Gregg Shapiro - : Books, Bullies, and Becoming a Writer: A Conversation with Gregg Shapiro - Ep 7

Bold Voices / Good Yarns with Ian Henzel – Featuring Gregg Shapiro 📚 Episode 7: Books, Bullies, and Becoming a Writer: A Conversation with Gregg Shapiro What happens when literature becomes a lifeline? 🌈📚 In this powerful and personal conversation, host Ian Henzel sits down with poet and author Gregg Shapiro to talk identity, storytelling, and the communities that saved him. From growing up in Chicago with young parents, to finding refuge in books, music, and theater, Gregg opens up about the forces that shaped his writing—and his life. 💥 🔍 Hear how bullying led him to escapism, how icons like Andrew Holleran and Richard Brautigan inspired him, and why storytelling is still his compass. ✨ “I needed guidance.” ✨ “It was not safe for me.” ✨ “I found my people there.” 📝 Key topics include: • The impact of growing up with young parents • The power of escapism through books and media • Finding belonging in theater and storytelling • Literary inspirations like Andrew Holleran and Richard Brautigan • Why place, identity, and community play a huge role in his work • The backstory behind his short story "If Jesus Came to Skokie" ✨ “I needed guidance.” ✨ “It was not safe for me.” ✨ “I found my people there.” Whether you're passionate about poetry, fascinated by the writer's journey, or just love a deeply human story—this episode will speak to you. 💬 📲 Listen now on your favorite podcast platform! 🎙️ And don’t forget to like, share, and let us know what you think in the comments! Links to Books in this Episode: HOW TO WHISTLE: EXPANDED EDITION: Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/110292/9781734146479 Barnes & Noble: https://rgyp-bn.tiny.us/how-to-whistle-ebook Amazon: Print - https://amzn.to/3WBtCHd; Kindle - https://amzn.to/3WHJ6tb Rattling Good Yarns Press: https://rattlinggoodyarns.com/product/how-to-whistle-expanded-edition/ #GreggShapiro #PoetryPodcast #QueerVoices #LGBTQLiterature #WritersLife