Trauma-Informed Storytelling with Maria Bryan

Have you ever sat through a nonprofit fundraising gala and felt your stomach drop as the lights dimmed for yet another emotionally devastating video? You're not alone. And according to trauma-informed storyteller Maria Bryan, there's a better way.In this powerful episode of A Trauma-Informed Feature, host Katie Kurtz sits down with Maria Bryan to unpack the often-overlooked harm happening in nonprofit storytelling. From the marketing director gathering stories to the donor watching from the audience, everyone in what Maria calls the "storytelling ecosystem" deserves consideration.As nonprofits face funding challenges, story extraction isn't just harmful—it's unsustainable. This conversation offers a path forward that honors both story and humanity.Learn more about Maria:Maria Bryan is a trauma-informed storytelling trainer. She is the host of the When Bearing Witness® podcast and facilitates the When Bearing Witness® Trauma-Informed Storytelling Certification Program.Maria’s work helps nonprofit leaders tell powerful and impactful stories that resist harm. Over the past 15+ years in the nonprofit and public sector, Maria has trained thousands globally in person and virtually—focusing on trauma-informed storytelling and purpose-driven marketing.Her learning lineage spans a Master's Degree in Public Administration, a Bachelor's Degree in Journalism, and professional certifications in Trauma & Resilience, Trauma-Informed Space Holding, Trauma-Informed Coaching, and Somatic Embodiment and Regulation.Maria is a firm believer that storytellers make the world a healthier, safer, cleaner, and happier place.Connect with Maria:Website: https://www.mariabryan.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariabryancrtv/ Say ‘hello’ on Instagram or LinkedInCatch up on podcast episodesFREE Guide: Talking Through Turbulent TimesBook a 90 minute Strategy Session with Katie Get certified + create a sustainable practice with TRUST™ Works Interested in a keynote or consulting? Connect with Katie!