This episode is a warm, down-to-earth chat about the magic of storytelling: how our voices carry history, build connection, and even help us heal and imagine the future. We trace storytelling from ancient oral traditions to today’s “digital campfires.” You’ll hear why stories light up the brain (for teller and listener), how they can heal—or harm—and why your voice is an irreplaceable fingerprint. Plus, we share practical ways to begin: audio journaling, capturing your family’s oral history, and finding community story stages. You’ll also get five quick tips to tell a tighter, more vivid story and a list of places to listen and learn.
Learn More:
- The Moth (live shows + podcast). themoth.org
- Meditative Story (mindfulness + narrative podcast). meditativestory.com
- Pivot Spokane (local live storytelling). spokanepublicradio.org/show/pivot-spokane
- Listen To Your Mother (national storytelling series). listentoyourmothershow.com
- Idaho Listens (Boise State / Institute for Advancing American Values). boisestate.edu/americanvalues/idaho-listens
- Heather Cox Richardson — Letters from an American (newsletter + podcast). heathercoxrichardson.substack.com
- Ken Burns (documentary film hub; PBS collection). kenburns.com
- Studs Terkel’s “Working” (context; oral-history legacy). (Check your local library for the audiobook.)
If this episode nudged you to capture a story, record a 1–3 minute voice note and send it to someone you love—or save it for your future self. Want prompts? DM us on Instagram and we’ll send a free “Digital Campfire” starter list.
We love the Ali and Calli: An Artcast and think you will, too! Listen here: alicallieartcast.com
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The Thrive-Learn-Connect Podcast is a joint production of Creative Input, LLC, and St. Emillion Productions.
Stay curious and keep exploring!
©️2025 Thrive-Learn-Connect
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