We sit down with Matt Daly, Executive Director of Jackson Hole Writers, to explore how creativity and community shape a meaningful life. Matt shares how poetry, reflection, and human connection fuel his approach to building a thriving writing community in Jackson, Wyoming. His perspectives reveal how creative practice strengthens self-awareness, deepens relationships, and supports overall well-being. Matt also discusses the evolution of the Jackson Hole Writers Conference and why expanding the definition of “being a writer” opens new doors for aspiring creators.
Key Takeaways:
00:00 Introduction.
01:46 Community is essential to sustaining a thriving writing life.
03:28 Writing a poem every day to push through writer’s block and stay connected.
04:48 Introducing yourself as a poet often surprises people and sparks conversation.
06:12 Writing as a reflective, meditative practice that mirrors inner experience.
08:52 Story and lyrical writing help express complex inner experience.
10:37 Highlighting broader paths in the writing life.
12:51 Writers use AI as a helpful tool, but human creativity leads.
15:19 Many emerging writers seek out a community.
“The beautiful thing for me about the writing practice is the kind of quiet that happens, and it comes back out as creative expression.”- Matt Daly
Resources Mentioned:
Connect with Nathan Mersereau:
Phone: 248-645-1520
Email: nathan.mersereau@planningalt.com
LinkedIn: Nathan Mersereau
Address: 255 S Old Woodward, Suite 310
Birmingham, MI 48009