Alan McDonald returns on The Rooted Soul Podcast to invite poets and guests, discuss his influences and the process behind his writing. He talks about reading others' poems, collaborative episodes, and plans for a second poetry collection.

He reflects on literary influences like Shelby Foote, explores truth versus facts in storytelling, and mentions an ongoing gothic horror project that may weave into his next book.

Alan emphasizes the value of deep conversation—interviews, a mystery guest dinner, and everyday encounters in Deptford—as inspiration for his work, and invites listeners to send poems or join the podcast.