#47: American University Professor, Nancy Kidder, Talks Creative Writing, Combat Sports, & Education

Welcome to Episode 47! In this episode, we are joined by Nancy Kidder. Nancy is a proven writer and professor. In addition to her undergraduate degree from Duke University, her extension certificate in publishing and communications from Harvard Extension School, and her Master’s in Creative Writing from American University, Nancy has 7 pieces of published work and a thriving career as one of American University’s prominent professors. In fact, it is her professorial career that caught my attention as she created and actively teaches one of the most interesting courses I’ve ever seen - Writing & Fighting - where her students discuss everything from the boxing ring to the MMA cage, fight culture, race, gender and the human condition in a sport that juxtaposes unrelenting aggression with heroic fortitude.In this episode, we discuss creative writing, combat sports, as well as, higher education. During this conversation, Nancy provides insight into questions such as;- What exactly is your course? How has it developed since it was first implemented? - What is the journey from idea to conception when working with a university? How did you "pitch" your idea for such a creative writing course? - How did you become passionate about MMA and combat sports?- Why is combat sports such a powerful frame to analyze race, pride, gender, and so many pillars that define and make up our society?- How have you been effective in building a community conducive to high-quality engagement, active dialogue/debate, and healthy conflict? …and much more.Interested to Learn More?Check Out Nancy Kidder at https://www.nancyannkidder.com/Rate & Review!If you enjoyed this and previous episodes, it would mean a lot if you would rate and review!Podcasts are a conversation & that means your voice should be heard