We recently connected with Karina Guardiola-lopez and have shared our conversation below.

Karina , appreciate you joining us today. So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?

As a writer and educator, I deeply believe that writing delves into life experiences, human perspectives, and the essence of our shared existence. As a writing coach and consultant, I nurture the growth of writers, offering solutions to overcome writer’s block, establishing routines that align with their goals, and fostering confidence in their craft. Through workshops and creative tools, I strive to inspire writers to share their stories with the world.

Karina , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

My name is Karina Guardiola Lopez. I am a Honduran-American poet, writer, and educator from New York City, now based in New Jersey. My academic journey includes an M.S.Ed. from Baruch College and a B.A. in English with a focus on Creative Writing from City College, which laid the foundation for my creative work. I embarked on my writing journey at the age of nine and shared my first poem at an open mic while in high school.

I was honored as a finalist for the 2024 Palette Poetry Previously Published Poem Prize for my poem “I Can’t Breathe.” My work has been featured in Press Pause Press, Azahares Journal, Indolent Books, Acentos Review, For Women Who Roar, and many other publications. Beyond the page, I’ve had the honor of performing at the New York City Poetry Festival, Bowery Poetry Club, The Nuyorican Poets Cafe, Caribbean Culture Center African Diaspora Institute, and Bronx Poet Laureate, Kay Bell’s Poetry Jam at the Dreamyard Art Center.

One of my proudest achievements is co-writing and starring in the play “Live Big Girl,” a production that delves into themes of self-celebration in a society that often marginalizes bigger bodies. This work resonated deeply with audiences, leading to sold-out performances at The National Black Theatre, The Tank Theater, and the Bronx Academy of Arts and Dance. The play, which I created alongside Vanessa Chica and Rebeca Lois Lucret and directed by Peggy Robles- Alvarado, has since evolved into a movement that includes workshops, poetry readings, and a book. I have also appeared in other plays, such as “Cell Block Tango,” directed by Victor Cruz, and “Page to the Stage” and “Speaking My Truth,” both directed by Andres Chulisi Rodriguez and produced by Latanya DeVaughn.

As an educator and creative resource developer, I founded The Pen, Pad, and Poet series. Initially focused on teens, this initiative offered publishing opportunities, poetry workshops, and performances. During the pandemic, I expanded the series to include adults and built a supportive online community through the Pens, Pads, and Poets Facebook group, where writers can access writing resources and connect with one another. I also co-manage the Instagram page for the National Association for Poetry Therapy (NAPT), where I create and share content on literary holidays, inspirational quotes, and upcoming workshops and open mic events.

I am deeply committed to developing tools that foster creativity. I have designed poetic magnets, stickers, a deck of cards for writers, and a coloring book for creators. Additionally, I produce free educational videos focused on writing and poetry, aimed at inspiring and nurturing writers across all levels and genres.

What sets me apart is my commitment to fostering creativity in others while continuing to explore my own artistic journey. I take pride in my ability to connect with my community, whether through poetry, engaging workshops, or innovative creative tools. My work is not just about sharing stories but also about empowering others to find and share their own voices.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

There was a time when the opinions of others weighed heavily on me. I was told I wasn’t “college material,” “not a good writer,” or “too much of a dreamer and not a realist.” Those words stung, and for a while, I let them shape how I saw myself. But as time passed, I chose to rise above those judgments. I discovered a quiet strength within me, one that grew each time I pushed forward. I realized that greatness isn’t about seeking validation—it’s about believing in your own path. Though the criticisms were disheartening, I matured and came to understand that others’ opinions of me were just that—opinions, not facts. Their judgments were mere reflections of their own insecurities, not the truth of who I am. Now, I find myself in spaces they once said I didn’t belong to, a testament to the fact that their opinions never defined my worth. My journey speaks for itself.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

My goal is to help writers find their voices and share their stories. I understand how daily life can often overshadow our creative sides, making it easy to neglect our artistic passions. Yet, I believe that everyone has a unique story that can inspire and uplift others. I also recognize that imposter syndrome is one of the biggest challenges writers face when confronting a blank page. That’s why I provide practical tools, guidance, and encouragement to help writers break through self-doubt and reignite their creative spark. Through workshops, personalized coaching, and creative resources, I aim to empower writers to embrace their voices, trust their creativity, and confidently share their stories with the world.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://kglopez.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kglopez_
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PensPadsPoets
• Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/kglopez
• Other: https://linktr.ee/kglopez

Image Credits

Olga Ayala, Elena, Elena Mamarazzi Marrero, and Anelise Patton