Story Connection: Live Storytelling in Carrboro, NC

In this episode, Sally Scherer-Pinsley, who was born with mild cerebral palsy that affects the use of her right hand, tells an honest, unflinching story about facing discrimination in different phases of her life. She describes the struggle to be quote normal unquote and her journey to understanding internalized ableism.Thanks, as always, for listening.Listen to previous episodes.Sign up to get early access to classes, shows, and events. Get full access to Writing is Joy at writingisjoy.substack.com/subscribe

Today’s storiesThere are two sides to every story, but rarely do we get to see both. Today we get to go behind the curtain and hear intimate takes on a simple object that brought two people together.First up is Terry Casstevens’ story about a casual woodworking project that turned into a quest to engineer the perfect home for baby bluebirds.Then, Rachel Moon tells us about a promising first date that takes a turn when she learns about a nerdy hobby that might just be a dealbreaker.These stories remind us that our first judgments don’t always reflect the truth. Also, they will change the way you think of birdhouses forever.Thanks, as always, for listening.Listen to previous episodes.Sign up to get early access to classes, shows, and events. Get full access to Writing is Joy at writingisjoy.substack.com/subscribe

Today’s stories come from the wild and weird trenches of dating. The first, from Julia F. Green, is about a pencil-hating writer’s search for love. Then, Story Connection alum Victoria Ting returns to the stage and the podcast to tell us about a date at the cemetery where her grandparents are here.Listen to previous episodes.Sign up to get early access to classes, shows, and events. Get full access to Writing is Joy at writingisjoy.substack.com/subscribe

Today’s storiesToday we have two stories about what happens when you pretend to be somebody else. In the first, Hope Wilder describes the thrill of bringing her cosplay skills to a fraternity-sponsored pageant. In the second, forging signatures helps Gena Gerstner discover who she really is.Listen to previous episodes.Sign up to get early access to classes, shows, and events.Storytelling classes: October 28 in Durham; September 25 in Carrboro. Get full access to Writing is Joy at writingisjoy.substack.com/subscribe

Today’s storiesToday, we bring you two stories about being at a crossroads. In the first , Shannon O’Connor describes the joy and sadness of caring for her father in the last weeks of his life. In the second, a chance sidewalk encounter in New York City helps Delia Quigley find her true path.Listen to previous episodes.Sign up to get early access to classes, shows, and events.Fall storytelling classes kick off on September 2nd with our new class in Durham. Registration closes soon, so sign up now!And if you’re more a Carrboro type, class begins at the Artscenter on September 25th. Get full access to Writing is Joy at writingisjoy.substack.com/subscribe

Exciting news: Story Connection will be offering classes in Durham AND Carrboro this fall! Class starts in Durham on September 2, and in Carrboro on September 25th. It’s time to tell your story!Story-curious? Join us for a FREE story Jam on August 19th at the Chapel Hill Public Library. You can tell a story or be a part of the audience. Learn more here.Today we have 2 stories of animal encounters. In the first, Rachel Moon describes a surprise meeting with a not so friendly creature. In the second, Heather Nash describes a chaotic morning with their mischievous tabby cat. We hope you enjoy these fantastic animal tales. Get it—tales?Listen to previous episodes.Sign up to get early access to classes, shows, and events. Get full access to Writing is Joy at writingisjoy.substack.com/subscribe

There are a few spots left in the summer storytelling class, which starts July 1 at the Carrboro ArtsCenter. Sign up now!Today’s stories feature memorable first dates. In the first story, Stephanie Hlavin tells us about making a meaningful connection through an unusual dating site. In the second story, Victoria Ting recounts an epic first date that goes on much longer than planned.Listen to previous episodes.Sign up to get early access to classes, shows, and events. Get full access to Writing is Joy at writingisjoy.substack.com/subscribe

Today, we’ll hear from two storytellers trying to make peace with challenging family relationships. In the first story, Tania Osborn tells us about breaking up with her 100 year old mother.Then, Elaine Ellis explores the impact of her fierce desire to protect her son.Thanks, as always, for listening.Listen to previous episodes.Sign up to get early access to classes, shows, and events.Next Story Connection class starts July 1. Get full access to Writing is Joy at writingisjoy.substack.com/subscribe

Come see Story Connection live this Thursday 5/22 in Carrboro! Tickets & info here.Now, onto the episode!Today’s stories highlight the emotional range of live storytelling. Some stories that fill us with laughter and joy, like the first one from Brandon Simmons about his attempt to reinvent himself during his first months of college. And some stories that move us to tears, like the second one from Hope Wilder about waiting too long to apologize to someone she hurt.Thanks, as always, for listening.Listen to previous episodes.Sign up to get early access to classes, shows, and events. Get full access to Writing is Joy at writingisjoy.substack.com/subscribe

Today, we have two stories full of emotion.In the first one, Denise Stroud Lanser describes the anger and frustration of struggling against age and racial discrimination.Then, Marty Rogers tells a story about familial love and what it takes to earn the title of Dad.Thanks, as always, for listening.Next Story Jam is March 13Story-curious? Story Jams are a casual, fun way to practice storytelling, make new friends, and hear great stories. If you need a pick me up (and who doesn’t these days), come on out!Story JamThursday, March 13, 2025 6:00PM-8:00PMPeel Gallery708 West Rosemary StCarrboro, NCHave fun, make new friends, and hear great stories!* Come at 6:00pm to practice your story in small groups* Come at 6:45 to hear great stories* Prompts will be sent in advance to those who RSVP Get full access to Writing is Joy at writingisjoy.substack.com/subscribe

Today’s stories both explore what it means to truly be yourself. At a time when so many voices are being silenced, these stories are more important than ever. First, Aidan Malsbary shares a story about the summer he began to understand his identity as a trans man.Then we have a story from Kai Hill about learning how to skate, take up space, and feel powerful.Thanks, as always, for listening.Story Connection show on February 13thIf you want to hear more fantastic stories live, get tickets now to the February 13th Story Connection show at the Carrboro ArtsCenter.The mission of Story Connection is to help people find their unique voice and create community through live storytelling performances and classes. Till next time, wishing you a storyworthy week. Get full access to Writing is Joy at writingisjoy.substack.com/subscribe

It’s here, Story Connection, the podcast! This first episode features two fantastic stories told live at the Carrboro ArtsCenter. First up is Daniel Higginbotham’s tale of the mayhem and joy inspired by a pet iguana.Then Amy Ballard shares a hilarious story about the hazards of home renovation.If you’re interested in learning how to tell a great story to an audience, the next class starts January 7th.If you want to hear more fantastic stories live, the next Story Connection show will be February 13th. And stay tuned for more podcast episodes. Wishing you a storyworthy weekend.*The mission of Story Connection is to help people find their unique voice and create community through live storytelling performances and classes. Learn more about at writingisjoy.com/story.Story Connection is generously supported by funding from the Orange County Arts Commission as well as listeners like you. Get full access to Writing is Joy at writingisjoy.substack.com/subscribe