Speak Up Storytelling: Recent Episodes
Matthew and Elysha Dicks
Learn to tell better stories from the producers of Speak Up, a Hartford-based storytelling organization. Bestselling author, 53-time Moth StorySLAM champion, and 7-time GrandSLAM champion Matthew Dicks partners with his wife, Elysha Dicks, to share stories recorded from years of Speak Up shows. More importantly, they offer tips, feedback, strategies, and advice on these stories, all in an effort to help you tell your best stories.
On episode #116 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks are back, talking storytelling!
In our follow up segment, we discuss our return to posting new episodes and our upcoming shows and workshops.
- August 18: Speak Up at Hill-Stead Museum (6:00 PM EST)
- August 20-21: Storytelling Workshop (Phoenicia Playhouse, Woodstock, NY)
- August 21: Speak Up at the Phoenicia Playhouse, Woodstock, NY (7:00 PM EST)
- October 23: Speak Up at The Wadsworth Atheneum (7:00 PM EST) Tickets available soon!
- December 4: Speak Up at The Connecticut Historical Society (7:00 PM EST)
In our Homework for Life segment, Matt talks about finding stories through contrast.
Next we listen to a story by James Bengiovanni.
Amongst the many things we discuss include:
- Authenticity of voice
- Capturing secondary characters in meaningful ways
- Raising the stakes
- The art of “the pause”
- Powers of location
- Alternatives to the impulse to play jokes loudly
- The importance of ending in the heart of the storyteller
Next we answer questions about using stories in cover letters and job interviews.
Lastly, we each offer a recommendation.
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- Crip Camp Documentary (Netflix)
Matt:
- How Walking Can Build Up the Brain by. Gretchen Reynolds (NYTimes)
_________________________________________________________
Support Speak Up Storytelling through our Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/speakupstorytelling
Speak Up merch at Cotton Bureau: https://bit.ly/3gc1h35
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling:
https://amzn.to/2H3YNn3
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
https://matthewdicks.com/blog
On episode #115 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and special guest Thomas Krafft talk storytelling!
In our follow up segment, we discuss new content on our Patreon page and upcoming shows and workshops.
- April 21: Humor in Storytelling (8:00 PM EST) (4 weeks)
- April 24: "School Days" (7:00 PM EST)
- May 15: Storytelling workshop (beginners) (9:30 AM EST)
In our Homework for Life segment, Matt talks about the way that a simple statement, when given enough thought and consideration, can produce a story.
Next Matt and Thomas discuss strategies for remembering content for the stage, incluidng:
- Memorizing versus remembering
- Strategies for practicing aloud
- Strategies for recording
- Active listening
- The reverse memory palace
Lastly, we each offer a recommendation.
RECOMMEDATIONS
Thomas:
- Geocaching
Matt:
- Photo rotation
_______________________________________________
Support Speak Up Storytelling through our Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/speakupstorytelling
Speak Up merch at Cotton Bureau: https://bit.ly/3gc1h35
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling:
https://amzn.to/2H3YNn3
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
https://matthewdicks.com/blog
On episode #114 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks are back, talking storytelling! And answering your questions!
In our follow up segment, we discuss new content on our Patreon page and upcoming shows and workshops.
- April 21: Humor in Storytelling (8:00 PM EST) (4 weeks)
- April 24: "School Days" (7:00 PM EST)
- May 15: Storytelling workshop (beginners) (9:30 AM EST)
In our Homework for Life segment, Elysha explains to Matt how one of his Homework for Life entries can make a great story.
Next we answer lots of listener questions!
Lastly, we each offer a recommendation.
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
-
Wandavision on Netflix
-
Moby Dicks in Pictures by Matt Kish
_______________________________________________
Support Speak Up Storytelling through our Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/speakupstorytelling
Speak Up merch at Cotton Bureau: https://bit.ly/3gc1h35
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling:
https://amzn.to/2H3YNn3
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
https://matthewdicks.com/blog
Two Little Jewish Dicks:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xIrItw1hsSI
Shoe Thief:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tl_gQhsPqXA
On episode #113 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks are back, talking storytelling!
In our follow up segment, we discuss new content on our Patreon page and upcoming shows and workshops.
- March 20: "Weddings Behind the Scenes" (7:00 PM EST)
- April 21: Humor in Storytelling (8:00 PM EST) (4 weeks)
- April 24: "School Days" (7:00 PM EST)
- May 15: Storytelling workshop (beginners) (9:30 AM EST)
In our Homework for Life segment, Matt talks about the way that Homework for Life can help illuminate a story that took years to complete.
Next we listen to a story by Donna Shubrooks.
Amongst the many things we discuss include:
- Humor strategies in storytelling
- Dispensing information without leaving the confines of the story
- Spooling
- Openings
- Avoiding describing scenes after the fact
Next we answer questions about subtle stories and storytelling introductions.
Lastly, we each offer a recommendation.
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- https://www.cookingwithshereen.com
Matt:
- Speck of Dust by Sarah Silverman (Netflix)
_______________________________________________
Support Speak Up Storytelling through our Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/speakupstorytelling
Speak Up merch at Cotton Bureau: https://bit.ly/3gc1h35
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling:
https://amzn.to/2H3YNn3
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
https://matthewdicks.com/blog
In this special episode of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew Shepard and Steve Brouse talk about what it's like to become characters in a book of fiction and other oddities in the creation of Matt's novel, "Twenty-one Truths About Love," a book written entirely in list form.
In this series of 5 episodes, Matt, along with Elysha, several friends, his editor, and the illustrator of the cover, will pull back the curtains on publishing. They'll talk about the writing process, creativity, collaboration, stumbling blocks, and more.
"Twenty-one Truths About Love" is now available in paperback and can be purchased wherever you get books.
In this special episode of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matt and storyteller Jeni Bonaldo talk about the stumbling blocks that occurred in the writing of Matt's novel, "Twenty-one Truths About Love," a book written entirely in list form.
In this series of 5 episodes, Matt, along with Elysha, several friends, his editor, and the illustrator of the cover, will pull back the curtains on publishing. They'll talk about the writing process, creativity, collaboration, stumbling blocks, and more.
"Twenty-one Truths About Love" is now available in paperback and can be purchased wherever you get books.
In this special episode of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matt and designer Kerri Resnick talk about the creation of Matt's novel, "Twenty-one Truths About Love," a book written entirely in list form.
In this series of 5 episodes, Matt, along with Elysha, several friends, his editor, and the illustrator of the cover, will pull back the curtains on publishing. They'll talk about the writing process, creativity, collaboration, stumbling blocks, and more.
"Twenty-one Truths About Love" is now available in paperback and can be purchased wherever you get books.
In this special episode of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matt and editor Hannah Braaten talk about the creation of Matt's novel, "Twenty-one Truths About Love," a book written entirely in list form.
In this series of 5 episodes, Matt, along with Elysha, several friends, his editor, and the illustrator of the cover, will pull back the curtains on publishing. They'll talk about the writing process, creativity, collaboration, stumbling blocks, and more.
"Twenty-one Truths About Love" is now available in paperback and can be purchased wherever you get books.
In this special episode of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matt and Elysha talk about the creation of Matt's novel, "Twenty-one Truths About Love," a book written entirely in list form.
In this series of 5 episodes, Matt, along with Elysha, several friends, his editor, and the illustrator of the cover, will pull back the curtains on publishing. They'll talk about the writing process, creativity, collaboration, stumbling blocks, and more.
"Twenty-one Truths About Love" is now available in paperback and can be purchased wherever you get books.
On episode #112 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks are back, talking storytelling!
In our follow up segment, we discuss Elysha's recovery from COVID-19, a public service announcement on birds, upcoming shows and workshops, and more.
In our Homework for Life segment, Matt talks about finding stories through contrast.
Next we listen to a story by Sue Huggans.
Amongst the many things we discuss include:
- The chronology of storytelling
- Controlling your audience's wonder
- Description without adjectives
- The powerful combination of surprise and vulnerability
- Avoiding describing scenes after the fact
Next we answer questions about our podcasting equipment, Charlie's finger, and creating a family legacy.
Lastly, we each offer a recommendation.
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- Thekitchn.com
Matt:
- Springsteen on Broadway
_______________________________________________
Support Speak Up Storytelling through our Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/speakupstorytelling
Speak Up merch at Cotton Bureau: https://bit.ly/3gc1h35
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling:
https://amzn.to/2H3YNn3
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
https://matthewdicks.com/blog
On episode #110 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, we present the virtual launch of Matt's latest novel, "The Other Mother."
The show features stories, a musical interlude, interviews, and questions.
"The Other Mother" is now available wherever you get books.
_______________________________________________
Purchase The Other Mother:
https://amzn.to/3guV5Eh
Speak Up Storytelling: http://speakupstorytelling.com
Support Speak Up Storytelling through our Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/speakupstorytelling
Speak Up merch at Cotton Bureau: https://bit.ly/3gc1h35
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling:
https://amzn.to/2H3YNn3
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
https://matthewdicks.com/blog
On episode #109 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew Dicks are back, talking storytelling!
In our follow up segment, we discuss future workshops and more.
Then Matt breaks down the latest installment of the Wonder Woman franchise, as well as the original Wonder Woman film and Mary Poppins returns, focusing on characterization and the endings.
_______________________________________________
Speak Up Storytelling: http://speakupstorytelling.com
The Other Mother Book Launch Extravaganza: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-other-mother-book-launch-extravaganza-tickets-133903722639
Support Speak Up Storytelling through our Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/speakupstorytelling
Speak Up merch at Cotton Bureau: https://bit.ly/3gc1h35
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling:
https://amzn.to/2H3YNn3
Purchase The Other Mother:
https://amzn.to/3guV5Eh
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
https://matthewdicks.com/blog
On episode #108 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks are back, talking storytelling!
In our follow up segment, we discuss future workshops and more.
In our Homework for Life segment, Matt talks about finding stories in the quietest of places.
Next we listen to a story by Scott Gawlicki.
Amongst the many things we discuss include:
- Humor via specificity and nostalgia
- Opening with a clear scene
- Defining terms
- Allowing the audience to get ahead of you
- A perfect beginning and ending equilibrium
Next we answer a question about storytelling for dating and finding a storytelling community.
Lastly, we each offer a recommendation.
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- Prom (Netflix film)
Matt:
- Soul (Disney film)
_______________________________________________
Support Speak Up Storytelling through our Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/speakupstorytelling
Speak Up merch at Cotton Bureau: https://bit.ly/3gc1h35
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling:
https://amzn.to/2H3YNn3
Pre-order The Other Mother:
https://amzn.to/3guV5Eh
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
https://matthewdicks.com/blog
On episode #107 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks are back, talking storytelling!
In our follow up segment, we discuss future workshops and more.
In our Homework for Life segment, Matt talks about finding and crafting stories from the past.
Next we listen to a story by David Golder.
Amongst the many things we discuss include:
- Humor
- Effective use of lists
- Just enough detail
- Maximizing surprise
- The strength behind vulnerability
Next we answer a question about using stories in bios.
Lastly, we each offer a recommendation.
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- Toaster Pets
Matt:
- 52 Things I Learned in 2020 by Tom Whitwell
_______________________________________________
Support Speak Up Storytelling through our Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/speakupstorytelling
Speak Up merch at Cotton Bureau: https://bit.ly/3gc1h35
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling:
https://amzn.to/2H3YNn3
Pre-order The Other Mother:
https://amzn.to/3guV5Eh
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
https://matthewdicks.com/blog
On episode #106 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks are back, talking storytelling!
In our follow up segment, we discuss copyright and upcoming shows, workshops, and more.
In our Homework for Life segment, Matt talks about taking advantage of historical moments in time to craft stories.
Next we listen to a story by Emily Apter.
Amongst the many things we discuss include:
- Oral storytelling vs. essay
- Effective use of lists
- The power of contrast
- Pacing
- Opening lines
Next we answer questions about a possible possible on marriage and breaking the storytelling rules.
Lastly, we each offer a recommendation.
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- Emma marathon
Matt:
- The Story Collider's recent COVID-19 series
_______________________________________________
Support Speak Up Storytelling through our Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/speakupstorytelling
Speak Up merch at Cotton Bureau: https://bit.ly/3gc1h35
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling:
https://amzn.to/2H3YNn3
Pre-order The Other Mother:
https://amzn.to/3guV5Eh
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
https://matthewdicks.com/blog
On episode #105 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks are back, talking storytelling!
In our follow up segment, we discuss Elysha's recent brush with COVID-19 and our upcoming shows.
STORYTELLING SHOWS 2020
- November 21: "Crazy Little Thing Called Love" at Connecticut Historical Society (7:00 PM) (virtual)
In our Homework for Life segment, Matt talks about seeking surprise and contrast when finding stories in our lives and allowing seemingly small moments to possibly find legs.
Next we listen to a story by Cathy Dunn.
Amongst the many things we discuss include:
- Ordering of content
- The slow reveal
- Vocabulary choices
- Strong words that evoke strong emotions
- Capturing key scenes second by second
Next we answer a questions about ex-girlfriend stories and layering in storytelling to business presentations.
Lastly, we each offer a recommendation.
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- My Octopus Teacher
- Octopus Dreaming on PBS
Matt:
- The Incredible Story of the Great Cannonball Boom
_______________________________________________
Support Speak Up Storytelling through our Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/speakupstorytelling
Speak Up merch at Cotton Bureau: https://bit.ly/3gc1h35
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling:
https://amzn.to/2H3YNn3
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love:
https://amzn.to/35Mz1xS
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
https://matthewdicks.com/blog
On episode #104 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks are back, talking storytelling!
In our follow up segment, we discuss our absence, talk about upcoming shows, Speak Up merchandise, and workshops, all online!
STORYTELLING SHOWS 2020
- October 24: "Struggle and Survival" at the Connecticut Historical Society (7:00 PM) (virtual
- October 25: Speak Up-Voices of Hope showcase (2:00 PM) (virtual)
- November 21: "Crazy Little Thing Called Love" at Connecticut Historical Society (7:00 PM) (virtual)
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2020
- October 30-November 1: Storytelling weekend workshop at Copper Beech Institute (virtual)
In our Homework for Life segment, Matt talks about seeking contrast when finding stories in our lives.
Next we listen to a story by John DeMeo.
Amongst the many things we discuss include:
- The power of nostalgia
- Dialogue as description
- Suspense and secrets
- Eliminating process language
- Reframing stories depending on time and goals
Next we answer a questions about living with Matt and the structure of children's books.
Lastly, we each offer a recommendation.
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- Polyphonic on YouTube
Matt:
- Dan Kennedy Solves Your Problems With Storytelling
_______________________________________________
Support Speak Up Storytelling through our Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/speakupstorytelling
Speak Up merch at Cotton Bureau: https://bit.ly/3gc1h35
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling:
https://amzn.to/2H3YNn3
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love:
https://amzn.to/35Mz1xS
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
https://matthewdicks.com/blog
On episode #103 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!
In our follow up segment, we discuss upcoming shows, Speak Up merchandise, and workshops, all online!
STORYTELLING SHOWS 2020
- August 22: Speak Up at the Connecticut Historical Society (7:00 PM) (virtual)
- September 12: Solo show at MOPCO Improv Theater (8:00 PM) (virtual)
- September 26: Speak Up at the Connecticut Historical Society (7:00 PM) virtual)
- October 24: Speak Up at the Connecticut Historical Society (7:00 PM) virtual)
- October 25: Speak Up-Voices of Hope showcase (11:00 AM) (virtual)
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2020
- September 12: Storytelling master class at MOPCO Improv Theater (10:00-6:00) (virtual)
- October 30-November 1: Storytelling weekend workshop at Copper Beech Institute (virtual)
In our Homework for Life segment, Matt talks about finding metaphors in his Homework for Life and how they can become stories.
Next we listen to a story by Tracey Segarra.
Amongst the many things we discuss include:
- Stakes
- Story structure
- Effective list building
- Pacing and pausing
- Surprise
Next we answer a questions about performing online and college essays.
Lastly, we each offer a recommendation.
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- Watchman on HBO
Matt:
- Story Jam: https://www.storyjamshow.com
_______________________________________________
Support Speak Up Storytelling through our Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/speakupstorytelling
Speak Up merch at Cotton Bureau: https://bit.ly/3gc1h35
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling:
https://amzn.to/2H3YNn3
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love:
https://amzn.to/35Mz1xS
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
https://matthewdicks.com/blog
On episode #102 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, we offer you a special treat:
A sneak peak into an actual storytelling workshop.
Join storytellers Anne Purky, Kim Jordan, Connie Atkisson, Ronna Levy, and Brenda Haynes as they participate in a live storytelling workshop with me.
Listen to stories. Listen to feedback. Learn some storytelling tips and tricks along the way.
STORYTELLING SHOWS 2020
- August 22: Speak Up at the Connecticut Historical Society (7:00 PM) (virtual)
- September 12: Solo show at MOPCO Improv Theater (8:00 PM) (virtual)
- September 26: Speak Up at the Connecticut Historical Society (7:00 PM) virtual)
- October 24: Speak Up at the Connecticut Historical Society (7:00 PM) virtual)
- October 25: Speak Up-Voices of Hope showcase (11:00 AM) (virtual)
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2020
- September 12: Storytelling master class at MOPCO Improv Theater (10:00-6:00) (virtual)
- October 30-November 1: Storytelling weekend workshop at Copper Beech Institute (virtual)
_______________________________________________
Support Speak Up Storytelling through our Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/speakupstorytelling
Speak Up merch at Cotton Bureau: https://bit.ly/3gc1h35
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling:
https://amzn.to/2H3YNn3
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love:
https://amzn.to/35Mz1xS
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
https://matthewdicks.com/blog
On episode #101 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!
In our follow up segment, we discuss upcoming shows and workshops, all online!
STORYTELLING SHOWS 2020
- August 22: Speak Up at the Connecticut Historical Society (7:00 PM) (virtual)
- September 12: Solo show at MOPCO Improv Theater (8:00 PM) (virtual)
- September 26: Speak Up at the Connecticut Historical Society (7:00 PM) virtual)
- October 24: Speak Up at the Connecticut Historical Society (7:00 PM) virtual)
- October 25: Speak Up-Voices of Hope showcase (11:00 AM) (virtual)
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2020
- September 12: Storytelling master class at MOPCO Improv Theater (10:00-6:00) (virtual)
- October 30-November 1: Storytelling weekend workshop at Copper Beech Institute (virtual)
In our Homework for Life segment, Matt talks about nearly missing a storyworthy moment by not recognizing the impact it could have on an audience.
Next we listen to a story by Ann Guo.
Amongst the many things we discuss include:
- Temporal transitions
- Opening sentences
- The power of nostalgia
- Pacing and pausing
- Vulberability
Next we answer a questions about apps and programs to record stories and Homework for Life.
Lastly, we each offer a recommendation.
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- When characters in musicals transition from speaking to singing: http://bit.ly/2kfjzbZ
Matt:
- Ten Lessons From Top Film Editors: https://bit.ly/3gdR31U
_______________________________________________
Support Speak Up Storytelling through our Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/speakupstorytelling
Speak Up merch at Cotton Bureau: https://bit.ly/3gc1h35
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling:
https://amzn.to/2H3YNn3
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love:
https://amzn.to/35Mz1xS
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
https://matthewdicks.com/blog
On episode #100 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling alongside their kids, Clara and Charlie!
In our follow up segment, we thank our listeners for their many kind messages about their 100th episode.
In our Homework for Life segment, Matt talks about moments that are invisible to the outside world but momentous to in the mind of the storyteller.
Next we listen to a stories by the whole family!
Amongst the many things we discuss include:
- Stakes
- Surprise
- Story arcs
- Ending a story on the right note
- The value of improv
Next we answer a questions about Homework for Life.
Lastly, we each offer a recommendation.
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- The Babysitter's Club (Netflix)
Matt:
- The Twilight Zone (Netflix)
_______________________________________________
Greetings Little One: https://greetingslittleone.typepad.com Support Speak Up Storytelling through our Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/speakupstorytelling
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling:
https://amzn.to/2H3YNn3
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love:
https://amzn.to/35Mz1xS
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
https://matthewdicks.com/blog
On episode #99 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!
In our follow up segment, we discuss firehouse and stripper poles as well as upcoming shows and workshops, all online!
STORYTELLING SHOWS 2020
- July 11: Solo show at MOPCO Improv Theater (7:30 PM) (virtual)
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2020
- July 11: Advanced storytelling workshop in partnership with MOPCO Improv Theater (11:00-6:00 PM) (virtual)
In our Homework for Life segment, Matt talks about moments that have more than one beat, and how the smaller side of a large moment often makes for the best story.
Next we listen to a story by Katie Field.
Amongst the many things we discuss include:
- Subtly in storytelling
- Living your story as you tell it
- Breaking the rules
- Define characters throughout a story
- Centering thoughts in scenes
Next we answer a questions about The Moth StorySLAM community and Elysha's view on Matt's storytelling.
Lastly, we each offer a recommendation.
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- Strawberry rhubarb crumble: https://bit.ly/2Zzu22s
Matt:
- Art as a gift
_______________________________________________
Moth GrandSLAM story: "Genetic Flaws" - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ajU08oQxbDo
"We adopted two cats. Our kids' reaction was... unexpected" -
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mDIF2Nte55A
Greetings Little One: https://greetingslittleone.typepad.com Support Speak Up Storytelling through our Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/speakupstorytelling
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling:
https://amzn.to/2H3YNn3
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love:
https://amzn.to/35Mz1xS
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
https://matthewdicks.com/blog
On episode #98 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!
In our follow up segment, we share emails from listeners and discuss our first Speak Up virtual show. We also discuss upcoming shows and workshops, all online!
STORYTELLING SHOWS 2020
- July 11: Solo show at MOPCO Improv Theater (7:30 PM) (virtual)
- October 17: Speak Up at The Wadsworth Atheneum, Hartford CT
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2020
- July 11: Advanced storytelling workshop in partnership with MOPCO Improv Theater (11:00-6:00 PM) (virtual)
In our Homework for Life segment, Matt talks about a moment that happened just prior to the recording and how to handle it.
Next we listen to a story by Kat Koppett.
Amongst the many things we discuss include:
- Opening with a clear and vivid scene
- Lists
- Breaking the rules
- Names
- Preserving surprise
Next we answer a questions about Hannah Gadsy's comedy special "Nanette" and revealing secrets in stories.
Lastly, we each offer a recommendation.
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- Schitt's Creek (television show)
Matt:
- The Twilight Zone (television show)
- "To Serve Man" - https://bit.ly/2Nxubh6
_______________________________________________
Support Speak Up Storytelling through our Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/speakupstorytelling
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling:
https://amzn.to/2H3YNn3
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love:
https://amzn.to/35Mz1xS
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
https://matthewdicks.com/blog
On episode #97 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!
In our follow up segment, we discuss the events taking place in our country right now and how we hope to begin moving in the right direction. We also discuss upcoming shows and workshops, all online!
STORYTELLING SHOWS 2020
- June 20: "Stories from Around the World" at the Connecticut Historical Society (virtual)
- July 11: Solo show at MOPCO Improv Theater (7:30 PM) (virtual)
- October 17: Speak Up at The Wadsworth Atheneum, Hartford CT
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2020
- June 15, 22, 29, and July 6, 13, and 20: Advanced storytelling workshop (8:00-9:30 PM EST) (virtual)
- July 11: Master class in partnership with MOPCO Improv Theater (9:30-4:30 PM) (virtual)
- July 27-31: Storytelling boot camp, CT Historical Society
In our Homework for Life segment, Matt talks about the power of contrast when trying to turn a moment into a story.
Next we listen to a story by Roszena Haskins.
Amongst the many things we discuss include:
- Shifting tones in stories
- Pausing
- Explanation reveals with humor
- The power of the "but"
- Preserving surprise
Next we answer a questions about our marriage and maintaining curiosity in an audience.
Lastly, we each offer a recommendation.
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- Fuck the Bread. The Bread is Over - https://bit.ly/3gUQQ4C
Matt:
- The Science of Well Being - https://bit.ly/2MxzCMI
_______________________________________________
Support Speak Up Storytelling through our Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/speakupstorytelling
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling:
https://amzn.to/2H3YNn3
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love:
https://amzn.to/35Mz1xS
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
https://matthewdicks.com/blog
On episode #96 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!
In our follow up segment, we discuss our absence for the last couple weeks, share emails from listeners around the world, and describe upcoming events.
In our Homework for Life segment, I talk about identifying and crafting seemingly tiny moments into stories.
Next we listen to a story by Kim Damokosh.
Amongst the many things we discuss include:
- Scenes and backstory
- Telling stories that take place over a long period of time chronologically
- Humor and vulnerability
- Losing the thread of your story
- Topic sentences and thesis statements
Next we answer a question about hero stories
Lastly, we each offer a recommendation.
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- 13 Ways to Look at a Blackbird: https://bit.ly/2AyZW6e
- Birdhouse: https://amzn.to/2ZewDjE
Matt:
- Journals by Kurt Cobain: https://amzn.to/2LBo8XY
_______________________________________________
Support Speak Up Storytelling through our Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/speakupstorytelling
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling:
https://amzn.to/2H3YNn3
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love:
https://amzn.to/35Mz1xS
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
https://matthewdicks.com/blog
On episode #95 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!
In our follow up segment, we discuss recent and future virtual shows, brand new Patreon content, and more. We also share listener insight on virtual meetings and performances.
In our Homework for Life segment, I talk about turning a crazy and amusing story into something more meaningful and profound by bringing two ideas together.
Next we listen to a story by Ron and Marcus Apter.
Amongst the many things we discuss include:
- The difficulty telling stories with another person
- Telling a universally appealing story with content that is less-than-universal
- Moving through time and physical distance in a story
- The building of stakes
- Keeping the audience guessing all the way until the end
Next we answer a question about the considerations required when telling stories to children.
Lastly, we each offer a recommendation.
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- HBO's Bad Education
Matt:
- Peter Aguero and Sara Peters TED Talk "If there is no cure, can we opt for a rescue?" -
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cRqqRFr5ceQ
_______________________________________________
Support Speak Up Storytelling through our Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/speakupstorytelling
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling: https://amzn.to/2H3YNn3
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love: https://amzn.to/35Mz1xS
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicksblog
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-grin-and-bare-it
On episode #94 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!
In our follow up segment, we share a listener's tip on digital whiteboards and discuss upcoming online events.
STORYTELLING SHOWS 2020
- April 18: Solo show, MOPCO Improv Theater
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2020
- April 18: Storytelling workshop (beginner), MOPCO Improv Theater
- April 22, 29, May 6, 13, 20, and 27: Advanced storytelling workshop
- July 27-31: Storytelling boot camp, CT Historical Society
In our Homework for Life segment, I talk about working through a moment, seeking as many possible meanings as possible before settling on a story.
Next we listen to a story by Lisa Ferguson.
Amongst the many things we discuss include:
- Expressing big ideas in tiny moments
- Strategies for telling stories from childhood
- Process language
- The "less is more" nature of description and details
- Launching a story with stakes
Next Elysha answers a question about being married to Matt and a question about telling stories when specific moments are seemingly absent from the story.
Lastly, we each offer a recommendation.
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- Knives Out (film)
- Saturday Night Live At-Home episode (04.11.2020)
Matt:
- John Krasinski's "Some Good News"
_______________________________________________
Support Speak Up Storytelling through our Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/speakupstorytelling
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling: https://amzn.to/2H3YNn3
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love: https://amzn.to/35Mz1xS
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicksblog
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-grin-and-bare-it
On episode #93 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew Dicks offers strategies and insights into effective communication and performance on video conferencing platforms like Zoom, Skype, Google Meets, and the like.
Consider this a bonus episode for those listeners who have found themselves transitioning to online platforms as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.
Stay safe and well, friends!
_______________________________________________
Support Speak Up Storytelling through our Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/speakupstorytelling
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling: https://amzn.to/2H3YNn3
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love: https://amzn.to/35Mz1xS
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicksblog
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-grin-and-bare-it
On episode #92 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!
In our follow up segment, we debut our first bot of content on our Patreon page , announce online workshops and shows, and a weekly free storytelling workshop for families on Facebook Live and YouTube.
STORYTELLING SHOWS 2020
April 18: Solo show, MOPCO Improv Theater
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2020
April 18: Storytelling workshop (beginner), MOPCO Improv Theater
April 22, 29, May 6, 13, 20, and 27: Advanced storytelling workshop July 27-31: Storytelling boot camp, CT Historical Society
In our Homework for Life segment, I talk about combining two moments from your Homework for Life into a single story, as well as being open to the idea that you might still be in the midst of a story.
Next we listen to a story by Monica Malaver.
Amongst the many things we discuss include:
- The power of self deprecation
- Scene setting
- Humor through vulnerability
- Connecting the beginning and endings of stories
- Avoiding process language
Next we answer a question about the beginnings of stories.
Lastly, we each offer a recommendation.
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- Guardians of the Galaxy Volumes 1 and 2
Matt:
- 5 Mistakes When Writing Flashbacks in Memoir
_______________________________________________
Support Speak Up Storytelling through our Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/speakupstorytelling
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling: https://amzn.to/2H3YNn3
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love: https://amzn.to/35Mz1xS
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicksblog
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-grin-and-bare-it
On episode #91 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!
In our follow up segment, we congratulate listeners on their new baby!
We also launch our Patreon campaign, announce an upcoming virtual storytelling workshop and solo show, and a weekly free storytelling workshop for kids on Facebook Live and YouTube.
STORYTELLING SHOWS 2020
April 18: Solo show, MOPCO Improv Theater
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2020
April 18: Storytelling workshop (beginner), MOPCO Improv Theater
July 27-31: Storytelling boot camp, CT Historical Society
In our Homework for Life segment, I talk about looking for moments of contrast in our lives and exploiting them for their storytelling potential.
Next we listen to a story by Tom Moore.
Amongst the many things we discuss include:
- The power of self deprecation
- Scene setting
- Delivering powerful messages via humorous stories
- Connecting the beginning and endings of stories
- Considering the specificity of your audience when telling a story
Next we answer a question about the "inside baseball" cost-benefit ratio.
Lastly, we each offer a recommendation.
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- Smitten Kitchen's Pretzel Buns and Knots
Matt:
- Reply All Episode # 158: The Case of the Missing Hit
_______________________________________________
Support Speak Up Storytelling through our Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/speakupstorytelling
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling: https://amzn.to/2H3YNn3
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love: https://amzn.to/35Mz1xS
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicksblog
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-grin-and-bare-it
On episode #90 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!
In our follow up segment, we discuss the importance of storytelling and self-care in the time of this pandemic. We also read some listeners' emails and discuss events and workshops moving forward.
STORYTELLING SHOWS 2020
April 18: Storytelling workshop (beginner), MOPCO Improv Theater, Schenectady, NY
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2020
April 18: Storytelling workshop (beginner), MOPCO Improv Theater, Schenectady, NY July 27-31: Storytelling boot camp, CT Historical Society
In our Homework for Life segment, I talk about taking a small moment with my son and building it into a much larger, more personally significant and vulnerable story.
Next we listen to a story by Ellen Feldman Ornato.
Amongst the many things we discuss include:
- Defining the landscape of the story
- Universal appeal in unique moments
- Scene setting through repetition
- Restructuring stories to increase stakes
- Pacing
Next we answer a question about crafting stories.
Lastly, we each offer a recommendation.
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- Read Brightly: https://www.readbrightly.com/
Matt:
- Masterclass: https://www.masterclass.com/homepage
LINKS
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling: https://amzn.to/2H3YNn3
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love: https://amzn.to/35Mz1xS
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicksblog
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-grin-and-bare-it
On episode #89 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew Dicks tries something new. He crafts a brand new story on the spot - something he does in workshops but never before on the podcast.
LINKS
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicksblog
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-grin-and-bare-it
On episode #88 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, I play three of my stories (chosen for a specific reason) with some commentary about the crafting of each.
After listening, I discuss:
- The variety of chronological formats available to storytellers
- When to choose a specific chronological format for a story
- The strategies used to preserve and enhance surprise in a story
LINKS
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicksblog
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-grin-and-bare-it
On episode #87 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew Dicks analyzes his own story "Holding On By a Thread" in an episode we call Storytelling Forensics.
This episode is dedicated to Elysha's grandmother, Nana, who passed away on Sunday.
Rest in peace, Nana.
LINKS
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicksblog
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-grin-and-bare-it
On episode #86 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!
In our follow up segment, we discuss listener comments and upcoming events.
STORYTELLING SHOWS 2020
February 22: “Leap: Stories of Daring Risks and Epic Failures” at Bears Smokehouse/District, New Haven, CT
March 21: Great Hartford StorySlam, Hartford Flavor Company
April 4: “Pity the Fool: Stories of Fools and Foolishness” at the Unitarian Universalist Society, Manchester, CT
April 5: Voices of Hope storytelling showcase, Mark Twain House, Hartford, CT
April 18: A Night of Storytelling with Matthew Dicks, MOPCO Improv Theater, Schenectady, NY
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2020
February 22: Storytelling workshop (Advanced), CT Historical Society
March 7: Storytelling workshop (Master class), CT Historical Society
March 21: Storytelling workshop (Advanced), CT Historical Society
April 18: Storytelling workshop (beginner), MOPCO Improv Theater, Schenectady, NY July 27-31: Storytelling boot camp, CT Historical Society
In our Homework for Life segment, I talk about how contrast can often serve as an effective engine for storytelling.
Next we listen to a story by Talia Pollock.
Amongst the many things we discuss include:
- Humor
- The raising of stakes throughout a story
- Allowing important moments to linger
- Strategic characterizations of characters
- Bending stories to fit the needs of the speaker
Next we answer a question about the cost of living a certain kind of life.
Lastly, we each offer a recommendation.
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- Cheer on Netflix
Matt:
- Calling for help in grocery stores
LINKS
Pre-order Party in my Plants: https://partyinmyplants.com/the-book/
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling: https://amzn.to/2H3YNn3
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love: https://amzn.to/35Mz1xS
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicksblog
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-grin-and-bare-it
On episode #85 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!
In our follow up segment, we discuss some Homework for Life feedback from listeners and clients, talk about our new Patreon account, and share about upcoming events in the Speak Up realm.
STORYTELLING SHOWS 2020
February 22: “Leap: Stories of Daring Risks and Epic Failures” at Bears Smokehouse/District, New Haven, CT
March 21: Great Hartford StorySlam, Hartford Flavor Company
April 4: “Pity the Fool: Stories of Fools and Foolishness” at the Unitarian Universalist Society, Manchester, CT
April 5: Voices of Hope storytelling showcase, Mark Twain House, Hartford, CT
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2020
February 22: Storytelling workshop (Advanced), CT Historical Society
March 7: Storytelling workshop (Master class), CT Historical Society
March 21: Storytelling workshop (Advanced), CT Historical Society
April 18: Storytelling workshop (beginner), MOPCO Improv Theater, Schenectady, NY July 27-31: Storytelling boot camp, CT Historical Society
In our Homework for Life segment, I talk about a moment on my spreadsheet that did not require human interaction, and then I outline the story for the audience.
Next we listen to a story by Lael Lloyd.
Amongst the many things we discuss include:
- Pacing
- Holding back information to propel a story forward
- Painting a clear picture in the audience's mind by using fewer words.
- Transition that cut into scenes
- Specificity and clarity at the end of stories
Next we answer questions about Elysha's favorite story and how to record anecdotes for future use.
Lastly, we each offer a recommendation.
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- Octopus Dreaming: http://bit.ly/2UIuWJ1
Matt:
- TED: How to Tell a Story: http://bit.ly/2UFgFNo
LINKS
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling: https://amzn.to/2H3YNn3
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love: https://amzn.to/35Mz1xS
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicksblog
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-grin-and-bare-it
On episode #84 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew Dicks analyzes his own story "Turtle" in an episode we call Storytelling Forensics.
LINKS
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicksblog
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-grin-and-bare-it
On episode #83 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!
In our follow up segment, we share about upcoming events in the Speak Up realm.
STORYTELLING SHOWS 2020
February 8: “Storytelling for Students” at Henry A. Wolcott School, West Hartford, CT
February 22: “Leap: Stories of Daring Risks and Epic Failures” at Bears Smokehouse/District, New Haven, CT
March 21: Great Hartford StorySlam, Hartford Flavor Company
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2020
February 1: Storytelling workshop (Beginner), CT Historical Society
February 22: Storytelling workshop (Advanced), CT Historical Society
March 7: Storytelling workshop (Master class), CT Historical Society
March 21: Storytelling workshop (Advanced), CT Historical Society
July 27-31: Storytelling boot camp, CT Historical Society
In our Homework for Life segment, we talk about using First Last Best Worst as a part of our Homework for Life search for stories.
Next we listen to a story by Ana Guo.
Amongst the many things we discuss include:
- Excellent opening sentences
- Delivering the story as if you are re-living the story
- The avoidance of process language
- Educating the audience while illustrating aspects of yourself
- Clearing up unnecessary mysteries
Next we answer a question from a listener about Lady Gaga's Speech on Sexual Assault and Mental Health.
Lastly, we each offer a recommendation.
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- Hair Love: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kNw8V_Fkw28
Matt:
- Deleted episodes of The Office (available on YouTube)
LINKS
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling: https://amzn.to/2H3YNn3
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love: https://amzn.to/35Mz1xS
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicksblog
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-grin-and-bare-it
On episode #82 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!
In our follow up segment, we share about upcoming events in the Speak Up realm and thank listeners for some unexpected kindness.
STORYTELLING SHOWS 2020
- February 8: “Storytelling for Students” at Henry A. Wolcott School, West Hartford, CT
- February 22: “Leap: Stories of Daring Risks and Epic Failures” at Bears Smokehouse/District, New Haven, CT
- March 21: Great Hartford StorySlam, Hartford Flavor Company
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2020
- February 1: Storytelling workshop (Beginner), CT Historical Society
- February 22: Storytelling workshop (Advanced), CT Historical Society
- March 7: Storytelling workshop (Master class), CT Historical Society
- March 21: Storytelling workshop (Advanced), CT Historical Society
In our Homework for Life segment, we talk about the power of anecdotes and illustrate how they can be just as useful as finding stories in your Homework for Life entries.
Next we listen to a story by John Smith-Horn.
Amongst the many things we discuss include:
- Excellent opening sentences.
- Delivering the story as if you are re-living the story
- The right moment to spoil a surprise
- Suspense through anticipation
- The curse of knowledge
Next we answer a question from a listener about The Moth.
Lastly, we each offer a recommendation.
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- Read Brightly: https://www.readbrightly.com
Matt:
- Lady Gaga's Emotional Speech on Surviving Sexual Assault and Mental Health:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=14KX7xOJsqE
LINKS
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling: https://amzn.to/2H3YNn3
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love: https://amzn.to/35Mz1xS
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicksblog
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-grin-and-bare-it
On episode #81 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!
In our follow up segment, we share about upcoming events in the Speak Up realm and update you on the condition of Nana!
STORYTELLING SHOWS 2020
- February 8: “Storytelling for Students” at Henry A. Wolcott School, West Hartford, CT
- February 22: “Leap: Stories of Daring Risks and Epic Failures” at Bears Smokehouse/District, New Haven, CT
- March 21: Great Hartford StorySlam, Hartford Flavor Company
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2020
- February 1: Storytelling workshop (Beginner), CT Historical Society
- February 22: Storytelling workshop (Advanced), CT Historical Society
- March 7: Storytelling workshop (Master class), CT Historical Society
- March 21: Storytelling workshop (Advanced), CT Historical Society
In our Homework for Life segment, we talk about strategies that storytellers can use to cause an audience to experience emotions similar to the emotions the storyteller experienced within the story.
Next we listen to a story by John Devan Sandiford.
Amongst the many things we discuss include:
- Excellent opening sentences.
- Delivery as a key element to humor
- Identifying race without identifying skin color
- Allowing scenes to unfold for the audience like they unfolded for the storyteller
- Avoiding sentences that telegraph the next moment
Next we answer questions from listeners about visions in storytelling and the use of thesis statements when preparing to craft a story.
Lastly, we each offer a recommendation.
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- Little Women (film)
- How Greta Gerwig Built Her Little Women: https://nyti.ms/30vgVQ5
- Does the Academy Think Little Women Directed Itself? http://bit.ly/30jj3di
Matt:
- Scott McCloud's Understanding Comics: https://amzn.to/3a4nX2x
LINKS
Coming to terms with being an imperfect dad: https://wapo.st/2NsNxo5
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling: https://amzn.to/2H3YNn3
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love: https://amzn.to/35Mz1xS
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicksblog
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-grin-and-bare-it
On episode #80 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew Dicks analyzes his own story "The Avocado Melt" in an episode we call Storytelling Forensics.
LINKS
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicksblog
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-grin-and-bare-it
On episode #79 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!
In our follow up segment, we we share Homework for Life success stories from several listeners and attempt to shame a sibling into joining her brother and sister in Homework for Life.
STORYTELLING SHOWS 2020
- January 11: “Still Life: Stories of Stopping and Slowing Down” at the Wadsworth Atheneum
- February 8: “Storytelling for Students at Henry A. Wolcott School, West Hartford, CT
- March 21: Great Hartford StorySlam, Hartford Flavor Company
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2020
- February 1: Storytelling workshop (Beginner), CT Historical Society
- February 22: Storytelling workshop (Advanced), CT Historical Society
In our Homework for Life segment, we talk about how often we might find ourselves in the midst of a story and must exercise patience, waiting for the moment when the story is ready to be told. Matt shares two stories in his life that are 15 and 42 years in the making.
Next we listen to a story by John Cuyler.
Amongst the many things we discuss include:
- Excellent opening sentences.
- The power of contrast
- Assigning double duty to words, sentences and ideas
- Vocalization techniques
- The use of anecdote over exposition when trying to make a point
Next we answer questions from listeners about the 5 tips Matt offers brand new Moth GrandSLAM storytellers, a new way of practicing storytelling in your every day life (3-2-1), and advice from a listener on Homework for Life.
Lastly, we each offer a recommendation.
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- The New York Times crossword app
Matt:
- TheHappyBroadcast.com
LINKS
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicksblog
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-grin-and-bare-it
On episode #78 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew Dicks analyzes his own story "Searching for the Holy Grail" in an episode we call Storytelling Forensics.
LINKS
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicksblog
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-grin-and-bare-it
On episode #77 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, special guest Kathy Binder and I talk storytelling!
This week's episode features the first half of a storytelling show at Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health in Stockbridge, Massachusetts as part of a weekend of storytelling instruction.
Following the stories, Kathy and I discuss each one.
We hope you enjoy!
LINKS
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling: https://amzn.to/2H3YNn3
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love: https://amzn.to/2qEByex
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog: http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicksblog
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter: http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter: http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's blog: http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-grin-and-bare-it
On episode #76 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, special guest Kathy Binder and I talk storytelling!
This week's episode features the first half of a storytelling show at Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health in Stockbridge, Massachusetts as part of a weekend of storytelling instruction.
Following the stories, Jeni and I discuss each one.
We hope you enjoy!
LINKS
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling: https://amzn.to/2H3YNn3
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love: https://amzn.to/2qEByex
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog: http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicksblog
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter: http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter: http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's blog: http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-grin-and-bare-it
On episode #75 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!
In our follow up segment, we discuss last week's book launch event. We also direct listeners to our new Soundcloud account and Matt's updated YouTube channel. We also ask listeners to help solve a problem.
STORYTELLING SHOWS 2019-2020
- December 14: “Crafty” at CT Historical Society, Hartford, CT
- January 11: “Still Life: Stories of Stopping and Slowing Down” at the Wadsworth Atheneum
- February 8: “Storytelling for Students at Henry A. Wolcott School, West Hartford, CT
- March 21: Great Hartford StorySlam, Hartford Flavor Company
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2019-2020
- February 1: Storytelling workshop (Beginner), CT Historical Society
- February 22: Storytelling workshop (Advanced), CT Historical Society
In our Homework for Life segment, we talk about an unexpected reaction to jury duty and how that might become a story. We also talk about ways to avoid overcomplicating a story.
Next we listen to a story by Joey Meyer.
Amongst the many things we discuss include:
- Saying big, important things by telling the story of a small, brief, encounter
- Outstanding openings and the power of perpetuating a mystery throughout the story
- Sliding details about location seamlessly into the narrative
- Effective sentence structure
- The hazards of harming animals in a story
Next we answer questions from listeners about storytelling for job interviews and how writers can transfer what they do from the page to the stage.
Lastly, we each offer a recommendation.
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- Fleabag
Matt:
- Mike Birbiglia's "The New One"
LINKS
Cardboard Knight: http://bit.ly/2YdewZ9
The Robbery: http://bit.ly/2P6339z
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicksblog
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-grin-and-bare-it
On episode #74 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, we air the launch of Matthew Dicks's latest novel "Twenty-one Truths About Love."
The episode features stories about the publishing of the book, Elysha playing her ukulele and singing for just the third time in public, and much more!
STORYTELLING SHOWS 2019-2020
December 14: “Crafty” at CT Historical Society, Hartford, CT
January 11: “Still Life: Stories of Stopping and Slowing Down” at the Wadsworth Atheneum
February 8: “Storytelling for Students at Henry A. Wolcott School, West Hartford, CT
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2019-2020
December 6-8: Storytelling workshop (advanced), Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health
January 25: Storytelling workshop (Beginner), CT Historical Society
February 22: Storytelling workshop (Advanced), CT Historical Society
LINKS
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicksblog
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-grin-and-bare-it
On episode #73 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew Dicks analyzes his own story, "Naked and Wet," in an episode we call Storytelling Forensics.
STORYTELLING SHOWS 2019-2020
November 23: Twenty-one Truths About Love book release, CT Historical Society, Hartford, CT
December 14: “Crafty” at CT Historical Society, Hartford, CT
January 11: “Still Life: Stories of Stopping and Slowing Down” at the Wadsworth Atheneum
February 8: “Storytelling for Students at Henry A. Wolcott School, West Hartford, CT
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2019-2020
December 6-8: Storytelling workshop (advanced), Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health
January 25: Storytelling workshop (Beginner), CT Historical Society
February 22: Storytelling workshop (Advanced), CT Historical Society
LINKS
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicksblog
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-grin-and-bare-it
On episode #72 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling alongside the first Great Hartford Storyslam winner, Chris Gaffney!
In our follow up segment, we discuss (and decide upon) the name for the start-and-stop episode that was so popular with our listeners.
STORYTELLING SHOWS 2019-2020
November 23: Twenty-one Truths About Love book release, CT Historical Society, Hartford, CT
December 14: “Crafty” at CT Historical Society, Hartford, CT
January 11: “Still Life: Stories of Stopping and Slowing Down” at the Wadsworth Atheneum
February 8: “Storytelling for Students at Henry A. Wolcott School, West Hartford, CT
April 4: Speak Up at the Unitarian Universalist Society, Manchester, CT
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2019-2020
December 6-8: Storytelling workshop (advanced), Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health
January 25: Storytelling workshop (Beginner), CT Historical Society
February 22: Storytelling workshop (Advanced), CT Historical Society
In our Homework for Life segment, we talk about how a story can hinge on the way a conversation can suddenly change the way you see the world.
Next we listen to the winning story from the very first Great Hartford Storyslam, told by Chris Gaffney.
Amongst the many things we discuss include:
- Balancing tone in a story with a combination of humor, tension, suspense, and more.
- Effective choices for the opening a story
- The effective advancing of space and time for both time and verisimilitude in a story
- Preserving surprise by allowing the audience to experience the events of a story in a way that is similar to how the storyteller experienced them
- The value (and possible danger) of subtlety in storytelling
Then we answer a listener questions about evoking emotion from an audience and make some recommendations.
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- What Your Child Would Tell You About ADHD If They Had the Words
Matt:
- The 22 Rules of Storytelling According to Pixar
Chris:
- Newspapers
LINKS
Uncommon Discourse: http://uncommondiscourse.com
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicksblog
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-grin-and-bare-it
On episode #71 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, special guest Jeni Bonaldo and I talk storytelling!
This week's episode features the second half of a storytelling show at Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health in Stockbridge, Massachusetts as part of a weekend of storytelling instruction.
Following the stories, Jeni and I discuss each one.
We hope you enjoy!
LINKS
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling: https://amzn.to/2H3YNn3
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love: https://amzn.to/2qEByex
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog: http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicksblog
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter: http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter: http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's blog: http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-grin-and-bare-it
On episode #70 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, special guest Jeni Bonaldo and I talk storytelling!
This week's episode features the first half of a storytelling show at Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health in Stockbridge, Massachusetts as part of a weekend of storytelling instruction.
Following the stories, Jeni and I discuss each one.
We hope you enjoy!
LINKS
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling: https://amzn.to/2H3YNn3
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love: https://amzn.to/2qEByex
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog: http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicksblog
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter: http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter: http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's blog: http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-grin-and-bare-it
On episode #69 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Elysha Dicks and I talk storytelling!
In our follow up segment, we discuss my recent forays to Moth StorySLAM in New York and Boston. We also acknowledge several listeners, and Elysha and I make a bet that is soon resolved, much to the despair of the losing side.
In our Homework for Life segment, I talk about a moment that happened minutes before the podcast was recorded, and we discuss the inherent dangers of telling a story that is too self-congratulatory. I also discuss the strategy of bookending a moment as a means of structuring a story.
Next we listen to an improv story by Matthew Dicks. The original story featured on this podcast has been removed by request of the storyteller, so we've replaced it with an improv story from a Speak Up salon show.
Next, we answer a listener question and offer recommendations.
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
Northshire Bookstore, Manchester, Vermont
Matt:
Presentation Boss Podcast
LINKS
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling: https://amzn.to/2H3YNn3
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love: https://amzn.to/2qEByex
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog: http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicksblog
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter: http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter: http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's blog: http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-grin-and-bare-it
On episode #68 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!
In our follow up segment, we discuss last week's episode and plans for an upcoming episode. We also discuss a recent review of the podcast and decisions related to the use of profanity in storytelling. Elysha also congratulates listeners for their recent ukulele playing,.
*STORYTELLING SHOWS 2019-2020*
November 2: Great Hartford Story Slam, Hartford Flavor Company November 9: Sara Kaplan: Champion of the World at Emmanuel Synagogue, West Hartford, CT November 23: Twenty-one Truths About Love book release, CT Historical Society, Hartford, CT December 14: “Crafty” at CT Historical Society, Hartford, CT
January 11: “Still Life: Stories of Stopping and Slowing Down” at the Wadsworth Atheneum April 4: Speak Up at the Unitarian Universalist Society, Manchester, CT
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2019
October 25-27: Storytelling workshop (beginners), Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health
November 9: Storytelling workshop (Beginner), CT Historical Society
November 16: Storytelling workshop (Advanced), CT Historical Society
December 6-8: Storytelling workshop (advanced), Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health
January 25: Storytelling workshop (Beginner), CT Historical Society
February 22: Storytelling workshop (Advanced), CT Historical Society
In our Homework for Life segment, we talk about a strategy to find hidden stories in your life via seemingly microscopic moments, and an especially useful strategy to use if you're trying to find a story to match a theme
Next we listen to a story by Bobby Klau.
Amongst the many things we discuss include:
- Humor in storytelling through word choice, tonality, and misdirection
- Scene setting and re-establishing
- Singing as a part of storytelling
- The crucial "but" at the beginning of stories
- Rounding out stories and indicating the importance of every word of the story by bringing early elements into later parts of a story
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- The Crane Wife
Matt:
- Nicholson Baker
Text from The Anthologist
"And then a man of forty or so, with a French accent, asked, 'How do you achieve the presence of mind to initiate the writing of a poem?' And something cracked open in me, and I finally stopped hoarding and told them my most useful secret. The only secret that has helped me consistently over all the years that I've written. I said, 'Well, I'll tell you how. I ask a simple question. I ask myself: What was the very best moment of your day?' The wonder of it was, I told them, that this one question could lift out from my life exactly what I will want to write a poem about. Something I hadn't known was important will leap out and hover there in front of me, saying I AM—I am the best moment of the day. 'Often,' I went on, 'it's a moment when you're waiting for someone, or you're driving somewhere, or maybe you're just walking across a parking lot and admiring the oil stains and the dribbled tar patterns. One time it was when I was driving past a certain house that was screaming with sunlitness on its white clapboards, and then I plunged through tree shadows that splashed and splayed across the windshield. I thought, Ah, of course—I'd forgotten. You, windshield shadows, you are the best moment of the day." ~ Nicholson Baker, from The Anthologist LINKS
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicksblog
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-grin-and-bare-it
On episode #67 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew Dicks talks storytelling.
A solo show in which I critique one of my own stories.
In our follow-up segment, I read an amazing email from a fan in Oxford, England and remind you about some upcoming events.
*STORYTELLING SHOWS 2019-2020*
November 2: Great Hartford Story Slam, Hartford Flavor Company November 9: Sara Kaplan: Champion of the World at Emmanuel Synagogue, West Hartford, CT November 23: Twenty-one Truths About Love book release, CT Historical Society, Hartford, CT December 14: “Crafty” at CT Historical Society, Hartford, CT
January 11: “Still Life: Stories of Stopping and Slowing Down” at the Wadsworth Atheneum April 4: Speak Up at the Unitarian Universalist Society, Manchester, CT
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2019
October 25-27: Storytelling workshop (beginners), Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health
November 9: Storytelling workshop (Beginner), CT Historical Society
November 16: Storytelling workshop (Advanced), CT Historical Society
December 6-8: Storytelling workshop (advanced), Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health
January 25: Storytelling workshop (Beginner), CT Historical Society
February 22: Storytelling workshop (Advanced), CT Historical Society
Next we listen to a story by me, Matthew Dicks.
Unlike previous solo shows, I do things a little differently this week. Instead of listening to the story and then offering some thoughts, I play the story in full and then play it again, stopping at various points to provide insight.
I'm trying something new. I hope you like it!
LINKS
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicksblog
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-grin-and-bare-it
On episode #66 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling.
In our follow-up segment, we ask for advice about our cat, which isn't really followup, but desperate times call for desperate measures.
*STORYTELLING SHOWS 2019-2020*
November 2: Great Hartford Story Slam, Hartford Flavor Company November 9: Sara Kaplan: Champion of the World at Emmanuel Synagogue, West Hartford, CT November 23: Twenty-one Truths About Love book release, CT Historical Society, Hartford, CT December 14: “Crafty” at CT Historical Society, Hartford, CT
January 11: “Still Life: Stories of Stopping and Slowing Down” at the Wadsworth Atheneum April 4: Speak Up at the Unitarian Universalist Society, Manchester, CT
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2019
October 25-27: Storytelling workshop (beginners), Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health
November 9: Storytelling workshop (Beginner), CT Historical Society
November 16: Storytelling workshop (Advanced), CT Historical Society
December 6-8: Storytelling workshop (advanced), Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health
January 25: Storytelling workshop (Beginner), CT Historical Society
February 22: Storytelling workshop (Advanced), CT Historical Society
In our Homework for Life segment, Matt talks about a moment from a recent storytelling competition and discusses how finding moments of surprise in our lives often lead to the best stories. He also discusses not giving up on stories or assuming that stories can only serve one purpose.
Next we listen to a story by Carla Katz.
Amongst the many things we discuss include:
- Humor in storytelling
- Managing listener's expectations by letting them know what to wonder about and what to let go
- Creating moments of emotional resonance in an otherwise hilarious story
- Rounding out the arc of a story
- Presenting new or unknown information within appropriate context so as to make that information clear enough
Next we answer a listener question about how Matt became a a storyteller and how the Speak Up partnership works. Credit is also given to Steve Zimmer, Erin Barker, Catherine Burns, George Dawes Green, and especially Jenifer Hixon as mentors of the craft.
Finally, we each offer a recommendation.
LINKS
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicksblog
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-grin-and-bare-it
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- Weeknight Dinner Around the World
Matt:
- The Story Collider's new bonus episode (featuring Erin Barker and Liz Neeley)
On episode #65 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling.
In our follow-up segment, we read a listener's email about a filmmaker using a transition strategy mentioned on the podcast to great effect.
*STORYTELLING SHOWS 2019-2020*
November 2: Great Hartford Story Slam, Hartford Flavor Company November 9: Sara Kaplan: Champion of the World at Emmanuel Synagogue, West Hartford, CT November 23: Twenty-one Truths About Love book release, CT Historical Society, Hartford, CT December 14: “Crafty” at CT Historical Society, Hartford, CT
January 11: “Still Life: Stories of Stopping and Slowing Down” at the Wadsworth Atheneum April 4: Speak Up at the Unitarian Universalist Society, Manchester, CT
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2019
October 25-27: Storytelling workshop (beginners), Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health
November 9: Storytelling workshop (Beginner), CT Historical Society
November 16: Storytelling workshop (Advanced), CT Historical Society
December 6-8: Storytelling workshop (advanced), Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health
January 25: Storytelling workshop (Beginner), CT Historical Society
February 22: Storytelling workshop (Advanced), CT Historical Society
In our Homework for Life segment, Matt talks about a moment from his week of camp with students that would serve him well in certain spaces but might not be suited for stages like The Moth or Speak Up for specific reasons.
Next we listen to a story by Elva Guo.
Amongst the many things we discuss include:
- The power of surprise and strategies used to preserve surprise
- Embedding a small but universal truth into a much larger, less universal story
- The importance of scene setting
Next we answer a listener question about stories in the hotel industry.
Finally, we each offer a recommendation.
LINKS
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicksblog
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-grin-and-bare-it
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- Outschool: https://outschool.com
Matt:
- The Best Obituary Ever, and the Wacky Funeral That Followed
Matthew And Elysha step away for the mics for a week to offer you a rebroadcast of episodes 6 and 7 of the podcast, which feature the 2018 book launch event of Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling.
*STORYTELLING SHOWS 2019-2020*
November 2: Great Hartford Story Slam, Hartford Flavor Company November 9: Sara Kaplan: Champion of the World at Emmanuel Synagogue, West Hartford, CT November 23: Twenty-one Truths About Love book release, CT Historical Society, Hartford, CT December 14: “Crafty” at CT Historical Society, Hartford, CT
January 11: Speak Up at the Wadsworth Atheneum April 4: Speak Up at the Unitarian Universalist Society, Manchester, CT
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2019
October 4-6: Storytelling workshop, Art of Living Retreat, Boone, NC
October 25-27: Storytelling workshop (beginners), Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health
November 9: Storytelling workshop (Beginner), CT Historical Society
November 16: Storytelling workshop (Advanced), CT Historical Society
December 6-8: Storytelling workshop (advanced), Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health
January 25: Storytelling workshop (Beginner), CT Historical Society
February 22: Storytelling workshop (Advanced), CT Historical Society
LINKS
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicksblog
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-grin-and-bare-it
Matthew And Elysha step away for the mics for a week to offer you a rebroadcast of episodes 6 and 7 of the podcast, which feature the 2018 book launch event of Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling.
*STORYTELLING SHOWS 2019-2020*
November 2: Great Hartford Story Slam, Hartford Flavor Company November 9: Sara Kaplan: Champion of the World at Emmanuel Synagogue, West Hartford, CT November 23: Twenty-one Truths About Love book release, CT Historical Society, Hartford, CT December 14: “Crafty” at CT Historical Society, Hartford, CT
January 11: Speak Up at the Wadsworth Atheneum April 4: Speak Up at the Unitarian Universalist Society, Manchester, CT
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2019
October 4-6: Storytelling workshop, Art of Living Retreat, Boone, NC
October 25-27: Storytelling workshop (beginners), Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health
November 9: Storytelling workshop (Beginner), CT Historical Society
November 16: Storytelling workshop (Advanced), CT Historical Society
December 6-8: Storytelling workshop (advanced), Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health
January 25: Storytelling workshop (Beginner), CT Historical Society
February 22: Storytelling workshop (Advanced), CT Historical Society
LINKS
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicksblog
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-grin-and-bare-it
On episode #64 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!
In our follow-up segment, we read a listener's email about diversity in storytelling, and we discuss our previous storytelling show and upcoming retreats.
*STORYTELLING SHOWS 2019-2020*
November 2: Great Hartford Story Slam, Hartford Flavor Company November 9: Sara Kaplan: Champion of the World at Emmanuel Synagogue, West Hartford, CT November 23: Twenty-one Truths About Love book release, CT Historical Society, Hartford, CT December 14: “Crafty” at CT Historical Society, Hartford, CT
January 11: Speak Up at the Wadsworth Atheneum April 4: Speak Up at the Unitarian Universalist Society, Manchester, CT
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2019
October 4-6: Storytelling workshop, Art of Living Retreat, Boone, NC
October 25-27: Storytelling workshop (beginners), Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health
November 9: Storytelling workshop (Beginner), CT Historical Society
November 16: Storytelling workshop (Advanced), CT Historical Society
December 6-8: Storytelling workshop (advanced), Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health
January 25: Storytelling workshop (Beginner), CT Historical Society
February 22: Storytelling workshop (Advanced), CT Historical Society
In our Homework for Life segment, Matt talks about a moment that many friends and readers thinks is highly storyworthy but he does not. It's a conversation about how the most exciting moments from our lives don't always make the best stories.
Next we listen to a story by Amanda Caverzasi.
Amongst the many things we discuss include:
- The power of speaking a universal truth when so many are willing to say it aloud
- Releasing the power of the imagination when describing setting through brevity
- The power of circularity in storytelling
Next we answer listener questions about finding the courage to be vulnerable and when to deploy humor in a sad story.
Finally, we each offer a recommendation.
LINKS
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicksblog
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-grin-and-bare-it
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- Modern Love's Tiny Love Stories: https://nyti.ms/2maz31z
Matt:
- The 25 Most Important Characters of the Last 25 Years: http://bit.ly/2kEqNWT
On episode #63 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!
In our follow-up segment, we read listeners' emails about diversity in storytelling, the intersection between vulnerability and social media, and another way of approaching Homework for Life.
We also announce our latest partnership with a fantastic new venue.
*STORYTELLING SHOWS 2019-2020*
September 7: “Tests” at Real Art Ways
November 2: Great Hartford Story Slam, Hartford Flavor Company
November 9: Sara Kaplan: Champion of the World at Emmanuel Synagogue, West Hartford, CT
November 23: Twenty-one Truths About Love book release, CT Historical Society, Hartford, CT
December 14: “Crafty” at CT Historical Society, Hartford, CT
January 11: Speak Up at the Wadsworth Atheneum
April 4: Speak Up at the Unitarian Universalist Society, Manchester, CT
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2019
October 4-6: Storytelling workshop, Art of Living Retreat, Boone, NC
October 25-27: Storytelling workshop (beginners), Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health
November 9: Storytelling workshop (Beginner), CT Historical Society
November 16: Storytelling workshop (Advanced), CT Historical Society
December 6-8: Storytelling workshop (advanced), Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health
January 25: Storytelling workshop (Beginner), CT Historical Society
February 22: Storytelling workshop (Advanced), CT Historical Society
In our Homework for Life segment, Matt talks about a brief but important moment that took place beside a baggage carousel in an airport and how storyworthy moments can sometimes happen in the blink of an eye.
Next we listen to a story by Esam Boray.
Amongst the many things we discuss include:
- The power of contrast in storytelling
- Turning a story about something huge and incomprehensible into something much smaller and universalCombining anecdotes into a more cohesive narrative
- The importance of knowing key characters in a story well before putting them into action
- Slowing down key moments in stories to allow the action to unfold for your listeners
We then answer a listener questions about noticing and documenting small changes over time, avoiding over-rehearsing a story, and managing my Homework for Life spreadsheet.
Finally, we each offer a recommendation.
LINKS
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicksblog
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-grin-and-bare-it
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- When characters in musicals transition from speaking to singing - http://bit.ly/2kfjzbZ
Matt:
- The Rewatchables - https://www.theringer.com/the-rewatchables
On episode #62 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!
A little bit.
In our follow-up segment, we explain the tragedies that caused us to be absent for the last three weeks. We also congratulate our friends in Australia on their first storytelling show!
Next we offer a new strategy that Matt has been using in the classroom for a decade and recently brought it to his storytelling instruction with great success.
Finally, we each offer a recommendation.
STORYTELLING SHOWS 2019
September 7: “Tests” at Real Art Ways
November 2: Great Hartford Story Slam, Hartford Flavor Company
November 9: Sara Kaplan: Champion of the World at Emmanuel Synagogue, West Hartford, CT
November 23: Twenty-one Truths About Love book release, CT Historical Society, Hartford, CT
December 14: “Crafty” at CT Historical Society, Hartford, CT
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2019-2020
October 4-6: Storytelling workshop, Art of Living Retreat, Boone, NCOctober 25-27: Storytelling workshop (beginners), Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health
November 9: Storytelling workshop (Beginner), CT Historical Society
November 16: Storytelling workshop (Advanced), CT Historical Society
December 6-8: Storytelling workshop (advanced), Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health
January 25: Storytelling workshop (Beginner), CT Historical Society
February 22: Storytelling workshop (Advanced), CT Historical Society
LINKS
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicksblog
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-grin-and-bare-it
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- The Book of Genesis's Genesis: The Genesis of the Band Genesis: http://bit.ly/2KW7X8d
Matt:
- Six Word Memoirs: https://www.sixwordmemoirs.com
On episode #61 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!
In our follow-up segment, we discuss our magical night of storytelling earlier in the week. We also update listeners on Charlie's health and remind listeners about our upcoming trip to Seattle.
STORYTELLING SHOWS 2019
August 10: Great Hartford Story Slam at Hartford Flavor Company
August 17: Solo storytelling show at Taproot Theater, Seattle, WA
September 7: “Tests” at Real Art Ways
November 2: Great Hartford Story Slam, location TBD
November 23: Twenty-one Truths About Love book release, CT Historical Society, Hartford, CT
December 14: “Crafty” at CT Historical Society, Hartford, CT
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2019
October 4-6: Storytelling workshop, Art of Living Retreat, Boone, NC
October 25-27: Storytelling workshop (beginners), Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health
November 9: Storytelling workshop (Beginner), CT Historical Society
November 16: Storytelling workshop (Advanced), CT Historical Society
December 6-8: Storytelling workshop (advanced), Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health
January 25: Storytelling workshop (Beginner), CT Historical Society
February 22: Storytelling workshop (Advanced), CT Historical Society
In our Homework for Life segment, Matt talks about a small moment on the edge of a pond during a sunset. .
Next we listen to a story by Jospeh Basile (with interpretation by Julie Sharp).
Amongst the many things we discuss include:
- Nonfiction content in storytelling
- Launching scenes in the right spot (and the elimination of process language)
- Combining anecdotes into a more cohesive narrative
- Holding back information to preserve surprise
We then answer a listener questions about diversity in storytelling and when you know a story is done.
Finally, we each offer a recommendation.
LINKS
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicksblog
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-grin-and-bare-it
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- A Peculiarly Dutch Summer Rite: Children Let Loose in the Night Woods - https://nyti.ms/2GKVLEQ
Matt:
- She's 103 and Just Ran the 100-meter dash. Her Life Advice? :Look for Magic Moments - https://nyti.ms/2YshRa3
On episode #60 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling with special guest Eric Feeney.
In our follow-up segment, we hear from a listener who has found a surprising benefit to Homework for Life and another with storytelling advice for Matt. We also inquire about the possible existence of listeners in the Louisville area.
STORYTELLING SHOWS 2019
August 10: Great Hartford Story Slam at Hartford Flavor Company
August 17: Solo storytelling show at Taproot Theater, Seattle, WA
September 7: “Tests” at Real Art Ways
November 2: Great Hartford Story Slam, location TBD
November 23: Twenty-one Truths About Love book release, CT Historical Society, Hartford, CT
December 14: “Crafty” at CT Historical Society, Hartford, CT
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2019
October 4-6: Storytelling workshop, Art of Living Retreat, Boone, NC
October 25-27: Storytelling workshop (beginners), Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health
November 9: Storytelling workshop (Beginner), CT Historical Society
November 16: Storytelling workshop (Advanced), CT Historical Society
December 6-8: Storytelling workshop (advanced), Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health
January 25: Storytelling workshop (Beginner), CT Historical Society
February 22: Storytelling workshop (Advanced), CT Historical Society
In our Homework for Life segment, Matt talks about the importance of collecting moments that don't always seem storyworthy because we never know when we're in the midst of a story. Also, Homework for Life has enormous value beyond storytelling.
Next we listen to a story by Eric Feeney.
Amongst the many things we discuss include:
- Word choices, in terms of stakes and the preservation of humor
- Describing elements of a story that everyone isn't entirely familiar with.
- Humor
- Pushing into scenes to clear the clutter
- The importance of a clean ending.
We then answer a listener question about getting reluctant students to speak and tell stories.
Finally, we each offer a recommendation.
LINKS
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicksblog
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-grin-and-bare-it
Friends of Feeney on Facebook
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- Chompers (podcast)
Matt:
- http://photorequestsfromsolitary.org
Feeney:
- Qball
- Seesaw
- Whisper phone
- The Notebook
- Something to Wrestle
- Rules for a Knight by Ethan Hawke
On episode #59 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!
In our follow-up segment, we inform listeners about Matt's blog and consulting services, and we update them on dates for new ashows and workshops.
STORYTELLING SHOWS 2019
August 10: Great Hartford Story Slam at Hartford Flavor Company
August 17: Solo storytelling show at Taproot Theater, Seattle, WA
September 7: “Tests” at Real Art Ways
November 2: Great Hartford Story Slam, location TBD
November 23: Twenty-one Truths About Love book release, CT Historical Society, Hartford, CT
December 14: “Crafty” at CT Historical Society, Hartford, CT
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2019
October 4-6: Storytelling workshop, Art of Living Retreat, Boone, NC
October 25-27: Storytelling workshop (beginners), Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health
November 9: Storytelling workshop (Beginner), CT Historical Society
November 16: Storytelling workshop (Advanced), CT Historical Society
December 6-8: Storytelling workshop (advanced), Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health
January 25: Storytelling workshop (Beginner), CT Historical Society
February 22: Storytelling workshop (Advanced), CT Historical Society
In our Homework for Life segment, Matt talks about taking multiple moments from a single week and weaving them into a complete story, as well as the importance and value of telling stories even if they aren't the most profound and moving stories that you have to tell.
Next we listen to a story by Christopher Kriesen.
Amongst the many things we discuss include:
- Launching stories with action, mystery, confusion, and wonder
- The value and hazards of subtlety in storytelling
- Physicality
- Vocal techniques, including pacing, volume, and vocal modulation
- Tips to increase the humor of a moment
- Ensuring that a storyteller's moment of surprise is also an audience's moment of surprise
We then answer a listener question about ending stories in informal settings
Finally, we each offer a recommendation.
LINKS
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicksblog
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's blog:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-grin-and-bare-it
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- Big Hero 6
Matt:
- The Moth's Youtube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/user/mothstories
On episode #58 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks take their show on the road to Miss Porter's School in Farmington, CT.
Today's podcast was recorded in front of a group of students who will be spending the week with Matt, writing, telling stories and learning to podcast.
In our follow-up segment, we will learn about the storytelling possibilities while competing in the sport of curling, and we will go under the podcasting hood to discuss some of the hopefully occasional imperfections in the editing of our podcast.
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2019
- July 27: Storytelling workshop (advanced), CT Historical Society
- July 29-August 2: Storytelling bootcamp, CT Historical Society
- August 17: Storytelling workshop, Taproot Theater, Seattle, WA
- October 4-6: Storytelling workshop, Art of Living Retreat, Boone, NC
- October 25-27: Storytelling workshop (beginners), Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health
- December 6-8: Storytelling workshop (advanced), Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health
STORYTELLING SHOWS 2019
- August 10: Great Hartford Story Slam at Hartford Flavor Company
- August 17: Solo storytelling show at Taproot Theater, Seattle, WA
- September 7: “Tests” at Real Art Ways
Next Matt tells a story live to his students.
Amongst the many things we discuss about that story include:
- The importance of listening when searching for new stories
- Creating scenes in the minds of the audience
- The importance of getting listeners to wonder what is going to happen next (and the ruthlessness that is sometimes applied when you're not wondering what will happen next)
- The "laugh laugh laugh cry" model of storytelling
- Using surprise in order to turn a story
Finally, we answer student questions about telling other people's stories and why we never invent things that didn't actually happen when telling our stories.
LINKS
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
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http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
On episode #57 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, MatthewDicks talks storytelling!
In our followup segment, I congratulate listeners on recent success at The Moth.
I also discuss our upcoming shows and workshops:
ALSO, UPCOMING SHOWS:
- August 17: Solo storytelling show at Taproot Theater, Seattle, WA
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2019
- July 27: Storytelling workshop (advanced), CT Historical Society
- October 4-6: Storytelling workshop, Art of Living Retreat, Boone, NC
- October 25-27: Storytelling workshop (beginner), Kripalu Center for Yoga and Heath
- December 6-8: Storytelling workshop (advanced), Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health
Next we listen to Matt's story about a difficult medical decision and what it revealed about his marriage to Elysha.
Amongst the many things discussed includes:
- Identifying the crux of the story
- "Why do we do the things we do?"
- Finding the beginning of a story by centering on the end
- "But" statements in the midst of humor
- Tonality
- Truth in storytelling
- Ending a story effectively (and not stupidly)
LINKS
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
On episode #56 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!
In our follow-up segment, we update listeners on the status of our cat, Pluto, hear from a storyteller who started Homework for Life at just the right time, and debate the value of memory.
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2019
- July 27: Storytelling workshop (advanced), CT Historical Society
- July 29-August 2: Storytelling bootcamp, CT Historical Society
- August 17: Storytelling workshop, Taproot Theater, Seattle, WA
- October 4-6: Storytelling workshop, Art of Living Retreat, Boone, NC
- October 25-27: Storytelling workshop (beginners), Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health
- December 6-8: Storytelling workshop (advanced), Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health
STORYTELLING SHOWS 2019
- August 10: Great Hartford Story Slam at Hartford Flavor Company
- August 17: Solo storytelling show at Taproot Theater, Seattle, WA
- September 7: “Tests” at Real Art Ways
In our Homework for Life segment, Matt talks about how we need to collect the small but significant moment, too, even if they are not storyworthy on their own.
Next we listen to a story by Alan Berkowitz.
Amongst the many things we discuss include:
- The power of dialogue when used sparingly and significantly
- Storytellers who can see and re-live their stories during the telling
- Telling stories in scenes
- Strategies for shortening stories
- Ways of effectively explaining new vocabulary in storytelling
- Adjusting stories depending on audience wants, needs, and overall composition
We then answer listener questions about living your life in search of stories and the application of storytelling strategies on the page.
Finally, we each offer a recommendation.
LINKS
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- Cirque du Soleil: Luzia
Matt:
- On Writing by Stephen King: https://amzn.to/2FIjswS
On episode #55 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!
In our follow up segment, we discuss some exciting news from the world of the parent and trademark office and from a recent Moth StorySLAM. We also hear from a listener who identifies an unfortunate verbal tic that Matt must now excise from his lexicon.
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2019
- July 27: Storytelling workshop (advanced), CT Historical Society
- July 29-August 2: Storytelling bootcamp, CT Historical Society
- August 17: Storytelling workshop, Taproot Theater, Seattle, WA
- October 4-6: Storytelling workshop, Art of Living Retreat, Boone, NC
- October 25-27: Storytelling workshop (beginners), Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health
- December 6-8: Storytelling workshop (advanced), Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health
STORYTELLING SHOWS 2019
- August 10: Great Hartford Story Slam at Hartford Flavor Company
- August 17: Solo storytelling show at Taproot Theater, Seattle, WA
- September 7: “Tests” at Real Art Ways
In our Homework for Life segment, Matt talks about how storytellers are constantly trying to make connections between moments in their lives in order to understand life better and tell better stories.
Next we listen to a story by Mark Scerra.
Amongst the many things we discuss include:
- Authenticity thru the avoidance of memorization
- The power of nostalgia in a story
- The variety of constructs that could be used in telling a story
- The identification and preservation of surprise
- Metering out character description throughout the story
- Making sure that hard-to-imagine elements of a story are made as imaginable as possible
- The effective violation of Matt's cultural reference rule
We then answer listener questions about storytelling in technology and pitching stories to Speak Up.
Finally, we each offer a recommendation.
LINKS
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- Chompers: https://gimletmedia.com/shows/chompers
Matt:
- When the World's Most Famous Mystery Writer Vanished by Tina Jordan: https://nyti.ms/2Y7C1Sv
On episode #54 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!
In our follow up segment, we shout out the kindness of several readers of Storyworthy, talk about the concept of 1,000 true fans, read a listener email about a full year of Homework for Life, and offer some opinions on the final episodes of Game of Thrones.
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2019
- July 27: Storytelling workshop (advanced), CT Historical Society
- July 29-August 2: Storytelling bootcamp, CT Historical Society
- August 17: Storytelling workshop, Taproot Theater, Seattle, WA
- October 4-6: Storytelling workshop, Art of Living Retreat, Boone, NC
- October 25-27: Storytelling workshop (beginners), Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health
- December 6-8: Storytelling workshop (advanced), Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health
STORYTELLING SHOWS 2019
- August 10: Great Hartford Story Slam at Hartford Flavor Company
- August 17: Solo storytelling show at Taproot Theater, Seattle, WA
- September 7: “Tests” at Real Art Ways
In our Homework for Life segment, Matt talks about how a storyworthy moment can be told in more than one way, so part of the challenge of storytelling is choosing which way to craft and tell a story, and thereby where that story should begin.
Next we listen to a story by Cari Ryding.
Amongst the many things we discuss include:
- Hanging a story on a great opening line
- The importance of choosing useful context and backstory
- Avoiding throwaway details
- Making the important moments in your life also important when an audience hears them for the first time
- Time manipulation
- Names
- Alternative endings
- Avoiding phrases that assert the veracity of your story
We then answer listener questions about properly introducing stories to friends, policies involving bringing professional storytellers to Speak Up, and expanding your stories into a variety of mediums.
Finally, we each offer a recommendation.
LINKS
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling
Purchase Twenty-one Truths About Love
1,000 True Fans: https://kk.org/thetechnium/1000-true-fans
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- Chuck
Matt:
- Exploding Kittens
Bonus recommendations:
- Matthew Inman's The Oatmeal
- Sorry
On episode #53 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, MatthewDicks talks storytelling!
In our followup segment, we read letters about Homework for Life from two of our listeners.
We also discuss our upcoming shows and workshops:
ALSO, UPCOMING SHOWS:
- August 10:
- Great Hartford Story Slam at Hartford Flavor Company
- August 17:
- Solo storytelling show at Taproot Theater, Seattle, WA
- September 7: “Tests” at Real Art Ways
- November 2: Great Hartford Story Slam, location TBD
December 14: “Crafty” at CHS, Hartford,
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2019
- July 27: Storytelling workshop (advanced), CT Historical Society
- October 4-6: Storytelling workshop, Art of Living Retreat, Boone, NC
- October 25-27: Storytelling workshop (beginner), Kripalu Center for Yoga and Heath
- December 6-8: Storytelling workshop (advanced), Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health
Then Elysha departs for the rest of the episode and Matt plays a story of his own.
Amongst the many things he discusses include:
- Big moments transformed into small, relatable moments
- The conversation between the beginning and ending of a story
- The openings of stories
- Omission
- The principle of "but and therefore"
- Ending a story effectively (and not stupidly)
LINKS
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
On episode #52 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!
In our followup segment, we shout out several dedicated listeners and discuss the benefits of dot journaling.
ALSO, UPCOMING SHOWS:
- June 8: “Nature Calls: Stories of the Outdoors” at Infinity Hall
- August 10: Great Hartford Story Slam at Hartford Flavor Company
- August 17: Solo storytelling show, Taproot Theater, Seattle, WA
- October 4-6: Storytelling workshop, Art of Living Retreat, Boone, NC
- October 25-27: Storytelling workshop, Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2019
- July 27: Storytelling workshop (advanced), CT Historical Society
- October 4-6: Storytelling workshop, Art of Living Retreat, Boone, NC
- October 25-27: Storytelling workshop (beginner), Kripalu Center for Yoga and Heath
- December 6-8: Storytelling workshop (advanced), Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health
In our Homework for Life segment, Matt talks about how a small moment in the present can often be connected to a similar moment from the past, thus producing an excellent story.
Next we listen to a story by Aaron Wolfe.
Amongst the many things we discuss include:
- The power of contrast in storytelling
- Using humor seamlessly and purposefully in a story
- Timing
- Small endings
- The use of accents in a story
- An interesting way tp present previous events in a story
We then answer listener questions about titling stories, living with a storyteller, and strategies for making room for stories when you're not standing on a stage.
Finally, we each offer a recommendation.
LINKS
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- Let's Hear It For the Average Child
Matt:
- Casey Kasem's blooper reel
On episode #51 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling and celebrate our one year anniversary with the second half of our live episode!
In our followup segment,
ALSO, UPCOMING SHOWS:
June 8: “Nature Calls: Stories of the Outdoors” at Infinity Hall
August 10: Great Hartford Story Slam at Hartford Flavor Company
August 17: Solo storytelling show, Taproot Theater, Seattle, WA
October 4-6: Storytelling workshop, Art of Living Retreat, Boone, NC
October 25-27: Storytelling workshop, Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health
Next we listen to stories by Rachel Leventhal-Weiner and Beverly Brakeman.
Amongst the many things we discuss include:
- Opening scenes that activate imagination
- Making a story more about yourself
- The power of brevity
- Approaching emotional topics from varying angles
- The advantages of keeping your story "in the moment"
In our Homework for Life segment, Matt talks about stealing a Homework for Life moment from Elysha, and he talks about how it might be turned into a story.
We then answer listener questions about critiquing stories while remaining positive, naming characters in storytelling, trigger warnings, and more.
Finally, we each offer a recommendation.
LINKS
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2019
- July 27: Storytelling workshop (advanced), CT Historical Society
- October 4-6: Storytelling workshop, Art of Living Retreat, Boone, NC
- October 25-27: Storytelling workshop (beginner), Kripalu Center for Yoga and Heath
- December 6-8: Storytelling workshop (advanced), Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- Dicks Family Ice Cream Adventures
Matt:
- Paragone: An Ancient Tactic for Getting the Most From People
On episode #50 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling and celebrate our ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY IN OUR FIRST LIVE EPISODE!
In our followup segment, we hear from our friends in Australia, who are attending the show virtually! We also hear from a listener who suggests a way of using Facebook to expand your Homework for Life and from another who makes an interesting comparison between listening to music and listening to stories.
ALSO, UPCOMING SHOWS:
June 8: “Nature Calls: Stories of the Outdoors” at Infinity Hall
August 10: Great Hartford Story Slam at Hartford Flavor Company
August 17: Solo storytelling show, Taproot Theater, Seattle, WA
Next we listen to stories by Amanda Coletti and Jack Bourque.
Amongst the many things we discuss include:
- Opening scenes that activate imagination
- Avoiding clumping
- Strategies for humor in storytelling
- The advantages of keeping your story "in the moment"
- Making your story about something bigger than the story itself
- The power of vulnerability
In our Homework for Life segment, Matt tells a brand new story crafted from a recent Homework for Life moment shared on the podcast.
Finally, we each offer a recommendation.
LINKS
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2019
- July 27: Storytelling workshop (advanced), CT Historical Society
- October 4-6: Storytelling workshop, Art of Living Retreat, Boone, NC
- October 25-27: Storytelling workshop (beginner), Kripalu Center for Yoga and Heath
- December 6-8: Storytelling workshop (advanced), Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- Decoder Ring
Matt:
- Information Is Beautiful
On episode #49 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!
In our followup segment, we hear from a linguist who tries to get Matt out of hot water and we learn about a new and unique way of recording Homework for Life.
ALSO, UPCOMING SHOWS:
May 18: Speak Up Storytelling: Live podcast recording at CHS
June 8: “Nature Calls: Stories of the Outdoors” at Infinity Hall
August 17: Solo storytelling show, Taproot Theater, Seattle, WA
In our Homework for Life segment, we talk about how to dig deeper into story ideas to allow an otherwise surface level story say more.
Next we listen to Ted Old's high stakes story about a fourth grade multipliciation contest.
After listening, we discuss:
- The escalation of stakes
- Brevity in storytelling
- Choosing when and what to describe
- The advantages of keeping your story "in the moment"
- The disadvantages of adjectives
- Making your story about something bigger than the story itself
Next, we answer questions about our future employment options and Moth StorySLAM advice.
Finally, we each offer a recommendation.
LINKS
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2019
October 25-27: Storytelling workshop (beginner), Kripalu Center for Yoga and Heath
December 6-8: Storytelling workshop (advanced), Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- Trip or Vacation: A Helpful Guide for Parents
Matt:
- Save the Cat: The Last Book on Storytelling that You'll Ever Need by Blake Snyder
On episode #48 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!
In our followup segment, we hear from listeners who are using Homework for Life in new and interesting ways.
ALSO, UPCOMING SHOWS:
May 18: Speak Up Storytelling: Live podcast recording at CHS
June 8: “Nature Calls: Stories of the Outdoors” at Infinity Hall
August 17: Solo storytelling show, Taproot Theater, Seattle, WA
In our Homework for Life segment, we talk about how identifying your own personal weirdness and asking yourself, "Why do you do the things that you do?" can often lead to new storytelling ideas.
Next we listen to Kat Koppett's story about a big decision involving a stripper pole, a broken popcorn popper, and an Obama impersonator.
After listening, we discuss:
- The power of contrast in storytelling
- The pros and cons of constantly dissecting stories
- The advantages of clearly defined stakes
- Being in the moment during the telling of a story
- The BAbC and CABC formats of storytelling
- How changing the order of information being presented can really make or break a scene
Next, we answer questions about privacy issues in storytelling and what makes a great host.
Finally, we each offer a recommendation.
LINKS
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
Dare To Be Human: https://www.daretobehumanpodcast.com
MOPCO Improv Theater: https://www.mopco.org
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2019
July 29-August 2: Storytelling bootcamp, CT Historical Society
October 25-27: Storytelling workshop (beginner), Kripalu Center for Yoga and Heath
December 6-8: Storytelling workshop (advanced), Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- Adam Sandler's Chris Farley song
Matt:
- 3 Brilliant Moments from The Battle of the Bastards
On episode #47 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!
In our followup segment, we pass on some advice about computer screens from a listener and an unexpected benefit of Homework for Life from another. Then we solicit some suggestions and advice on publicizing my next novel, Twenty-one Truths About Love.
UPCOMING SHOWS 2019
May 18: Speak Up Storytelling: Live podcast recording at CHS
June 8: “Nature Calls: Stories of the Outdoors” at Infinity Hall
August 17: Solo storytelling show, Taproot Theater, Seattle, WA
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2019
May 4: Storytelling workshop (beginner), CT Historical Society
July 29-August 2: Storytelling bootcamp, CT Historical Society
October 25-27: Storytelling workshop (beginner), Kripalu Center for Yoga and Heath
December 6-8: Storytelling workshop (advanced), Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health
Then Elysha departs and we listen to my story about trying to rent a car to Boca Raton with an expired driver's license.
After listening, I discuss:
- A variety of strategies for shortening and elongating stories
- Effective places to begin stories
- Dealing with facts too good to be true
- Reasons to break my own rules
- Identifying and enhancing surprise
LINKS
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
On episode #46 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!
In our followup segment, we offer a further correction on a previous episode and read a couple emails from listeners about a new baby boy and a recent 100 day Homework for Life champion.
ALSO, UPCOMING SHOWS:
April 27: "Put Me in Coach: Stories of Athletic Endeavors” at CHS
May 18: Speak Up Storytelling: Live podcast recording at CHS
June 8: “Nature Calls: Stories of the Outdoors” at Infinity Hall
August 17: Solo storytelling show, Taproot Theater, Seattle, WA
In our Homework for Life segment, we talk about how multiple moments from Homework for Life can be combined into a great story, and how gravity and weight can be added to an anecdote to make something that might seem light and amusing far more meaningful.
Next we listen to Corey Jeffrey's story about a trip to Mexico, a hole in a door, and the Backstreet Boys.
After listening, we discuss:
- The way a moment from the past and the present are fused together to create a deeply meaningful story
- Portals to the past and present
- Avoid stakes that fail to pay off
- Slowing down the action at the appropriate time in a story
- The importance of scenes (and physical locations) in storytelling
- Efficiency of language
- The clever and unexpected use of an expletive
Next, we answer questions about vulnerability and living with Matt.
Finally, we each offer a recommendation.
LINKS
Purchase Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
Who Really Said "You Should Kill Your Darlings?"
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2019
May 4: Storytelling workshop (beginner), CT Historical Society
July 29-August 2: Storytelling bootcamp, CT Historical Society
October 25-27: Storytelling workshop (beginner), Kripalu Center for Yoga and Heath
December 6-8: Storytelling workshop (advanced), Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- Jon Snow Emails 23andMe About His DNA Results
- What's Gaby Cooking?
Matt:
- Jeff Bezos Banned PowerPoint in Meetings. Its Replacement Is Brilliant.
On episode #45 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!
In our followup segment, we offer some corrections on previous episodes and read an email from a recent 100 day Homework for Life champion.
ALSO, UPCOMING SHOWS:
April 27: "Put Me in Coach: Stories of Athletic Endeavors” at CHS
May 18: Speak Up Storytelling: Live podcast recording at CHS
June 8: “Nature Calls: Stories of the Outdoors” at Infinity Hall
August 17: Solo storytelling show, Taproot Theater, Seattle, WA
In our Homework for Life segment, we talk about how a moment that might be embarrassing or small in the minds of some can become a fully realized story when you allow for introspection and the ask yourself this simple question: "Why do you do the things that you do?
Next we listen to Jeffrey Freiser's story about a first date and the ensuing adventure.
After listening, we discuss:
- The unusual role that humor plays in this story
- The way that different brands of humor achieve different results
- Telling a story in scenes in order to activate imagination
- Opportunities for misdirection
- Momentum
Next, we answer questions about finding the endings of stories and the joyous but sometimes problematic response that people often have to our stories.
Finally, we each offer a recommendation.
LINKS
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
STORIES ABOUT LITTLE THINGS THAT SAY A LOT
Jeff Simmermon's "Subway Moment"
Adam Wade's "Hoboken Roast Beef Story"
Alfonso Lacayo's "The Bad Haircut"
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2019
May 4: Storytelling workshop (beginner), CT Historical Society
July 29-August 2: Storytelling bootcamp, CT Historical Society
October 25-27: Storytelling workshop (beginner), Kripalu Center for Yoga and Heath
December 6-8: Storytelling workshop (advanced), Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- Simple Cake by Odette Willams
- The Nosher
Matt:
- Anatomy of a New Yorker Cartoon
On episode #44 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!
In our followup segment, we introduce the "new" new cover of my next novel, discuss a bizarre coincidence, respond to a heartwarming email from a listener, and ask listeners for feedback on a reward for Homework for Life champions.
ALSO, UPCOMING SHOWS:
April 14: "Voices of Hope" at the Mandell JJ, West Hartford, CT
April 27: "Put Me in Coach: Stories of Athletic Endeavors” at CHS
May 18: Speak Up Storytelling: Live podcast recording at CHS
June 8: “Nature Calls: Stories of the Outdoors” at Infinity Hall
August 17: Solo storytelling show, Taproot Theater, Seattle, WA
In our Homework for Life segment, we talk about how a simple sentence or two - when the words touch your heart- can be enough to tell a great story.
Next we listen to Sarasweet Rabidoux Kelsey's story about an unfortunate prom encounter.
After listening, we discuss:
- Subtlety in storytelling
- The power of nostalgia
- Great opening lines
- The connective tissue of great storytelling
- When it's okay to reference pop culture and when it's not
- Saying just enough to serve the story
Next, we answer questions about shortening the length of stories and competing in storytelling competitions against "big stories.
Finally, we each offer a recommendation.
LINKS
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
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http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
Heloise and the Savoir Faire
Matt Stone and Trey Parker on But and Therefore
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2019
May 4: Storytelling workshop (beginner), CT Historical Society
May 18: Storytelling workshop (advanced), CT Historical Society
June 1: Storytelling workshop (master class), CT Historical Society
July 29-August 2: Storytelling bootcamp, CT Historical Society
August 17: Storytelling workshop, Taproot Theater, Seattle, WA
October 25-27: Storytelling workshop, Kripalu Center for Yoga and Heath
December 6-8: Storytelling workshop, Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- Outschool
- Pocket Full of Colors: The Magical World of Mary Blair, Disney Artist Extraordinaire
Matt:
- ‘Close’ Proximity, ‘End’ Result, and More Redundant Words to Delete From Your Writing
On episode #43 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!
In our followup segment, we talk about a moment on a Moth GrandSLAM stage and a moment in a classroom that unearth two potential stories.
ALSO, UPCOMING SHOWS:
April 14: "Voices of Hope" at the Mandell JJ, West Hartford, CT
April 27: "Put Me in Coach: Stories of Athletic Endeavors” at CHS
May 18: Speak Up Storytelling: Live podcast recording at CHS
June 8: “Nature Calls: Stories of the Outdoors” at Infinity Hall
August 17: Solo storytelling show, Taproot Theater, Seattle, WA
Then Elysha departs, and we listen to Matthew Dicks's story about an unusual late night walk with a friend.
After listening, we discuss:
- The best place and most effective way of beginning a story
- The importance of beginning and ending a story well
- Choosing appropriate backstory and the most effective way of presenting it in a story
- Strategies for preserving surprise in a story
- Volume and pacing during a performance
LINKS
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2019
May 4: Storytelling workshop (beginner), CT Historical Society
June 1: Storytelling workshop (master class), CT Historical Society
July 29-August 2: Storytelling bootcamp, CT Historical Society
August 17: Storytelling workshop, Taproot Theater, Seattle, WA
October 25-27: Storytelling workshop, Kripalu Center for Yoga and Heath
December 6-8: Storytelling workshop, Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health
On episode #42 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!
In our followup segment, we read a heartwarming email from a listener about Homework for Life and our new favorite review from a listener.
ALSO, UPCOMING SHOWS:
March 30: "Courage" at Real Art Ways
April 14: "Voices of Hope" at the Mandell JJ, West Hartford, CT
April 27: "Put Me in Coach: Stories of Athletic Endeavors” at CHS
May 18: Speak Up Storytelling: Live podcast recording at CHS
June 8: “Nature Calls: Stories of the Outdoors” at Infinity Hall
August 17: Solo storytelling show, Taproot Theater, Seattle, WA
In our Homework for Life segment, we talk about how storyworthy moments can often be identified by finding moments in our lives that cause us to ask big questions and express controversial ideas.
Next we listen to Ted Zablotsky's Voices of Hope story about returning to his father's hometown decades after the Holocaust.
Voices of Hope is an organization dedicated to preserving the stories of the Holocaust, and we partner with this organization to help the children and grandchildren of Holocaust survivors tell their stories.
After listening, we discuss:
- Telling stories about other people through the lens of your own story
- The effectiveness of telling your story in scenes
- The power of a subtle ending
- Remaining within the moment of a story at all times and not projecting forward
Finally, we each offer a recommendation.
LINKS
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2019
May 4: Storytelling workshop (beginner), CT Historical Society
May 18: Storytelling workshop (advanced), CT Historical Society
June 1: Storytelling workshop (master class), CT Historical Society
July 29-August 2: Storytelling bootcamp, CT Historical Society
August 17: Storytelling workshop, Taproot Theater, Seattle, WA
October 25-27: Storytelling workshop, Kripalu Center for Yoga and Heath
December 6-8: Storytelling workshop, Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- Spotify's "Bluegrass Covers" playlist
Matt:
- Aaron Sorkin's Masterclass
On episode #41 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!
In our followup segment, we congratulate friend of the podcast Robin Gelfenbien on her recent (and momentous) Moth StorySLAM victory. Robin is the producer and host of Yum's the Word, an award-winning NYC storytelling show and podcast:
http://www.yumsthewordshow.com
Next, we pass on AirTable, a Homework for Life suggestion from a listener:
https://airtable.com
https://vimeo.com/album/3513053/format:detail
ALSO, UPCOMING SHOWS:
March 30: "Courage" at Real Art Ways
April 14: "Voices of Hope" at the Mandell JJ, West Hartford, CT
April 27: "Put Me in Coach: Stories of Athletic Endeavors” at CHS
May 18: Speak Up Storytelling: Live podcast recording at CHS
June 8: “Nature Calls: Stories of the Outdoors” at Infinity Hall
August 17: Solo storytelling show, Taproot Theater, Seattle, WA
In our Homework for Life segment, we talk about the challenge of tell a hero story when the act of heroism is not all that impressive or interesting.
Next we listen to Tom Ouimet's story about a secret in his pants.
After listening, we discuss:
- The exceptional layering and efficiency of the story
- The strategic use of pauses and silence to enhance humor
- The importance of choice and consistency when it comes to the perspective adopted by the storyteller
- The escalation of stakes
- Making choices consistent with the tone and theme of a story
Next, we answer questions about critiquing stories and telling stories from a third person perspective.
Finally, we each offer a recommendation.
LINKS
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2019
May 4: Storytelling workshop (beginner), CT Historical Society
May 18: Storytelling workshop (advanced), CT Historical Society
June 1: Storytelling workshop (master class), CT Historical Society
July 29-August 2: Storytelling bootcamp, CT Historical Society
August 17: Storytelling workshop, Taproot Theater, Seattle, WA
October 25-27: Storytelling workshop, Kripalu Center for Yoga and Heath
December 6-8: Storytelling workshop, Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- www.designmom.com
Matt:
- 'The Middle': Watch How a Pop Hit Is Made | NYT - Diary of a Song
On episode #40 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling.
In our followup segment, we announce our first LIVE PODCAST RECORDING!
May 18: CT Historical Society. Tickets just $5.
All proceeds go to the CT Historical Society.
Purchase here: https://chs.org/event/speak-up-podcast-live
ALSO, UPCOMING SHOWS:
March 16: “Exposed: Lies, Secrets, and Indiscretions Revealed” at Space Ballroom
March 30: "Courage" at Real Art Ways
We also discuss a listener's suggestion regarding pausing at the very end of a story (as well as some of our strategies to get yourself ready to tell your story) and another listener's suggestion of the Day One app for Homework for Life:
https://dayoneapp.com
In our Homework for Life segment, we talk about the need for storytellers to keep their eyes opened for moments of transformation and realization in their own lives (however small they may seem) in order to find new stories to tell.
Next we listen to John Smith-Horn's story about making cookies.
After listening, we discuss:
- The components of a perfect beginning to a story
- The power of effective vocal modulation
- Telling the story from the perspective (and maintaining that perspective) of your former self
- The way that small stories that say many things (and important, meaningful things)
- Revealing the secrets and suspense in a story by spooling out the moment and allowing the audience to bear witness to the unveiling
Next, we answer questions about finding themes in storytelling, maintaining audience interest in less formal storytelling settings, and the struggle to find stories on every single day of your life.
Finally, we each offer a recommendation.
LINKS
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2019
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2019
May 4: Storytelling workshop (beginner), CT Historical Society
May 18: Storytelling workshop (advanced), CT Historical Society
June 1: Storytelling workshop (master class), CT Historical Society
July 29-August 2: Storytelling bootcamp, CT Historical Society
August 17: Storytelling workshop, Taproot Theater, Seattle, WA
October 25-27: Storytelling workshop, Kripalu Center for Yoga and Heath
December 6-8: Storytelling workshop, Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- Hallmark's Recordable StoryBooks
Matt:
- Conversations with the disabled
On episode #39 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew Dicks talks storytelling!
With report cards and parent-teacher conferences filling Elysha's week, she takes some time off from the podcast, shifting our format again. I'm going it alone this week. Rather than posting a re-run, we have some exciting new content for you.
Hope you enjoy!
In our follow up segment, Elysha and I talk about the cover release of my new novel Twenty-one Truths About Love, which you can see here in the show notes.
Then, instead of listening and critiquing a new story, I play three of my stories (chosen for a specific reason) with some commentary about the crafting of each.
After listening, I discuss:
- The variety of chronological formats available to storytellers
- When to choose a specific chronological format for a story
- The strategies used to preserve and enhance surprise in a story
LINKS
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
Speak Up at Space Ballroom on March 16:
Exposed: Lies, Secrets, and Indiscretions Revealed
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2019
May 4: Storytelling workshop (beginner), CT Historical Society
May 18: Storytelling workshop (advanced), CT Historical Society
June 1: Storytelling workshop (master class), CT Historical Society
July 29-August 2: Storytelling bootcamp, CT Historical Society
August 17: Storytelling workshop, Taproot Theater, Seattle, WA
October 25-27: Storytelling workshop, Kripalu Center for Yoga and Heath
December 6-8: Storytelling workshop, Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health
On episode #38 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling.
In our followup segment, we talk about upcoming shows and workshops and offer a shout-out to a listener who we recently met IRL!
In our Homework for Life segment, we talk about four entries in Matt's Homework for Life, and how when combined, they can tell a complete story. We also talk about the value of saying things that other may think but not often speak aloud, and how even when presenting yourself in a less-than-positive light, a storyteller can get an audience on their side.
Next we listen to Lauren Doninger's story about her son's illness and her fight to be heard.
After listening, we discuss:
- The weaving of details throughout a story rather than piling them at the top
- Connecting character details to plot points to allow them to feel seamlessly integrated into the story
- Effective ways of teaching our audience about content needed to understand our stories (without bringing the story to a halt)
- Effective summarizing within a story
- Revealing information (and a surprise) by remaining in the moment
- Activating imagination at the top of a story
- Injecting humor into the beginning of a story
- Identifying and fully developing critical scenes in a story
Next, we answer questions about titling stories and turning a negative moment into a positive moment.
Finally, we each offer a recommendation.
LINKS
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
Speak Up at Space Ballroom on March 3:
Exposed: Lies, Secrets, and Indiscretions Revealed
STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2019
May 4: Storytelling workshop (beginner), CT Historical Society
May 18: Storytelling workshop (advanced), CT Historical Society
June 1: Storytelling workshop (master class), CT Historical Society
July 29-August 2: Storytelling bootcamp, CT Historical Society
August 17: Storytelling workshop, Taproot Theater, Seattle, WA
October 25-27: Storytelling workshop, Kripalu Center for Yoga and Heath
December 6-8: Storytelling workshop, Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- Westworld on HBO
Matt:
- Maeve in America by Maeve Higgins
On episode #37 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling along with storyteller and guest host Steve Brouse!
In our followup segment, we talk about how a listener is using Homework for Life to remain in communication with his son, who is completing basic training. We also review listener feedback on the epic debate over the description of telepathy in Maire Greene's story.
In our Homework for Life segment, we talk about turning an unexpected snowball fight into a story that pushes back against conventional norms, and Steve Brouse shares his Homework for Life moment, combining two moments into a single idea for a story.
Next we listen to Steve Brouse's story of a missed phone call and all that happened because of it.
After listening, we discuss:
- The value of opening windows into worlds we might not otherwise ever see
- Effective ways of teaching our audience about content needed to understand our stories (without bringing the story to a halt)
- When and how to use humor effectively in a story
- The way in which the crafting of a story can also be a discovery process for the storyteller
- Managing emotions during the telling of a story
- Identifying and fully developing critical scenes in a story
Next, we answer a question about teaching storytelling to children.
Finally, we each offer a recommendation.
LINKS
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- Crashing on HBO
Matt:
- Commissioning portraits of meaningful places for loved ones (via Etsy)
Steve:
- Puzzles comprised of family photos (via Shutterfly)
On episode #35 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!
In our followup segment, we talk about the confusion between Tom of Brisbane and Tom of Long Island. We also discuss the origin of "telling stories from scars and not wounds" as well as advice on handling our explicit episodes of the podcast.
We also announce our Seattle ticketing for this summer's workshop and performance.
In our Homework for Life segment, we talk about finding memories from the past through Homework for Life. We also discuss list-making in storytelling and the importance of having many options when making choices.
Next we listen to Maire Greene's story about grave shopping.
After listening, we discuss:
- Subtlety in storytelling
- The power of bringing an audience into a new world
- Small sentences that build stakes and momentum in a story.
- Accessibility of the story (Elysha and Matt disagree like never before!)
- Reminding the audience of key characters and plot points if they have disappeared for any length of time
Next, we answer questions about displaying visuals during talks and additional outlets for storytelling.
Finally, we each offer a recommendation.
LINKS
Harry Belafonte on The Muppets
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
Seattle workshop on August 17: https://bit.ly/2E1QU0S
Seattle solo show on August 17: https://bit.ly/2URekLY
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- The LEGO Movie: The Second Part:
https://bit.ly/2BvaEIR
Matt:
- Jeff Bezos open letter: https://bit.ly/2WOLuOf
- Nina Garcia piece: https://bit.ly/2Djr0Ep
On episode #35 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!
In our followup segment, we hear from a teacher who is using Homework for Life in her classroom and a listener who had to do one of the strangest things I've ever heard of in a storytelling show.
We also get a little more information on Harry Belafonte.
In our Homework for Life segment, we talk about how we're often in the middle of the story, and if we're patient enough, an ending will eventually reveal itself (as unfortunate as that ending might be). We also talk about choosing the structure of a story based upon the time frame of your story.
Next we listen to Ophira Eisenberg's story about a mysterious box in the closet.
After listening, we discuss:
- Effective humor throughout the story
- Stakes!
- Echoing the thoughts of your listeners
- Effective pacing in a story when the surprise is no longer surprising
- Specificity
Next, we answer a question about extending stories told on the stage to the written form.
Finally, we each offer a recommendation.
LINKS
Harry Belafonte on The Muppets
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- Hidden Figures: The True Story of Four Black Women and the Space Race by Margot Lee Shetterly
Matt:
- Ophira Eisenberg - The Accident
On episode #34 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!
In our followup segment, we hear from a listener who hosted an evening of stories at this home with great success. We also resume our debate about jokes within a story.
In our Homework for Life segment, we talk about the process of taking a single moment from the week and crafting out the skeleton of a story, including the importance of recognizing, protecting, and enhancing any surprises contained therein.
Next we listen to Chion Wolf's story about the biggest job interview of her life.
After listening, we discuss:
- Effective transitions of time and space
- Telling stories in vivid, easily imagined scenes
- The power of effective inner dialogue
- The preservation and enhancement of surprise
- Effective ways of speaking highly of yourself
Next, we answer a question about ending a story early and leaving the audience hanging on unspoken, final details of a story.
Finally, we each offer a recommendation.
LINKS
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
This Is Going to Suck
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
-
Terry Gross -Earlonne Woods interview
-
Terry Gross - Marc Maron
Matt:
- Technology, Ranked
On episode #33 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!
In our followup segment, we thank our listeners, including American military personnel from around the world who have been reaching out to us this week, as well as those listeners kind enough to rate and review Speak Up Storytelling during this past week.
We went over 100 reviews and rating this week!
In our Homework for Life segment, we talk about how a simple but powerful statement from a stranger can be enough material for a story.
Next we listen to Bobbi Klau's story about the search for the perfect gift.
After listening, we discuss:
- Pacing, both as it related to authenticity and the ability of the audience to follow a story
- The power of humor at the top of a story, particularly when it demonstrates honesty, authenticity, and self-deprecation to your audience
- Telling stories in scenes
- Strategically humorous moments in stories vs. a joke placed within a story
- Kurt Vonnegut's philosophy on short stories
- The hazards of cultural references
- Avoiding the de-activating of your audience's imagination when you need to provide your audience with information
Next, we answer a question about the difference between stories that end in a moment of emotional resonance vs. a light-hearted observation or decision and a question about the role of EQ vs. logic in storytelling.
Finally, we each offer a recommendation.
LINKS
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Wire Tap with Jonathan Goldstein: https://bit.ly/2W5pZbz
"Deformed Cow and the Moonlight Deer": https://bit.ly/2Do8OKS
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- Workplace lunch clubs
Matt
- Martin Luther King's "I Have a Dream" speech
- Deadpool
On episode #32 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!
In our followup segment, we talk about new workshop dates and links, an email from a merchant marine, and a girl crush on Elysha.
In our Homework for Life segment, we talk about finding and collecting stories while visiting familiar locations and how some of them could be stories.
Next we listen to Tom Reed Swale's story about love on a college campus.
After listening, we discuss:
- The power of self deprecating humor
- The best places to start stories
- Enhancing the power of surprise in a story
- Capturing mood and tone through inflection
- The hazards of cultural references
- Avoiding the de-activating of your audience's imagination
Next, we answer questions about telling stories that cast people in a negative light and the possibility of two people sharing a stage to tell a story.
Finally, we each offer a recommendation.
LINKS
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
Peter Aguero and Sara Peter's TED Talk:
https://bit.ly/2Ciqgir
She Held My Hand:
https://bit.ly/2TPb5o6
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- Pilot G2 pens (.7 and .38)
- SeeSaw
- Stickers
Matt
- Heavyweight
On episode #31 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!
In our followup segment, we talk about two emails received related to Homework for Life, including a sample of Homework for Life from the 1800's!
Next, we talk about finding and collecting stories in your everyday life using "Homework for Life." We talk about the value of waiting to tell a story, the possibility that you are in the midst of a story, and the way that some stories can stretch across decades.
Next we listen to David Ring's story about a trial, a possible death penalty, and a hit ordered on his life.
After listening, we discuss:
- A great first sentence
- The way that choices about description and learning description in a certain way can help tell the story
- The power of contrast in description
- "Nonfiction" in storytelling
- The appropriate absence of humor in storytelling
- The elimination of "I remember..." from stories
Next, we answer questions about using Homework for Life to recapture recorded memories and the differences between personal narrative storytelling and the telling of folktales, fables, fiction, or informational text.
Finally, we each offer a recommendation.
LINKS
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- Sam and Dave Dig a Hole by Mac Barnett
https://amzn.to/2AzQUTG - Meanwhile by Jules Feiffer
https://amzn.to/2SFZGqv - Cookies by Amy Krouse Rosenthal
https://amzn.to/2RBX1AO - You May Want to Marry My Husband by Amy Krouse Rosenthal
https://nyti.ms/2mNuQg1
Matt
- Born a Crime: Stories of a South African Child
https://amzn.to/2FivM7V - Trevor Noah's "The Brick
https://bit.ly/2NR9XAF
On episode #30 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!
In our followup segment, we talk about upcoming dates (including a workshop in Seattle this summer) and Matt's weekly newsletter.
Next, we talk about finding and collecting stories in your everyday life using "Homework for Life." We talk about fusing a moment of realization onto an ongoing experience to illustrate that realization clearly for an audience.
Next we listen to Chuck Fedolfi's story about his dog, Boo, and the inspiration derived from Boo's struggle.
After listening, we discuss:
- The effective use of time shifts in storytelling
- Getting and keeping a story moving
- Turning a potential anecdote into an actual story
- The power and hazards of ambiguity
- Ways to improve a moment of surprise
Next, we answer questions about the difference between telling stories formally and informally, the ways that Matt's Homework for Life spreadsheet is structured, and the writing of effective storytelling pitches.
Finally, we each offer a recommendation.
LINKS
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- Collect Christmas ornaments commemorating events in your life
Matt
- The Middle: Watch How a Pop Hit Is Made:
https://bit.ly/2rDaAl2
On episode #29 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!
In our followup segment, we talk about an error in a previous podcast, upcoming dates (including a workshop in Seattle this summer), a Pulp Fiction secret, and more.
Next, we talk about finding and collecting stories in your everyday life using "Homework for Life." We talk about the C-A-B-C format for storytelling and how it can be applied to a simple moment with a father and son.
Next we listen to Christina Fedolfi's story about mishaps and adventures while preparing for a big bike race.
After listening, we discuss:
- The effective use of humor in this story in particular
- The B-A b-C format for storytelling
- Creating a mental schema to assist an audience
- The power of setting a scene at all times
- Ways to improve a moment of surprise
Next, we answer questions about storytelling and Homework for Life with children, the gender gap in storytelling, and remembering the details in Homework for Life for the future.
Finally, we each offer a recommendation.
LINKS
New York City Public Library appearance registration
What Was Inside the Glowing Briefcase in Pulp Fiction:
https://bit.ly/2V5AZFs
Momento app: momentoapp.com
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- My Mother Was Nuts by Penny Marshall:
https://amzn.to/2AcwqQU - Spiderman in the Spiderverse
Matt
- How Star Wars Was Saved in the Edit:
https://bit.ly/2LwLWeD
On episode #28 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!
In our followup segment, we talk about upcoming Speak Up events, offer insight on Tasmanian Devils, respond to some listener emails about PTSD, and apologize for failing to record a new episode last week.
Next, we talk about finding and collecting stories in your everyday life using "Homework for Life." We talk about the value of finding "worsts" in your life, then we talk about how to apply perspective to your Homework for Life in an effort to find more stories.
Next we listen to Erica Donahue's story about attending college in rural Virginia as a fish out of water.
After listening, we discuss:
- The effective use of details in a story
- The broadening of stakes
- The power of contrast
- The avoiding of thesis statements
- The value of the slow reveal
Next, we answer questions about effective transitions and how and when to tell stories involving trauma.
Finally, we each offer a recommendation.
LINKS
New York City Public Library appearance registration
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
Your geographic opposite:
www.antipodesmap.com
This Is Going to Suck:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N3J4Q5c1C1w
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- My Name is Yeh: http://mynameisyeh.com
- Epicurious: www.epicurious.com
Matt:
- 52 Things I Learned in 2018: https://bit.ly/2Uez6FS
The combination of Hanukah and an injury (happily not too serious) to our son's foot has made it impossible to record a new episode for you this week, so please enjoy this rebroadcast of one of our most popular episodes ever.
Elysha and I will be back next week with a brand new episode.
Happy Hanukah to all of our Jewish listeners!
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On episode #4 of Speak Up Storytelling, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!
We talk about about finding excellent stories in your everyday life using my strategy "Homework for Life" and the importance of transformation in storytelling.
Then we listen to Sam Carley's story about a challenging bus ride through an Indian desert with the possible girl of his dreams, followed by commentary and critique, including:
- The ideal arc of a story
- Describing human beings in stories
- Limiting unnecessary description
- Advancing time in a story
Next, we answer listener questions and offer recommendations.
LINKS
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Speak Up storytelling: http://speakupstorytelling.com
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
RECOMMENDATIONS
Queer Eye for the Straight Guy:
https://www.netflix.com/title/80160037
Evernote:
https://evernote.com
On episode #27 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling alongside storyteller Kathy Binder.
In our followup segment, we talk about upcoming Speak Up events, respond to listener comments, and offer another shout-out to our fans down under.
Next, we talk about finding and collecting stories in your everyday life using "Homework for Life." We talk about a single word (spoken on episode #26 of this podcast) can amount to a Homework for Life moment, and how that might be used in a story (including how to frame the story)
Next we listen to Kathy Binder's story about breaking down on the Taconic Parkway on a frigid, winter night with a newborn.
After listening, we discuss:
- The effective use of humor in storytelling
- The beauty if a story's imperfection
- Coincidence stories
- The preservation of surprise
- Maintaining important ideas throughout a story
- Nervous as a part of public storytelling and speaking
- The importance of stating stakes early
- Techniques for shortening stories
Next, we answer questions about hints to winning Moth and other competitive storytelling events and the responsibility of the storyteller and the audience.
Finally, we each offer a recommendation.
LINKS
New York City Public Library appearance registration
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
The Robbery: https://bit.ly/2DWczc2
The Promise: https://bit.ly/2zGe4au
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- Ear Hustle: https://www.earhustlesq.com
- Station Eleven: https://amzn.to/2ncRSR6
Matt:
- Shocking Secrets of Food Commercials: https://bit.ly/2rgJOOV
- The Art of Manliness: https://bit.ly/2KOny87
Kathy Binder
- Stay Tuned with Preet: https://n.pr/2FgAY9Q
On episode #26 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!
In our followup segment, we talk about upcoming Speak Up events, respond to listener comments, and offer a shout-out to our fans down under.
Next, we talk about finding and collecting stories in your everyday life using "Homework for Life." We talk about how the moments that we find using Homework for Life might represent the mid-point in a story rather than the end. We also talk about how doing Homework for Life can allow you to examine your life more often and more fully.
Next we listen to Linda Storms' story about running for her life at the ripe old age of six.
After listening, we discuss:
- The power of embodying your former self when telling a story
- The power of the perfect ending to a story
- The spooling out of details slowly to preserve surprise and suspense
- The effects of raising the stakes throughout a story
- The way in which the physical description of a person can say a great deal about that person
- Allowing the beginning and ending of a story to engage in a conversation with each other
- The difference between an episode from our lives and a real moment from our lives
Next, we answer questions about our worst storytelling moments ever and the variety of motivations that bring storytellers to the stage.
Finally, we each offer a recommendation.
LINKS
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter:
http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe
The Robbery: https://bit.ly/2DWczc2
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- The New York Times Modern Love column:
https://nyti.ms/2n8KC8Y - Modern Love - The Podcast:
https://wbur.fm/2GGaSRf - "You May Want to Marry My Husband" by Amy Krouse Rosenthal
https://nyti.ms/2mNuQg1
Matt:
- Oversimplified (Youtube):
https://bit.ly/2yatIvQ
Happy Thanksgiving to all of our listeners in the United States.
Elysha and I are taking the holiday off and rebroadcasting episode #14, which features the joyous story of Renae Edge.
We thought it would be perfect for a Thanksgiving Day listen.
We'll be back next week with a brand new episode.
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On episode #14, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk about finding excellent stories in your everyday life using Matthew's strategy "Homework for Life," including moments that storytellers see but non-storytellers might not.
Then we listen to Renae Edge's story about finding her voice for the first time, followed by commentary and critique, including:
- The effective use of backstory or flashbacks in a story
- The components of an especially effective beginning to a story
- Singing in stories
- Strong feelings about dream sequences
- Specificity of names
Elysha and Matt then answer listener questions about building a story with flashbacks and telling effective best man speeches.
Lastly, Matt and Elysha each offer a recommendation.
LINKS
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
Malcolm Gladwell's "Her Way" (Moth story):
https://bit.ly/1ngfYQp
RECOMMENDATIONS
Elysha: Our family's ice cream adventures -
https://bit.ly/2N0yIa3
Matt: Memento in order -
https://vimeo.com/194394156
On episode #25 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks are joined by storyteller Danielle Dnes to talk storytelling!
In our followup segment, we talk about upcoming Speak Up shows and messages received from around the world.
Next, we talk about finding and collecting stories in your everyday life using "Homework for Life." Danielle recently reached the 100 day mark in her Homework for Life and shared it with Matt and Elysha. We poke through the 100 days to find some stories that Danielle didn't initially see upon first glance.
Then we listen to Jenny Steadman's story about the pressures of playing golf with her grandfather and his pals.
After listening, we discuss:
- Effective character and location descriptions
- Planting seeds early in a story that will sprout later
- The best way to repeat a laugh line throughout a story
- Pacing and pausing
- "The curse of knowledge" in storytelling
Next, we answer questions about a storytelling improv game that we use in workshops and is detailed in Storyworthy. We even play a round to demonstrate.
Finally, we each offer a recommendation.
LINKS
Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne
Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling: https://amzn.to/2RIHR9g
Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com
Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks
RECOMMEDATIONS
Elysha:
- How to Listen to REM's Final Years: https://bit.ly/2zJeAUt
Matt:
- Scriptnotes: The Podcast: http://johnaugust.com/scriptnotes