The Curating of a Poetic Life with Rian N. Jenkins

In this engaging conversation, Ryan Jenkins shares her unique journey as a writer, poet, and educator. From the story behind her name to her experiences in the classroom, Ryan discusses the challenges and triumphs of navigating the literary world as a black woman. She emphasizes the importance of self-affirmation, the weight educators carry, and the power of storytelling, particularly in children’s literature. Ryan also reflects on her transition from teaching to writing full-time, her upcoming projects, and her desire to help others in their writing journeys.

• Rian’s name has a unique story tied to a soap opera star.
• She transitioned from poetry to fiction at a young age.
• Rian’s felt a calling to be a writer after a significant moment in her life.
• She has published multiple poetry anthologies and a children’s book.
• Educators, especially black women, carry the weight of their students’ stories.
• Writing serves as a form of healing and self-affirmation for Rian.
• Rian’s pen name, ‘Anointed Misfit,’ reflects her unique perspective.
• She aims to help others navigate the self-publishing process.
• Rian’s upcoming novel is based on her middle school experiences.
• She believes in the importance of affirming young black boys and girls through literature.

“I hated my name growing up.”

“I called you to be a writer.”

“I love being black.”

00:00

The Story Behind the Name

05:44

Journey into Writing and Poetry

10:30

The Call to Write: A Spiritual Journey

12:27

Exploring Poetry Anthologies and Themes

16:59

The Weight of Educators: Vicarious Trauma and Healing

22:22

Writing for Children: Affirming Black Youth

28:24

The Southern Experience: Family and Heritage

31:08

Healing Practices and Self-Affirmation

37:20

The Anointed Misfit: Embracing Uniqueness

42:40

Transitioning from Teaching to Writing and Consulting

49:24

The Journey of a Southern Woman Writer

52:46

Empowering Young Girls Through Nonprofits

54:22

The Impact of Poetry on Family and Community

55:25

Exploring the Matrix of Reality and Fiction

58:49

Celebrating the Audacity of Black Women Writers

01:04:05

Impromptu Storytelling: Introspection and Expression

01:10:52