The Ethically Immoral Podcast
The Ethically Immoral Podcast is a program dedicated to long-form conversations with poets, spoken word artists, authors, and creatives who use language as a tool for truth-telling, healing, and resistance. Hosted by Mike Payne, the show travels beyond the typical interview to explore the personal histories, artistic philosophies, and cultural contexts that shape the voice of the Creatives we welcome.
It’s not just about poetry or performance — it’s about the people behind the pen. We talk about identity, healing, joy, frustration, and the journey of becoming. Some moments are deep, others are funny, but all of them are authentic. If you’re someone who values storytelling, vulnerability, and good conversation, this space was created and cultivated for you.
The Ethically Immoral Podcast
Volume Six: Chapter Six - Our Conversation with Drew Carroll
In Volume Six: Chapter Six of The Program, we welcome back Chicago-based writer, poet, and blogger Drew Carroll. It’s been over five years since our last conversation, and a lot has changed. Drew has traded powerlifting for building worlds—through poetry, short fiction, and most recently his new digital platform, The Blog of Drew, launched in June.
In our conversation, we discuss his journey from writing poetry during some of the hardest times in his life, to creating his own short fiction universe, to stepping away from social media and eventually returning with new projects. Drew shares his thoughts on the idea of therapy, seeking therapy, vulnerability, and masculinity—especially for Black men—and how those ideas have shaped his creativity.
We also dive into his passions outside of writing, including professional wrestling and the state of the industry today.
Contact Drew:
Instagram: @drewbcarroll
Website: theblogofdrew.com
Recorded Spoken Word Performances Featured Include:
Ajanae Dawkins –When Viola Davis Won
Instagram: @moonsatdusk
Website: ajanaedawkins.com
Darius Simpson – Genocide
Instagram: @_dariussimpson
Website: dariussimpson.com
Alysia Harris – In Situations Like This
Instagram: @poppyinthewheat
Website: alysiaharris.com
Taalam Acey – Affirmation For Black Men
Instagram: @taalamacey
Website: taalamacey.com
Prentice Powell – True Love
Instagram: @prenticepowell1908