Adam Gidwitz is a prominent young adult writer. He has an upcoming Netflix show debuting in October. His books sell well all over the world. So why be a children's author rather than an author who writes for adults?

Adam writes for young adults and children because he hopes to influence them to live healthy, productive, community-centered lives. He uses modern interpretations of fairytales to accomplish this goal.

Adam knows the young people are open to good ideas. However, fairytales teach children to draw their own conclusions, stand up for what they believe in, and throw their shoulders behind more significant causes the world and their generation face. 

 Adam also understands that once adults develop a set of core beliefs, it is almost impossible to get those adults to change their minds. A fair amount of psychological and sociological research back this up. You can test this right now. Think about your core negative beliefs. What would it take for someone to get you to change your core beliefs?  

Please understand I am a big fan of my core beliefs. I imagine you feel the same way about your core beliefs. I vote for the good core beliefs like "do unto others as you would want them to do onto you." I vote against the core destructive beliefs. For example, con artists believe all people are greedy, so they deserve to be conned and tricked. You can easily see how these two examples would fit nicely into a modern fairytale that might point a child in a productive direction.

In this terrific conversation with Adam, you will quickly sense his enthusiasm for his career as a children's author. He is also a fantastic teacher and a storyteller who has spent many hours in classrooms worldwide telling fairytales to students. He also has a podcast called Grim, Grimmer, and Grimmest. Finally, toward the end of this conversation, you will discover that Adam is also a political activist. He focuses on how to organize and implement good voting practices on a state level. 

I'll leave it up to you to determine how Adam combines his career as a writer and his commitment to the political process into his fascinating Brooklyn New York life. Enjoy the show:

Grim Grimmer, Grimmest with award winning children's author Adam Gidwitz

Hi, James Navé here (www.jamesnave.com), your host for Twice 5 Miles Radio. I'm pleased to welcome photographer, dancer, and choreographer Micha Bergese (www.michabergese.com). The title of this Twice 5 Miles show is From the Still Point to the Dance. 

 One of the things I appreciate about hosting Twice 5 Miles Radio is having conversations with artists like Micha. You'll enjoy listening to Micha talk about growing up in Berlin after World War 2 when his parents invited their artistic friends over for long evenings of poetry and music.   
 
Of course, Micha's primary artistic focus has always been dance, choreography, eastern arts like tai chi and Qi gong, and photography.  
You'll enjoy Micha's reflections on his notion that art happens not only in action but most especially at the still point. 
 
He starts his musings by quoting from T.S. Eliot's Four Quartets, "At the still point of the turning world. Neither flesh nor fleshless; Neither from nor towards; at the still point, there the dance is."  Micha suggests that if you keep this still point idea in mind, you'll experience many satisfying artistic adventures. 

For example, Micha's photographic eye captures the still point of an image, the essence of the event itself, precisely like Henri Cartier-Bresson captured the decisive moments in photography. Listening as Micha reflects on his artistic life and ideas was an absolute pleasure for me. 

I'm confident you'll have the same experience. Enjoy.

From the Still Point to the Dance with photographer, dancer, and choreographer Micha Bergese

Welcome to Twice 5 Miles Radio. I’m your host James Navé. Today, please welcome poet, activist, and storyteller Robert McDowell to the microphone. You’ll get the sense you’re eavesdropping when you listen to this conversation. Who are you? Robert and I dive into the role writers and poets play in modern culture. Robert points out that Emily Dickinson tells us to tell the truth and tell it slant. Robert suggests the best way to understand people is to get close, listen, and ask questions. Robert and I discuss how poetry can help us discover how to answer the question who are you? Robert tells us that Emily Dickinson gives us some clues that will support your search. 

Robert is known for his dynamic talks, transformative keynote addresses, and stimulating workshops that awaken the visionary doer in each of us, inspiring deeper listening and evolving consciousness of life’s diverse spectrum. Robert’s compassionate story-and-poem–telling clears obstacles, opens windows, and encourages more effective communication in personal relationships and at the office.

"Who Are You?," with poet, activist, and storyteller Robert McDowell

James Navé here with an Imaginative Storm Twice 5 Miles Radio podcast, welcoming Top Fox Marketing's brand strategist Ali Kennedy to the microphone. Ali and I met in Boulder, Colorado, during an Imaginative Storm Writing Project marketing meeting where their Top Fox Marketing team and our Imaginative Storm Writing team met to discuss strategy for presenting The Imaginative Storm project to the world.

I was so impressed with Ali's insights; I invited her to be a guest on Twice 5 Miles Radio, and, praise be, she accepted.

In this interview, Ali and I dive into language, communication, and the importance of honesty in advertising. We also touch on ChatGPT and copywriting and address people's fears in this ever-changing environment. As our conversation unfolds, Ali and I even share a few confessions about our online shopping habits and what's in our closets. So sit back, relax, and enjoy this engaging and informative Imaginative Storm Twice 5 Miles Radio episode with brand strategist Ali Kennedy.

Marketing From the Fox Den with brand strategist Ali Kennedy

James Navé here welcoming Ileana Garza Terán to the Twice 5 Miles Radio microphone. Fifteen minutes into my first conversation with Ileana, I was knew I must invite her to this show. I was thrilled when she said yes. Steeped in a world of poetry, philosophy, and cultural commentary, Ileana offers a unique perspective on global circumstances' complexities. Wearing many hats – a philosopher, poet, storyteller, translator, and language activist – her insights stretch across a vast spectrum of knowledge.

Ileana introduces us to her striking view of language. In her eyes, it's less of a root and more a rhythmic reality – something living and active that we must sometimes grapple with in its raw, potent form. She likens it to an animalistic force within us, always alive and occasionally unruly.

Equally at home with chaos and creativity, Ilelan argues that writing poetry isn't about maintaining order but about stirring the pot. Much like experiencing a profound love, it can fundamentally shift our perspective. For her, poetry is a bodily experience as much as an intellectual exercise, weaving together the tangible and the abstract in a symphony of language. Enjoy the show. 

Ileana is quite knowledgeable about poetry and philosophy and other general ideas about culture in the world and global circumstances. She is a philosopher, a poet, a storyteller, a translator, and a language activist. Ileana believes that language is more a rhythmic reality than a root. She says there is always some violence you must embrace when talking about language. 

She reflects on the idea that language is somewhat like an animal element living in you. Ileana says when you write poetry, you want to mess things up a little bit. Poetry makes you change your way of thinking, like going to bed with someone you love. Poetry is of the body as much as the intellect. Enjoy the show.

Language Breaks Things with philosopher, poet, and translator Ileana Garza Terán

Welcome to Twice 5 Miles Radio. I'm your host, James Navé. Today's show delves into the essence of human connections with Anne Merland, CEO of Aleox Consulting and a beacon in executive coaching and inspirational leadership. Our conversation reignited from a thoughtful Parisian lunch in October 2023, explores the transformative power of trust, vulnerability, and judgment-free engagement in interpersonal relationships.

Anne, a distinguished figure in European business, shares her personal journey of loss and learning, reflecting on her mother's untimely passing and its profound impact on her approach to life and leadership. With over two decades of experience in multi-faceted, multicultural corporate environments, Anne embodies a unique blend of creativity and profound insight, driving her passion for energizing leaders and teams.

Anne seamlessly navigates between cultures as a dual French and US citizen, inspiring individuals to discover their best selves. When not shaping the future of leadership, she finds balance in nature with her family and dog, juxtaposed against her love for TV series and popcorn. Join us for an enlightening discussion that challenges and celebrates the essence of being human. Enjoy the show.

The Language Of Trust And Vulnerablity with exectutive coach Anne Merland

My first performance of A Child's Christmas was in Greensboro, NC 1987. I performed the story in a parking lot while my friend and I had 30 minutes to spare before our movie, "Fried Green Tomatoes," was due to start. Given that the poem runs for 22 minutes, the timing was perfect for an impromptu rendition in the car. That experience marked the beginning of a cherished tradition, as I've recited it every Christmas season since. 

Now, years on, the poem still reveals new layers and nuances with each performance. Enjoy this delightful story about a boy growing up in Swansea, Wales, during the 1920s. It will spark memories, surprising imagery, and pleasant recollections of holidays you've enjoyed. 

If you'd like to contact me, go to my website, www.JamesNave.com, click contact and send me an email. I'd love to hear from you.

A Child's Christmas In Wales by Dylan Thomas performed by James Navé

Welcome to Twice 5 Miles Radio with your host, James Navé. Today, I'm joined by Dr. Aditi Sethi, Director of The Center for Conscious Living and Dying in Swannanoa, NC. Aditi is dedicated to exploring how closeness to death can deepen our understanding of life and connect us to its profound mysteries. Our connection began when I selected speakers for TEDx Asheville, where I also had the pleasure of coaching Aditi. In our conversation, we delve into the essence of life and death, Aditi's preparation for her impactful TEDx talk, and I'll share key insights on effective public speaking. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that promises to enlighten and inspire.

Conscious Living and Dying with Dr. Aditi Sethi

Welcome to Twice 5 Miles Radio! I'm your host, James Navé, and today; I'm thrilled to have Nancy Colasurdo as my guest. Nancy is an acclaimed journalist, blogger, author, life coach, and creativity workshop facilitator. I first met Nancy at The Artist's Way Creativity Camp, which Julia Cameron and I produced in Taos during the late 90s and early 2000s. Since then, we've remained in touch. 

Over her 35-year career, Nancy has contributed to some of the most respected publications, including FoxBusiness.com, CNBC.com, Entrepreneur.com, Ladies' Home Journal, and Fortune.com. She has an incredible ability to connect with people and bring their stories to life, making her a captivating journalist and writer. In 2016, Nancy published her memoir, "Alive in the Sunshine," detailing her professional and spiritual journey.

 During our conversation, we dive into the art of teaching creativity, reflecting on our shared experiences at The Artist's Way camp. Nancy talks about her journey from being a sports writer/columnist at The Trenton Times to becoming a certified coach and a leader in the journalism field. We discuss her approach to coaching and how her experience in athletics has given her a unique perspective on motivation and success.

As we catch up, we touch on some thought-provoking topics, exploring how liberals and conservatives can engage in meaningful dialogue despite differing viewpoints. Nancy's balanced approach to these discussions makes for a compelling listen, challenging us to be open to new ideas while respecting differing opinions. Enjoy the show!

Creativity, Writing and Politics with journalist Nancy Colasurdo

Welcome to Twice 5 Miles Radio; I'm your host, James Navé. I'm trying something new this week: featuring two incredible guests in one special hour-long show. Our guests are the dynamic spoken word artist Jessica Chilton and the insightful musician Walter Parks. Both of their interviews ran longer than expected, and instead of tossing the conversations that happened after each interview, I'm including them in this show. Find out what we say after the interview is over and we think the mic is turned off. 

First, we have Jessica Chilton, who joined us last week and left us wanting more. Jessica, a gifted spoken word artist and expressive arts therapist, brings a unique blend of singing and improvisational artistry that captivates audiences. In our conversation, Jessica turned the tables and interviewed me, creating a lively dialogue about improvisational work and the creative process.  

Following Jessica, we dive into a fascinating discussion with Walter Parks. Walter is a renowned musician known for his distinctive use of guitars and amplifiers. Broadcasting from his recording studio in Saint Louis, Walter offers an in-depth look at how he pairs amplifiers with different kinds of music to create unique sonic landscapes. His take on distortion as a pivotal element in musical artistry is particularly intriguing.  

This episode, "The After Interview Show," is a testament to the richness that can come from extended conversations. Jessica's profound connection to the arts and Walter's technical mastery of music provide an inspiring and informative dual narrative. Enjoy the show.

After Interviews with spoken-word artist Jessica Chilton and singer-songwriter Walter Parks

Welcome to Twice 5 Miles Radio; I'm your host, James Navé. Today, I'm delighted to introduce Terra Dyer Gill, an intuitive healer who recently attended my writing workshop at the Lake Eden Retreat. Afterward, we engaged in a profound conversation about the interconnectedness of every particle on Earth, including humans, as cells within a greater whole.

In his poem "Fiddler Jones," Edgar Lee Masters writes, "The Earth Keeps some vibration going / there in your heart, and that is you." Terra and I explore this concept, discussing the relationship between the vibrations throbbing within us and those emanating from the Earth. Terra shares her insights on how understanding our internal vibrations can help us align with the universal vibrations surrounding us.

The question, "Where do I belong?" powers our conversation, offering reflections and revelations. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on finding your place in the universal symphony of vibrations. Enjoy the show.

The Earth's Vibrations with intuitive healer Terra Dyer Gill

Welcome to Twice 5 Miles Radio. I'm your host, James Navé. A few weeks ago, I had the pleasure of meeting Virginia Todd while she was having lunch with Davyne Dial, the director of WPVMFM radio in Asheville, where this show always airs first.

During our brief encounter, I was captivated by Virginia's unique journey in the world of radio. Virginia, who holds an amateur (Ham) Radio license and hosts a music show on WPVMFM called Spinclass, has a story that is as fascinating as it is inspiring. I knew immediately that I wanted her to share her story on Twice 5 Miles Radio, and she graciously agreed.

In this episode, we delve into Virginia's journey to becoming an amateur radio operator and the deep-seated love for radio that fuels her passion. Growing up in Asheville in the 1990s and early 2000s, she recounts how those formative years were both informative and thrilling. Virginia speaks at length about her involvement in the Asheville community as a thought leader and radio artist, emphasizing the joy and fulfillment it brings her.

Our conversation also touches on the significant role radio has played in shaping American culture, harking back to Reginald Fessenden's first radio broadcast on Christmas Eve 1906 in Brant Rock, Massachusetts. He played a Christmas song, read a Biblical passage, and serenaded his listeners with his violin. Radio continues to be a vibrant force in our lives, and we are fortunate to have it in all its evolving forms.

Join us as we explore these themes and more, celebrating the enduring magic of radio. Enjoy this engaging and enlightening conversation with Virginia Todd, a true radio enthusiast and community beacon.

The Magic Of Radio with amateur radio operator Virginia Todd

Welcome to Twice 5 Miles Radio. I'm your host, James Navé. Today, I’m going solo with my thoughts on how poetry changes life. In this episode, you’ll hear me perform poems that have shaped my thinking over the years. You’ll discover why a line of verse my mother recited to me when I was a boy continues to be my north star to this day.

Traveling and being on the road have been constants in my life. Sometimes I’ve loved the journey; other times, I’ve wondered why I’m driving through a storm in Tennessee. In this show, you’ll hear a few of my poems, including "The Road" and "The Tulsa Pool Player."
Dylan Thomas makes an appearance with "Fern Hill"—or rather, I show up performing "Fern Hill," a poem I memorized in 1985 while spending two weeks at a Tibetan Buddhist center in the south of France. I touch on environmental themes with my poem "The Bug," followed by Elizabeth Bishop’s "The Fish."

I also perform a longer piece by Charles Wright titled "The Lonesome Pine Special." I love performing this poem because it reminds me of how much work I have to do to reach Wright’s level of mastery. There’s a good reason why Charles Wright was the 2014 U.S. Poet Laureate.

I close the show with a poem about a jazz band and a touch of love. Overall I enjoyed making this episode, and I hope you enjoy listening to "How Poetry Changes Life."

Poems That influence Me with poet  and Twice 5 Miles Radio host James Navé

Welcome to Twice 5 Miles Radio; I’m your host, James Navé. 

Today, I’m excited to introduce you to poet and educator Cynthia Shumacher, who, at 95, is still actively writing and publishing. Cynthia’s latest works, "Polished Stones" and "Soul Flowers" reveal her masterful ability to convey the emotions we all feel but often struggle to express. Through a carefully crafted combination of words, she paints a relatable and refreshing picture of the human experience.

Our conversation touches not only on her poetic journey but also on her deep commitment to education. A career teacher for 33 years, Cynthia has been a champion of student empowerment and was even briefly fired in the 1960s for her courageous activism during the civil rights movement. Her insights into poetry, teaching, and the power of language are a testament to her lifelong dedication to both the arts and social justice.

In this episode, I’ve paired my interview with Cynthia with a past conversation I had with poet Ocean Vuong. Together, their perspectives bridge generations and remind us of poetry's timelessness.

Join us for a rich discussion that spans history, poetry, and education.

The Poetics Of Education with author and educator Cynthia Shumacher

Welcome to Twice 5 Miles Radio, where the art of conversation thrives. I'm your host, James Navé, and I'm delighted to welcome back my guest, Paul O'Connor—a celebrated photographer, sculptor, and visual artist who calls Taos home. Paul's work has left an indelible mark on the art world, and his latest performative book, Taos Portraits: Volume Two, is no exception.

In this episode, we dive deep into the making of this extraordinary book, a collection of 60 black-and-white portraits that capture the essence of Taos's vibrant artistic community. Paul's lens reveals a striking truth: art is a collective experience, and every wrinkle, every story, holds a place in the mosaic of creativity.

We explore Paul's intuitive process, his passion for honoring his subjects, and the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into creating an art book of this caliber. Paul's first volume of Taos Portraits, now a collector's item valued at over $1,000, set the stage for this second installment, which he calls "an enduring art piece."

Because Paul features my portrait in his book, during this conversation, I reflect on what it means to be part of this community—an honor shared by many who have shaped Taos's creative spirit.

Our conversation touches on the wrinkles of time, the celebration of maturity in a youth-driven culture, and the stories behind the faces that define Taos. Recorded across the globe—me in Manila, Paul in Crete—we find ourselves grounded in the universal language of art and storytelling.

If you've ever wondered what it takes to create a high-end art book or how an artist turns intuition into legacy, this episode is for you. Mark your calendars for June 6, 2025, when Paul will officially launch Taos Portraits: Volume Two at the Taos Community Auditorium. Until then, please tune in for an inspiring dialogue about art, life, and the wrinkles that make us who we are. Enjoy the show.

Looking for the Wrinkles with photographer and Taos Portraits' publisher Paul O'Conner

Welcome to Twice 5 Miles Radio, where the art of conversation thrives. I'm your host, James Navé. Kelly Pasholk, the talented book designer and creative writing facilitator, is joining me today. Kelly brings a unique blend of artistry and expertise to every project she touches, and she's here to share the fascinating journey behind Taos Portraits II, a visually stunning art book capturing 60 prominent Taos artists through the lens of photographer Paul O'Connor.

In the first part of our conversation, Kelly recounts the intricate process of creating Taos Portraits II, from conceptualizing the book to watching the first pages roll off the presses in a specialized printing house in China. We also delve into plans for the book's grand launch event, scheduled for June 6, 2025, in Taos—a celebration we hope will be the highlight of the summer, leaving attendees with unforgettable memories.

In the interview's second half, Kelly offers invaluable insights into book publishing. With decades of experience in graphic arts and a passion for nurturing creativity, she discusses her unique 10-day intensive retreats in Taos, where aspiring authors develop a committed writing process and leave with the tools and momentum to bring their stories to life.

Kelly's story reflects her deep commitment to helping others shine, whether through the pages of an art book or personalized creative services. From her early days in the printing industry to building her solar-powered home in Taos, she's a testament to the transformative power of creativity and craftsmanship.

This engaging and comfortable conversation offers a wealth of inspiration for anyone passionate about storytelling, publishing, or the creative process. Tune in to hear Kelly's wisdom, anecdotes, and plans for one of the Taos' most anticipated summer 2025 art events. Enjoy the show.

Crafting Legacy: The Making of Taos Portraits II with book designer Kelly Pasholk

Q: Who Would Envy You? 
A: Bruce Springsteen 

Last month, I had coffee with my friend Gareth Higgins at Recess Coffee in Black Mountain, North Carolina. As we settled in, I mentioned I’d been exploring ChatGPT. Gareth smiled and said, “Let me show you something ChatGPT can do that’ll surprise you.”

Then he leaned into his phone and dictated: List 10 notable writers or poets who would be envious of James Navé and explain why.

If you’ve ever used ChatGPT, you know what happened next—within seconds, it generated the list along with a paragraph for each one. 

While a few responses were predictable, the overall experience was oddly fascinating. It got me thinking about the lens of self-worth, creative admiration, and the power of imaginative comparison.

Yesterday, I tried Gareth’s idea out as a prompt during our Thursday Imaginative Storm Zoom workshops. List 5 to 10 people you admire. Then, write for 10 minutes about why they would envy you. Give it a spin. 

I chose Bruce Springsteen. Here’s what I wrote.

Bruce Springsteen, you envy me because I can be invisible whenever and wherever I want, wherever I go, walking through the promised land across the Rainbow Bridge. 

Bruce, I like the way you look straight out. You envy me because I can see the edges. I dwell in the fall from grace as much as the rise from grace. I'm not troubled with old sheep wandering in dry pastures. 

I have a voice that calls my mama from the grave. No, I'm no karmic child, nor am I a fleeting-moments Buddhist. I am oil and dusty windows. 

Bruce, you envy me because unlike you, I'm from the rugged south, down in the heartland where rocks have accents and children grow up to sing in Nashville. 

Bruce, you are from New Jersey—Land of steel, forest, factories, and “made-men” on corners in Jersey City. I am a creature of things that crawl in old gold heat. I know the runners that pull the cargo up the inland waterway and fly twin-engine planes out of Cuba, or they used to. 

Bruce, I know you know people, too. Do I envy you? Sure, I envy you. I've heard you weep over your piano. You envy me because nobody expects me to weep over my piano. Those who know me expect me to rise up like magic wind. 

Bruce, you envy me because I can talk to age, and time, and the coming years. I belong to the invisible Bruce. I can call up sometime, anytime I want. You can call me sometime, too. 

Let's meet in Virginia, south on I-95 just below Washington, DC. How about it, Bruce?

Bruce Springsteen Envies Me by James Navé

The Slow Burn of a Beautiful Dream with Jennifer Peterson

Welcome to Twice 5 Miles Radio. I’m your host, James Navé.

In this episode, I speak with Jennifer Peterson, founder of the Estelle Center for Creative Arts in La Veta, Colorado (https://estellecreativearts.com/).

Jennifer shares how a dream seeded by her grandmother's artistic spirit evolved into a vibrant retreat center for women to explore creativity, build community, and work with their hands. 

We talk about the emotional power of quilting, the quiet transformation that happens during a five-day retreat, and how making art becomes a way to live with more grace, connection, and resilience. Jennifer’s story is a masterclass in patience, purpose, and creative leadership.

Whether you’re a fiber artist, a retreat leader, or someone yearning to carve out creative time in a busy life, you’ll find inspiration here. Jennifer reminds us: you don’t have to know exactly how your dream will unfold—you just have to let it live long enough to find its form.

Listen in and discover how one woman’s quiet dream turned into a movement of creative restoration.

The Slow Burn of a Beautiful Dream with Jennifer Peterson

Welcome to Twice 5 Miles Radio, I’m your host, James Navé.

In this episode, we begin with Leandro Reyes, Manila’s dynamic “Basyang Kid”—a spoken-word artist who channels a century-old literary legacy into powerful performances, poetic craft, and cultural community-building. From open mic stages across Makati to the pages of Postscript Magazine, 

Leandro honors the legacy of his great-grandfather, Severino “Lola Basyang” Reyes—the iconic playwright and “Father of Tagalog Zarzuela”—while forging his own bold new path. His debut poem, “Sugarcoats,” contemplates loss with quiet precision, and his work in theater and advocacy reveals a deep devotion to Filipino artistry and imagination.

Then we travel from Manila to Taos for a conversation I recorded a few years ago with Ocean Vuong, bestselling author of On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous and his current novel, The Emperor of Gladness, published on May 13, 2025.  Ocean was in Northern New Mexico for the Taos Poetry Festival, and we sat down to talk about poetry, language, loss, and what it means to carry beauty and grief in the same breath.

To close the show, I offer a short writing workshop—an invitation called “A Long Look at Yourself.” It’s a simple, powerful practice in awareness and emotional truth, designed to help you connect with your voice and see your own story in a fresh light.

Whether you're a writer, a listener, or someone simply curious about the human spirit, I hope this episode offers you something to carry with you.

A Long Look at Yourself with poets Leandro Reyes and Ocean Vuong

Today on the show, I'm pleased to welcome Donald Graham, an internationally acclaimed photographer whose portraits, landscapes, and stories span the globe—from high fashion in Paris to mountain lions prowling the wilds of Taos, New Mexico.

Don's work is housed in collections at the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the International Center of Photography, and his black-and-white portrait book "One of a Kind" has garnered over 40 international awards.

We met by chance at an after-party in Taos and found ourselves deep in conversation about photography, light, and the animals that roam his high desert land. That moment led to this interview. In our conversation, 

Don takes us from the glamour of Vogue shoots in Paris to the quiet solitude of waiting for a bear to appear on a trail cam. 

We discuss photography as an act of presence, empathy, and uncovering stories behind the eyes of a subject. He offers technical insights, soulful reflections, and a few hard-earned truths about making a life in the arts.

So pour a cup of coffee, settle in, and join me for this intimate and far-reaching conversation with a man who's spent his life pointing a lens at the world—and seeing what most of us miss.

The Photographer's Lens with Donald Graham

Welcome to Twice 5 Miles Radio. I'm your host, James Navé.

On today's show, I'm joined by Michelle Vandepas, founder of GracePoint Publishing, TEDx speaker, and book coach to bestselling authors such as Brian Tracy and Jack Canfield. Michelle has published over a thousand books, but what sets her apart is her deep belief in the transformative power of creativity and voice.

In this rich conversation, we dive into the mechanics and mysteries of publishing—what it means to shape your story, find your voice, and deliver a book with soul.

Michelle pulls back the curtain on the publishing industry, revealing common pitfalls and how to avoid them, and she shares her philosophy on how authenticity, strategy, and—yes—even impatience can become your greatest creative assets.

After our conversation, I read an excerpt from my memoir-in-progress, written by hand in my Taos studio, a reflection that loops together moonlight, country music, and marble statues from the Louvre.

If you've ever wondered how your voice becomes a book—or how a memory becomes meaning—you'll want to settle in for this one. Twice 5 Miles Radio—original, curious, and always on the road to somewhere.


The Power of Publishing with Michelle Vanderpass

Welcome to Twice 5 Miles Radio, I'm your host, James Navé. This week, I sit down with Erinn Hartley, Executive Director of LEAF Global Arts, for a dynamic conversation on creativity, cultural exchange, and the power of the arts. Erinn shares stories from LEAF's renowned festivals, international cultural programs, and its impactful educational initiatives, LEAF Schools and Streets.

From teaching theater in Asheville's public housing to life-changing cultural journeys abroad, Erinn illustrates how LEAF connects communities and inspires creative growth. As LEAF celebrates 30 years, we also discuss the upcoming book, Live Life Like a Festival, co-authored by Jennifer Pickering, Lauren Breher, and me.

Please tune in to discover how LEAF Global Arts empowers us all to live creatively, courageously, and festively.

Twice 5 Miles Radio airs weekly on WPVM FM, Asheville, and KCEI FM Cultural Energy Radio, Taos.

Live Life Like a Festival with Erinn Hartley

Welcome to Twice 5 Miles Radio. I'm your host, James Navé. Today, I'm joined by Juliet Ewing, a dynamic jazz vocalist whose journey from Broadway stages to intimate New York jazz clubs is as lyrical as the songs she sings.
'
A classically trained musical theater performer, Juliet speaks candidly about creativity, joy, and the art of telling the truth through song. We dive deep into her transformation from touring musicals like Crazy for You and Footloose to developing her sold-out cabaret "Rise Up Singing: The Music of George Gershwin," now culminating in her upcoming album Simply'S Wonderful.

Juliet unpacks the layers of perfectionism, the power of storytelling in music, and how Gershwin's lyrics still break hearts a century later. We talk rehearsal, spontaneity, roses, and the jazz of living well. Juliet's voice—clear, radiant, intelligent—carries more than a tune. Her voice carries a lifetime of artistic devotion, grit, and joy. If you've ever wondered where the magic lives in a song, this conversation will bring you home.

Lyrics Come First with Juliet Ewing on music, meaning, and Gershwin

Welcome to Provocative Conversations from Twice 5 Miles Radio. I’m your host, James Navé.  Today’s guest is PJ Ewing—a longtime friend, brilliant digital marketer, skilled podcast host of Lester the Nightfly, and one of the most thoughtful audio engineers I know.

This wide-ranging conversation explores the evolving intersection of sound, artificial intelligence, and American culture. From podcasting to tech ethics, it’s a deep dive into our digital future.

PJ and I dig into what makes good audio, the shifting podcasting landscape, how media influences identity, and whether we as a species can survive the next 400 years.

From the 1960’s Gunsmoke TV series to AI, from Alaska community radio to Malcolm Gladwell’s take on gun culture, we examine the deep questions—and share a few laughs along the way.

You’ll come away with fresh insights on creativity, society, and the risks we’re all taking to build whatever’s next.

Key Topics Covered in the Interview
The importance of high-quality audio in podcasting
Tips and gear for DIY podcasting (mics, software, editing tools)
Niche podcasting vs. general interviews
Podcast recommendations (including 20,000Hz, Pivot, Hard Fork, StarTalk)
PJ’s shift away from political media
Malcolm Gladwell and the cultural influence of Gunsmoke
Personal reflections on American gun culture
Local community resilience post-Hurricane Helene
The case for city-states over large national governments
Speculative futures: AI, gene editing, alien contact
Cultural evolution and the crisis of masculinity
Whether humanity can survive the next 400 years
The dual nature of capitalism as destructive and innovative

Aliens Are Coming: PJ Ewing on technology, culture, and the American Mind

Welcome to Provocative Conversations from Twice 5 Miles Radio; I’m your host, James Navé. What happens when a bullied 12-year-old finds her voice through a school talent show poem—and never looks back? In this powerful episode of Twice 5 Miles Radio, I sit down with Alabama-born poet E. Bailey, a rising star in the national slam poetry scene, who will be competing at this year’s LEAF Poetry Slam Championships.
Over 40 minutes, E. Bailey walks us through her poetic journey—from being mentored by a traveling poetry dad to self-publishing her first book at 15, to discovering the raw intimacy of slam poetry. Baileydoesn’t just write poems—she does poetry. She performs it, embodies it, lives it.
Her stories are vulnerable, electric, and deeply human: navigating trauma, small-town isolation, early grief, and ultimately, transformation. Whether she’s reading her two-part piece “Bad Girl / Bad Girl Becomes Woman” or reflecting on slam as a spiritual awakening, E. Bailey speaks forcefully, without hesitation.
The second half of the episode includes I  reflect on my own poetic evolution—growing into the craft later in life, the origins of the LEAF Slam, and what it means to say something true on the page and on the stage.
This is a show about poetry as survival, as connection, and as reclamation. Whether you’re 13 or 97, a seasoned poet or someone just starting out, this episode is an invitation to step through the door and speak your truth.
Tune in, take a breath, and let E. Bailey catch yo with your guard down.

Bad Girl Write Poetry with spoken word poet E. Bailey

Welcome to Provocative Conversations from Twice 5 Miles Radio; I’m your host, James Navé.  
In this episode, I speak with Schree Chavdarov, Global Engagement Director of LEAF Global Arts, about solidarity, resilience, and the healing power of culture. From the devastation of Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina to grassroots programs across El Salvador, Rwanda, and Kenya, Schree shows how art keeps communities alive when everything else is broken.
She shares her own extraordinary story of surviving a rare, life-threatening parasite—an experience that deepened her understanding of resilience and solidarity.

We also discuss how drumming, storytelling, and preserving languages become pathways to healing, hope, and identity for young people worldwide.

Together, we reflect on what it means to live fully in challenging times: to welcome others, to share culture, to keep creating even when resources are scarce. This conversation reminds us that art is not a luxury—it is a lifeline.

Global Language of Resilience with Schree Chavdarov, LEAF Global Arts

What the Wind Whispers 
—James Navé

Forever 
and without trouble, 
I start now. 
No force 
or struggle,
swimming along, 
no knots. 

I tap at your door. 
Will you join me? 

Let's go down 
the willow path, 
past the old trees 
that understand, 
troubled yesterdays 

When the dance 
comes in time, without 
the will of fierce wind,  
I will tell you about the secret
that visits me often 
coming through the window. 

Here's what the wind whispers. 
“fire will do when you crack 
the young flowers open 
in the blue whale rain 
that falls from days gone by.” 

When will I be able to say 
I belong to the rain? 
Who will check on me, 
kiss me when spring comes 
after the long cold? 

Take me to the first party 
before the sky goes white 
like old bones left alone 
on the side of a hill 
where cougars roam 
and stars pop out at dusk.

 I wish I had more time 
to tell you about 
what I did this morning, 
when I rose early, 
still dark, 
no sound—late stars in the sky. 

I walked to the kitchen, 
made a coffee, 
then sat down, alone 
like some small blue whale 
floating in the air.

What the Wind Whispers performed by James Navé

Welcome to Provocative Conversations from Twice 5 Miles Radio. I’m your host, James Navé. Today, we venture into the soul of community, tradition, and joyful expression through the lens of contra dancing, sound, and the magic of gathering. In this episode, I sit down with Ed and Tami Howe—two deeply rooted contributors to the contra dance movement and the LEAF Festival. Design, Dance, and LEAF Love

From Ed’s beginnings as a fiddler in Maine to his rise as a creative force behind the band Perpetual e-Motion, his story is steeped in sound, stagecraft, and communal uplift. Tami shares how a search for connection led her to the contra dance floor, where eye contact and shared rhythm transformed her sense of belonging.

We dive into Brookside, the epicenter of LEAF’s dance scene—a pavilion filled with movement, music, and intentional design that fosters joy and inclusiveness. We explore the art of building the dance floor, the evolving language of tradition, and the metaphorical power of crafting space where everyone feels welcome.

It’s about design meeting passion. Movement meeting grace. Mistakes becoming invitations. From the roots of Nelson, New Hampshire, to the inclusive pulse of modern festivals, contra dance has become more than a pastime—it’s a way of life.

Stay with us. This episode is a celebration of artistry, culture, resilience, and the kind of dance that brings people home to themselves.

Contra Dancing with dance visionaries Ed and Tami Howe

Let's Say Goodbye performed by James Navé
When the world rounds 
along mud bound lines
Small trees speak. 

They tell long, 
determined stories. 
Can you hear them 
in the days you inhabit? 

Wild days. Tame days. 
Hot and cold days.

Sometimes 
I'm rich
and other times 
I count the last leaves
on the thin stems 
hanging above 
strangers coming 
and going 
to work 
or from love 
or into days 
of hope that demands 
a small pay now. 

Moments of flesh 
or motorcycle dreams
or the pull and push 
of memories 
hang round 
the world as the world spins. 
As it always spins. 

I live on the long side of time
miles away from Las Vegas
miles away from the Q train
crossing the long bridge. 
=Miles away from my father's grave. 

These days the soul is silent
in the buried violence 
of bronze memories. 

Love comes and goes. 
Yes, shoes fit 
and so do shirts 
and small earrings 
fashioned by dreamers 
from New Orleans 
under the green sun. 

After the invisible wizards 
were gone out, names 
they gave in the last storm 
were remembered 
by those who could remember. 

I was there that day, 
near the Mud bound lines
under the wedding trees. 

Can you make a wish? 
A small one. 
Let's make one together. 

Touch the prayers of blackbirds.
Forget snow. 

Remember why you long 
for those distant songs.  

Why do mysteries forget
 what you try to remember. 

I have my keys. 
I have my dreams.
I'll leave soon. 
Come walk with me 
to the door, 
and let's say goodbye.

Let's Say Goodbye

Art in Times of Beauty and Chaos with Parks & Navé

Yours truly James Navé welcomes poet, writer, and author of The Artist's Way Julia Cameron to the Twice 5 Miles Radio microphone.  In this timely conversation Julia and I had a couple of summers ago, Julia discusses the many useful tools you'll find throughout her bestselling book The Artist's Way.  She talks at length about the value of Morning Pages and how to take yourself on an Artist Date. The Artist's Way has sold millions of copies over the last 26 years. What does it take to get rid of creative blocks and get on your Artist's Way?  Tune in and hear what Julia Cameron has to say.  Join me for a 6-week Artist's Way Workshop in Asheville, Tuesdays, October 23-November 27, 2018.  Near Asheville? Join us, I'd love to have you in the class.

The Artist's Way, a podcast with Julia Cameron

Twice 5 Miles Radio welcomes Susan Walters-Minker and Alan Minker to the Microphone.  Have you ever wondered the term Conscious Capitalism means?  Well, wonder no more, in this conversation Susan and Alan unpack Conscious Capitalism for us.  Here's the Conscious Capitalism credo which will warm you up for this conversation.  “We believe that business is good because it creates value, it is ethical because it is based on voluntary exchange, it is noble because it can elevate our existence and it is heroic because it lifts people out of poverty and creates prosperity. Free enterprise capitalism is the most powerful system for social cooperation and human progress ever conceived. It is one of the most compelling ideas we humans have ever had. But we can aspire to even more.”

Explore Conscious Capitalism with Susan and Alan Walters-Minker

Provocative Conversations from Twice 5 Miles Radio is a podcast devoted to candid, often surprising exchanges with artists, thinkers, and cultural instigators who speak from the core. Each episode dives beneath the surface to explore the stories and questions that shape our lives.

I’m James Navé—poet, storyteller, educator, and longtime creative collaborator. With an MFA from Vermont College of Fine Arts and decades of teaching experience across the globe, I help writers and performers tap into their authentic voices through public speaking, creative writing, and the Imaginative Storm method, which I co-developed with Allegra Huston.

My most recent book, 100 Days: A Poetic Memoir After Cancer (3: A Taos Press), documents a hundred days of healing and poetic reckoning. I’m also co-author of Write What You Don’t Know and How to Read for an Audience—practical guides for anyone seeking to speak and write with more truth and power.

I’ve directed festivals, hosted literary salons, taught with Julia Cameron, and memorized over 600 poems. I still believe in the power of a well-told story, the light through stained glass, and the open road with nothing but a podcast and a windshield full of stars.

Twice Five Miles

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