47 – The Art of Belonging: Poetry, Immigration, and Purpose with Renzo del Castillo

May 15, 2024

I’m thrilled to be joined in this episode by Renzo del Castillo, a poet, author, and healthcare executive, to discuss his poetry collection ‘Still’ and the themes it encapsulates, including immigration, love, and personal growth.

Renzo shares his journey from a corporate world to finding solace in poetry, emphasizing the importance of vulnerability, creativity, and self-discovery. The conversation also touches on the influence of poets like Neruda, Bukowski, and Szymborska.

Renzo’s personal stories about his family and lessons from his late father underline the significance of love, sacrifice, and living in the present. From poetry recommendations to intimate anecdotes, this episode serves as an inspirational guide for us all to embrace our creative impulses and find purpose in our journeys.

Topics discussed in this episode include:

– [00:00] – The Art of Belonging: Poetry, Immigration, and Purpose

– [04:38] – Exploring Purpose and Passion

– [15:32] – The Intersection of Corporate Life and Creative Expression

– [19:10] – The Power of Vulnerability and Creation

– [29:53] – Generational Lessons and the Immigrant Experience

– [43:24] – Addressing Stereotypes and Embracing Diversity

– [53:23] – Final Questions

– [01:03:34] – Finding Meaning Through Creation and Connection

Quotes from Episode:

“The antithesis to languishing is creation. If you create, you can’t be passive.”

”A big change for me came from realizing that perfection breeds paralysis”