Want to read poems aloud better? Are you a poet, speaker, or artist looking to make a more significant impact? In this workshop, Geoff from diVERSES shares how to transform your communication skills by mastering the art of vocal contrast. Whether you're on a stage or in a meeting, in a conversation or an interview, your voice is your most powerful tool—learn how to use it to its full potential.What You’ll Learn in This Video: In this session, we dive deep into the concept of contrast and how it keeps your audience engaged. We work through live exercises with volunteers to demonstrate:Speed Contrast: How to use pacing to build tension or emphasize key points.Pitch Variation: Tapping into your full vocal range to avoid a monotone delivery.Firmness vs. Softness: Mastering the emotional weight of your delivery through volume and intensity.Body Language Secrets: Why movement is the "hidden" element of a dynamic performance.diVERSES is a platform dedicated to showing that you can make a living through poetry and effective communication. We believe that becoming a better communicator helps you become the most authentic version of yourself.00:00 - Introduction: Your voice as a powerful tool00:44 - Meet Jeff: Communication & poetry as a living01:35 - Preparation: Grab your poems for practice02:01 - The Big Concept: What is Contrast?02:47 - Common Pitfalls: Same pace & pitch patterns03:23 - Exercise 1: Exploring Speed with Ty05:41 - Applying Speed Contrast to a Poem09:03 - Exercise 2: Exploring Pitch with Andy13:08 - Embracing Uncomfortable Pitch Ranges14:54 - Applying Pitch Contrast to a Poem16:00 - Exercise 3: Firmness vs. Softness with Debbie18:24 - Finding Power in Firm Delivery21:16 - Applying Firmness & Softness to a Poem22:32 - Recap: The Elements of Contrast24:04 - Final Secret: Body Language & Movement

Are you ready to take your art from a side hustle to a full-time career? In part 2 of our "Arts & Offers" series, Geoff and Mathias dive deep into the mindset shifts and practical realities of becoming a professional artist.Watch Part 1: https://youtu.be/rvDfo-lwCbIGet a free audio/mp3/podcast version at https://open.spotify.com/show/4vAdMbaunOPziRoovm0K5PThe Semester Workbook: Coming soon! A practical guide to help you achieve creative and financial independence at www.diversespoetry.com/booksWrite with us at the Substation! www.diversespoetry.com/aboutsubstationWe discuss how to find joy in the "un-creative" parts of the business (like file naming and bookkeeping), how to manage your time when you finally leave the 9-to-5, and why the universe might be testing your commitment to your craft. Whether you're a poet, filmmaker, or visual artist, this conversation is packed with insights on seizing opportunities and embracing the uncomfortable changes that come with creative entrepreneurship.Key Topics Covered:The "Work" of Art: Learning to love the tasks that grow your business.Time Management: Transitioning from a structured job to total creative freedom.The Power of Mindset: Moving from "I have to" to "I get to."Recognizing Opportunities: How to know when it’s time to lean into your path.Personal Growth: Using social media as a tool for development, not just connection.#poetry #poem #diverses0:00 – Finding joy in the "work" aspects of art1:37 – Transitioning from a structured lifestyle (like a 9-to-5) to being a full-time artist2:44 – Managing time and mind space when art becomes your career4:35 – The power of mindset: "I have to" vs. "I get to"5:50 – Dealing with the tasks you dislike (like naming files or bookkeeping)10:44 – Seizing unique opportunities when they intersect with your passion12:19 – Recognizing when you're on the right path13:42 – How the universe tests your commitment to your craft15:07 – Being your own "first believer" and embracing uncomfortable change17:32 – Overcoming the fear of stepping fully into your identity as an artist19:02 – Final thoughts: Is it time for you to go professional?