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 Seven - Our Conversation with Gregory Betts
In Volume Six: Chapter Seven, we are joined by Vancouver-born poet, writer, educator, and editor Gregory Betts. A professor of English at Brock University and Literary Arts Residency Lead at the SETI Institute, Greg has authored or edited more than 25 books, including his most recent collaboration Muttertongue: What is Word In Utter Space, co-written with Lillian Allen and Gary Barwin.
In our conversation, we trace Greg’s creative journey—from his earliest poems being published without his knowledge, to discovering the power of poetry in community through a George Bowering book and an Al Purdy reading that changed how he saw writing. We talk about his commitment to literary communities, his take on experimental versus avant-garde writing, and why he believes the difference between the two matters.
Contact Gregory::
Website: gregorybetts.wordpress.com
Purchase Muttertongue: here
Recorded Spoken Word Performances Featured Include:
Ebony Stewart – Mental Health Barz
Instagram: @gulleyprincess Website: ebpoetry.com
Jus Marvin – My Depression
Instagram: @jusmarvinpoetry
Natasha Miller – The Difference Between a Girlfriend and a Woman
Instagram: @natashatmiller
Elizabeth Acevedo – Afro Latina
Instagram: @acevedowrites Website: acevedowrites.com
Asia Samson – As I Am
Instagram: @theasiaproject Website: theasiaproject.com
