The Loft Lit Podcast

In this episode, we step behind the scenes of the publishing industry with literary agent and Loft teaching artist Matthew Valdez. Highlighting the vital role of agent representation and the realities of the querying process, Matthew pulls back the curtain to share how authors and agents build successful long-term partnerships. We discuss the current state of Young Adult literature, the necessity of accessible writing, and why representation—particularly queer stories—is more crucial than eve...

In this episode, we are joined by the Loft's Executive and Artistic Director Arleta Little. Arleta is also an author and poet, and we celebrate Patricia Smith's upcoming Nov 7 visit to the Loft. Arleta reflects on her own creative practice and collaborative poetry collection, Black Swallowtail, tracing how early promises and personal evolution shape a poet's voice. The conversation turns to Patricia Smith's legendary career—from her origins in Chicago's slam poetry scene as a f...

What happens when you dedicate a full year to craft, community, and mentorship? On this episode of The Loft Lit Pod, host Chris Jones dives into one of The Loft's most beloved programs: the Year-Long Writing Projects. Nonfiction cohort participant Susan Schaars joins the show to share how her work and writing life evolved under mentor Sun Yung Shin, what it takes to commit to a year of rigorous creative work, and how the program reframed her writing journey. Plus, hear a live recording of th...

Join us for a conversation with author and Loft teaching artist Alysandra Dutton as she discusses her upcoming novel, The Stolen Women. In this episode, Alysandra shares insights into her creative writing practice, how to conduct deep research for historical and myth-inspired fiction, and the art of breathing new life into timeless stories. Plus, we honor the literary legacy of Annie Dillard, highlight a special upcoming Loft opportunity with Valeria Luiselli, and introduce a new monthly "Mi...

This week on The Loft Lit Pod, Chris Jones sits down with writer, educator, and former Loft fellow Hilal Isler to discuss her striking new short story collection, Har Mar. Hilal shares insights into her craft, her publishing journey from Loft fellow to the release of Har Mar, and these stories (and the women in them) that stick with you long after you turn the final page. Plus, we look ahead to upcoming Loft events featuring MacArthur Genius Valeria Luiselli and National Book Award winner Pa...