24. Second Chances: How Guided Autobiography Transforms Life Stories Into Published Legacies

Send us Fan MailEpisode Description:Ever wonder what happens to your life stories after you write them? What if they could become part of a published book shared with readers around the world?Join host Lisa Joworski for an inspiring conversation with Dr. Cheryl Svensson and Sarah White from the Birren Center for Autobiographical Studies as they discuss the newly released anthology "Second Chances: Lives Change One Story at a Time" and the transformative power of Guided Autobiography.In This Episode You'll Discover:• How guided autobiography differs from traditional memoir writing and why it's accessible to everyone • The story behind the "Second Chances" anthology and the remarkable personal narratives it contains • How students and instructors can submit their stories to upcoming anthologies (including "Moments That Shape Us" - deadline April 30th!) • Practical tips for interviewing older adults and creating space for meaningful storytelling • The research-backed benefits of guided autobiography for personal growth and legacy preservation • How the Birren Center has trained over 800 instructors in 35 countriesAbout Our Guests:Dr. Cheryl Svensson has been with guided autobiography for more than 25 years, training instructors online since 2009. As founding director of the Birren Center, she's helped build a global community of storytellers.Sarah White is the Executive Director of the Birren Center for Autobiographical Studies. A former marketing entrepreneur, Sarah discovered guided autobiography during a midlife transition and found her calling in helping others write and share their life stories.Resources Mentioned:• "Second Chances: Lives Change One Story at a Time" anthology (available on Amazon) • Birren Center Instructor Locator: Find a guided autobiography class near you • Upcoming anthology: "Moments That Shape Us" (submissions close April 30th or at 100 entries) • Episode 15: Cheryl's first appearance on the podcastPerfect For: Anyone interested in life story work, aspiring writers, guided autobiography students and instructors, family caregivers, and those seeking meaningful ways to preserve their legacy.Connect With Lisa: Email: [email protected] you for listening!Do you have a question or a topic related to "capturing essence for care" that you would like discussed on the podcast?  Email:  [email protected] use the "Send us Fan Mail" link at the top of the Episode Description to text the show!Interested in learning more?  Check out my Etsy ShopVisit my YouTube channel or websiteIntro and outro music with thanks:  Upbeat and Sweet No Strings by Musictown Lisa brings over 25 years of experience working in healthcare settings with older adults. The perspectives shared on this podcast are her own and do not represent the views of any past or current employer. Patient/resident stories are shared only with explicit permission or as anonymized composites for educational purposes.