Episode 13

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Published on:

28th Apr 2026

Dance, Psychiatry, and Poetry with Dr. Frank Clark

***This Episode***

In this episode of Civically Grown, Dr. Frank Clark, a board certified psychiatrist, poet, and author of six children's books, shares a leadership journey shaped by faith, vulnerability, and the courage to step outside expectations. Grounded in the dual anchors of scripture, "to whom much is given, much is required," and a core belief that true character is revealed in times of challenge, Dr. Clark reflects on how leadership isn't about titles but about tuning yourself, serving others, and redefining success on your own terms.

From early lessons in rhythm and collaboration as a young dancer in tap, ballet, and modern, to finding his voice in organized medicine, Dr. Clark traces how mentorship, therapy, and lived experience, including his own mental health journey, have made him a more compassionate and effective leader. He opens up about the pressure of climbing ladders built by others, the freedom of stepping down to build his own, and how saying "no" became essential to saying "yes" to creativity, family, and purpose.

Dr. Clark also shares powerful examples of leadership in action: modifying rigid clinical approaches to better serve patients with substance use disorders, and organizing a clothing drive for incarcerated individuals after discovering they lacked basic undergarments.

Ultimately, Dr. Clark names his leadership style as the bonsai tree, rooted in balance, harmony, resilience, and the quiet strength to bloom in every season.

In this episode, you will hear about:

  • How early dance experience taught collaboration, patience, and being in rhythm with others
  • Why Dr. Clark believes everyone needs therapy, and how it helped him lead more authentically
  • Shifting from rigid clinical care to individualized treatment
  • Launching a clothing and undergarment drive for the incarcerated population
  • The danger of climbing ladders defined by others and the freedom of building your own
  • What it means to “climb down the ladder” and still thrive
  • Legacy as “spreading the joy of creativity”

***Guest Bio***

Dr. Frank Alexander Clark is a board-certified adult outpatient psychiatrist at Prisma Health–Upstate. He also serves as a clinical associate professor at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine–Greenville.

Dr. Clark received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Monmouth College in Illinois and a Doctor of Medicine degree from Northwestern University. He then completed his residency in general psychiatry at Palmetto Richland Hospital in Columbia, South Carolina.

In addition to his psychiatric practice, Dr. Clark has held many leadership positions in local and national organizations, including the South Carolina Psychiatric Association, the American Medical Association (AMA), and the American Psychiatric Association (APA). He is a member of the American College of Psychiatrists and a Distinguished Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. Dr. Clark is believed to be the first Black president of the Greenville County Medical Society.

Dr. Clark is a prolific poet who uses his creative work to provide a voice and raise awareness for issues related to mental health as well as diversity, inclusion, and belonging. He has collaborated with award-winning composers around the world who have set his poetry to music. His works have been performed by the South Carolina Philharmonic, the Wild Beautiful Orchestra, and the Rocky Mountain Chamber Choir.

He has also published six children’s books, including Positively Haiku: Illustrated Affirmations in 17 Syllables and Positively Haiku Part 2: Peace, Love, Discovery in 17 Syllables. These books introduce children to positive affirmations through haiku poetry.

***Show Host***

Dr. Shaniece Criss

***About The Podcast***

From youth leadership to enduring community impact, Civically Grown highlights changemakers who have turned early civic action into meaningful legacies. Two new episodes are released each month on YouTube and all major podcast platforms: https://civicallygrown.captivate.fm/

#CivicallyGrown #LeadershipDevelopment #Psychiatry #Poetry #Dance #Purpose

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About the Podcast

Civically Grown
Where changemakers share the roots of their leadership and the impact they’re cultivating today.

Civically Grown shares the stories of leaders whose early steps in civic engagement began in youth leadership and have grown into legacies of lasting community impact. Dr. Shaniece Criss, a former youth governor turned health scholar and public servant, hosts this podcast. It is your source for inspiration, insight, and actionable strategies that fuel your momentum and amplify your influence.

Each episode blends uplifting conversations with tools to help you overcome obstacles, strengthen your leadership, and spark meaningful change. Whether you’re looking to deepen your impact or build a lasting legacy, Civically Grown equips you to grow as a leader and empower the next generation. Join a community of passionate changemakers committed to making a difference that endures.

About your host

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Dr. Shaniece Criss

Dr. Shaniece Criss is a civic leader and podcast host who believes in the power of community to drive meaningful change. At Furman University, she serves as Associate Professor of Health Sciences and Director of the Advocacy and Social Policy master's program. Her career spans local and global impact, from producing a national health television program in Guyana during her Peace Corps service to roles at the CDC, ICF International, and CNN. She earned degrees from Harvard University (ScD, MPA), Emory University (MPH), and Oglethorpe University (BA). Dr. Criss brings experience, optimism, and authenticity to every conversation.