Speak Up Storytelling

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 Holocaus

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 in

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

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 

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

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

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 disappea

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.

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

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

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.m

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

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

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 th

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

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!  _____________________________________ 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/2f9

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

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 Al

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.  ______________________________________________ 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.  La

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 St