Raven Narratives

Shane tells the story of his solo backpacking trip in the Verde River canyon of Arizona, and how things got weird, and then even weirder, when law enforcement descended on him. He told his story at the Raven Narratives events in late February and early March 2025 when the theme was “trees - rocks -birds”. Shane escaped Los Angeles at 22 years old, after experiencing the muggle equivalent of a dementor sucking his soul from his body, a.k.a. working in Hollywood. He stuffed everything he owned into a Jeep that doubled as his bedroom, and spent his early twenties surfing couches, floors, RVs, and more, all in the name of living out Kerouac’s unfinished adventure, hoping to break free from the gravitational pull of city life and find a pulse stronger than the 9-to-5. Eventually, he traded in his vagabond shoes for the (slightly) more stable life of a wilderness guide in Durango, Colorado, where he found his people, which led him back to grad school and eventually to his current evolution as a Psychotherapist in

Claudia talks about her mom's challenges and triumphs late in her life, and how birds played an important role in helping her cope with change. She told her story at the Raven Narratives events in late February and early March 2025 when the theme was “trees - rocks - birds”. After growing up in Cortez, Colorado in the 50s and 60s, Claudia moved back after many decades living mostly in Woodland Park, Colorado. She’s happy to be back living under the shadow of Sleeping Ute Mountain, where all her grandparents homesteaded as children in 1910. She’s a long-time passionate educator, teaching children and teens in diverse schools, from her first job in a two room schoolhouse in Costa Rica, to most recently as a Waldorf teacher in Colorado Springs. She has tried to retire so many times her friends joke she has a retirement punch card! Retirement may actually work this time, because she is thrilled to now live near all her family, volunteer in the community, find new creative outlets, and enjoy the splendor of the

Dave describes a friend who made a deep impression on him, and how some friendships can change you forever. He told his story at the Raven Narratives events in late February and early March 2025 when the theme was “trees - rocks -birds”. Dave has been trying to figure it out for a long time. Considering all the thoughts he’s thunk you would think he’s figured it out, but no, he hasn’t. Apparently it’s about quality, not quantity. Dave really loves people but spends most of his time with vegetables, trees, and his incredibly wise dog. He has been called a hermit, and a social butterfly, but when he dies he would prefer to come back as a porpoise, and is glad that has now been put into writing. He is a total sucker for sunset walks, pie, adventures, games, intense carnival rides, and pie. If given three wishes he would wish for peace for everyone, ALL the food to be grown in community gardens, and three more wishes. Join us for two Raven Narratives SLAM storytelling events when the theme will be “mistake

Dave tells the tale of joining an Alaskan fishing crew on a 24-hour halibut run, and how it nearly ruined him. He told his story at the Raven Narratives events in late February and early March 2025 when the theme was “trees - rocks -birds”. Dave is a long-time Durango, Colorado resident who makes his living and spends his free time mostly with activities that begin with the letter “B”, specifically Beer, Bikes, Books, and most recently, Birds. That said, spending time with the B’s takes second fiddle to spending time with his wife, Julie, his daughter, McCartney, and their two dogs, Morgan and Stewie. Together, they also love to grow and cook as much of their own food as possible. Join us for two Raven Narratives SLAM storytelling events when the theme will be “mistakes” on Friday, June 20th, at the Fenceline Cider in Mancos, and on Saturday, June 21st, at the Ska Brewing in Durango. Storytelling SLAM events feature stories told by audience members, so bring your “mistakes” story and you might get a chance

Tamara describes her time in North Africa studying music and dance, and how her experiences there led to a profound personal transformation. She told her story at the Raven Narratives events in late February and early March 2025 when the theme was “trees - rocks - birds”. Tamara is a Colorado-born mountain lover and music anthropologist, and the world's leading expert in an Algerian ritual healing tradition that nobody has ever heard of. From the melodramatic age of five, she was determined to become "a famous composer" which, indeed, materialized into advanced degrees in music composition and writing music for modern dance and film in her twenties. Fed up with studying dead, European White guys (i.e. Beethoven and the like), her rhythmic curiosity led her to study music in West and North Africa where she has spent more than 20 years conducting extensive musical and anthropological fieldwork on both sides of the Sahara Desert with Sufi communities (a branch of transcendental Islam). Now a senior researcher

Lindsay describes her attempts at raising chickens and ducks, and how she had to acquire some new skills in managing her flock. She told her story at the Raven Narratives events in late February and early March 2025 when the theme was “trees - rocks - birds”. Originally from rural eastern Canada, Lindsay has worked professionally in environmental science and accounting, but her heart is in exploring the human experience through process-oriented visual art that uses human bodies as printmaking tools. She is driven by the desire to find and expand the edges of her capacity for… everything. She currently enjoys living in Durango, Colorado with her sassy, smart, and hilarious almost-grown children. She has been affectionately described as half hippie, half redneck. Said description was accompanied by a picture of a lifted VW van. Join us for two Raven Narratives SLAM storytelling events when the theme will be “mistakes” on Friday, June 20th, at the Fenceline Cider in Mancos, and on Saturday, June 21st, at the

Sara describes the childhood adventures she had on her family's property in Northeast Texas, and how those experiences help her see her grown-up world with more openness and possibility. She told her story at the Raven Narratives events in late February and early March 2025 when the theme was “trees - rocks - birds”. Sara grew up in the middle-of-nowhere Northeast Texas where she spent her childhood battling dragons, frolicking with fairies, and generally getting as muddy and grass stained as possible. She escaped to Durango, Colorado for college and has called it home ever since. Sara still loves a good romp in the mud or dirt or grass and you may have seen her out on the trails or walking around with her nose in a book. Although, she might also be hiding at home writing, drawing, baking, napping with her cats or scheming her next chance at playing outside. Join us for two Raven Narratives SLAM storytelling events when the theme will be “mistakes” on Friday, June 20th, at the Fenceline Cider in Mancos, a

Natalie and her partner face a difficult decision that changes them both forever. She told her story at the Raven Narratives events in early October 2024 when the theme was “friendship”. Natalie will always be thrilled to meet people she likes and admires and connects with. She was voted most likely to become the pope by her 8th grade class, which is clearly problematic for so many reasons. Natalie loves naps and she is continually impressed, moved, heartbroken, inspired, delighted, and overwhelmed by this transient fragile beautiful mortal experience. Join us for two Raven Narratives SLAM storytelling events when the theme will be “holidays” on Friday, December 6th, at the Sunflower Theatre in Cortez, and on Saturday, December 7th, at the Durango Arts Center. Storytelling SLAM events feature stories told by audience members, so bring your “holidays” story and you might get a chance to share it on the stage! Follow us on Instagram and on Facebook for the latest information on ticket sales and more.

Amanda describes how a close friend helped her find her place. She told her story at the Raven Narratives events in early October 2024 when the theme was "friendship". Amanda has called many places home, including New Jersey, Germany, Utah, and various parts of Colorado. She currently lives in Mancos and has spent her summer working as a farmhand adapting to the slower pace of life. She hopes to continue building a sense of community by doing what she does best: hosting potlucks, clothing swaps, and enjoying long walks with the dogs. When she's not working you can probably find her playing around with a film camera and gawking at a sunset somewhere. Join us for two Raven Narratives SLAM storytelling events when the theme will be “holidays” on Friday, December 6th, at the Sunflower Theatre in Cortez, and on Saturday, December 7th, at the Durango Arts Center. Storytelling SLAM events feature stories told by audience members, so bring your “holidays” story and you might get a chance to share it on the stage!

Jennifer describes how the "divine masters" pointed her towards finding her true love. She told her story at the Raven Narratives events in early October 2024 when the theme was “friendship”. Jennifer is a shamanic practitioner who has worked as a shamanic healer, teacher, and mentor for over 20 years. She is also a professional singer/songwriter who toured with Jackson Browne. Nature-based healing and music are all good medicine, but she believes that laughter is truly the best medicine. Join us for two Raven Narratives SLAM storytelling events when the theme will be “holidays” on Friday, December 6th, at the Sunflower Theatre in Cortez, and on Saturday, December 7th, at the Durango Arts Center. Storytelling SLAM events feature stories told by audience members, so bring your “holidays” story and you might get a chance to share it on the stage! Follow us on Instagram and on Facebook for the latest information on ticket sales and more.

Chad describes how his best friend from middle school shaped the person he is today. He told his story at the Raven Narratives events in early October 2024 when the theme was “friendship”. Chad considers himself a gangly man that is Durango raised and heaven bound. Although he looks like a combination of Pete Davidson and Steve Buscemi, he's never let his looks hold him back. He often uses comedy to get out of sticky situations, be he still can't get that gum off his shoe. Join us for two Raven Narratives SLAM storytelling events when the theme will be “holidays” on Friday, December 6th, at the Sunflower Theatre in Cortez, and on Saturday, December 7th, at the Durango Arts Center. Storytelling SLAM events feature stories told by audience members, so bring your “holidays” story and you might get a chance to share it on the stage! Follow us on Instagram and on Facebook for the latest information on ticket sales and more.

Ann goes to her first house party with her high school friends. She told her story at the Raven Narratives events in early October 2024 when the theme was “friendship”. Ann is a Native lady figuring out life and career in the desert. She performs regularly as a stand-up comedian in the the Southwest. Wish her luck as she continues her journey to "find the funny" in life's obstacles. Join us for two Raven Narratives SLAM storytelling events when the theme will be “holidays” on Friday, December 6th, at the Sunflower Theatre in Cortez, and on Saturday, December 7th, at the Durango Arts Center. Storytelling SLAM events feature stories told by audience members, so bring your “holidays” story and you might get a chance to share it on the stage! Follow us on Instagram and on Facebook for the latest information on ticket sales and more.

Micheal describes his best friend from college and their attempts to test the boundaries of society. He told his story at the Raven Narratives events in early October 2024 when the theme was “friendship”. Michael is a Fort Lewis College professor and former Mayor of Durango. His free time is spent making music, gardening, backpacking, and spending time with his wife and their chickens. The majority of his life has been one big art project. Join us for two Raven Narratives SLAM storytelling events when the theme will be “holidays” on Friday, December 6th, at the Sunflower Theatre in Cortez, and on Saturday, December 7th, at the Durango Arts Center. Storytelling SLAM events feature stories told by audience members, so bring your “holidays” story and you might get a chance to share it on the stage! Follow us on Instagram and on Facebook for the latest information on ticket sales and more.

Tyler's friends help him take a deeper dive into connection than he ever thought was possible. He told his story at the Raven Narratives events in early October 2024 when the theme was “friendship”. Tyler is a naturalist, herbalist, and medical professional in the four corners region who knows at heart that love and laughter is the best medicine. He has an established meditation practice for 10+ plus years. Tyler's purpose is caring for others and helping them thrive in an ever-changing world. Join us for two Raven Narratives SLAM storytelling events when the theme will be “holidays” on Friday, December 6th, at the Sunflower Theatre in Cortez, and on Saturday, December 7th, at the Durango Arts Center. Storytelling SLAM events feature stories told by audience members, so bring your “holidays” story and you might get a chance to share it on the stage! Follow us on Instagram and on Facebook for the latest information on ticket sales and more.

Tess tells the story of her difficult relationship with her mother and how she ultimately found redemption on a rainy beach in Florida. Tess told her story at the Raven Narratives events in early June 2024 when the theme was “weather”. Tess is a nature steward and a Colorado native. She lives a holistic lifestyle that encompasses eating dark chocolate often and doing whatever creative activity lights up her spirit. You may recognize her when she is dancing to live music, two of her favorite pastimes. Tess is known for the delicious meals and beverages she creates, TESStastic Tonic Mixers, infused with the essential ingredient of love, and singing while she prepares it - a tradition passed on from her great grandmother. She writes on her Facebook page SheWhoScribes about her life experiences to invoke laughter (humor is healing!) and reflection.  Tess finds inspiration through her intuition while wandering in nature.  Join us for the next Raven Narratives live storytelling events when the theme will be “fri

Kelly tells how working as a woman in a wildfire lookout tower changed her. She told her story at the Raven Narratives events in early June 2024 when the theme was “weather”. Kelly joined a wild land fire crew 24 years ago in Oregon, and has been chasing adrenaline for a living, ever since.  Her essay about becoming a wild land firefighter, “Anchor Point,” was featured at the April 2023 GetLit! Festival in Spokane, Washington and was published shortly afterward in the Rumpus. She currently works in wild land fire management at Mesa Verde National Park. Join us for the next Raven Narratives live storytelling events when the theme will be “friendship” on Friday, October 4th, at the Sunflower Theatre in Cortez, and on Saturday, October 5th, at the Durango Arts Center. Follow us on Instagram and on Facebook for the latest information on ticket sales and more.

Shandra tells her story of leaving her family and faith behind so that she can lead a more honest life. She told her story at the Raven Narratives events in early June 2024 when the theme was “weather”. Shandra grew up a religious home schooled kid in the mobile homes of Durango, Colorado and has the skills (and lack thereof) to prove it. She makes her living as a seamstress of bike packing gear and sewing machine whisperer, blames sunshine and tacos for her enjoyment of biking to work, and strongly believes that the kitchen is the most sacred place we have access to. Despite living in fear of being the center of attention, you can find her performing in drag as Bravo, stand-up comedy as herself, and doing an assortment of new public things that just seem terrifying. Join us for the next Raven Narratives live storytelling events when the theme will be “friendship” on Friday, October 4th, at the Sunflower Theatre in Cortez, and on Saturday, October 5th, at the Durango Arts Center. Follow us on Instagram and

Shane describes how he discovered his true place in the world while fishing in the rain in Alaska. He told his story at the Raven Narratives events in early June 2024 when the theme was “weather”. Shane was raised the son of pentecostal preacher. He found his childhood backdrops in Florida, Alaska, North Dakota, Montana and Wyoming. After graduating High School, Shane went to Tennessee for college, acquiring an Associates degree in music. Adulting set in, and for the next 32 years Shane was compliant to social expectations and religious conditioning. All the while feeling displaced and experiencing a strong, innate, pull to return West. Shane’s journey of deconstructing his faith and flipping a proverbial bird to societal expectations landed him in the Four Corners area. You are likely to find him (guitar in tow) singing his songs and telling his story, swinging a hammer, out for a run with his Border Collie, casting a fly rod, or horseback pretending he knows what he’s doing. Shane knew life could be simpl

Chad describes how becoming a new father brought him face-to-face with his ideas of who he was, and what it means to be a father. He told his story at the Raven Narratives events in early June 2024 when the theme was “weather”. Chad has lived his whole life in Colorado. He was born in Denver but his family quickly fled to the forests of Conifer where he was raised. Chad then moved to Durango in 2003 to attend Fort Lewis College and quickly was enamored with the area. Meandering through his 20s in a stereotypical Durango lifestyle he stumbled into local radio and has now been a small town disc jockey for over 12 years. After stretching the limits of part time jobs, roommates, and river tubing weekdays, Chad found love and had to become an adult. After marrying the amazing woman Sarah Kappel they moved to Ignacio and built their home. They filled it with two children: Calvin and Clementine, one dog: Todd Dogg, and one cat: Pro Kitty (she’s a professional cat). To this day Chad will tell you that being in the

Jamie describes a difficult time in her life when she had to navigate depression and the loss of a friend, and how an encounter with turkey vultures helped her see things in a new light. She told her story at the Raven Narratives events in early June 2024 when the theme was “weather”. Jamie grew up in Durango, Colorado and after high school left to study journalism in Northern California. In 2020 she returned home to rediscover a known place. Jamie is one of the creatives behind The Magic City of the Southwest, a local documentary style history podcast about the Four Corners. Join us for the next Raven Narratives live storytelling events when the theme will be “friendship” on Friday, October 4th, at the Sunflower Theatre in Cortez, and on Saturday, October 5th, at the Durango Arts Center. Follow us on Instagram and on Facebook for the latest information on ticket sales and more.