Sunday Pick: How poetry builds teenagers' confidence (w/ Youth Poet Laureate Naisha Randhar) | How to Be a Better Human

This episode explores the importance of poetry and its relevance to people of all ages, particularly young people. Against the backdrop of a conversation between Chris Duffy and Naisha Randhar, the Youth Poet Laureate of Dallas, the discussion highlights the common misconception that poetry is inaccessible or boring. More significantly, Naisha shares her personal journey into poetry, emphasizing the transformative power of words and the importance of self-expression. For instance, she recounts how reading about a homeless girl who used poetry to cope inspired her own writing. As the discussion pivoted to the role of poetry in different life stages, Naisha argues that poetry allows for self-discovery and emotional processing, regardless of age. Finally, the episode concludes with practical advice for engaging with poetry, including recommendations for accessible contemporary poets and the importance of witnessing rather than interpreting the world around us.