We’re looking forward to introducing you to Sady Sparks. Check out our conversation below.
Sady, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What do you think is misunderstood about your business?
As a professional poet, I think that people misinterpret AI as my competition. This will never become reality since poetry comes from the deepest part of ourselves. Whether you call that God, your soul, your heart, or simply “art,” artificial intelligence is not in this conversation. Does AI compete with one’s meditation practice? Can it replicate the sensation of swinging on a porch swing? Will it ever be sour lemonade? Art is inherent to the human spirit and, rest assured, a code only we can write.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Sady Sparks (yes, truly), and I’ve built my life around words. I served as Poet Laureate of Olympia, Washington (2019–2020) and am now a two-time City of Austin artist grant recipient.
I care about making poetry visible, big, and fun! I want people to see it out in the world, not hiding in a book. As Poet Laureate, I painted permanent poems onto city sidewalks and created an interactive literary map. Since moving to Texas, I’ve launched a Little Free Library filled entirely with anonymous love letters, and through my workshops, hundreds of people have written or requested letters. I also write typewriter poems on the spot using artisan papers for people in public places.
My work and teaching are known for their playfulness, curiosity, and emotional depth. I believe that poetry, when taught correctly, is fun, joyful, and disarmingly easy.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
With regards to writing, I remember the power I felt after reading an essay to my extended family. We had just lost my grandpa. It was Christmastime. Cold out. Sorrowful. I read a recounting of his funeral that I’d written for my middle school English assignment. When I finished, there was a stillness. Not a huge commotion, but a recognition. I realized my words could affect others. My grandpa is still who I miss most nearly two decades later, and yet that moment is where my words truly began.
Do you remember a time someone truly listened to you?
I’m lucky to have many. One person that stands out is Amy. She listens through long hugs, herbal remedies, and birthday calls while I’m gardening. And when she responds, she bursts open with this excited wisdom, like she just tapped the world’s first maple tree.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. Is the public version of you the real you?
The public version of me is a real facet of who I am. I’m genuinely friendly, curious, and obnoxiously passionate about poetry. I love teaching and feel inspired often. It’s also true that I struggle with tough emotions, get overwhelmed, and doubt myself. I’m not great at faking anything, so if you want to know how I feel, just watch my face while you ask. 😉
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace while I’m on a walk. I love looking at flowers and noticing the sun.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sadysparks/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sadysparks/
