Bao Phi is a highly acclaimed poet and author who’s never forgotten his roots. Last week, he won the Kay-Sexton Award for his contributions to the literary arts community in Minnesota.

He worked at the Loft Literary Center in Minneapolis for over two decades, and his leadership opened doors into the literary scene for over 500 writers and artists, many of whom are Black, Indigenous or people of color (BIPOC).

One of his most successful projects is Equilibrium, a spoken word series that invites nationally recognized BIPOC artists to share the stage with their local counterparts.

Phi joined MPR News host Cathy Wurzer to share some of the stories and influences that brought him to where he is today.