The Slowdown: Poetry & Reflection Daily
American Public Media
Host Maggie Smith is your daily poetry companion. Poetry is one of the greatest tools we have to wield our own attention — to consider our own lives and the lives of others, to help us live creatively and compassionately, to use that attention to lean into wonder, and joy, and truth, and to find hope — to keep hoping. The Slowdown community knows that reflecting on a poem, every weekday, can connect us to our inner world and the world around us. Listen as you make your morning coffee, as you go on a walk in your neighborhood, as you pull away from the to-do list, as you resist the dismal, endless scroll to share five minutes of perspective through the lens of poetry, from poets old and new, well-loved and emerging onto the scene. Brought to you by American Public Media, in partnership with the Poetry Foundation.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Dec 12, 2025 • 6min
[encore] 1376: Laura, I Want You Pulling Your Hair Back by Natalie Dunn
Today’s poem is Laura, I Want You Pulling Your Hair Back by Natalie Dunn.The Slowdown is taking a week to return to some of our favorite episodes from Maggie’s tenure so far. We’ll be back on Monday, December 15 with new episodes. Today’s episode was originally released on October 17, 2025. In this episode, Maggie writes… A big part of loving someone, whether they’re a friend or a family member or someone you’re romantically involved with, is embracing them exactly as they are. Not hoping they’ll change, or waiting for them to change, or—worst of all—trying to change them yourself.” Celebrate the power of poems with a gift to The Slowdown today. Every donation makes a difference: https://tinyurl.com/rjm4synp
Dec 11, 2025 • 6min
[encore] 1343: /’mīgrent/ by Tiana Nobile
Explore the power of language as the host delves into the etymology of the word 'migrant,' revealing its roots and connections to movement. Discover how political language can dehumanize individuals and affect community dynamics, highlighting personal fears about immigration. The conversation shifts to celebrate migration as an expression of freedom and potential. The episode culminates in a thought-provoking reading of Tiana Nobile's poem, which captures themes of survival and agency through vivid imagery. Tune in for a poetic journey!
Dec 10, 2025 • 5min
[encore] 1368: Do You Consider Writing to be Therapeutic? by Andrew Grace
Maggie Smith explores the intriguing question of whether writing serves as therapy. She distinguishes between writing and therapeutic practices, emphasizing that her goal is to articulate experiences rather than seek healing. A key highlight is Andrew Grace's poignant poem, which beautifully encapsulates the connection between grief and the limits of art as therapy. The discussion encourages reflection on poetry's role in cultivating attention and invites listeners to consider supporting the creative journey.
7 snips
Dec 9, 2025 • 6min
[encore] 1332: Tea by Leila Chatti
In a heartfelt exploration, the discussion centers on rethinking self-care as a practice of respect and tenderness towards oneself. A poignant reading of Leila Chatti’s poem 'Tea' emphasizes the warmth and ritual of making tea five times a day as an act of self-kindness. The poem intertwines themes of identity, cultural roots, and resilience against colonial suppression. Ultimately, it celebrates how small, repeated practices can bring joy and aid survival.
Dec 8, 2025 • 6min
1364: Hiking Moraine State Park by Violeta Garcia-Mendoza
Discover the beauty of nature through poetry as the host reflects on the joys of hiking in Moraine State Park. Emphasizing the importance of embracing loved ones as they are, conversations about valuing time outdoors highlight its grounding effects. The host discusses encouraging outdoor habits in her children while exploring the balance between technology and nature. Touching on how apps can enhance appreciation for wildlife, this exploration of poetry and reflection invites listeners to notice the world around them.
Dec 5, 2025 • 7min
1411: Amalgam by Rebecca Foust
Explore the fascinating world of metaphors and analogies in everyday conversations. The host shares a humorous insight about how even kids notice poetic expressions. A personal tale likens trust to Lucy pulling the football from Charlie Brown, showcasing the vulnerabilities in relationships. The centerpiece is a reading of Rebecca Foust's poem 'Amalgam,' which delves into the imagery of a lifelong dental filling, raising questions about consequences and memories. Dive into the beauty of language and its power to connect.
Dec 4, 2025 • 6min
1410: Go by Kathleen Ossip
Explore the captivating contrasts between short, sharp poems and long, flowing verses. Experience a reading of 'Go' by Kathleen Ossip, filled with vibrant imagery and evolving themes. Delve into the powerful concluding lines that emphasize motion and joy. Discover how poetry sharpens our focus and invites us to embrace the beauty around us. Join in the celebration of daily poetry and the importance of supporting this artistic endeavor.
Dec 3, 2025 • 6min
1409: Sal, 1950 by Paula Colangelo
In today's reflection, a poignant poem explores the haunting effects of PTSD on a POW. Maggie shares her grandfather's silent trauma from Pearl Harbor, connecting personal stories to broader themes of resilience. She delves into the complexities of PTSD, highlighting its symptoms and impacts beyond the battlefield. The powerful reading of Sal, 1950 gives voice to those who endure, emphasizing the strength and joy survivors can still find. Celebrate the enduring spirit through the transformative power of poetry.
Dec 2, 2025 • 6min
1408: Noah's Nameless Wife Takes Inventory by C.T. Salazar
In a powerful reflection, Maggie Smith explores how women in stories are often sidelined and unnamed, with a focus on Noah's wife in the Ark tale. She discusses how this anonymity underscores larger themes of identity and respect. The episode features a poignant reading of C.T. Salazar's poem, which gives voice to Noah's wife as she takes inventory of her life and fears, highlighting the often-unseen narratives of women. It serves as a reminder of the importance of recognizing all characters in the fabric of storytelling.
Dec 1, 2025 • 7min
1407: At the Base of the Mountain by Amanda Hawkins
In this episode, the discussion revolves around the significance of sacred places and personal pilgrimages. Maggie reflects on how these locations become powerful touchstones for memory and connection. The featured poem delves into themes of death and the mountains, emphasizing their intrinsic meanings. Listeners are invited to explore what makes a place special to them, intertwining poetry with the essence of personal reflection. It's a beautiful reminder of the significance we can find in our surroundings.
