Zona San Anto Podcast

Zenobia (she/her) has island roots from Barbados and was born in Queens, New York.  She has lived in San Antonio for over 15 years with her family and is a poet and dentist.  There are no limits to the styles or subjects in her poetry that she is willing to face. Still, she always aims for the heart to remind us of the humanity of our history, to hold on to our empathy for each other, and to encourage us to explore our own individual passions—especially in these times of political unrest and injustice.  She just completed a Black History presentation series she created, commissioned by the San Antonio Public Library.  She has small collections of her work published about identity in Black Butterfly: Voices of the African Diaspora, erotic poetry published in St. Pete’s Neptune Magazine, sonnets in All the World’s a Page, and a ghazal in a forthcoming issue of Jelly Bucket for Reading. She is the 2025 Grand Prize Winner of the Mosaics African Diaspora Award from Kinsman Publishing and received Honorable Mention for her gothic poetry published with the Dark Poets Club.  You can find her projects on her website, www.zenobiapoetry.com, or on Instagram @zenobiapoetry26.

Angelica Guerrero, known as That One Tejana, is a spoken-word poet and storyteller whose work lives at the intersection of grief, love, motherhood, identity, and healing.Through bilingual verse and raw honesty, she gives language to emotions that are often felt but rarely named. Her poetry is both a release and a reclamation; rooted in lived experience, guided by resilience, and softened by her love for her daughters.Music by Jamie Seward

Alicia "Alycatt" Enriquez is a first-generation Chicana who made South Side San Antonio her home. She's a resilient single mother of two boys who has bravely been sharing her voice at various open mics. She's been a featured poet at The Mouth Dakota Poetry Project for Dream Week, The Write Spot, Jaime's Place for Show Me Your Stacy's, Empowerhouse Radio at Black Potion, TVSA Health and Wellness with Anastasia, and at The Beacon at Midtown Gallery for Two Tribes Meet. When she's not performing poetry or being a mother, she dances Flamenco on stages and cumbias y mas on dive bar floors. Her poetry book "Mujer Liberada" is in the works for a 2027 release.Music by Jamie Seward

Consuelo is an Inland Empire(IE) artivist, student, and Pushcart Prize nominee. Her debut poetry book, Water Damage, is published with Riot of Roses Publishing House. You can find her at open mics across the IE and LA, experimental art shows, your local public library, or spiritual apparitions.Music by Jamie Seward

Jonathan Fletcher holds a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing from Columbia University School of the Arts.  His work has been featured in numerous literary journals and magazines, and he has won or placed in various literary contests.  A Pushcart Prize, Best of the Net, and Best Microfiction nominee, he won Northwestern University Press’s Drinking Gourd Chapbook Poetry Prize contest in 2023, for which his debut chapbook, This is My Body, was published in 2025.  Currently, he serves as a Zoeglossia Fellow and lives in San Antonio, Texas.Music by Jamie Seward

Melissa Moreno was born and raised in San Diego, CA. In January of this year, she published her first book titled "Dreamz of a Butterfly." With a passion for writing, Melissa strives to uplift others through her words and poetry. Her life experiences have shaped her creative process, allowing her to share her vulnerability with those who support her writing journey. Writing has served as a therapeutic outlet for Melissa, helping her navigate her grief following the passing of her grandparents and a close friend.Always on the lookout for new creative projects, Melissa enjoys descriptive writing, storytelling, and crafting inspirational and motivational quotes. She values being surrounded by family and friends, genuine connections, and loves spending time in nature.Music by Johnie Guerra

Kc Luna is a Tejano jack of all trades born and raised in San Antonio. He's a writer, storyteller, playwright, poet, cartoonist, improviser, satirist, and a few other things best left unmentioned in polite company. His work ranges from humor to horror and everything in between, exploring philosophy, indigenous identity, everyday life, surrealism, and the intersections between artistic mediums. His writing and performances have previously been featured on the Voices of San Anto, Empower House Radio, and Teatro Audéz's Festival Audéz, and Captain Christian's Comedy Clubhouse. He holds a BA in English from The University of Texas in San Antonio and an MBA from Texas A&M–Corpus Christi.Music by Jamie Seward

Tessa Robago is a passionate poet and performer based in San Antonio, known for her electrifying open mic performances. With a unique blend of raw emotion and vivid imagery, Tessa captivates audiences, drawing them into her world through powerful storytelling. Whether she’s reciting in a cozy lounge or a crowded theater, her intensity and authenticity leave a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to witness her artistry.Music by Jamie Seward

Rod Carlos Rodriguez has an M.F.A. in Creative Writing from the University of Texas at El Paso and is an Assistant Professor at the University of Texas at San Antonio Writing Program. He is an award-winning poet who has been writing for over 40 years. He has 5 books of poetry published: Exploits of a Sun Poet (Pecan Grove Press, 2003), Lucid Affairs (Sun Arts Press, 2012), Native Instincts (Human Error Publishing, 2016), Cantos, Incandescent (Finishing Line Press, March 2024), and A History of Echoes: Poems (Gival Press, October 2024). He is founder/chair of the Sun Poet’s Society, South Texas’s longest running weekly open-mic poetry reading (1995-2022). He was nominated for the San Antonio Poet Laureate in April 2012, April 2014, April 2016, and April 2018. He was the poetry editor for Ocotillo Review, a literary journal/periodical and he was the editor of the Texas Poetry Calendar 2023 (Kallisto Gaia Press).Music by Jamie Seward

A fire sprinkler designer for over 20 years, Jose H. Mojica used his free time to write poetry. In 2016, he was inspired by local poets to finally share his words and voice. He now performs around town and is a confident regular at the Jazz Poets of San Antonio. Jose has curated art events through various collectives, including Art of Consciousness, a project he started with fellow artist, Jagwire.Jose embraces all that he absorbs, channeling his creativity into poetry in various forms. 

Robert J. Cavazos is a poet and Lecturer of English at Texas A&M University-San Antonio. He graduated from the University of the Incarnate Word and North Carolina State University's MFA program. He has served as a Teach For America corps member and Gemini Ink writer-in-residence. A winner of the 2022 San Antonio Ekphrastic Poetry Contest, he has poems published in Quirk and Boundless.Music by Jamie Seward

Chelsea Prieto is an English major at Texas A&M University–San Antonio and an active member of the Jaguar Ink Society, the university's creative writing club. A passionate storyteller and aspiring young adult novelist, Chelsea also explores the realms of short fiction and poetry, often drawing inspiration from personal experiences and the challenges she has overcome. Her writing is raw, honest, and deeply resonant.In November 2024, Chelsea was a proud winner of National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo), a testament to her dedication and creative drive. Her debut YA fantasy novel is set to release in September 2025, marking an exciting milestone in her literary journey.Beyond writing, Chelsea is the co-host of a local open mic night at Tandem, a cozy Southside coffee shop where writers, poets, and musicians come together to share their work and creative energy.She is also launching Beyond The Book—a literary website and shop that serves as a welcoming online space designed to inspire, support, and connect aspiring writers and book lovers alike.Music by Jamie Seward

Walker (Walpoet) Valdez is a Bolivian American spoken word poet, and educator from Falls Church, VA. His storytelling contains themes of identity, and is blended with humor and wordplay to speak on the Latin American experience. Mr. Valdez is an alumni from the award-winning arts collective Spoken Resistance and is a graduate of the NALAC Leadership Institute in San Antonio Texas. He holds a B.A in English ( Performance Media Concentration) and a Masters in Special Education. He has performed at various venues throughout DC, such as the Studio Theatre, GALA Hispanic Theatre, and the Rayburn House Office Building just to name a few. He currently hosts the Coffeehouse Poetry monthly open mic in Georgetown and is a teaching artist for the Heard nonprofit Arts Org.Music by Jamie Seward

AgitProp's poetry is a powerful exploration of identity, resistance, and liberation. Rooted in his Chicano heritage, his verses blend raw emotion with unapologetic truth, confronting systemic oppression and celebrating revolutionary love. Through vivid imagery and rhythmic intensity, AgitProp captures the struggles and resilience of marginalized communities, weaving personal and collective narratives into a tapestry of defiance and hope. His work challenges societal norms while honoring cultural roots, creating a space where vulnerability and strength coexist. AgitProp's poetry reflects not just his experiences but a call to action, inspiring readers and listeners to envision and fight for a more just world.Music by Jamie Seward

Chieftain is a poet from San Diego who advocates for social justice through his artistic expression. His poetry reflects his personal experiences and the environment around him, which can often be challenging and unfair. Despite these difficulties, he remains a beacon of hope in his community, inspiring many people, including me.After you listen to his work, follow @sandiegostreetops on Instagram to see what he's all about.Music by Jamie Seward

RatQing Rios is a Tejanx storyteller and educator based in San Antonio. Queer, neurodivergent, and Latinx, RatQing creates from a place informed and inspired by the binaries they have navigated, challenged, and straddled their whole life. A polyamorous creator, RatQing loves many mediums, including poetry, comics, zines, and nonfiction.Music by Jamie Seward

Candelaria Nieves Perez has been writing poetry since the age of 9, using it to discover and reaffirm her identity. She is currently a student at Texas A&M University-San Antonio, pursuing her Bachelor’s degree in English Language Arts with a concentration in Literature. Candelaria’s poetry has been published in four local anthologies and in Texas A&M’s inaugural literary magazine, The Mosaic.Her passion for poetry and advocacy for the arts, especially in the often-overlooked Southside, inspired her to create an open mic event at Tandem every second Wednesday of the month from 6 to 9 p.m. This platform allows creatives to share their work freely. Candelaria believes poetry and art play vital roles in creating safe and inclusive communities, emphasizing the need for connection and community for healing and growth.Love is the fundamental basis of everything she does and is a central theme in her poetry. Candelaria aims to help people feel seen and valued through her efforts, ensuring their names and needs are recognized.Music by Jamie Seward

Gaby Moreno is a San Diego native who graduated from SDSU. She is an independent creative and a jack of all trades. She loves to express herself in various art forms and doesn't like to be boxed in.She writes poetry, makes music, and creates art. She also hosts a podcast called Nightmare on Sedgwick Avenue, where she blends her love for Hip-Hop and Horror. She has released two EPs (God Of My Destiny and From Xibalba to Aztlan) and a few singles under her artist name, 7 Octoberz. On March 21st, she will release her first self-published poetry book, The Anxious Poeta!Music by Jamie Seward

Johnie J. Guerra was born in Lawton, Oklahoma, and his family roots are in Matamoros, Tamaulipas, Mexico, and Brownsville, Texas. After serving in the military at Fort Sam Houston, he fell in love with San Antonio and made it his home.He earned a bachelor's degree in Mexican American Studies from the University of Texas at San Antonio. His poetry celebrates Chicano identity and history, using English, Spanish, Spanglish, and Nahuatl while incorporating ancient Mesoamerican beliefs.Johnie founded Zona San Anto, a poetry collective that fosters unity, and co-founded the monthly Lakeside Poetry open mic to create a safe space for creative expression.Music by Jamie Seward

This episode will feature Jamie, the Clever Poet. Originally from Brownwood, Texas, Jamie has lived in San Antonio since 2020. A mostly reserved person with a history of many trades, Jamie is a multi-instrumentalist, poet, photographer, kitchen magician, student of human behavior, and lover of nature's beauty.Listen and see the world through Jamie’s words.Music by Jamie 

Songbird, born Mark Anthony Leal, is a spoken word poet and writer from San Antonio, TX. His poems delve into cultural identity, mental health issues, and spiritual experiences. He reads regularly with Zona San Anto, a poetry collective based on the west side of San Antonio. He holds a BS in Music from Northeastern University in Boston and an MS in Design from Parsons the New School for Design in NYC.Music by Johnie Guerra

This episode will feature Alicia Enriquez, aka Alycatt.She is a first-generation Chicana poet and single mother living in the heart of the southside San Antonio. She wrote her first poem at the age of eleven. Today, she is honing her literary skills by attending writing workshops and classes and sharing her work at poetry open mics. Let’s take a listen and see the world through Alycatt’s words.Music by Johnie Guerra

This episode is hosted and features Alejandra, La Mera Mera, @mera_sa_mara on Instagram. Please tune in and listen to this translingual poet who taps into our pleasure senses with her work. Her writing powerfully confronts the challenges that the queer community and women face during these critically charged political times.Music by- Johnie Guerra

This episode features Melissa Guerra, @allaboutmoe, on Instagram and is a must-listen. She employs poetry as a tool for healing. Her work kept quiet, and to herself, made its way to the stage during Zona San Anto's poetry event, Lakeside Poetry, and this podcast. So, listen to this episode and catch her at the Lighthouse Lounge once a month during our open mic.Music by Johnie Guerra

In this episode, I read from three poetry books whose authors are extraordinary.Karen Arredondo-Rose Gold PoetryBrenda Vaca-Riot of RosesShaggy-Burning Bridges of the DelicateI've chosen a beautifully written poem from each of their books that will captivate and inspire.I wish you all peace in the name of poetry.I love you all. You're beautiful.Music by Johnie Guerra

On today's episode, we are featuring Ky, a truly sentimental poet. She has a unique way of putting into words what we have all felt in complicated relationships, making her poetry deeply relatable.Ky, @that_person_ky, and @kyspoetry_book on Instagram, is a poet in her 20s figuring out life and experiences through words and phrases.Soon, her published book will be available for purchase. Until then, let's listen and see the world through Ky's words.Music by Johnie Guerra @johnie_war_

The Zona San Anto Podcast is proud to feature Shaggy, one of our poets here in San Antonio. Her poetry is raw and unfiltered, free from the constraints of public opinion.What you hear today is what you get. She reflects Black and Queer America in her poetry. So, tune in, listen, and see the world through Shaggy's words.If you want to be featured in an episode, please send us a DM on Instagram @zona_san_anto or an email to [email protected] Music by Johnie Guerra.

We invite you to tune into the first installment of the Zona San Anto Podcast. Please listen to these talented San Antonio, Dallas, and San Diego artists.To be featured in our podcast, please submit questions or audio recordings to [email protected] us on Instagram @zona_san_antoOriginal music by Johnie Guerra @johnie_war_

New Episode of Zona San Anto Podcast, formerly known as Firme Voices. Our mission is to continue their work by delving deep into the soulful world of poetry and creating barrio and intercultural unity through poetry.These episodes reflect our experiences in today's culture and society. In this Episode an amazing poet and musician from Los Angeles, Ramon Espinoza@ramon_espinoza83Poets of all ages, backgrounds, ethnicities, and genders can submit their unique works to our podcast.Please send questions and audio submissions to [email protected] to be featured in our episodes.Follow us on Instagram at @zona_san_anto.

**NEW EPISODE**Mary Rodriguez is a resilient poet, community volunteer, devoted mother, and dedicated student hailing from the vibrant city of San Diego, California. Born into adversity, Mary has emerged as a beacon of strength, navigating life's challenges with unwavering resilience. Her journey has inspired her to channel the transformative power of words, as she passionately expresses her experiences through poetry. In addition to her creative pursuits, Mary actively engages with her community as a volunteer, striving to make a positive impact. Amidst her roles as a mother and student, Mary's commitment to sharing her story becomes a source of healing, aiming to inspire others on their paths to resilience and recovery.Available on all podcast platforms and firmevoices.orgOriginal Music by Ed Villalobos @woahfamiliarface

New Episode!! We're thrilled to feature a remarkable Fronteriza poet Fernanda Castro, who brings the border to life through her words. Discover her unique perspective and her navigating in the borderlands,  San Diego - Tijuana. Available on all podcast platforms and firmevoices.orgIf you want to be featured on an Episode. Send us a DM on Instagram @firme_voices or an email to [email protected] Music by Ed Villalobos @woahfamiliarface

Tune in to our latest episode featuring captivating poetry that resonates deeply with your emotions, brought to you by the exceptionally talented poet from San Antonio, Texas, Alejandra Sanchez Alanis, docent of poetry. American Literature, and Linguistics of the Spanish Language.Prepare to be moved and inspired!  "I am a Translingual (multilingual) queer lyrical poetess, visual expressionist artist, and translator of the sacral essence. Invoking divine feminine wisdom, activating sensuous intuition, and embodying spiritual, erotic writing I intertwine the corporeal and emotional existence. Guiding readers into a conscious journey into the human introspective conversation, inviting into a conscience pilgrimage, connecting with the heart's internal dialogue. My sensual, embodied erotic style, a spiritual somatic journey, awakens mysteries of intuition, transforming vulnerability into eloquent storytelling." Available on all podcast platforms and firmevoices.orgIf you want to be featured on an Episode. Send us a DM on Instagram @firme_voices or an email to [email protected] Music by Ed Villalobos @woahfamiliarface

Our latest podcast episode welcomes a captivating female poet Yulijtica Tzopilutl. Join us as she intertwines the ancient beauty of Nahuatl, the warmth of Spanish, and the resonance of English, weaving tales of Native culture, Mexican-American familia, and the enduring spirit of la raza. Tune in for an enriching exploration of heritage and heart through the power of poetry."Available on all podcast platforms and firmevoices.orgIf you want to be featured on an Episode. Send us a DM on Instagram @firme_voices or an email to [email protected] Music by Ed Villalobos @woahfamiliarface

Welcome to a new episode of Firme Voices Podcast; this time, we have a fantastic poet from San Antonio, Texas, Melissa Guerra; in her beautiful poetry, she shares intimate stories full of Chicanismo, culture, grief, and family.Available on all podcast platforms and firmevoices.orgAnd remember, if you want to be featured on an Episode. Send us a DM on Instagram @firme_voices or an email to [email protected] Music by Ed Villalobos @woahfamiliarface

We are back with a new episode featuring an amazing Poet, Montezuma ZepedaMontezuma, a talented musician and poet, shares his poetry reflecting his pride for his roots and expressing direct political thoughts.Music by: @woahfamiliarfaceListen to the podcast on all platforms or at www.firmevoices.org

Special episode of our podcast. Featuring a founding member of Firme Voices Poetry, Jessica Bahena.A Chicana From San Diego California . Jessica shares her powerful poetry full of familia and self love.Music by: @woahfamiliarfaceListen to the podcast on all platforms or at www.firmevoices.org

Julie Corrales, a first-generation Chicana, Julie grew up in City Heights and now lives in Barrio Logan, Julie spends her free time with her three children, writing poetry, and performing spoken word at various venues. Her poetry has been published in Acentos Review, Anacua Literary Arts Journal, and Azahares Literary Magazine. Mashup by Daniel V.  a.k.a Chieftain@sandiegostreetops

"Firme Voices Poetry"Your Open Mic Podcast.In this episode, we have an amazing Female poet's Line-up.Grace @heyyitsgracie_Mary @laddyyy___mMaria Jimenez @mamie.reahBianca Farias  @the_spicy_chickp89Go to www.firmevoices.org for all the links to your favorite podcast platform.Submit Your Poetry:Send your audio recording to [email protected] as an attachment, with the subject line "Poetry Submission." In the body of the email, please include your name, the title of your poem, and a brief bio (optional).  Keep your recording between 1 to 5 minutes and ensure your recording is clear and free from background noise.

Special episode of our podcast. Feat. Poet  Johnie Guerra.From San Antonio Texas, Tejaztlan. Johnie shares his best powerful and intimate poetry with us.His poetry is the purest representation of Chicano Poetry, full of raza, cultura, familia y carnalismo.Listen to the podcast on all platforms or at www.firmevoices.org

Welcome  to the first episode of "Firme Voices Poetry." your Open Mic Podcast.  If you can't make it to our open mics in person or if you're a little shy in front of an audience, remember, this podcast is your space.Audio submissions to [email protected] with your name, the name of the poem and a small bio. Keep your recording between 1 to 5 minutes.Follow us on instagram @firme_voicesfirmevoices.org*Poets Line Up*Jessica BahenaRamon EspinozaJohnie GuerraBryanna NunezJpose de Jesus jasso Jr.Rae LopezChristian Osuna***************************Thank you so much for your interest in supporting our project! If you'd like to contribute, you can find us on Venmo at @firmevoices.  ***************************Jessica BahenaIG:@jesswhat1234Poem: The home I've never known.Jessica Bahena is a 31-year-old, single mother of two children and 4 animals. She has lived in San Diego all her life. She attends Cuyamaca college, majoring in Ethnic Studies, where she will be graduating next year with four degrees. Jessica is continuing her education and plans to complete a Master’s Degree in History and Chicano/Chicana Studies. Ramon Espinoza IG:@ramon_espinoza83Poem: “Mujer”Born in East Los Angeles raised in mid city and back home now  in East Los Angeles Mexico.  I’m a singer songwriter and poet inspired deeply by Pablo Neruda and of course the Spanish language the most romantic language for me. Just want to share my heart so to see what it sees through my eyes. My pen and my mind. Johnie GuerraIG:@johnie_war_Poem: “Aztlan's Drums“Johnie Guerra is a Mexican American from San Antonio, Texas, whose poetry reflects pride in Chicano identity and shines a light on Chicano history. His poetry employs English, Spanish, Spanglish, and Native languages and incorporates ancient Mesoamerican beliefs. His work seeks to reveal what it means to be Chicano in the twenty-first century United States.Bryanna NunezIG@breezeyboo_23Poem:  AfterthoughtHey my names Bryanna Nuñez. I'm an intersectional chicana feminist. My hobbies include writing poetry, watching horror movies, playing with my fur babies and thrifting. I've been writing poetry since I was 9 years old.  I'm finishing up my bachelors degree in Psychology. I work as a microbiologist at a small environmental monitoring company. I hope to one day write my own poetry book about healing childhood traumas.Jose de Jesus Jasso JrIG:@skrubjayPoem: BurntSugarJay has a MFA from SDSU in creative writing. He wants to tell stories about the people he thinks are looked over everyday. When he's not writing he's watching movies, reading, and gaming. You can find him on social media and twitch as SkrubJay. Peace and love!Rae LopezIG:@raes.writingPoem:  How a language is lostRae is a Chicana poet. She has many titles (sister, daughter, etc), but her favorite title is Tia. She spends her free time trying to perfect her grandmother’s recipes and mentoring first-gen college students. She remembers writing her first poem at age 11 in a classroom as part of  a poetry assignment. She has been writing ever since. If you enjoyed her poem, please follow her on Instagram @raes.writingChristian OsunaBio: Christian Osuna, known as “EazyWrites” has been writing a since he was a teenager.  A self proclaimed poet who is always looking to improve his craft, he wishes  Born and raised in Sunny San Diego, Califas. Christian read many books in his childhood from authors like Pablo Neruda, Edgar Allan Poe, Dean Koontz, Stephen King and many more. Today, he channels inspiration from these writers to bring bone chilling tales and melancholy poetry to not only his community but for the world.