Creative Writing with JT Jones

Hey! I'd love to hear your thoughts, send me a voice note. Most people think a layoff means one path: either leap all in on your dream or stay stuck in survival mode. JT Jones proves there’s a third way—and it might be the most sustainable one for creative people trying to build something real. Poet, writer, and Tulsa creative JT Jones sits down to unpack what happened after a company merger upended his job, how he chose to stay and pivot internally, and why that decision pushed him back toward poetry, horror writing, and showing up in his local arts scene. The result is a conversation about financial reality with work that actually matters to you. You’ll discover: \- How a corporate merger and forced location closure became the wake-up call that changed JT’s relationship to work \- Why poetry became his “fun” writing—and eventually the thing Tulsa started recognizing him for \- How open mics, writer groups, book clubs, and random coffee shop conversations are building real creative opportunity \- Why writing every day only works when you stop waiting to feel inspired and start using deadlines, page goals, and small daily wins JT also shares the hard part nobody talks about: trying to create while working evenings, sacrificing PTO just to show up, and mentally switching between analytical job mode and creative mode. This episode matters if you’re wondering how to keep your creative life alive while your paycheck still depends on a day job. It’s especially useful for writers, artists, and anyone trying to build a name locally while juggling time, energy, and uncertainty. If you need a reminder that community, consistency, and a little creative stubbornness can open real doors, this one belongs in your queue. Perfect for anyone who’s trying to make art without blowing up their entire life. JT Jones can be found on Instagram at **@atomic.sonnet** and on Substack at **Sublime Curation**.