Lights, Camera, Story Slam Conversation with Dr. Mike Lang

What happens when you bring together passionate storytellers, skilled facilitators, and purpose-driven organizations? Magic—in the form of powerful digital stories that break barriers and create meaningful change.

Mike Lang joins us discuss how the inaugural Common Language Story Slam transformed how we think about storytelling in the nonprofit space. Across three dynamic screenings, twelve uniquely crafted digital stories took center stage, each one developed through collaboration between a Common Language-trained facilitator and a charity partner. These short films, featuring personal narratives told through voice recordings and carefully selected images, sparked genuine conversations both in-person and online.

Digital storytelling's most profound impact might be its ability to dismantle stigma. As Dr. Carmen Logie noted during the event, "Stigma is often somehow attached to a lack of understanding about someone, and digital stories, more than anything, help you understand." We witnessed this phenomenon repeatedly—whether through stories about substance use, medical trauma, or family caregiving. When we truly understand someone's experience, judgment dissolves.

The event's format elevated these stories beyond mere viewing. After each film, audience members discussed their reactions in small groups, then heard directly from the storyteller and facilitator about the creation process. This multilayered approach created a rich experience that honoured the stories while exploring their broader implications and applications.

Most remarkably, these digital stories are creating tangible change. Ashley Durance's narrative about parenting a medically complex child receives standing ovations at healthcare conferences. The documentary from Greg's Wings has transformed medical education for 50,000+ healthcare providers worldwide. Organizations like SIDS Calgary were planning their next storytelling projects before the day had even concluded.

Episode Key Messages

• Digital storytelling democratizes the narrative process by putting storytelling power into the hands of those with lived experiences
• Each screening featured four stories created by different Common Language-trained facilitators working with unique charities
• Storytellers and facilitators discussed their experiences on stage, providing insights into both the story and the process
• Many charities began planning their next storytelling projects immediately after experiencing the Story Slam
• The hybrid format allowed for meaningful engagement with both in-person and virtual participants
• Digital stories prove particularly effective at combating stigma by fostering deeper understanding

Other Links Mentioned

• Watch the Story Slam
• Read the blog post
• Find out who the storytellers, facilitators and charity partners were
• Sign up for the Common Language newsletter

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