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
5 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.
Nov 28, 2025 • 7min
1406: Paperweight by Ryan Teitman
Today’s poem is Paperweight by Ryan Teitman. The Slowdown is your daily poetry ritual. In this episode, Maggie writes… “Today’s poem charmed me immediately with its imagination and its restraint. It’s a poem that makes me ask, “What if?” It’s also a poem I want to read again as soon as I finish it.” Celebrate the power of poems with a gift to The Slowdown today. Every donation makes a difference: https://tinyurl.com/rjm4synp
Nov 27, 2025 • 6min
1405: Entry by Chet'la Sebree
The discussion dives into the themes of curiosity and knowledge, challenging traditional narratives of punishment for inquisitive women. Parenting approaches emphasize encouraging children to question rules rather than follow them blindly. The innate human desire to discover and learn for oneself is celebrated. Listeners are introduced to a poignant poem that encapsulates these themes, weaving together ideas of language, symmetry, and historical figures like Eve. It's a rich exploration of the power and pain that often accompany curiosity.
Nov 26, 2025 • 6min
1404: Before Lunar New Year, Our Mothers Go Missing by Uyen Phuong Dang
A thought-provoking poem delves into the nostalgic nuances of motherhood and memory. It reflects on the impact of the Lunar New Year, evoking themes of loss and generational connections. The host contemplates what children remember about their mothers, raising questions about identity and legacy. Rich imagery captures a sense of home and longing, illustrating the silent strength of mothers waiting for their children's return. This exploration of intimate relationships through poetry invites listeners to connect deeply with their own experiences.
