Relationships are the often-forgotten piece of the longevity puzzle; science tells us that connection and forming meaningful relationships is key to helping us live better, for longer. Our relationships with ourselves, with others, and with the world are fundamentally important to our mental health. Join me in Episode #314 as I sit down with IN-Q for an exploration of creativity, self-compassion, and empathy.
“Being vulnerable, while it can be challenging, is always worth it.”
IN-Q is an Emmy-nominated poet, multi-platinum songwriter, world-renowned keynote speaker, and the best-selling author of Inquire Within. His groundbreaking achievements include being named to Oprah’s SuperSoul 100 list of the world’s most influential thought leaders, being the first spoken word artist to perform with Cirque du Soleil, and being featured on A&E, ESPN, and HBO’s Def Poetry Jam. He’s inspired countless audiences around the world, live and virtually, through his performances and storytelling workshops. There is much to be learned from his approach to life, growth, and creativity, and his perspective is an insightful listen in this episode.
“Our culture teaches us to look up to people or look down on people. It doesn’t teach us to look at people.”
In this episode, you’ll discover why you should learn to be vulnerable and how to do so. We discuss the danger of loneliness and how to improve life satisfaction, why creativity is a crucial practice for everyone, and how you can truly learn from failure. IN-Q also shares some of his poetry as well as key moments in his journey to where he is today.
Specifically, we cover:
- Introduction (0:00)
- IN-Q Performs His Poem “Growth AKA Goldfish” (1:32)
- The Importance of Emotional Health and Vulnerability (5:48)
- Does Expressing Emotions Show Weakness? (12:34)
- The Creative Process and Overcoming Failure (19:06)
- From Poetry to Platinum Hits: A Diverse Creative Journey (29:19)
- The Intention Behind Poetry and Empowering Through Creativity (34:40)
- The Creative Process: Inspiration, Writing, and Reflection (41:57)
- Finding Play and Presence in Life (47:04)
- A Poet’s Journey: From Personal Struggles to Creative Expression (50:58)
- Love, Relationships, and the Quest for Connection (1:01:09)
- Launching “The Never-Ending Now” Poetry Journal and Album (1:12:46)
- Closing with Empowerment: A Poem of Pride (1:14:06)
- Outro (1:18:35)
This episode is a bit of a side-step from our regular schedule but is just as important as discussing any other pillar of health. I hope this episode helps you explore your vulnerability and encourages you to express your creativity in an outlet that appeals to you.
Connect with IN-Q on Instagram. His website, in-q.com, is your go-to to learn more, listen to The Never Ending Now album, shop his journal and book, and more.
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More about IN-Q
IN-Q is an Emmy nominated poet, multi-platinum songwriter, world renowned keynote speaker, and the best-selling author of Inquire Within. His groundbreaking achievements include being named to Oprah’s SuperSoul 100 list of the world’s most influential thought leaders, being the first spoken word artist to perform with Cirque du Soleil, and being featured on A&E, ESPN, and HBO’s Def Poetry Jam. He’s inspired countless audiences around the world, live and virtually, through his performances and storytelling workshops. Many of his recent poetry videos have gone viral with over 60 million views combined, and his stand-up poetry special, IN-Q – Live at the Ace Theatre, streams exclusively on Amazon Prime Video.
