In Volume Seven: Chapter Ten of the Program,  we welcome Poet, Educator, and Author Isabelle Correa for an in-depth and thoughtful conversation about identity, faith, family, healing, and the long, often complicated journey toward becoming a writer.

Born in Moses Lake, Washington, Isabelle reflects on growing up in a household with twelve siblings, navigating feelings of loneliness despite never being alone, and being raised in a religious home where certain paths in life seemed predetermined. She shares how an early engagement, an unexpected change in direction, and a willingness to imagine a different future ultimately led her toward writing.

Our conversation explores her beginnings in creative nonfiction and her eventual discovery that poetry offered something narrative could not. We also discuss reclaiming spirituality outside organized religion, writing through trauma without forcing resolution, and allowing flawed, vulnerable voices to exist honestly on the page.

Along the way, Isabelle talks about the importance of writing communities, and how workshops, mentorship, and organizations like Gather Poets helped shape her development as a writer. We also discuss her forthcoming collection, Portrait of a Person Who Pushes Love Away in Fear of Losing It and Other Poems, and the winding path that brought her from Washington State to Mexico City.

Contact Isabelle:
Instagram @isabellecorreawrites        Website: isabellecorrea.com 

Recorded Spoken Word Performances Featured Include: 

A Glowing Poet – Love, Eventually
Instagram: @aglowingpoet          Website: thewomaniambecoming.com 

Daniel Garwood – Hangman
Instagram: @doowrag.daniel        Website: danielleegarwood.com

Shay The Poet – The First Time I Hated Myself
Instagram: @shay.thepoet 

Matt Capone – Some Love Shit
Instagram: @matt__capone

Yex– Man Vs. Bear
Instagram: @yass_yex