What makes a good poet? Never underestimate the impact of a great instructor who both nurtures and challenges their students. In this episode, Patty and Richard dive into the art and craft of poetry with two writers who represent both sides of that relationship — the teacher and the student.

Scott Owens, a longtime poet, instructor, and owner of Taste Full Beans Coffeehouse in Hickory, joins the conversation to talk about his 24th published book, “Elemental.” Alongside him is his former student, Gray Lee, a Lenoir-Rhyne University student and former Redhawk Publications intern, celebrating the release of their first chapbook, “Becoming.”

The discussion explores everything from writing routines to inspiration — or the lack thereof. Scott shares insights into poetic forms and the discipline behind his writing, while Gray offers a fresh perspective on creativity as a more spontaneous, organic process. Together, they remind us that there’s no single “right” way to write poetry — just the courage to begin.
HINT: Want to dive into the art of poetic forms—tankas, sonnets, sestinas, and villanelles? You’ll learn about them in this episode… Does the form create the poem? Or do the words dictate the form? Depends! Poetic license…

Patty even turns the mic toward Richard Eller, Executive Director of Redhawk Publications and author of numerous nonfiction works, to explore how his historical writing process differs from that of poets.

SURPRISE: Gray learns their poem has been nominated for the Pushcart Award 2026 season. Congrats!

A heartfelt thank-you goes out to Lenoir-Rhyne University, whose dedicated instructors continue to shape and inspire new generations of writers.
JOIN US: If you hear this before the end of October, please join Gray at Taste Full Beans for the book launch of “Becoming” along with Tuesday, October 28th, at 6:15 p.m., address below. Partial proceeds will benefit OUTright Youth of Catawba Valley, a nonprofit that nurtures and powers the LGBTQ+ community.

And of course, a massive shout-out to our sponsor, Taste Full Beans — not only the best coffeehouse in town, but also a proud supporter of local literature and home to Redhawk Publications books. Be sure to stop by, grab a cup, and tell the amazing folks there that RedPubPod sent you!

REDHAWK PUBLICATIONS CO-HOSTS:

Richard Eller, Executive Director, Redhawk Publications & RedPubPod Engineer

Patty Thompson, Acquisitions Editor, Redhawk Publications

Taste Full Beans Coffee, Tea & Café

29 2nd Street NW, Hickory, NC

(828) 325-0108

https://www.tastefullbeans.com/

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