Authors Unbound: Recent Episodes
Unbound Edition Press
A podcast connecting passionate writers with passionate readers. Presented by Unbound Edition Press. Hosted by Patrick Davis, Publisher and Editor-in-Chief and Peter Campion, Executive Editor.
David Biespiel is an American poet, novelist, and essayist.
Born in Texas, his work spans poetry and memoirs. He has established a notable presence in the literary world with his unique blend of poetry and prose. Biespiel's literary journey is marked by his deep exploration of personal and collective experiences, captured through his compelling works. His accolades include several prestigious awards and fellowships, highlighting his significant impact on contemporary literature.
As the founder of the Attic Institute of Arts and Letters and serving as Poet-in-Residence at Oregon State University, he has played a pivotal role in nurturing literary talent. His dedication to the craft is evident in his extensive body of work, which has not only earned critical acclaim but also resonated with a wide audience.
In this episode, we explore his transition from poetry to prose, the influence of his early life on his writing, and the creation and impact of his poet’s workshop.
This is David Biespiel Unbound.
We delve into the world of David Roderick, an esteemed American poet whose journey from Plymouth, Massachusetts, to the forefront of contemporary poetry is as compelling as his verses.
A Colby College alumnus with an MFA from the University of Massachusetts-Amherst and a Wallace Stegner Fellowship at Stanford University under his belt, David's literary prowess is evident in his acclaimed collections: "Blue Colonial" and "The Americans."
Our conversation with David offers an intimate glimpse into his life and work. He shares insights into his newest poems from "Darkness for Beginners," reflecting on themes like middle life and fatherhood, and the emotional landscape that shapes his poetry. His personal connection to the late journalist James Foley, a friend from graduate school, brings a poignant touch to his latest work.
David's role as a literary citizen comes to the fore as we discuss his co-founding of Left Margin LIT, a creative writing center in Berkeley. This venture, born out of his desire to connect more deeply with the community outside academia, is a testament to his dedication to nurturing literary talent and fostering a shared writing space.
Listeners will find David's reflections on balancing the various facets of his life – from teaching, directing content for Adroit Journal, to running Left Margin LIT – both fascinating and inspiring. His thoughtful approach to poetry, particularly his emphasis on the power of verbs as "energy centers" in his work, offers valuable insights for aspiring poets.
Join us in this episode as we explore David Roderick's literary world, where the suburban landscapes, personal histories, and the complexities of American identity converge to create poetry that resonates with readers across generations.
Randall Mann is a poet whose work eloquently explores themes of form, queer identity, and the vivid emotional landscapes of places like San Francisco. Hailing from Provo, Utah, with formative years spent in Kentucky and Florida, Mann has carved out his own place in contemporary poetry with notable works including "Complaint in the Garden" and "A Better Life."
In this episode of the Authors Unbound Podcast, we delve into a rich conversation with Randall as he discusses his latest collection, "Deal: New and Selected Poems." Discover the depth of Randall’s poetry, where structure and rhyme intricately capture the complexities of LGBTQ experiences and personal histories.
Tune in for evocative readings from his collection, featuring poems "September" and "A Walk in the Park." These readings showcase Mann’s lyrical prowess but also provide listeners with a look into his creative process and the themes that permeate his work.
In this episode, Oliver Radclyffe shares his compelling journey from being the only daughter in an upper-class English family to embracing his true identity as a transgender man.
Oliver and our hosts explore how his book "Adult Human Male" challenges the conventional cisgender perspective and offers a fresh, humanist approach to understanding transgender experiences.
This episode is a treasure trove for passionate readers, aspiring writers, and those eager to understand the complexities of gender identity. Oliver's insights into his writing process and his journey as an author are both inspiring and enlightening.
Join us in this riveting discussion that promises to challenge, educate, and inspire.
This is Oliver Radclyffe, unbound.
🔗 Grab your copy of "Adult Human Male" here https://www.unboundedition.com/product/adult-human-male-oliver-radclyffe-literary-nonfiction/
In this special episode of Authors Unbound, hosts Patrick Davis and Peter Campion invite you to pull up a chair at the literary table for an intimate dinner celebration.
Recorded live in San Fransisco at the esteemed Boulettes Larder, this episode is a toast to the launch of remarkable new works by two of the press's most compelling voices: Jesse Nathan and Danielle Chapman.
Amidst the clinking of glasses and the warm ambiance of a gathering that feels both exclusive and inclusive, our hosts delve into the intricacies of writing with our honored guests.
Jesse Nathan, with his poignant reflections on childhood and memory, and Danielle Chapman, with her deep dive into the generational echoes of family history, share the stage to discuss their latest publications.
This episode is not just a conversation but a journey through the minds of writers who navigate the delicate balance between the past and the present in their work.
Listen in as they explore the transformative power of language, the role of personal history in shaping narrative, and the trust in language's generative power.
The discussion traverses the landscape of poetic and prosaic expression, revealing how each author's unique approach to storytelling is a testament to the enduring power of the written word.
As the evening unfolds, the conversation turns to the broader implications of their work, touching on themes of cultural loss, the act of resuscitating what's been lost, and the forward-looking task of cherry-picking from the past.
Join us for this special episode of Authors Unbound, where the conversation is as rich as the food and the company is as inspiring as the prose and poetry discussed.
It's an evening that promises to leave you with a renewed appreciation for the craft of writing and the stories that shape our lives.
Join us on a grounded journey through nature's winding paths as we explore the deep roots of ecopoetics with the leading voice of ecopoetry, John Shoptaw. Not only is he the author of “On the Outside Looking Out: John Ashbery’s Poetry, the libretto for Eric Sawyer’s opera “Our American Cousin, and many more; John became the winner of the Notre Dame Review Book Prize, and the Northern California Book Award in Poetry in 2015 from his first ever poetry collection, “Times Beach.
John Shoptaw's award-winning poetry collection, "Times Beach," masterfully intertwines the cultural and environmental history of the Mississippi watershed with personal memories and the life of the river system, highlighting the symbiotic relationship between rivers and the lives they touch, all while showcasing innovative poetic forms.
While pursuing his passion for writing and teaching ecopoetry & ecopoetics for several years, John is taking new green strides, as the Unbound Edition Press announced that it will publish his “Near- Earth Object” poem collection in April 2024.
John’s Highly anticipated "Near-Earth Object,"delves into the nuanced relationship between humans and nature, challenging human exceptionalism by giving voice to various natural entities, and addressing pressing issues with a balanced mix of gravity and hope, all while showcasing his distinct "poetics of impurity" in an ecopoetic style praised for its relevance and accessibility.
Tune in to Authors Unbound, as we dive deep into the heart of ecopoetry and witness the union of nature, while also joining us as the first to unravel the essence of the upcoming collection ‘Near- Earth Object’ with the remarkable John Shoptaw.
This is John Shoptaw, unbound.
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Welcome back to Authors Unbound, where we embark on a poetic and introspective journey with a remarkable poet and essayist, Danielle Chapman. In this episode, we delve into the world of a distinguished Yale University lecturer whose words have left an indelible mark on the literary landscape.
Danielle Chapman is not only an educator but also a poet whose work has graced the pages of prestigious publications such as The New Yorker, The Atlantic Monthly, The Nation, and more. Her essays in The Oxford American and Commonweal offer profound perspectives on life's complexities.
In 2015, she gifted us her first poetry collection, "Delinquent Palaces" (Northwestern University Press), a work that weaves emotions into intricate tapestries of thought and feeling.
In October 2023, Danielle's memoir, "Holler: A Poet Among Patriots," was published by Unbound Edition Press. This deeply personal exploration takes us through life, loss, and the quest for meaning.
But the literary treasures don't stop there. Her second poetry collection, "Boxed Juice," is forthcoming in 2024, promising a deep dive into the fragility of life, the rupture of death, and the moral reckoning that accompanies a relentless search for meaning.
Beyond her literary achievements, Danielle resides in Hamden, CT, with her husband, Christian Wiman, a fellow luminary in literature, and their twin daughters.
Join us as we sit down with Danielle Chapman, delving into her creative process, insights on life and loss, and the profound resonance of her words. This is an episode that touches hearts, inspires minds, and celebrates the artistry of language.
This is Danielle Chapman, unbound.
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For more literary adventures and updates on Authors Unbound and Unbound Edition Press, visit https://www.unboundedition.com/.
Don't forget to follow us on social media for excerpts from the show, inside looks at our process, and upcoming events and announcements:
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Join us on a captivating voyage as we navigate the intricate waters of love, relationships, and sexual liberation with the extraordinary Janet W. Hardy. In this episode of Authors Unbound, we have the privilege of sitting down with a literary luminary who has illuminated the path to understanding human connection and desire.
Janet W. Hardy, the author or coauthor of more than a dozen groundbreaking books, has devoted her life's work to unraveling the mysteries of relationships and sexuality. Her iconic book, "The Ethical Slut," has touched the lives of countless readers, selling over 500,000 copies and transcending language barriers with translations into more than a dozen languages.
But that's just the tip of the iceberg. Janet's influence in the literary world extends far and wide. As the founder of Greenery Press, she assumed the role of editor in chief for over 25 years, shaping the landscape of literature on relationships, sexuality, and kink.
Today, we invite you to embark on a literary adventure into the mind and heart of Janet W. Hardy. Discover the depth and breadth of her wisdom as we explore her latest collection of spirited essays and joyful illustrations, "Notes of An Aging Pervert" recently published right here with Unbound Edition Press.
Janet's work is a testament to her unapologetic authenticity, and she invites us into her world—a world that defies conventions and celebrates love in all its forms. She lives a life that challenges societal norms, proudly identifying as a kinky, poly, queer, genderbent geezer in the vibrant heart of Eugene, Oregon, alongside her equally unconventional and adoring partner.
As we engage in this conversation, we'll delve into the profound insights Janet has gathered over years of exploration, inviting you to join us in celebrating the rich tapestry of human relationships and the boundless expressions of desire.
This episode is an ode to love, liberation, and the beauty of embracing our true selves. Don't miss the opportunity to connect with Janet W. Hardy and be inspired by her extraordinary journey.
Tune in to Authors Unbound, where together, we unravel the complexities of love, intimacy, and self-discovery with the remarkable Janet W. Hardy.
This is Janet W. Hardy, unbound.
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For more literary adventures and updates on Authors Unbound and Unbound Edition Press, visit https://www.unboundedition.com/.
Don't forget to follow us on social media for excerpts from the show, inside looks at our process, and upcoming events and announcements:
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Welcome back to Authors Unbound, as we continue to embark on a literary journey through the vivid landscapes of words here at Unbound Edition Press. Your hosts Patrick Davis - Publisher and Editor-in Chief and Peter Campion - Executive Editor joyously return as we kick off our second season.
In this new episode, we are thrilled to introduce you to the enchanting world of C.T. Salazar, a Latinx poet and librarian hailing from the heart of Mississippi.
In this episode, we delve into the exquisite tapestry of C.T. Salazar's literary works and beyond. Join us as we unravel the intricate threads of his poetic journey, weaving together the stories that have shaped his distinctive voice.
C.T. Salazar's debut collection, "Headless John the Baptist Hitchhiking," now graces the shelves of literary enthusiasts, inviting us to traverse a realm where words transcend the ordinary. With the deftness of a master storyteller, Salazar invites us to explore the uncharted territories of his imagination.
But that's not all. Salazar's poetic journey is a testament to his dedication to the craft. He's the author of three captivating chapbooks, the most recent being "American Cavewall Sonnets" (Bull City Press, 2021). These pieces offer glimpses into the depths of his creative spirit, inviting us to wander through the caverns of his thoughts.
In recognition of his exceptional talents, C.T. Salazar was awarded the prestigious Mississippi Institute of Arts and Letters award in poetry in 2020. This honor serves as a testament to the profound impact of his words on the literary landscape.
As we listen to Salazar's verse, we'll traverse the realms of his poetic wanderlust, taking in the breathtaking vistas of his inspiration. His poems have graced the pages of renowned publications such as The Rumpus, Beloit Poetry Journal, Cincinnati Review, 32 Poems, RHINO, and beyond, leaving an indelible mark on the world of contemporary poetry.
Join us as we sit down with C.T. Salazar to explore the depths of his creative journey, the influences that have shaped his craft, and the magic that unfolds within the pages of his poetry. This is a literary expedition you won't want to miss.
This is C.T. Salazar, unbound.
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For more literary adventures and updates on Authors Unbound and Unbound Edition Press, visit https://www.unboundedition.com/.
Don't forget to follow us on social media for excerpts from the show, inside looks at our process, and upcoming events and announcements:
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Authors Unbound is back, and this week we have the pleasure of talking with Alexander Cheves, the bestselling author of the #1 Amazon LGBTQ Memoir, My Love Is a Beast: Confessions, published right here at Unbound Edition Press.
Alexander Cheves is a well-known author, sex-positive writer, and LGBTQ activist who has been featured in publications such as The Advocate, Out Magazine, and VICE. His book is a powerful memoir that delves into his personal life experiences, exploring themes such as sexuality, love, religion, and mental health.
During our conversation with Alexander, we discuss the importance of sex positivity and representation in literature, and how his book lends a voice to a section of the community not normally addressed. We also explore the topic of pushing boundaries within writing and balancing the expectations that follow notoriety and success.
But the highlight of the episode is when Alexander treats us to two readings from his book, directly from the chapters “Ghosts” and “Heaven.” The passages are powerful, emotional, and leave a lasting impression.
So, join us for this captivating episode of Authors Unbound, as we delve into the mind of Alexander Cheves, and explore the people and inspiration behind his groundbreaking memoir, My Love Is a Beast: Confessions.
This is Alexander Cheves, unbound.
In this episode of Authors Unbound, hosts Patrick Davis and Peter Campion delve into the fascinating life and career of Carlo Matos, a bisexual-plus author with ten published books, including The Quitters and It's Best Not to Interrupt Her Experiments. With poems, stories, and essays featured in journals such as Hobart, DMQ Review, and PANK, Carlo's talents know no bounds.
Discover how this Chicago-based professor at the City Colleges of Chicago juggles his literary pursuits with his past as an MMA fighter as we dive into a conversation that covers everything from Carlo's beginnings in classical music and grunge to some enchanting readings from his work.
Don't miss this engaging exploration of an extraordinary literary figure who defies categorization and labels alike.
This is Carlo Matos, unbound.
In this episode, Patrick and Peter sit down with award-winning poet and narrative medicine trail blazer Nicole Robinson, to discuss her highly anticipated forthcoming collection of poems, "Without a Field Guide."
Nicole's work has appeared in numerous literary journals, including The Fourth River, Connotation Press, Great River Review, and Tahoma Literary Review, and she has been recognized for her talent with an Individual Excellence Award from the Ohio Arts Council. Her poetry speaks to themes of identity, family, and the natural world, and her forthcoming book promises to be a powerful exploration of these themes and more.
You’ll be treated to readings from "Without a Field Guide," as Nicole shares some of her favorite poems from the collection and talks about the inspirations behind them.
Whether you're a fan of poetry, a writer looking for inspiration, or simply someone who loves to hear from talented creatives, this episode of Authors Unbound is not to be missed.
This is Nicole Robinson, unbound.
In this episode of Authors Unbound, we interview Chris Campanioni, a respected writer, multimedia artist, university instructor, and male model. Chris work has earned the International Latino Book Award, the Pushcart Prize, and the Academy of American Poets College Prize. Unbound Edition Press is proud to welcome him with the publication of the second edition of his cross-genre book, A and B and Also Nothing, and his inclusion in our own project, The Experiment Will Not Be Bound.
Chris has presented his research on regimes of surveillance, queer migration, and auto-archival practices at various symposia and conferences and his work has been published in numerous journals and anthologies. He has also taught Latinx literature, creative writing, media studies, and journalism at several universities.
Today, Chris shares his experiences as a writer and instructor, discusses his vision of the creative process and structure, and delves into the underlying themes in his work, including identity and transnational spaces.
This is Chris Campanioni, unbound.
In this episode of Authors Unbound, Patrick and Peter talk with activist and poet Alex Wells Shapiro to discuss his groundbreaking work, Insect Architecture. Shapiro is at the forefront of a new movement in activism through poetry and his work offers a powerful voice to the unheard.
Together, they delve into the themes of life in the city, sources of inspiration, and the impact of popular culture on poetry via a quick dance with Katy Perry. Additionally, they will explore the definition of 'fuck-boy poet' and what that means in today's literary world.
Join us as we delve into the world of Insect Architecture and learn how Shapiro's work is providing a new lens to look at the world and giving voice to important social and political issues.
This Alex Wells Shapiro, unbound.
Lawyer, former adult film star, and author Stephan Ferris joins Patrick and Peter to share the story of his inspiring journey of overcoming a battle with drug addiction and turning towards a life of achievement. His recently released and highly anticipated new book, Blue Movie, delves into the controversial world of the adult film industry, his personal struggles, and more while blending sometimes shocking subject matter with eloquent and strikingly beautiful language.
Ferris is a well-known advocate for recovery and has been featured in several publications and by organizations around the world for his story of overcoming addiction. This episode is not to be missed as Ferris shares insights and stories from his book, as well as his journey to becoming a successful lawyer while crossing many of life's tallest hurdles. Join us as we explore the world of Blue Movie and the power of recovery.
This is Stephan Ferris, unbound.
Catherine Gass is a photographer known for her evocative and thought-provoking imagery that often explores memory, identity, and the books, using both traditional film and digital techniques.
Gass earned a BFA in Photography from the School of Visual Arts in New York City as well as a MFA in Photography from the University of Hartford. Her work has been exhibited in galleries and museums across the United States, and her photographs have been featured in numerous publications.
Today we are talking about her upcoming work and her creative process — and announce that her photography and writing will be featured in the newest anthology from Unbound Edition Press entitled The Experiment Will Not Be Bound. This completely unique book — physically and philosophically unbound — was inspired by Catherine’s father, William H. Gass, and edited by our own Peter Campion. The book, in Peter’s words, includes authors who “venture out onto the skinny branches of their own sensibilities.”
This is Catherine Gass, unbound.
In this episode, Patrick and Peter sit down with poet George Witte for a discussion on poetry, the creative process, and the value of practice. As the author of numerous collections including The Scarlet Ibis and Saint Valentine, Witte shares insights via his personal journey as a writer and explains the everyday moments that motivate his work.
He also provides a captivating and thought-provoking look into his process as we discuss his forthcoming collection, An Abundance of Caution to be published by Unbound Edition Press in the spring of 2023.
This is George Witte, Unbound.
Best-selling fiction author Aimee Parkison sits down with Patrick and Peter to talk about everything from process to the future of fiction writing. Her dark and gritty narratives, blending the most tragic moments of life with brash humor and wild imagination, leaves readers squirming for more in her best-selling fiction work, Suburban Death Project published with Unbound Edition Press in 2022.
Along with being an award-winning author whose accolades include numerous fellowships, the Catherine Doctorow Innovative Fiction Prize, the Kurt Vonnegut Fiction Prize, and more Aimee is also a full professor of Creative Writing for Oklahoma State University’s BA, MFA, and PhD programs.
If her long list of forthcoming work is any bit as impactful as her past work, we are in for a dark and humorous treat.
This is Aimee Parkison, unbound.
If great things are done by a series of small things brought together, then Leah Souffrant, and her ability to transcend genres and span artforms has achieved true greatness. A teacher, poet, author, philosopher, and critic, her work looks within her varied experience in an effort to guide readers towards realizing their own way of knowing and thinking.
Her forthcoming work Entanglements: threads woven from history, memory, and the body is set to be released in the spring of 2023 by Unbound Edition Press. Her previous work, Plain Burned Things : A Poetics of the Unsayable was published in 2017 and is available from the Collection Clinamen imprint in interdisciplinary poetics from les Presses Universitaires de Liège.
Souffrant is a National Poetry Series finalist, a Nina Fortin Dissertation Proposal Award winner, a Catwalks Institute Artist-in-residence, and New York Foundation for the Arts Fellow in Poetry.
This is Leah Souffrant Unbound.
Jesse Nathan has carved his name into the poetry landscape through a seemingly effortless sense of modern movement inspired by poetry from centuries past.
His work is highly informed and poignant yet presents a sort of warmth that is human and accessible. Jesse’s poems have earned notable attention, appearing in publications like the Paris Review, Yale Review, American Poetry Review, Jubilant, the Nation, FENCE, and many more.
He is also the recipient of fellowships from the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, Stanford University, UC Berkley, the Community of Writers, the Kansas State Arts Commission, and the Ashbery Home School. His debut collection of poetry, Eggtooth, is set for publication in the fall of 2023 from Unbound Edition Press. We talk with Jesse about his writerly process, and the ways in which he paints a scene with physicality and relatability.
In this same context, we also dive into his conception of the “you” within his work with his reading of “Straw Refrain” serving as a perfect example. We take a deep dive into his personal background and identity, exploring how spirituality, farming, and queerness shape his writing.
Listeners can also see Jesse’s work at McSweeney’s, where he masterfully conducts and writes a series of interviews called “Short Conversations with Poets.” This is Jesse Nathan, unbound.
A dedicated, engaged, and engaging student of the cultural experience surrounding gender and identity, Sophia Anfinn Tonnessen channels her personal journey through transition in poetic works that challenge traditional notions of self-discovery and syntax, alike. She is a truly original poet with the ability to translate misunderstood or unacknowledged areas of life and society that many find difficult to grasp. She makes complex subjects accessible in unexpected ways, using humor to balance the brutality that can come with defining oneself against expected norms.
Ecologia, her debut poetry collection (Unbound Edition Press, 2021), put the poetry world on notice – earning a coveted Kirkus Reviews star and a spot on their list of 100 best independent books. Our very own Peter Campion writes of Ecologia: “With passion and precision, ardor and humor, Whitmanian exuberance and Dickinsonian canniness, Sophia Anfinn Tonnessen’s Ecologia springs up from the ‘wounded place’ that is also ‘holy ground’.” Her poem “Layaway” was the second-place finalist for the Sappho Prize in 2021.
This is Sophia Anfinn Tonnessen, unbound.
Author and renowned poet, Atsuro Riley is known for a unique and compressed style that blends complex linguistic structure with striking, refined brevity. We sat down with Atsuro to discover how his upbringing in South Carolina’s lowcountry contributed to southern stylings and diverse cultural awareness. His upbringing and path seem anything but ordinary, and his work speaks to the way in which he challenged traditional training methods, building processes and techniques that provide an unmatched richness to his poetry.
From world-building to constructing his own lexical roadmap, Atsuro has manifested a lifetime of work into two incredible pieces. We dive head-first into his most recent work, Heard-Hoard (University of Chicago Press 2021), winner of the Alice Fay di Castagnola Award from the Poetry Society of America, to realize portions of his aforementioned process and the rationale behind this work. A reading of Creekthroat and Origin are the reward.
While Heard-Hoard continues to take the literary world by storm, his first book, released in 2010, Romey’s Order, garnered the recipit of countless accolades including the Whiting Writers’ Award, the Library of Congress’ Witter Bynner Award, the Kate Tufts Discovery Award, and The Believer Poetry Award. Atsuro Riley is no stranger to achievement.
One thing is clear. Decades of dedication to one’s work brings decades of longevity and truly exceptional form of poetry that will undoubtedly stand the test of time.
This is Atsuro Riley, unbound.