-9pmThis podcast was very influenced byThe infinite conversation by Maurice BlanchotThe Space of Literature by Maurice BlanchotThe Space Of LiteratureThe @hermetix episode below was also really informative.Maurice Blanchot, Literature, and Language with Bryan CounterAn immodest proposal by Joseph Brodsky out now in On Grief And Reason Join the Patreon to get a copy or message Nols on instagram.www.patreon.com/makepoetryweirdagain

Nols Nathankski talks hardcore poetry with Pulling Teeth a London based poet who writes about love, spider webs , alcoholism and more importantly accidentally going on a date with a racist.They talk to his poetry video series Im Not Leaving Yet which is an exploration of the London Open Mic scene through poets performing their poems in the street.Nols provides some hardcore prompts for them to make poems from.Pulling Teeth shouts outMikeyT.MoNols and Pulling Teeth are working together to put on THROW WORDS DOWN an open mic with a hardcore backing band on the 29th January 2026 at the Fiddlers Elbow in Camden,Pulling Teeth is planning an open mic of his own so follow his pages for more info!Pay Nol's dentist bills by subscribing to the patreon.www.patreon.com/makepoetryweirdagain

Nols Nathankski sits down for a chat and a tarot reading with Hebah, a jack of all trades, regularly performs a variety of moving yet comedic poetry in the London poetry circuit using her outfits and other items as props. Blending her acting, directing and DJing skills she has enhanced the listener experience by focusing on the way poems sound and feel, exploring the senses with her words.Her tarot and astrology work have also had measurable impact on her art as she fuses her tarot cards into her poetry performance. She plays with language as an English teacher and Corporate language coach, helping others to present themselves with confidence. She continues introducing blended poetry with 3 languages and cultures fusing her Iraqi origins with her British/Italian life living between London and Rome.Managing illness, death and instability have all played a major role in her spoken word and poetic resonance. She would like to thank and shout out the following people mentioned in the podcast:@[email protected] @cwiththec@natethelyricist@spitnights@louisthehippie@houseofvox@iam_tariqq@yourstruly_reverend@jessica_fowler_actor@storytimelondon@rachel._.loveday@wordsoneggsontoast@kofi_anchina@wowromapoetryslam@gio_drewNols and Hebah make prompts from POW's Dr Lee Campbell.Hebah has an open mic planned in Rome at the Cabaret Voltaire Galleria at the end of January.Keep this podcast going by subscribing to the Patreonwww.patreon.com/makepoetryweirdagain

Nols Nathankski explains how to perform your poems with a hardcore backing band for THROW WORDS DOWN the MAKE POETRY WEIRD AGAIN x AVA WORD Open Mic night - born on the podcast with Redeeming Features.The night is poetry experiment to try and raise £500 for MIND the mental health charity at the most miserable time of the year.On the 29th January 2026 at 6.30pm you can bring your poems to the Fiddlers Elbow in Camden and scream them into a microphone.Every performer will get 3 minutes and they will have the opportunity to have fast, slow or fucking extreme music backing them. Nols thinks all poets quietly want to be rockstars so this is a way to do it loud.If you are not a poet and just want to make loud noises then this is also a night for you.Nols explains how the night has been planned to work and plays clips from the very chaotic band practices which included Redeeming Features, Richard Allen, Rich Bliss, Colin B Osborn and Im Not Leaving Yet.Nols make poems based on some of the themes of the night.Screaming and shouting is very good for the soul, reduces anxiety and can be cathartic. We all need to scream our poems sometimes...See you on the 29th January 2026 - Tickets can be purchased below!https://www.eventbrite.com/e/make-poetry-weird-again-presents-throw-words-down-tickets-1977797556733?aff=oddtdtcreatorIf you want to get the first word on events and sneaky discounts - SIGN UP TO THE PATREONwww.patreon.com/makepoetryweirdagain

Nols Nathankski and friend of the show Stevie Grant make a special episode to promote Stevie's fundraiser for Hackney Night Shelter on the 22nd January 2026 at Stoke Newington Bookshop.Stevie Grant is a poet, performer and emergency shelter worker from Hackney who works with the people suffering from homelessness in London.Nols and Stevie make prompts for each other and make poems on the show.They also perform new material they have both been working on.If you wish to support Hackney Night Shelter please make a donation.We need your support | Hackney Night ShelterIf you would like to know more about volunteering for Hackney Night Shelter email: [email protected] Hackney Night Shelter on insta: https://www.instagram.com/hackneynightshelter?igsh=MTFtMGUycTdwNTdxOQ==Find Stevie at SteviePoems on insta: https://www.instagram.com/steviepoems?igsh=MW83Z3A4Mzl0MzFrYg==Ticket page: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/hackneynightshelter1/2002560Don't bother signing up to the Patreon - give your money to someone that needs it.www.patreon.com/makepoetryweirdagain

Trigger warning: Death, Cancer, medical scenes, invasive surgery, lots of swearing.Nols first episode of 2026 looking back at a year of medical drama. The poems in this episode were made across 2025 around the multiple hospital and doctors visits Nols has to find out if he is dying too quickly or not.Nols explores how death and dying have been key influences on his poetry and his life in 2025 and the experience of navigating a national health service that is slowly being eaten up by private interests.Nols reads i like your body from page 10 of e.e. cumming's collected poems 1923-1958 E. E. Cummings: Selected Poems 1923-1958 | Faber PoetryNols reads Heat Map by Richard Siken Heat Map | Poem and Pain Scale by Richard Siken out now in Rattle Magazine 89 -Pain Scale by Richard Siken - Rattle: Poetry #89 – Fall 2025 - Rattle: PoetryFind more Richard's work here: www.richard-siken.comNols recites Bill Knott's 'Death' from his first book The Naomi Poems Corpse and Beans out now on Black Ocean Press The Naomi Poems: Corpse and Beans by Bill Knott — Black OceanNols also plays recordings of voicenotes and works to several prompts.If you have been effected by this episode reach out to a friend or family member or email [email protected] and make some poetry out of it.Keep this podcast going at www.patreon.com/makepoetryweirdagain

Nols Nathankski and Dr. Lee Campbell meet at betwixmass to make poems, talk queer love and gardening.Dr Lee Campbell is an artist, poet, filmmaker, co-curator of POW! Play on Words (a regular spoken word platform in London along with Colin B. Osborn) and Senior Lecturer at University of the Arts London.His debut poetry collection ’See Me: An (Almost) Autobiography’ was published by London Poetry Books in November 2024. Other publications of his poetry include The Atticus Review, Ink, Sweat and Tears, Otherwise, You Are Here - The Journal of Creative Geography, Queerlings, Streetcake. Step Away Magazine, London Grip and Flight of the DragonFly. His chapbook ‘Queering the Landscape’ was shortlisted for the 2024 Broken Spine Chapbook Poetry Competition. In 2025, he headlined at many established poetry platforms including The Word Zoo, Rhymes and Stitches, Big Trouble and Medway Poetry Night, Testing Grounds and The Poetry Shack. His experimental performance poetry films have been selected for many international film festivals and prizes since 2019 including shortlisted for Best Poetry Film at the Out-Spoken Poetry Prize 2023, Queen Elizabeth Hall, Southbank Centre, London. Dr Lee Campbell has performed at 150 open mics this year!Nols and Lee make poems with prompts from Sarthak MukherjiLee shouts outPlay On WordsColin B OsbornRedeeming FeaturesEliza FiverKeep Nols happy in 2026 by subscribing to the patreon www.patreon.com/makepoetryweirdagain

Nols Nathankski presents an end of year podcast with a round up of some of THE BEST POEMS made and spoken on the show. With highlights of moments from poets across the last 6 months.Someone told Nols that getting past 40 episodes means that he is a real podcaster now. Comment your thoughts below.This is a recap to celebrate the end of the first 6 months of MAKE POETRY WEIRD AGAIN and a desperate attempt to keep the sponsors happy.Featured poetsAnika PanizaAllanah CampbellAvouleanceColin B OsbornDave Jackson KeenElla FrearsEliza FiverEliza VezenIvka FoxJean AkintoyeKristal SisodiaTanyeli TazeTheaThe Mad Po3tTyreece AsamoaOllie Words on Eggs on ToastSarthak MukherjiStevie GrantWill from Switched Up PoetryThe podcast continues into 2026 unless the Sponsors pull the funding.Help Nols pay the rent on the studiowww.patreon.com/makepoetryweirdagain

Nols reviews Pertinent Interruptions a very weird experiment in open mic with interruptions and heckling.The brain child of Play On Words Dr Lee Campbell and Colin B Osborn the night allowed the crowd to jump in with poems or just loud sexual innuendos. The night was a very raucous end of year poetry jam but also taught Nols a lot of respect for the silence of the open mic and being held rather than being at war with your audience.Here is to more weird experimentation in 2026!The night included some fantastic poets including but not limited to:Redeeming Features Rich BlissEliza Fiver Hannah WallworkDr Lee CampbellColin B OsbornOllie Words on Eggs on Toast Alexia ChrysostomouAnd many regulars of Play On WordsCheck out Play On Words on Instagram Keep screaming at Nols on Patreon www.patreon.com/makepoetryweirdagain

Nols Nathankski sits down with Sarthak Mukherji London Slam Champion 2025 and CENTURION of the London Open Mics about what it takes to perform at 100 open mics.Sarthak Mukherji is a London based poet whose work navigates the immigrant experience, mental health and relationships. Known for blending heartfelt honesty with sharp wit. He has quickly made a name for himself on the city's slam scene, winning stages across London including the Genesis Poetry Slam earning him the title of London's 2025 Slam Poetry Champion.His Instagram and Tiktok is @SarthaksaysNols and Sarthak make poems with prompts from Tom ManningSarthak Shouts out Genesis finalists@That1Thea@oscarthewriter@spitnights@process@onenightslam

Nols Nathankski went to make poems with the Longplayer a 1000 year song at The Trinity Bouy Wharf Experimental lighthouse to celebrate a year off the booze. He wrote to 36 prompts below. Trinity Buoy Wharf is home to the iconic Experimental Lighthouse- London’s only remaining example- built in 1864. The Lighthouse was never used to aid navigation on the Thames, but to experiment.Nols has played the Longplayer at all of the PENANCE poetry workshops where over 200 poems have been made to the sound of the singing bowls.Longplayer is a one thousand year long musical composition. It began playing at midnight on the 31st of December 1999, and will continue to play without repetition until the last moment of 2999, at which point it will complete its cycle and begin again. Conceived and composed by Jem Finer of the KLF.Listen to the Long Player and make poems to some prompts!Longplayer1. Describe the lighthouse as if it were a friend you meant to text back weeks ago3. Write a list-poem of strange items found in the lighthouse lost-and-found, each item revealing something about the person who left it.4. Let the 1,000-year song narrate a single moment from your life—one it refuses to forget.5. Compose a love letter to London from the top of the lighthouse, but your pen keeps drifting into mystic metaphors6. Write a poem where every stanza is a different decade of the lighthouse’s future, as the song continues playing.7. Describe the lighthouse as if it were gossiping about the city below.8. Imagine the lighthouse is the last remaining building above water after a flood write the poem as a survivor’s diary entry.9. Write a poem that begins with a mundane task (making tea, sweeping, checking your phone) but ends in a spiritual awakening triggered by the long player .10. Write a dialogue between you and the lighthouse itself; the lighthouse knows too much.11. Write a poem about leaving a party early to climb the lighthouse stairs alone12. write a poem as the lighthouse lens as if it were an oracle reflecting possible futures.13. Write a poem that takes place entirely during the ten seconds it takes the beacon to make one revolution.14. Use the long player as a metaphor for something in your life that won’t end, can’t end, shouldn’t end.15. Describe a moment when you wanted to disappear16. Write a poem from the perspective of the final visitor the lighthouse will ever receive.17. Rewrite a childhood memory as if it happened inside the lighthouse18. write the chorus of the long player19. Write a poem where you try to map all of London using only the emotions you feel inside the lighthouse. 20. Invent a superstition that strangers whisper about this lighthouse—then break it.21. Describe the long player - without referencing music: use taste, smell, texture, weather.22. Write a poem as a secret you tell only to the lighthouse staircase while climbing.23. Describe a mundane London street scene but filter it through a sudden mystical vision sparked by the lighthouse’s light.24. Write an elegy for everyone the lighthouse didnt save.25.Write a poem that begins with the line: “I didn’t come here to be redeemed, but…” 26.Let the fog surrounding the lighthouse be a character with opinions.27.Write a poem where the lighthouse becomes a stand-in for your own body its cracks, its shining, its stubbornness.28.Describe the longplayer as if it were composed from fragments of every poem you have ever written in london.29.Write a poem where frank O’Hara, diane Seuss, and herman Hesse all appear in the lighthouse at 3 a.m. and give you conflicting advice.30.write a poem that imagines what happens after the song finally stops—one thousand years from now—and who is there to hear the silenc31.write a poem as a singing bowl32.write a sonnet to the longplayer33.write a prayer to the human race34.you have to get out of the lighthouse when it is locked using only a poem35. write a poem as an ending vibration36. ⁠Write a prayer to save yourself

Nols sits down with Colin B Osborn to talk going punk to poetry.Osborn poetry navigates the landscapes of personal history and keen observation with a lyrical and accessible style. These poems are a testament to self-discovery, celebrating the moments—both quiet and profound—where we define our own narratives. For lovers of contemporary poetry that is both thoughtful and resonant, is a compelling and masterful first outing from a promising new voice.Nols and Colin make poems from Poetry Fruit Machine by Ella Frears & Jessica Todd out now on Rough Trade Books.Colin is co-founder of POW play on words which have two events this month. Including Pertinent Interruptions on the 19th December 2025 - a night of heckling at the open mic. POW! End of 2025 Special: ft Benjamin Goode & Black Bile Coven Tickets, Mon, Dec 15, 2025 at 7:00 PM | EventbriteColin and Nols are working with Rich Bliss, Redeeming Features and Im Not Leaving yet are raising money for MIND on the 29th January 2026 at the Fiddler's Elbow with a show called THROW WORDS DOWN where poets and anyone can get 3 minutes on stage with a hardcore band and scream their guts out.I Choose the Rhymes, In his fabulous debut collection can be purchased here:I Choose the Rhymes - London Poetry Books TMKeep this podcast going on Patreon.www.patreon.com/makepoetryweirdagain

Nols Nathankski sits down with Tom Manning (shout out to Dawn Web for also hanging out!)Tom is a London-based spoken word artist and a self-described ‘poet for non-poetry fans’. Using direct, colloquial, and rhythmic lyrics, Tom pours his heart onto the page to cover topics such as mental health, addiction, hedonism, love and relationships. Nols and Tom make poems with live prompts from Dawn who is a great facilitator.Tom's work can be found on instagram @tommanning_97Post-bender depression can be heard on Callout UK: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DMqKCwgNYPw/?igsh=MW80ZjAxcTU0eHAzNg==Tom shouts out :Spit Nights Callout UK: https://www.instagram.com/calloutuk?igsh=Mzk3ajNwb3V3bHYxSoul Compositions: https://www.instagram.com/_soulcompositions?igsh=aWsyaXQwMjVpYWthIf you want to keep this podcast going join the Patreon.www.patreon.com/makepoetryweirdagain

Nols Nathankski sits down with Dawn Web (They/Them) to make poems and talk open mic.Dawn is a multi-media artist, award-winning dancer and queer neurodivergent advocate for mental health as well as marginalized individuals and communities. They find comfort in multiple mediums such as playing music, writing, painting, and dancing. Nols and Dawn make poems with prompts from Ivka Fox This led Dawn to making a poem from a line by Georgie Jones and Nols using a line from Diane Seuss. Dawn's critically acclaimed first book is out now, you can DM them to get a copy or use this link to a big evil company Red Corner: a poetry anthology: 1 (Primary) : Web, Dawn, Tremblay, Alexandre, Wrona, Angelina: Amazon.co.uk: BooksThe release is accompanied by an incredible spoken word album you can listen to hereRed Corner by Dawn Web & Salwa: Listen on AudiomackDawn is founder of PLUM POETRY OPEN MIC in Halifax Nova Scotia.Plum Poetry | Lit. Open Mic & Creative Writing Workshop at The Maxwell's Plum, Halifax on 6th May, 2025If you want to keep this podcast going join the patreonwww.patreon.com/makepoetryweirdagain

Nols Nathankski sits down with his bestie Ivka Fox for a giggle. Ivka is a Bulgarian popstar, singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, writer and actress. They discuss why she is most certainly NOT a poet. Ivka debut's "Shes a Gaslight" one of the new tracks she is working on which can be heard at the start of the episode.Ivka suggested the idea of Nols making a podcast so this is all her fault. They discuss making poems as a baby, what poems to read an alien baby locked in a basement and why too many people are practicing at the Open Mic.Ivka and Nols make poems with prompts from Redeeming Features. Ivka reads from Ella Frears Shine, Darling , the Koestler trust new poetry from prisons Vol.1 and Nol's unreleased pamphlet. Check out Ivka's latest movie project below;https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cp5eHk1RTBYCheck out Ivka's past musical projects below;Tapeheart | Drop Out VenusSupercool | Dark WillowContact her @ivka_369 on instagram to give her a publishing deal.Keep this podcast going by supporting us on www.patreon.com/makepoetryweirdagain

Nols Nathankski & Annika Paniza celebrate William Blake's 268th birthday! Annika is a writer and poet currently living in Brighton. Annika and Nols discuss Annika's brilliant idea for an open mic centred around navigating queer relationships in a vegan restaurant. They obsess about finding the infinity in the ordinary and why mental health walks always make the best poems.They make Blakean prompts with the help of an english teacher's forum that Nols now cannot find. Write a poem that starts with a small thing and find infinity it. Blake was always finding the divine in the ordinary. - 3 minsWrite a poem that begins with the voice of childlike wonder. Then in the second half use the voice of sad experience. Show that neither is wrong.- 3minsMindforged manacles - Write a liberation poem. - 3 minsAnnika shouts out the Actors pub in brighton Fiona Chan - @inbetweenlanguagesAflo - @aflo.thepoetLINK TO ANNIKA'S SUBSTACK: https://substack.com/@journalspills?r=4sjua9&utm_medium=ios&utm_source=profileFollow us on Patreon - www.patreon.com/makepoetryweirdagain

BONUS EPISODE - Nols makes an episode on two of his queer poetry icons William Blake and Oscar Wilde. The show is a meditation on the two poets as Nols had a birthday party for William Blake on the 28th November 2025 with some incredible poets making poems in his living room. Oscar Wilde died on the 30th November 1900 an exile in Paris. He was misquoted until the end. Nols read work from both poets and some new poems written this weekend to both. Check out Oscar Wilde's poem Requiescat here.Requiescat by Oscar Wilde - Poems | Academy of American PoetsYou can read De Profundis here;De ProfundisThis show was massively influenced by Philip Hoare's William Blake and the Sea Monsters of Love - Buy it here; William Blake and the Sea Monsters of Love - Philip HoareRead William Blake's Introduction here;Introduction to the Songs of Innocence | The Poetry FoundationRead William Blake's Introduction here;Auguries of Innocence | The Poetry FoundationIf you wish to make poetry weirder sign up to the Patreon www.Patreon.com/MakePoetryWeirdAgain

Nols Nathankski and Redeeming Features come up with a new hardcore open mic! They talk about punk poetry and how open mic can save your life.Redeeming Features is a punk poet: visceral, hyperactive, and absurd. He has opened for a number of UK punk bands and gigs regularly in the UK and abroad. He has a published book called ‘Sniffing Glue and Playing Chicken on the M4.’ All profits from the book go to the UK mental health charity MIND. His second book "Sex Injuries" is out now, published by London Poetry.Buy his books direct off his insta @RedeemingF Nols and Redeeming Features make poems to 3 prompts from @Maccathepoet@RedeemingF performs NEW SHIT never heard before but coming to an open mic near you! Redeeming Features shouts out:@Avawordpoetry@BYOBpoetry@Wordzoo@Thatgoddamnpoetryjam@rioatactshowtime@richbliss@arcadiaFollow us on Instagram @makepoetryweirdagainSign up to patreon.com/makepoetryweirdagain to make Nols Rich!

Nols Nathankski sits down for a proper brew with Rick McLean aka @MaccathePoet to talk about anti-racism at the Open Mic and how to piss off flag shaggers on tiktok, a Leeds-born, London-lost ranter who sees the world through a lens of dry wit, frustration, and the occasional moment of nostalgia.If you like a bit of John Cooper Clark, a strong cuppa, shit loads of vinegar on your chippy tea, raw honesty, lots of swearing and complaining about everything, you’ll probably like this too.They make a poem from The Poetry Fruit Machine out now on Rough Trade Books and then do poem swap taking inspiration from Switched Up poetry in Manchester. Rick Shouts out The famalam, the pals,the London poetry, the Mrs, the cats and the local kebab bossman.Ava Word Poetry Rich BlissFollow us on Patreon.com/makepoetryweirdagain

Nols Nathankski finds out that Ella Frears HAS NEVER DONE AN OPEN MIC!They also discuss her new brilliant collaborative collection of prompts POETRY FRUIT MACHINE, the power of prompts and why no poems will be read the poets office Christmas party on the 1st December 2025 at the Social.Ella Frears is a poet based in London. She has been shortlisted for The T. S. Eliot Prize, a Sky Arts Award, and The Forward Prize twice. Her books Shine, Darling, and Goodlord are out with Corsair and her collaborative poetry card game The Poetry Fruit Machine is out with Rough Trade Books. She hosts chat and music show Tears for Frears on Soho Radio. Nols and Ella make poems from 3 minute prompts provided by Tyreece Asamoah and the POETRY FRUIT MACHINE.Buy The Poetry Fruit Machine from @roughtradebooksPOETRY FRUIT MACHINE - ELLA FREARS & JESSICA TODD – Rough Trade BooksElla reads Drunk By Noon by Jennifer L. Knox (with kind permission from @jenniferlknoxpoet)Ella shouts out@jessicatodd@eileenmyles@Willharris@joedunthorneSee Ella sing Karaoke and be in a room of poets not reading any poems at the Social on the 1st December 2025 - Nols will be there after @wordspacepoems :)The Poets' Office Christmas Party London Tickets at The Social W1 on 1st December 2025 | Ents24Huge thanks to @tanyelitaze who inspired this episode!keep this podcast going by subscribing to the patreonwww.patreon.com/makepoetryweirdagain

Nols Nathankski speaks with Elijah a Canadian/Scottish neurodivergent poet who travels the world making art with people and talking with them about Jesus.Nols and Elijah met @versespoetrynight at @Bardonalondon at the start of Nol's open mic pilgrimage in February.Elijah brings a hardcore punk energy to the open mic that must be heard to be believed.Nols and Elijah make poems with prompts from Tyreece Asamoah.Elijah shouts out his sister Acacia Mitchell's debut poetry collection Waiting Spaces out now.Elijah shouts out @wordspacepoems and @spitnights as Open Mic's to check out.As well as Psalms 23 and 88.If you wish to follow Elijah on instagram he can be found @elijahdoespoetryKeep this show going by subscribing to the Patreonwww.patreon.com/makepoetryweirdagain

Nols Nathankski sits down for a smoke with Tyreece Asamoah a Ghanaian visionary poet from Peckham, who William Blake's angel would be proud of.About Tyreece Asamoah (from the poet):Smog Smut, Gutta GeechiGully El-GhizaliFeni El-SalahiOkomfo       AlhajiAlhaji, AlhajiSon Of LatonaSpitting out-daGlen w/ Gall.Nols and Tyreece speak to the sublime and splitting the veil at open mics. Whether there is a difference between page and spoken word poetry and why more poets need to try and make you levitate.They make poems from prompts from @ElizaVezenTyreece does a 15 minutes set that is no-holds-barred-pure-fire.Tyreece shouts out too many poets and artists to mention so listen to the show!They recommend @everythingopenmic @poeticunity @goddamnpoetryjamBuy Tyreece's second book 'FLICK' from him on insta @ty.asamoah or at Scooter Cafe in Lower marsh.Keep this show going by subscribing to the patreon www.patreon.com/makepoetrygreatagain