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
Oct 8, 2025 • 6min
1369: Six Hours Lost, Land Between the Lakes by Kathleen Driskell
A haunting poem unfolds a tense encounter in the wilderness, exploring the depths of fear and vulnerability. Maggie Smith reflects on women's apprehensions about male violence, highlighting the complexities of safety in everyday life. The narrative captivates with its dark woods imagery and a poignant resolution involving kindness and rescue. The discussion balances the beauty of poetry with weighty social themes, leaving listeners contemplating their own experiences and the power of words.
4 snips
Oct 7, 2025 • 5min
1368: Do You Consider Writing to be Therapeutic? by Andrew Grace
Maggie Smith dives into the intriguing question of whether writing serves as therapy. She emphasizes that while writing awakens the soul and expresses experiences, it shouldn't replace clinical therapy. The focus shifts to the craft of writing for sharing with others rather than personal journaling. The highlight is Andrew Grace's poignant poem, which encapsulates grief and the challenges of viewing poetry as a substitute for therapy, leaving listeners with heartfelt reflections.
Oct 6, 2025 • 7min
1367: Abundance by Rick Barot
Dive into the joys of poetry as the host passionately discusses the importance of sharing verses with others. A special focus is placed on Rick Barot's evocative poem, 'Abundance,' which explores themes of immigration and wonder. You'll feel the richness of collective experiences and the magic that unfolds when poetry is brought to life through communal reading. Celebrate the beauty of connection and the power of words in this heartfelt reflection on the art of sharing poetry.
Oct 3, 2025 • 6min
1366: Nostalgia by Matthew Minicucci
Discover the intriguing origins of nostalgia, once deemed an illness in the 17th century. Explore the multifaceted meaning of 'home'—a place, time, person, or a past version of oneself. Dive into the experience of feeling nostalgic even as moments happen. Delve into the impact of technology in preserving memories through apps and photo libraries. Enjoy a poignant reading of Matthew Minicucci's poem, which beautifully captures themes of forgetting, memory, and longing.
Oct 2, 2025 • 7min
1365: Noise Cancelling by Devon Walker-Figueroa
Explore the enchanting poem, 'Noise Cancelling' by Devon Walker-Figueroa, as it invites listeners to get lost in its reflective imagery. Maggie's recitation weaves a tapestry of emotions surrounding themes of loss and introspection. The power of poetry to evoke deep feelings is celebrated, encouraging a moment of pause and contemplation. Join in on this daily ritual that highlights the beauty and impact of poetic expression.
Oct 1, 2025 • 6min
1364: Hiking Moraine State Park by Violeta Garcia-Mendoza
Today’s poem is Hiking Moraine State Park by Violeta Garcia-Mendoza. The Slowdown is your daily poetry ritual. In this episode, Maggie writes… “Today’s poem speaks to me because, at its heart, is a deep curiosity about the world—a desire to know more and more. It recognizes that sometimes we can use technology to be more connected to nature, not more disconnected from it.”Celebrate the power of poems with a gift to The Slowdown today. Every donation makes a difference: https://tinyurl.com/rjm4synp
Sep 30, 2025 • 6min
1363: Notes on Beachgrass by Yong-Yu Huang
Delve into the contemplative beauty of nature with a poignant poem that intertwines the ocean, moon, and personal reflections. The host highlights the original imagery and emotional depth found in the verses, encouraging multiple readings to unearth new meanings. Themes of wonder and the poet's inspiration guide the discussion, capturing the essence of creativity and imagination. This exploration of poetry serves as a reminder of the treasures found in both nature and language.
Sep 29, 2025 • 6min
1362: For You Who Have Loved Old Dogs by Silas House
In this heartfelt discussion, the beauty of aging canine companions takes center stage. A touching poem by Silas House evokes memories of love and loss, as the host reflects on the emotional bond shared with old dogs. The conversation intertwines themes of grief, companionship, and the fleeting nature of time spent with our furry friends. Listeners are invited to celebrate these connections while embracing the power of poetry.
Sep 26, 2025 • 6min
1361: Earth, Sometimes I Try to Play It Casual, by Catherine Pierce
Delight in the wonders of nature takes center stage as the host shares her enthusiastic fascination with the world around her. From shouting out sightings of hawks to naming local albino squirrels, the joy of exploration and connection with the environment shines through. A reading of Catherine Pierce's poem reveals layers of awe and trepidation about Earth's beauty and fragility. The discussion encourages listeners to embrace their own emotional responses to the natural world without reservation.
5 snips
Sep 25, 2025 • 6min
1360: Wind, Blue Sky by Susan Aizenberg
Explore the challenge of staying in the present moment through the lens of poetry. The discussion highlights attention as an act of love, even amid life’s distractions. A reading of Susan Aizenberg's poem, Wind, Blue Sky, delves into the conflict between memory and presence. This meditation invites listeners to reflect on sensory experiences and the importance of gratitude for each moment. Celebrate the power of poetry and its ability to ground us amidst the noise.
