We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Liz Love a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Liz, we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.
Finding my purpose wasn’t a moment of sudden clarity but a journey marked by the unraveling of fear and the pursuit of authenticity.
As a young girl, I found solace in words; their power to evoke, to soothe, to connect. My early days were spent scribbling lines on any scrap of paper I could find. It was my secret garden, a place where I could be unapologetically me. Yet, these words were mine alone, locked away from the eyes and ears of the world. Sharing them? NO WAY! The very thought twisted my stomach into knots.
The real turning point came during my college years.I took creative writing classes. Which helped hone my work and made me feel more confident about sharing work with others. About fifteen years ago, I was introduced to the world of spoken word poetry at a small, dimly lit cafe that smelled of coffee and rebellion. The stage was alive with passion and vulnerability. It wasn’t just about the poetry, it was about connection. About baring one’s soul and finding community in the shared rhythm of heartbeats.
I remember the first time I stepped onto that stage, my hands trembled and my voice wavered. But as I spoke, something magical happened. My fear didn’t disappear, but it was overshadowed by something stronger: a sense of belonging. The audience didn’t just hear my words; they felt them. They reacted to them. And in that moment, I realized that my words had power! The power to touch, to heal, to inspire.
From then on, I was hooked. I threw myself into the world of spoken word. I started a writers group that practiced and performed together. Each performance sharpened my skills and steeled my resolve. I learned to craft my fears into poems and my dreams into declarations. But it wasn’t just about performing; it was about listening…truly listening to the stories of others. This deep, empathetic listening became the cornerstone of my art. It taught me that everyone has a story that deserves to be heard.
With time, what began as a personal quest for self-expression evolved into a broader mission: to create spaces where others could also find their voice. Thus, Liz Love Traveling Speakeasy was born. A roving sanctuary where the whispered and the silent could speak their truths. Where vulnerability wasn’t a weakness but a bridge connecting us to one another.
The journey to finding my purpose has been lined with challenges, but each one has been a lesson in resilience, in empathy, and in the transformative power of sharing our stories. It’s taught me that purpose isn’t something you find, but something you grow into with each story you tell and each story you honor with listening.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
At the heart of Liz Love Traveling Speakeasy lies a story of sisterhood from the intimate poetry readings of the Speakeasy Sisters. Years ago, together with two inspiring women, we created a sanctuary in our living rooms. A place where we could pen our thoughts, share verses, and uplift each other through the power of spoken word. This circle of trust and creativity blossomed, pushing us to share our art beyond the walls of our homes and into the local scene.
Inspired by the magic of these small gatherings, Liz Love Traveling Speakeasy was born. The vision: To bring the same intimate, supportive atmosphere to a broader audience. Debunking the myth that spoken word is a secluded art form meant only for the few. My aim was to open it up, making it accessible to anyone drawn to the rhythm and soul of poetry.
What sets Liz Love Traveling Speakeasy apart is our commitment to democratizing poetry. I firmly believe that within every individual lies a poet, with verses yet to be discovered and voices waiting to be heard. Our events are designed not just as performances but as interactive experiences, where everyone can explore and develop their poetic abilities. Whether set up in living rooms, craft stores, or coffee shops, each speakeasy event is a unique opportunity for personal growth and community building.
Currently, we host monthly events at a local craft store, but our dreams don’t stop there. Looking ahead, we plan to expand our offerings to include workshops, jam sessions, and even poetry slams, all designed to foster a deeper connection among poets and enthusiasts alike.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Reflecting on my journey with Liz Love Traveling Speakeasy, three key qualities have truly shaped my path: empathy, resilience, and community-building.
Empathy: Empathy has been the cornerstone of connecting deeply with audiences and individuals at every event. Understanding and sharing the feelings of others have helped me craft sessions that resonate on a personal level, making each gathering a safe space for expression and healing. For those just starting out, I recommend honing this skill by actively listening and engaging with diverse communities. Read widely, listen deeply, and open your heart to the stories of others. This will not only enrich your art but also deepen your impact on those you reach.
Resilience: The road to building a unique brand like a traveling speakeasy has had its challenges, from logistical hurdles to building an audience. Resilience has allowed me to navigate these obstacles without losing sight of my vision. For budding artists and entrepreneurs, my advice is to cultivate resilience by setting clear goals and embracing failures as stepping stones. Learn from each setback and remain flexible in your methods, but steadfast in your objectives.
Community-Building: Creating a vibrant community around spoken word is essential for the growth and sustainability of my venture. Skills in organizing, networking, and fostering inclusive environments have enabled me to build a supportive poetry community. For those at the beginning of their journey, focus on building strong, genuine relationships within your field. Attend events, collaborate with others, and contribute to your community. Remember, your network is your net worth.
For anyone stepping into their own creative or entrepreneurial journey, these three areas: empathy, resilience, and community-building, are invaluable. Develop them continuously and integrate them into your personal and professional life to not just grow your venture, but also to enrich your interactions and contributions to your field. Remember, everything we do is relational. We need people to succeed.
Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?
Reflecting on my journey, I have been incredibly fortunate to have a constellation of supportive stars guiding and uplifting me along the way. Their support has been not just helpful but transformative in overcoming challenges and honing the skills and qualities essential for my success.
My husband, Jeff, has been nothing short of a foundational pillar in my journey. His support and encouragement have bolstered me through times of doubt and challenge. He has always believed in my potential, even during moments when I struggled to believe in myself. Jeff’s faith in my vision has been a constant source of strength that has allowed me to pursue my passions relentlessly and with confidence.
Alongside Jeff, my poetry partner, The Poetic Mojo, deserves immense recognition. From co-founding our initial writers’ group fifteen years ago to supporting and energizing our current endeavors, she has been an integral part of this journey. Her creativity, and dedication have not only helped shape our poetry classes but have also made each event we organize richer and more impactful. Her partnership is one of the key reasons our shared vision has come to fruition with such vibrancy and depth.
Lastly, the array of individuals who have participated in the Liz Love Traveling Speakeasy has profoundly impacted my journey. Each person who has attended our events has contributed to the tapestry of our community, offering new perspectives, heartfelt stories, and a shared love for spoken word that enriches us all. Their presence and participation remind me daily of the value and impact of our work.
To anyone embarking on their own path, remember that the journey is seldom a solitary one. The support and collaboration of those who believe in you and your vision can be your greatest asset. Cherish these relationships, foster them with care, and let them guide you as you navigate the challenges and triumphs of your endeavors.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://lizloveworld.com
- Instagram: @lizloveworld
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LizLoveWorld
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
