Category: Projects memo

Short updates on solo or community projects between full newsletters. Quick insights, progress notes, and insights to keep you in the loop.

  • New Year- New Era, New Names, New Vision

    New Year- New Era, New Names, New Vision


    What began as Poeaxtry_, my personal artistic persona and small business. This space was for self-published e-books rough Google Doc formatted, rockhounded items, and spiritual things. It turned into the Poetry Prism, a publishing arm and community centered on poetry. Though, over time, it became a home for indie poets as well as authors, artists, small businesses, and more.

    Does the name “Poetry Prism” really fit what we do now? We are clearly not just poetry anymore and not just words on the pages. The Prism Publishing has been a platform for all indie creators, artists, writers, musicians, and small businesses for awhile. But to reflect this evolution and to make our intentions and community more clear, we are dropping the word “Poetry.” The Prism now stands as an inclusive, expansive hub: one name, one era, one identity. So Poeaxtry & The Prism is no longer just for short that’s the form fitting identity. Though the publishing based email will remain poeaxtryspoetryprism@gmail.com at least for the time.


    A New Era of Collaboration

    Our collaborative efforts are evolving too. Gone are the days of simple community PDFs, themed collections, that are free-read by download. Now, we’re moving toward digital anthologies: quarterly curated collections featuring minority creators and allied contributors. With permission from all prior themed individual persons submitting work to continue with the new model. We are transitioning those early submissions into this new format. Just moving forward, no theme restrictions either!


    Each person may submit up to:

    10 poems
    10 digital art pieces or high-resolution photographs,
    2 essays,
    2 prose works
    from minority creators.

    Allied submissions are welcome at half that cap above.
    Free small-business ads spots celebrating creators and projects, Curated resources for indie publishers, artists, and small business owners.


    Important Dates:

    The first submission period for ads, poetry, art, prose, and essays is open until February 12, 2026. This allows time to curate, edit, promote, and release the inaugural quarterly.


    A New Era of E-Books

    E-books have traditionally followed seasons of life, chronicling moments and collections as they unfolded. Going forward, e-books will be curated around themes now as well as seasons of life:

    “The Man Who Was Never Enough and Somehow Too Much: an anthology exploring BPD and mental health.” Is a project for a themed e-book I have in the works.

    I.I.A.S.D.: the first free collection, explored 13 poems written on the day the election results were announced in 2024. To continue this free series I.I.A.S.D. Volume Two: 2025, Year of Fear- A Political Poetry Collection.” This one will explore poems of policy, advocacy, and social change. This collection was originally drafted as “It is a Sad Year.” Though, the political collection will still show the expansion over the year following Election Day. It captures my original poetic reflections on politics, society, and lived experience.

    These thematic collections ensure that every release is intentional, cohesive, and resonant. These collections provide context for the work. They also highlight perspectives and what future generations will call historical issues that matter.


    What This Means for You

    The Prism is now:

    One unified brand, dropping “Poetry” for clarity and inclusion. A hub for all indie creatives, with poetry still at its heart, but no longer its only focus. A gallery of meaningful digital themed e-books to go with the seasonal anthologies. A space for collaboration, spotlighting, and resources for marginalized voices, allies, and indie creators alike.

    This is our new era. A Prism shining light on voices, art, words, and projects that deserve attention—without confusion, without limits.

    Welcome to the next chapter.


    Forms

    Submit to the Quarterly by emailing poeaxtryspoetryprism@gmail.com or form

    Submit to Indie Spotlights/Shelf Space by emailing Poeaxtry@gmail.com or form

    Free Digital Collections For Honest Reviews Form

    Volunteer to mod, promote, format, etc. form

    Questions? Comments? Concerns? General Contact form

    Arc Readers & Street Team Form



    Poeaxtry Links Best of Poeaxtry Portfolio Buy me a Coffee

  • Poeaxtry- The Spill- Volume 11- Ending 2025 Strong

    Poeaxtry- The Spill- Volume 11- Ending 2025 Strong


    Do it for James yellow and blue book cover with basketball player wearing a crown

    Do It For James

    I’m honored to share that my poem “My BPD” is featured in the newly released anthology Do It For James: Poetry On Purpose, published by Poetry Is Life Publishing in collaboration with the Do It For James Foundation. This compilation uplifts voices navigating grief, mental health, and the power of storytelling.

    “My BPD” enacts the disorientation and longing that often accompany diagnosis, and the fierce clarity that comes with naming it.

    Available now. Page 43.

    Axton Mitchell’s Contribution on page 43
    My BPD

    Furrily Loveable

    My poem “Sunlight in Honey” appears in the latest issue of Furrily Loveable, a cozy publication celebrating cats, dogs, and their people. This piece threads joy, memory, and quiet companionship into golden verse.

    I chose to honor the soft rhythms of nature, and the beings who walk beside us.

    Grateful to be included among such tender voices.
    Read it now on Amazon.

    Cover of anthology with black cat

    Author Update, New Headshots, New Era

    Black & white photo of Axton Mitchell in glasses and black sweater
    1st favorite

    This winter, I stepped back into the woods, not just to breathe, but to be seen. And now updated headshots are live. These images were chosen for the back of my upcoming books and future publishing submissions.

    These are my favorites, though not the full set. Each one carries the pulse of survival, the quiet defiance of Appalachian roots, and the clarity earned through grief and grit.

    Axton Mitchell’s photographed in-front of bare winter trees purple mullet-hawk, glasses, and a black sweater.
    2nd favorite

    They are not just portraits.
    They are proof.
    Of presence.

    Of pacing.

    Of the poet behind the pages.

    Stay tuned. The next releases are already forming.

    Axton Mitchell purple mullet-hawk, double peace sign , black sweater in front of the bare winter trees.
    Bonus. For character.

    What’s Next

    I’m continuing my collaborative writing chapter with Gay Hive Magazine, formerly Hush Magazine. I’ll be contributing work as they relaunch, continuing the kind of honest, purpose driven storytelling I care about. I’ll share published pieces as they go live.

    Submissions are now open for the upcoming free quarterly issue of Poeaxtry’s Poetry Prism. Email poeaxtryspoetryprism@gmail.com to submit. I’m accepting art, poetry, prose, and essays through February 12, 2026. These quarterlys will also offer free ad placement for small businesses, independent presses, indie creatives, and community aligned projects. If you’re building something with heart and intention, there’s space for you here.

    Axton Mitchell’s upcoming chapbook cover ft a preying mantis eating a gecko
    Humanoid Ideations finalized cover

    On my own desk, I’m in the final polish stage of several works in progress, shaping them toward completion rather than rush. “Humanoid Ideations: Meeting the Woman of Your Dreams,” “I wonder,” and “Sometimes the Prince Needs Saved” are reaching completion. Arc readers interested in early access in exchange for reviews email poeaxtry@gmail.com

    Axton Mitchell’s upcoming poetry e-book finalized cover ft Prince and Brock background on fire
    “Sometimes The Prince Needs Saved” finalized cover

    Lastly I am actively participating in a one poem a day for 100 days challenge, showing up consistently, letting practice be visible, and trusting what repetition teaches.

  • Poeaxtry_ is Where the People Are; Who Thrives and Why? A Deep Dive!

    Poeaxtry_ is Where the People Are; Who Thrives and Why? A Deep Dive!

    Hello Familiar Friends and New Names.

    And welcome where we are all people, first!

    Welcome to a space where we are all people first!

    At Poeaxtry_, I like to say that one of our mottos is “Poeaxtry_, where the people are.” But did I ever explain what that actually boils down to?

    Simply put: I don’t want to force anyone to find me. I want people who might be interested in reading, submitting, creating, or even just engaging with the emotional, hiking, or other free content I share, to discover me naturally and connect in their own way.

    That’s why I post the digital creations, and photos or videos I capture with my phone across social platforms. These posts share the highlights in text on the visual media, summaries in the captions, and links to read more if interested on my website. This site holds the “meat and potatoes,” also known as the full content. This leaves my work accessible to all fully in one place that doesn’t anyone to create an account to view. However subscribers to the website do receive a reward, but I’m probably getting ahead of myself. We’ll get all of that and more soon!

    Quality is Key

    There’s a difference between followers and believers, between noise and signal, between people who swipe and people who stay. Subscribers mean nothing when the numbers aren’t noticing or notifying. Numbers are nothing if they aren’t the people you resonate with.

    This post is a deep dive into the kinds of creators, readers, contributors, critics and community members who thrive at Poeaxtry_ and The Poetry Prism. I’m including a small reminder of our ethos that holds it all together.

    This isn’t about chasing numbers or chasing dopamine. It’s about quality, intention, and connection.

    Who Thrives Here?

    Readers Who Connect.

    People who may read something more than once to see what else is hiding.

    They look for depth over new discovery, connection over content trends.

    They pause, reflect, and engage with work that might challenge societies views or refuse pretend peacefulness.

    Creators Who Make With Purpose

    Not hobbyists. Not algorithm chasers.

    They craft poems like prayers, build zines like love letters, or publish work that has purpose.

    These creators make not for only applause, but because their work demands to hold space.

    Marginalized Voices & Intersectional Art

    We built this space because such spaces were scarce:

    LGBTQ+ voices, Disabled creatives, Neurodivergent makers, people in recovery, creators of color, and other communities America keeps attacking.

    This is visibility with intention, support with structure, and room without hierarchy.

    Contributors & Collaborators Who Grow Together

    This is a working ecosystem, not a pond of competitors.

    Here, people:

    Give and receive constructive feedback, look at success as mutual elevation, respect identities, collaborate while creating creative comrades, compete in creative showdowns, and much more.

    Discord Twitch

    Who This Isn’t For

    Algorithm chasing creators who aren’t the same as creative people they are much different.

    If your goal is to rage bait or chase clicks, this space isn’t for you.

    We value substance over fake.

    The “I’m above you” energy? Not going to fly here.

    Harm, Discrimination, Prejudice

    We do not tolerate dehumanizing behavior.

    Bigotry or discrimination that is based on race, gender, sexuality, disability, mental health, or any other immutable identity ends your collaboration here immediately.

    This is a safe creative community no slut shaming, body shaming, or politics. Transgender identity isn’t politics if you think so I don’t think you need me to tell me shit,

    poeaxtry’s website (updated first) Shared to mainstream & emerging social platforms Direct community spaces Publishing & sales: Amazon/Kindle, Google Play Books, Etsy, Gumroad, Payhip

    At Poeaxtry_ we are not tied to a single platform, always expanding.

    Community Spaces & Engagement

    I’m building safe, collaborative spaces for writers, artists, and makers:

    Discord with Collaborative threads, competitions, open mic nights, custom roles for interactions, and more. Feedback invited, not forced; silence allowed. Rest & presence valued over performance always.

    Publishing & Opportunities

    Poeaxtry’s Poetry Prism offers:

    Free publishing for minority indie creators: poetry, prose, visual art, mixed media, experimental work and Indie spotlights for indie creatives and small businesses Collaborative projects, resource sharing, critique circles

    2026 Initiatives

    Our new Quarterly digital magazine with open submissions, my own features, resource guides, advice sections addressing current issues, and open budget friendly calls for submissions.

    Also be looking for virtual and local open mic nights

    This is the ecosystem for those who thrive here creating, collaborating, connecting, and building together.

    Values Hold Poeaxtry_ Together

    Integrity, respect, care.

    Bigotry, discrimination, or harm ends collaboration immediately.

    We realistically can’t do full vetting or background checks but we know the truth surfaces naturally. Then we will act accordingly.

    This isn’t a growth strategy.

    This is a creative home for people who:

    Read meaningfully, create with care, connect generously, and Build community over content creating trend climbing.

    Your voice matters here. So if it’s genuine, grounded, and human come connect !

    Welcome to Poeaxtry_ and The Poetry Prism.

    Links portfolio kofi coffee?

    Google business reviews Goodreads

  • Things are Changing for Poeaxtry Community Collaborations

    Things are Changing for Poeaxtry Community Collaborations

    Shifting the Prism’s Collaborations Into a Quarterly Publication

    The why behind Collaborations

    I launched community collabs with one goal to create publications for marginalized voices to be heard. (I wanted to help their art be seen too, of course, and their business be found.) To be read by others would then be able to find voices similar to their own. Themed calls gave structure, that I thought would help. However, I like art when the creator feels compelled to create it, not when it’s created per a submission theme.

    Why I’m Changing the Model

    It became clear that themes sometimes act as invisible boundaries. They shaped not only what people created, but who felt comfortable submitting. Themes feel a bit too much like gatekeepers, for my comfort. Hear me out, you had to fit the art, poem, or essay in like a key based on theme.

    That contradicts who I am or whom I want to be. I want this space to belong to the creators themselves. I want to invite people to bring what’s real. What’s needed, even if it doesn’t fit.

    So I decided: no more themes. Instead, I’m opening Poeaxtry up to open‑theme quarterly magazines. I was already planning a Quarterly & this fits the bill.


    Any suggestions on names? Guesses welcome!

    This change isn’t a retreat. It’s expansion. By removing themes, the door stays open wider for more voices, more art, more perspectives. By increasing frequency, I can amplify more people across time.

    What’s Changing: The New Quarterly Model

    Open‑theme submission calls:
    poetry, prose, art,or essays


    rights stay with creators:
    you keep your work. Poeaxtry curates and publishes but does not claim ownership or restrict distribution.
    Contributor bios, links, and photos welcome!

    Free ads space to minority‑owned shops, indie authors, small businesses to support community visibility.

    Digital magazine format means no forced downloads
    Eliminates 4 bulky PDFs a year.
    Always Viewable online
    Readers & Contributors now can share by link

    2026 Quarterly Schedule

    (Submission + Publication Dates may change slightly!)

    Q1 2026 (First Edition)

    Taking submissions: now– Feb 12, 2026

    Launch: Mar 8–15, 2026

    Q2 2026 (Second Edition)

    Taking submissions: March 9-May 5th

    Launch: Jun 5–12, 2026

    Q3 2026 (Third Edition)

    Taking submissions:Jun 5 – Aug 5, 2026

    Sep 5–12, 2026

    Q4 2026 (Fourth Edition)

    Taking submissions: Sep 5 – Oct 31, 2026

    Launch: Dec 5–12, 2026

    Note: The first edition will include existing submissions from the original themed collabs. It will also include any new open-theme submissions received during the submission window. Future editions will be fully open‑theme. The last quarter is stretched out because of holidays, birthdays, and death days.

    What This Means for Contributors & Community

    You’re free to send your work when you feel ready. This includes poetry, art, essays, and prose, just like before, just no need to match a theme. The spotlights from the website will be shared in the quarterly as well. The magazine lives online, shareable by link. More frequent releases = more opportunities for visibility, community building, connection.

    What Happens to the Original Themed submissions?

    Their submitted work will be included in the first quarterly edition as long as they consent.

    No more waiting.
    Just art, voices, visions.

    Your Voice Matters, Always

    Poeaxtry was born from a belief that the best art comes from the darkest places. That minority voices of every difference have stories and voices that matter. Lastly, to build a community for all of us to share our creations with each other and the world.

    This shift isn’t a change of heart, it’s evolution. As the world shifts, as art shifts, as voices shift, we must too…

    Shift.

    If you’re a minority artist, an ally writer, a survivor turned storyteller. Send in your voices or visions to Poeaxtryspoetryprism@gmail.com or submit this form.

    Small business owners, entrepreneurs, indie-creatives, communities, etc. send your ads to the above email or form as well!

    To have a Spotlight post on the website fill out this form or email Poeaxtry@gmail.com
    To review ebooks and other digital items in exchange for honest reviews, use this form

    Thank you for being here. Let’s start building community.

    Axton N. O. Mitchell

  • 🎉 Poeaxtry’s Prism Press — New Quarterly Digital Magazine 🎉

    🎉 Poeaxtry’s Prism Press — New Quarterly Digital Magazine 🎉

    I have decided to launch Poeaxtry’s Poetry Prism Press. A free quarterly digital magazine. This publication will: spotlight creatives, single creative works, and themed collections. All while sharing indie voices, who all share different minority perspectives, and creative work in a space that’s inclusive, thoughtful, and full of surprises.

    What’s inside each issue:

    Poetry & Writing: Submissions paired with contributor bios, flowing naturally through the magazine.

    Art &Art Pieces: Modern, bright visuals highlighting artists and creatives

    . Interactive Extras: QR codes or shortened links may unlock playlists, prompt journals, collectible images, actionable self-care checklists, and so much more. *These are not guaranteed in every issue like they are in my e-zines.

    Interviews & Community Features: Q&As with authors, creatives, and indie voices: full or sidebar size.

    Resource Highlights & Prism Picks: Curated books, music, art, and community projects.

    Trans Truth & Hot Takes Thoughts Column: Opinions and reflections from a trans man’s perspective

    . Letters from Readers: Shared throughout to amplify community voices.

    Call-to-Action Panels: Join The Prism community, submit work, or support Poeaxtry_ via tips, all accessible via QR codes.

    Newsletter Early Access: Sign up via QR code to receive the next issue early.

    Differences from e-zines& ebooks :

    E-zines include a minimum of six interactive add-ons and hidden layers only visible after purchase or free download of a digital copy. The digital magazine is free, public-facing, and curated. Submissions are reviewed to fit the issue’s flow and ethos.

    This is a space to read, explore, and engage. Submissions, feedback, and tips are welcome. We don’t accept violent or discriminatory content.

    Get ready for our first issue. Free, quarterly, and made with care for indie voices and the creative community.

    Ebooks:

    50 plus poems written over a period of a few months, no theme, and some may include a playlist but that is it.

    ✍️ Free Publishing & Creator Support Through Poeaxtry_

    Poeaxtry_ was built on the belief that everyone deserves to be seen and heard. Instead, of just those who can afford to buy their way into visibility. Through The Prism, I offer free publishing opportunities for minorities and supportive allies… on a first-come, first-served basis. Access should never be a gatekeeping game.

    Each accepted project gets as much help as the creator needs: editing, formatting, layout design, covers, eBook setup, visual direction, listing on their store fronts, and a forever spot in our catalog linking to you’re store, website, whatever.

    If it makes your work shine, I have accomplished my goal. Some need a single pass of edits; others want to build the look from scratch. Either way, we work together until the final piece feels right. Like it’s theirs, not just an extension of mine.

    I’ll even handle the form designl if they’re unsure how to begin, or we can build it collaboratively step by step. There’s no wrong place to start, and no creative too small to deserve care and craft.

    Nothing about this process is paywalled. No one is ever charged for publishing, spotlighting, or showcasing their art, words, or anything else. Book spotlights, creator features, and collection highlights — all of it stays free for minority creatives always. I do have paid avenues and ways to continue.

    I don’t measure success by profit. I measure it by impact. If a creator I helped goes on to something bigger, that’s the whole point. I’ll never regret contributing to someone’s growth or seeing their art evolve beyond Poeaxtry_. That’s what this brand is built for. When I started my poet and publishing journey I decided ai wouldn’t come up without offering a hand to other minorities as well. I open doors, And I do not close them without reason.

    ☕ Supporting is Appreciated, Never Required

    Ko-fi and Buy Me a Coffee are simply there for anyone who wants to tip or offer support . It will never be a requirement for other marginalized individuals . This is especially for creatives in marginalized communities. Every free project, collab, and spotlight stays free, always. Support is welcome, not expected. On theme contributors will have at least But up to all submissions included in our community first collabs,

    Ko-fi Buy me a Coffee

    Poeaxtry’s Links

    Portfolio

  • Kelso 2 Poetry Zine Launch: Mature Love Poems by Poeaxtry | Digital PDF + Mystery Extras

    Kelso 2 Poetry Zine Launch: Mature Love Poems by Poeaxtry | Digital PDF + Mystery Extras

    Kelso volume 2 by Axton N.O. Mitchell a zine for his partner
    Kelso Volume 2

    Kelso: 2

    The Kelso 2 Poetry Zine has officially launched! It’s the 2nd edition in the Kelso Collection. This edition captures poetry from our 3rd and 4th years together, exploring a love that is mature, real, and beautifully flawed. Kelso 2 isn’t about the rush of new romance; it’s about the moments that come after. Here is where the patience, honesty, and quiet strength that define enduring connections comes into the picture.

    Highlighted pieces like “You Are Not the Sun” reflect the truths of lasting love: life goes on if someone is gone, but their absence changes everything in subtle, poignant ways. Every digital download of Kelso 2 includes six hidden mystery extras woven into the PDF. Through hidden words and QR codes, designed to make every reading experience personal and immersive.

    Where it started:

    Kelso volume 1 a zine for his Partner by Axton N.O. Mitchell
    Kelso volume 1 where it started

    The first Kelso zine started as a handmade, one-of-a-kind gift for my partner. I started making digital zines later and, the natural thing to do is to immortalize the personal physical copy as a digital item as well. Kelso is about love that is new and exciting, while also adapting to reflective and enduring love. Kelso 1 introduced readers to the thrill of early connection, while Kelso 2 you will see a new side of me that dives into realistic, patient love that lasts. Together, they form the Kelso Collection, a cohesive, poetic exploration of human relationships.

    New options for ease of access:

    Excitingly, the Kelso series (and all my other zines & ebooks also) will soon be available on Google Play Books. We are currently awaiting verification, but the files are already prepared and ready to launch as automatically when approval is complete. This will make the collection accessible to more readers worldwide, expanding the reach of Poeaxtry’s indie poetry zines & ebooks while keeping the curated, intimate experience of the PDF format intact.

    Written & Curated by Poeaxtry and Published by Poeaxtry’s Poetry Prism, the Kelso series continues to push the boundaries of indie poetry, combining authenticity, relatability, and the immersive experience of hidden digital content.

    Whether you’re a long-time Poeaxtry reader or discovering the zine for the first time, Kelso 2 is your invitation to explore love beyond the surface, paired with surprises that make the reading experience unique.

    Available now:

    Etsy Gumroad Payhip

    And soon, Google Play Books!

    So stay tuned for the official launch.

    💌 Access & Community Options

    If you don’t currently have the funds for a zine or ebook, I’m always happy to make it accessible. You can:

    Become a reviewer: submit here

    Trade art or curated items for zines/ebooks: submit here

    While the reviewer form is for just that the trade form is just the general contact form. So just let me know what you wish to trade for what and your best contact information to reply.

    Everyone deserves to experience art and literature, so I help where I can by keeping my curated collections accessible. With these options I am able to destroy the paywall while also leaving the option to support my indie community projects and goals.

    Poeaxtry 🔗

    Portfolio

    Journal

  • New collaboration flyers

    New collaboration flyers

    Poeaxtry_ collabs:

    Voices for the Voiceless & The Joy They Can’t Erase

     I’m excited to announce that the promo flyers for our current Poeaxtry_ collaborations have been updated! They’re clean, readable, and designed to make it simple for anyone to get full project details or submit their work directly. Each flyer now has two QR codes one linking to full project info and one taking you straight to the submission form.

    Voices for the Voiceless amplifies minority voices and explores how life has changed under shifting political landscapes. This collaboration is open to poets, writers, artists, and allies. Every minority voice that submits will be published at least once.

    Deadline: December 12, 2025 (may be extended, never shortened) QR codes: “Submit here →” for submissions, “More info here →” for full project details Visuals: Use a strong, striking image representing voices, expression, or activism Handle: @poeaxtry_

    These flyers are designed to make it simple to participate and ensure your story reaches the world.

    The Joy They Can’t Erase centers trans, non-binary, gender non-conforming, and intersex voices, celebrating resilience, struggle, and the defiant joy that cannot be erased. It is open to creatives and allies, with every minority voice guaranteed at least one publication.

    Deadline: December 12, 2025 (may be extended, never shortened)

    @poeaxtry_

    red rose background black font qr code collab announcment
    Voices for the Voiceless
    rainbow background mountains black font QR code COllab Announcment

    Poeaxtry’s links

    Discord

  • Seminar Setbacks to TikTok: Turning Health Challenges into Content

    Seminar Setbacks to TikTok: Turning Health Challenges into Content

    When Plans Meet Reality:

    The Unexpected Health Challenge
    After preparation, marketing campaigns, and building anticipation among my community, I found my bestie facing a health-related obstacle that made hosting a seminar impossible. The initial frustration was underwhelming at first even with all that preparation, the excited attendees, and suddenly everything having to be put on hold didn’t hit me in the eyes of my friend’s health.
    But sometimes the universe has different plans, and what initially felt like a not a factor became the catalyst for something even better.


    The Pivot: Embracing the Power of Micro-Learning


    Rather than canceling everything entirely, I made a strategic decision that would ultimately (hopefully) reach more people than my original seminar could. I decided to break down my comprehensive seminar content into digestible, engaging mini-segments perfect for today’s fast-paced digital consumption habits.


    TikTok became my platform of choice for this transformation. Why TikTok? The platform’s algorithm favors short-form video format is perfect for delivering powerful insights in bite-sized portions that viewers can easily consume and share.


    Why Mini-Segments Work Better Than Traditional Seminars:


    Accessibility and Convenience
    Traditional seminars require significant time commitments that many people simply can’t make. By breaking content into 60-90 second segments, I’m making valuable information accessible to busy professionals, people with accessibility issues, parents, and anyone with a packed schedule.


    Enhanced Retention:


    Research shows that information delivered in smaller chunks is better retained than lengthy presentations. Each mini-segment focuses on one key concept, allowing viewers to fully absorb and implement the learning before moving to the next piece.
    Increased Engagement
    Short-form content naturally encourages higher engagement rates. Viewers are more likely to watch, comment, share, and save content that doesn’t feel overwhelming or time-consuming.


    Reach Potential:


    Unlike traditional seminars that reach a limited audience, TikTok’s algorithm can exponentially increase reach. Each mini-segment has the potential to go reach new people, introducing my content to audiences I never could have reached through conventional methods.


    The Pivot: Embracing the Power of Micro-Learning


    Strategic Content Breakdown
    I’ve carefully deconstructed my original seminar into themed mini-segments, each designed to deliver maximum value in minimum time. Every video addresses a specific pain point or provides actionable advice that viewers can implement immediately.


    Sequential Learning Path
    While each segment stands alone, I’ve structured them to build upon each other, creating a comprehensive learning journey for viewers who engage with the entire series.


    Interactive Elements
    TikTok’s features allow for polls, Q&A sessions, and direct engagement that traditional seminars often lack. This creates a more dynamic and personalized learning experience.


    The Unexpected Benefits of Going Digital
    Greater Reach
    Physical seminars are limited by geography and venue capacity. TikTok eliminates these barriers, allowing me to connect with a global audience interested in my expertise.


    Flexibility for Viewers
    People can consume content at their own pace, rewatch segments they found particularly valuable, and share specific pieces with their networks.


    Cost-Effectiveness
    Producing TikTok content requires minimal overhead compared to hosting physical events, making it sustainable for long-term content creation.


    Real-Time Feedback
    The platform provides immediate insights into which topics resonate most with my audience, allowing me to adjust and refine my content strategy in real-time.


    Looking Forward: The Future of Educational Content Delivery


    While TikTok is my current focus, this format opens doors to expanding across other platforms. The mini-segment approach translates perfectly to Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts, and LinkedIn video content, potentially multiplying my reach across diverse professional networks.


    My friends health setback taught me that sometimes the most innovative solutions emerge from unexpected challenges. What began as a crisis became an opportunity to revolutionize how I share knowledge and connect with my audience.


    Key Takeaways for Content Creators and Educators:


    Embrace Adaptability
    When traditional methods aren’t feasible, look for alternative approaches that might actually serve your audience better.
    Consider Your Audience’s Reality
    Modern attention spans and busy lifestyles often favor bite-sized content over lengthy presentations.


    Leverage Platform Strengths
    Each social media platform has unique features and audiences. TikTok’s algorithm and format are particularly suited for educational micro-content.
    Turn Setbacks into Comebacks
    What appears to be a disadvantage can often become your greatest advantage with the right perspective and strategy.


    The Bottom Line
    Sometimes life forces us to innovate in ways we never would have chosen voluntarily. My unexpected health issue led to a content strategy that’s more accessible, engaging, and far-reaching than my original seminar plan ever could have been.


    The mini-segment format on TikTok has proven that valuable education doesn’t require hours of commitment . And it just requires the right approach, genuine value, and platform-appropriate delivery.
    For now, TikTok remains my primary platform for these educational mini-segments, but the possibilities for expansion are endless.

    What started as a health-related pivot has become a sustainable, scalable approach to sharing knowledge that serves both my audience’s needs and my goals to support other indie creators.

    Poeaxtry’s Links

    Coffee

    Poem? Journal?

  • How I’m Being the Change: Goals to Amplify Minority Voices

    How I’m Being the Change: Goals to Amplify Minority Voices

    Friday, on my way to work, I received a thoughtful email from the editor of Magique Publishing. This is a platform that has published me. They have also interviewed me in the recent past. Our relationship has been meaningful in a rather short amount of time. I value the insight, as we have built on a working relationship with shared values and mutual support. The editor read my recent blog post about the changes I wanted my blog to inspire. He reached out to tell me that my words had gotten him thinking. He pointed out something important: many people say they want to be the change. However, few ever talk about how they actually plan to be the change. The how is what baffles most. He also asked me a direct and challenging question: how am I going to be the change?

    The editor noticed something important. People are often aware of the big problems in the world. Yet, many don’t have clear guidance. Or they lack understanding on how to make a difference. We find it challenging to create impact on a small scale. He speaks about a university professor who, after leaving teaching, realized that practical “how-to” solutions for everyday activism were scarce. And wouldn’t you know he has a solution to help bridge that gap. He created a checklist of challenges. These are grouped by size and scope. People are welcomed to try them weekly or monthly. These challenges also include large spectrum goals. Examples are writing a letter to a government official or volunteering hours. They also consist of medium and small goals, like donating to a local charity or composting food scraps. He even suggested the possibility of joy-centered challenges to help people feel more connected and grounded in their communities. I love this idea of supporting each other through shared challenges and building momentum together.

    That email also motivated my own self reflection on ways I’ve actually been the change and where I can do more. It is rare you meet someone able to challenge you so respectfully and with the best intentions. But the questions he proposed pushed me beyond words into concrete action. I’m sure I’ll be forever grateful for that.

    In response, I’m dedicating time to developing two sets of goals organized into three clear categories: small weekly actions, medium monthly projects, and large bimonthly initiatives. One set will focus on personal goals for myself, while the other will center on community engagement, offering practical ways for contributors to get involved and create real change.

    I am also keenly aware that many people speak about being the change but rarely take real, measurable steps. This gap between words and action is what I am determined to close. One key way I live this is by intentionally publishing only minority creators in all my collaborations and projects. While I do allow ally-supportive works when they add meaningfully, they must not speak over marginalized voices. No minority submitting a piece on theme will ever be turned away. I may not publish every piece in a collaboration, but I will always include at least one from a minority creator. I’m not aiming to silence more of us. I’m committed to amplifying marginalized voices and ensuring they are never overshadowed.

    Though I am working steadily toward these goals, I know the work is ongoing and there is always more to do. That’s why I invite you, my readers and fellow changemakers, to consider your own goals for creating change. What small, medium, or large steps will you commit to? How will you move beyond talk and into meaningful action? I encourage you to share your goals in the comments. You can also reach out directly. Together, we can hold each other accountable. We can build a community dedicated to lasting impact.

    I am deeply thankful to Magique Publishing’s editor for inspiring this reflection. Sometimes, one thoughtful question from the right person is all it takes to turn intention into powerful action. If you want help crafting your own goals, I’m here to support you. I’m also here if you want to engage your community in this conversation. Let’s make change happen, now.

    Check out Magique publishing’s substack
    Check out our List of ways to make actionable change!

  • Intentional Visibility for BPD Community Free Poetry Zine by PoeAxtry

    Intentional Visibility for BPD Community Free Poetry Zine by PoeAxtry

    I am a trans writer creating poetry zines, e-books, and collaborative projects for people living with trauma, emotional dysregulation, mental illness, and for marginalized and minority communities seeking authentic representation and possibly healing.

    My latest zine is free for those living with Borderline Personality Disorder. It’s for people like us and others who are struggling with similar symptoms or facing the same stigmas. I’d like to offer it to you all for free to read if interested. I know sometimes it’s easy to feel like there’s no one else like us. I wouldn’t forgive myself, if I left a zebra to feel like a strange horse.

    However, we don’t even have to be besties. Honestly you do not have to like me. This work is still available to you if it speaks to you.Not all will understand it. That is okay, it is not meant for everyone.

    You can find it here: gumroad & payhip (I am attempting to put it on Etsy with no luck but I’m looking for an alternative to Etsy.)

    Honesty is the only requirement, and karma takes care of the rest. Well karma and my own form of protections. Hey don’t mess with a witchy. It’s like practically asking for it.

    So, if you (or your homie) live with BPD, email me (poeaxtry@gmail.com) and I will send you a discount code you can use at checkout. No questions and no judgment, just say “BPD” in the subject or message.

    I do and will always offer free digital items for reviews. (Honest ones, seriously no hard feelings unless you lie to me.) So, if you don’t have BPD, nor the money to blow on a zine we can do a trade just (email me or dm) and we can form a plan.

    Portfolio links zipper titty