What happens when a shy kid who once feared socializing becomes a published author, spoken word artist, and founder of an art collective? For Lance Abellon, the journey was full of plot twists, turning points, and plenty of poetry.

In this episode of Off the REKOrd with Gia Santos, we sit down with Lance Abellon, the creative force behind Laya Philippines, to talk about his path—from working in film and advertising to building a thriving spoken word community and inspiring people nationwide through poetry.

✨ Lance’s journey from a quiet childhood to becoming a storyteller on stage and on air

✨ How writing became his purpose—and ultimately his ikigai

✨ Overcoming self-doubt, finding purpose, and embracing creativity

✨ The power of spoken word, social commentary, and connecting with audiences

If you're an aspiring writer, performer, or someone searching for your creative calling, this episode is for you.

 📚 Books mentioned in this episode:

📖 Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren

📖Works by Jose Rizal

📖Poems by Pablo Neruda (Filipino translation)

📖Works by Gabriel Garcia Marquez

📖Helium by Rudy Francisco

📖Spoken Word by Sarah Kay, Phil Kaye, Maimai Cantillano & Leandro Reyes

📖Lance Abellon’s books:

Biag (Life)

Ayat (Love)

Biyahe (Travel)

Tahan (Rest)

Ang Mga Lugar Ay Hindi Mga Lugar Lamang (Places Are Not Just Places)

🚀 Let’s keep the kwentuhan going! Follow for more real talk on life’s twists, ikigai, and new chapters.

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