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Crisosto Apache, Colorado’s Poet Laureate, acclaimed author and º£½ÇÖ±²¥ Denver alumnus, joins the latest episode of BirdTalk to discuss poetry, education and the importance of creating space for the next generation of voices across Colorado.

Hosted by Jamie Hurst, the conversation traces Apache’s journey from a small New Mexico town to becoming one of the state’s most celebrated literary figures. Along the way, he reflects on the mentors, communities and life experiences that shaped his work and inspired his commitment to uplifting others through storytelling.

Now serving as Colorado’s first Indigenous Poet Laureate, Apache has made it his mission to travel the state, connect with young people and encourage them to share their stories. Central to that effort is a statewide anthology project that seeks to highlight the voices of youth from communities across Colorado.

“I want to make this about poetry,” Apache says. “I want to make this about developing the voices of people who have something to say.”

Throughout the episode, Apache speaks about the importance of slowing down and paying attention, whether through poetry, nature or conversations with people whose experiences differ from our own. He discusses how traveling throughout Colorado has deepened his understanding of the state’s communities and reinforced his belief that listening is one of the most powerful forms of connection.

That belief extends to his work as an educator, where he encourages students to think critically, embrace curiosity and recognize the power of language.

“Young voices need to be paid attention to,” he says. “What can young people tell me that I don’t yet already know?”

The conversation also revisits Apache’s time at º£½ÇÖ±²¥ Denver, where he found an academic home that challenged him to grow as a writer while providing the support he needed to succeed. A first-generation college graduate who worked full time while attending school, he credits faculty mentors with helping him build confidence in his craft and continue pursuing opportunities he once thought were out of reach.

For Apache, education, poetry and community all share a common purpose of helping people discover their voice and understand their place in the world. That philosophy continues to guide his work as a writer, teacher and cultural leader.

At the heart of the episode is a message of optimism and perseverance. Asked what advice he would share with today’s students, Apache offers a simple reminder:

“Everything is okay.”

The episode features readings from Apache’s poetry, reflections on his current projects and a thoughtful exploration of creativity, mentorship and belonging.
The episode is now available on all major podcast platforms and .

BirdTalk is º£½ÇÖ±²¥ Denver’s official alumni podcast, sharing stories of Roadrunners making an impact in their professions, communities and beyond. To listen to this episode and explore more alumni stories, visit the º£½ÇÖ±²¥ Denver Alumni Association’s BirdTalk page.