This week, I was honored to interview multi-award-winning poet and songwriter Julie Flanders! She graciously agreed to a video interview, and I wanted to share it with you. I also wanted to talk about the October Project’s annual Poetry Contest, which is happening throughout April.

But first, a little about Julie.

Julie Flanders is known for her passionate and haunting texts. Her first book of poetry, entitled Joyride, was a number-one bestseller on Amazon in its category.

An award-winning poet and songwriter, Flanders is the lyricist for the band, October Project, which is still celebrated for its two groundbreaking albums that have sold over 1/2 million copies worldwide.

Her songs with OP and other artists have also been widely featured on TV and in film, and she is considered an innovator in both the creation and marketing of independent music.

You can see why I’m so excited!

Here’s the interview, edited for clarity, and you can also catch the audio-only version on The Present Poetry Podcast.

I had so much fun chatting with her and hearing her ideas on the value that poetry can bring to the world. She’s truly an inspiration.

Now, on to the contest.

The October Project hosts a poetry contest every April (for National Poetry Month), and they invite ALL poets to submit!

You can submit up to three poems for consideration, and there’s no entry fee to worry about. The deadline is April 30th (or thereabouts), and winners will be announced sometime in May.

So, if you’re a poet in any way, shape, or form, click the link below and take hold of the chance of a lifetime!

I know I will.

Thanks again to Julie Flanders (and her excellent PR agent, Katie) for reaching out and agreeing to this interview. It was an honor to talk about poetry with you, and I look forward to possible collaborations in the future.

To learn more about Julie Flanders, visit her Website or connect with her on Twitter.