In this conversation, Tom Bruett interviews Mickie Kennedy(he/him), a gay poet whose work reflects on his experiences living through the AIDS crisis and the complexities of intimacy and relationships. They discuss the emotional journey of writing poetry, the impact of societal issues on personal creativity, and the importance of documenting the history of the LGBTQ+ community. Kennedy shares insights on vulnerability, authenticity, and the healing power of art, while also addressing the ongoing challenges faced by the community today.

Get your FREE set of relationship discussion cards for gay men: https://www.queerrelationshipinstitute.com/cards

About Mickie:
Mickie Kennedy is a gay writer who resides in Baltimore County, Maryland. His work has appeared in Prairie Schooner, POETRY, The Threepenny Review, The Southern Review, The Sun and elsewhere. His first full-length book of poetry, Worth Burning, was published by Black Lawrence Press in February 2026. Follow him on social media @MickiePoet or his website mickiekennedy.com.

Connect with Mickie:
Website: https://www.mickiekennedy.com
Instagram: @mickiepoet
New Book: https://www.mickiekennedy.com/worth-burning

Connect with Tom:
website: www.queerrelationshipinstitute.com
Instagram: @queerrelationshipinstitute
Get his book: https://a.co/d/0gtUEAC5