Co-Created

Can storytelling help heal trauma? Hear Natasha (Tash) Bilau-Howie's transformative journey from an ER nurse to a brain tumour survivor, and how digital storytelling became a part of it all. Her involvement with the Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada and subsequent participation in a storytelling workshop under Mike Lang's guidance helped her navigate a path from patient to storyteller. Tash opens up about the therapeutic power of revisiting her experiences, making connections with other survivors, and sharing her story with the world, offering hope and a sense of community to others facing similar challenges.

The episode takes a closer look at the emotional landscape of personal storytelling. Tash recounts the poignant transition from caregiver to patient, sharing the profound impact of narrating her life-altering diagnosis to family and colleagues. Despite the emotion associated with revisiting these memories, she emphasizes the cathartic release and solidarity gained from telling her story. Tash's narrative is an invitation for others to find strength in their stories.

Episode Key Messages

• Tash's introduction and her journey of being diagnosed with a brain tumor

• The importance of community and connection in the storytelling process

• Navigating trauma and vulnerability while creating her digital story

• The emotional experience of screening her story in various settings

• Emphasizing the shared human experience through storytelling

• Finding joy and meaning amid adversity

• The therapeutic aspects of digital storytelling and personal growth

• Encouragement for others to embrace their stories and seek healing through sharing

Other Links Mentioned

• Watch Tash's digital story, In Their Eyes
• Read this episode's blog post
• Watch the Looking Back video about Ep 23 with Dr. Daisy Dulay

Connect with Tash Bilau-Howie on Instagram.

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What if storytelling could be more than just a means of communication? Mike Wilson, the insightful Director of the Storytelling Academy at Loughborough University, unveils the transformative power of storytelling as a vital system of knowledge. From his journey in community theatre to shaping academia, Mike shares how narratives have the potential to address global issues like environmental challenges, health, and social justice, while also empowering creativity across various fields. This episode promises to change the way you think about stories and their impact on our world.

Curiosity and collaboration are at the heart of our discussion as we delve into the dynamic world of interdisciplinary storytelling programs. With a diverse range of students, we explore how these programs foster unique learning experiences and promote cross-disciplinary innovation. Hear firsthand about the integration of storytelling in Becky McCall's PhD research on antimicrobial resistance and gain valuable advice on launching storytelling initiatives in your institution. This episode is a call to embrace curiosity and the rich potential of learning from diverse fields to create meaningful change.

Episode Key Messages

• Storytelling as a foundational knowledge system

• Importance of experiential knowledge in communication

• Impact of storytelling on community and identity

• Interdisciplinary collaborations enhancing storytelling efforts

• Role of digital storytelling as a reflective practice

• Training facilitators for effective storytelling workshops

• Ecosystem of stories promoting collective understanding and action

Other Links Mentioned

• Join the International Community of Practice
• Read this episode's blog post
• Watch the Ep 22 Looking Back video with Mike Lang & Kristy Wolfe

Connect with Mike Wilson here.

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Join us as we pull back the curtain on the inaugural Common Language Story Slam, taking place at cSpace in Calgary, Alberta on March 2nd, 2025. Born from the success of our Kickstarter campaign, this festival is more than just storytelling—intertwines personal narratives with charitable causes. With twelve stories to be shared, the event promotes community connection, engagement, and awareness of the important work done by 12 different Canadian organizations.

The Story Slam is a testament to the power of teamwork, featuring powerful narratives shared by storytellers and Common Language facilitators about causes that are close to their hearts. We also delve into digital storytelling's role in advocacy, showcasing how these narratives serve as a compelling tool for charities to communicate their missions promising a day filled with stories that inspire and ignite hope.

Even if you missed the Kickstarter, you can still be part of this transformative experience by getting your tickets for either the online or in person event. Attendees will leave feeling invigorated, having witnessed stories that echo resilience and strength. It's also a golden opportunity to connect with past podcast guests and meet new faces from the Co-Created community!

Episode Key Messages

• Launching on March 2 in Calgary, the Story Slam features twelve impactful stories

• Funded by a successful Kickstarter campaign, highlighting community support

• Charitable organizations associated with each story, connecting personal narratives to social impact

• Hybrid format includes live streaming, expanding accessibility

• Conversations after stories foster community dialogue and connection

• Inclusive approach emphasizes shared experiences and collective wisdom

• Opportunity for storytellers to advocate for causes important to them

• Story Slam aims to inspire attendees through transformative storytelling experiences

Other Links Mentioned

• Get your tickets here!
• Learn more about which charities are receiving stories
• Read this episode's blog post

If this particular conversation resonated with you, tell a friend or a colleague about Co-Created or share the link to join us for the Story Slam.

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Discover the transformative potential of digital storytelling in tackling social stigma with the inspiring Carmen Logie. In this enlightening episode, Carmen shares her extensive work across East Africa and Canada, where storytelling is not just a tool but a movement that brings marginalized communities to the forefront. By crafting shared narratives, we're uncovering the powerful intersection of HIV projects and climate change initiatives, particularly through the eyes and voices of young people in Kenya and Uganda. This dialogue is not just about sharing stories but about empowering communities to find their voices and drive change from within.

Our conversation goes beyond storytelling to explore how these narratives fuel empowerment and advocacy. Our conversation dives into the collaborative process that allows young people to craft solutions and friendships amid challenging contexts. These youths are not just learning about climate change and HIV; they're becoming skilled storytellers, illuminating their own realities and creating impactful collective narratives. We're talking about more than challenges; we're highlighting the resilience and ingenuity that these young storytellers bring to the table.

Episode Key Messages

• Carmen Logie's background in stigma research and HIV advocacy

• The significance of digital storytelling in marginalized communities

• Carmen's first experience with digital storytelling and its lasting impact

• Overview of the digital storytelling workshop conducted in Kenya

• Methods used in storytelling workshops to engage participants

• The emotional and educational aspects of storytelling in stigma discussions

• The technology and creative processes involved in digital storytelling

• Importance of sharing stories back with communities for reflection and feedback

• Carmen’s vision for future storytelling projects and advocacy efforts

Other Links Mentioned

• Learn more about Carmen's work through this music video example and SSHINE Labs
• Listen to Carmen's podcast, Let's Talk About Stigma
• Read this episode's blog post
• Watch the Common Language Uganda Documentary, A Shared Dream

Connect with Carmen Logie here.

If this particular conversation resonated with you, tell a friend or a colleague about Co-Created or share one of the digital stories we were talking about. You can find the stories here.

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What if the key to transforming public health communication lies in the art of storytelling? Join us as we explore this intriguing idea with Becky McCall, a seasoned medical journalist and a PhD candidate at University College London. Becky shares her unique journey from microbiology to medical journalism and reveals how digital storytelling can make complex health issues like antibiotic resistance more accessible. Inspired by historical narratives and equipped with insights from her experiences at the International Digital Storytelling Festival, Becky offers a fresh perspective on the importance of narrative in public health.

Becky isn't on this journey alone; she collaborates with her supervisor, Mike Wilson from the University of Loughborough, and learns from influential partners such as Common Language DST. Becky has co-created impactful stories like "False Peak" and "Stiletto" a narrative that highlights the emotional depth of a young woman's struggle with stage four bowel cancer. Through these stories, we witness the power of co-creation and empathy-building that digital storytelling fosters, particularly in personal and academic contexts. The episode underscores the potential of storytelling to bridge gaps and create understanding across diverse health experiences. Tune in for a compelling exploration of how personal stories can inspire change and shape the future of public health communication.

Episode Key Messages

• Introduces Becky McCall, medical journalist and researcher

• Discusses the journey from microbiology to public health

• Highlights the global challenge of antibiotic resistance

• Emphasizes the power of personal narratives in storytelling

• Shares the importance of collaborating with patient organizations

• Presents stories that illustrate the human toll of antibiotic misuse

• Explores the role of stigma in health communication

• Discusses future directions for storytelling in public health

• Calls for greater public engagement through shared narratives

Other Links Mentioned

• Watch more digital stories through the StoryBug website
• Read this episode's blog post
• Watch the Ep 10 Looking Back video with Mike Lang & Kristy Wolfe

Connect with Becky McCall here.

If this particular conversation resonated with you, tell a friend or a colleague about Co-Created or share one of the digital stories we were talking about. You can find the stories here.

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Imagine a world where you can transform your profound life experiences into powerful narratives that resonate with others. That's exactly what we explore with guest, Bobbi Fridfinnson, from Wellspring Alberta, a charity that supports individuals with cancer and their caregivers through a variety of programs, including digital storytelling workshops. These workshops, originally spearheaded by Mike Lang, have blossomed into a vital space for participants to share their stories and foster a sense of community through the power of voiceover narration and personal imagery.

We dive into the transformation of Wellspring’s digital storytelling program, now an eight-week immersive experience led by Melody Williamson. We spotlight poignant tales like Natalie's Story, where the adversity of a cancer diagnosis intertwines with the opportunities to engage with youth. These workshops aren't just about creating stories; they're about creating connections. During our conversation, we bring to light the touching group camaraderie that emerges during final screenings. This sense of achievement and solidarity proves that storytelling is not just a creative outlet but a therapeutic lifeline for many.

We also delve into how these narratives leap beyond workshops into broader platforms like film festivals, offering a richer experience than simply viewing stories online. By distilling complex life experiences into concise narratives, participants share profound insights and spark meaningful dialogue. This episode affirms the transformative power of storytelling as a tool for healing and connection, reminding us all of the impact that sharing our truths can have on the world.

Top 5 Key Messages

1. What is Wellspring Alberta? (0:56)

2. Digital Storytelling at Wellspring (3:37)

3. Impact of Digital Storytelling (8:25)

4. Community and Diversity in Workshops (15:48)

5. Wellspring's Film Festival (16:59)

Other Links Mentioned

• Watch more digital stories from Wellspring members
• Explore writing & storytelling programs at Wellspring
• Read this episode's blog post
• Watch the Ep 19 Looking Back video with Mike Lang & Kristy Wolfe

Connect with Bobbi Fridfinnson here.

If this particular conversation resonated with you, tell a friend or a colleague about Co-Created or share one of the digital stories we were talking about. You can find the stories here.

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Join us on an inspiring exploration of digital storytelling with Burcu Şimşek, an associate professor from Hacettepe University and the visionary behind the Digital Story Hub. Burcu shares her innovative approach to amplifying women's voices through digital storytelling, drawing on her extensive research and passion for gender issues. Discover how her journey began with a PhD thesis that reimagined consciousness-raising meetings for the digital age and how this transformative tool is now empowering women across Turkey. As we navigate through Burcu's journey, we uncover the profound impact digital storytelling has across various fields, from education to medicine, revealing its power to foster empathy and understanding.

But the journey doesn’t stop there. We delve into the emotional depth of storytelling, featuring insights from the 1st International Digital Storytelling Festival. Experience the unique collaboration and emotional connections forged through this creative process, where participants visually express their innermost emotions and build profound bonds through shared experiences. Learn how these stories are not just narratives but bridges that connect diverse perspectives proving that storytelling is not just about telling tales—it's about transforming lives.

Top 5 Key Messages

1. Meet Burcu Şimşek (1:12)
2. How Burcu Caught the Digital Storytelling Bug (5:37)
3. Impact of Digital Storytelling on Education and Empathy (14:39)
4. Community and Collaboration in Digital Storytelling (20:15)
5. Future Aspirations and Reflection (25:17)

Other Links Mentioned

• Read Burcu's publications
• Watch a digital story by Burcu and Şengül 
• Check out the book Burcu mentioned Story Circle: Digital Storytelling Around the World
• Read this episode's blog post
• Watch the Ep 2 Looking Back video with Mike Lang & Kristy Wolfe

Connect with Burcu Şimşek and read her full bio here.

If this particular conversation resonated with you, tell a friend or a colleague about Co-Created or share one of the digital stories we were talking about. You can find the stories here.

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What if we could shift the narrative around childhood disabilities to focus on strengths and possibilities? Join us as we explore this transformative idea with Dr. Peter Rosenbaum, co-founder of the CanChild Centre for Childhood-Onset Disability Research. Peter takes us on his inspiring journey from the early days of developmental pediatrics to a revolutionary approach that celebrates the unique abilities of every child. Discover how digital storytelling is changing the way we communicate complex ideas, using metaphors and creative expressions to foster a more inclusive and empowering perspective for society and medical practice.

Through his digital story and this conversation, we traced the rich history and innovative partnerships that define CanChild's groundbreaking work, initiated back in 1988. Learn how the collaboration between researchers and community-based programs has thrived over 35 years, meeting real-world needs with impactful research and creative digital storytelling. Through this collaboration, we explore the "F words of Childhood Disability," a pioneering framework that has influenced similar initiatives on a global scale. Peter shares insights into the cultural adaptations and family empowerment that are reshaping how we understand childhood disability, emphasizing the importance of tailoring these ideas to fit different cultural contexts.

Top 5 Key Messages

1. The Shift in Thinking about Disabilities 3:52
2. The Collaborative Creation of CanChild 6:49
3. Family-Centred Care and the Importance of Parenting 16:38
4. Digital Storytelling and Audience Engagement 24:29
5. Empowering Families and Redefining Success 27:39

Other Links Mentioned

• Watch CanChild: 35 Years of Making a Difference
• Read a recent article, Perspectives in childhood-onset disabilities: integrating 21st-Century concepts to expand our horizons
• Read this episode's blog post
• Listen to a related Co-Created episode with Peter's colleague, Sara Pot
• Watch the Kickstarter Conversation with Mike Lang & Kristy Wolfe
• Back the Common Language Story Slam Kickstarter

Connect with Dr. Peter Rosenbaum and read his full bio here.

If this particular conversation resonated with you, tell a friend or a colleague about Co-Created or share one of the digital stories we were talking about. You can find the stories here.

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Ever wondered how community support can bring creative projects to life? We dive into the mechanics behind organizing an impactful story slam event through the Common Language Kickstarter campaign, emphasizing the crucial role of the all-or-nothing funding model. Discover how you can be part of this inspiring movement, whether by attending, sponsoring, or spreading the word. The stories shared at our event have the potential to not only resonate with audiences but also inspire action towards causes that matter deeply.

Mike Lang shares the incredible experiences had at the International Digital Storytelling Festival in Zakynthos, Greece. From a surgeon's eye-opening revelation about the power of storytelling in healthcare to the art of connecting with global storytellers, this episode captures the magic of narratives that transcend academic boundaries.

Unveil the heart of storytelling within the charitable sector as we discuss sharing stories of the work being done by non-profits across Canada. With a push towards a successful Kickstarter campaign by November 30, 2024, we strive to engage more communities in this powerful journey. Watch the Kickstarter pitch video here.

Top 5 Key Messages

1. Story Slam Vision and Format 5:31
2. Charitable Impact Through Digital Stories 7:50
3. Kickstarter Funding is Essential 10:22
4. Ticket and Sponsorship Options 10:48
5. Inspiring Audience Engagement and Action 14:00

Back the Story Slam Kickstarter Here

If this particular conversation resonated with you, tell a friend or a colleague about Co-Created or share one of the digital stories we were talking about. You can find the stories here.

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Rebecca Saah's journey into digital storytelling is as compelling as the stories she helps others tell. Join us as Rebecca discusses her work at the University of Calgary and the influence of Common Language DST on her research, particularly in cannabis harm reduction with young adults. Her insights into using storytelling to navigate the pressures of academia are both inspiring and relatable.

This conversation navigates the intricate world of digital storytelling workshops, highlighting the unexpected challenges that can arise, but also the importance of adaptability and support. We explore the technical versus executive roles in these projects and how understanding one's own strengths can make a significant difference. From Kitchen Table Nights to Science in the Cinema, learn about the exciting events where digital stories come to life, offering unique opportunities for engagement with youth-focused initiatives.

The episode underscores the transformative power of personal stories in policy advocacy and education. We reflect on the nostalgic impact of shows like Degrassi Junior High and the pressing concerns around defunding harm reduction in Alberta. Rebecca and Kristy stress the critical need to amplify youth voices, particularly in discussions surrounding cannabis legalization and educational policies.

Top 5 Key Messages

1. Rebecca’s Focus on Health Inequities 1:29 
2. DST Project on Cannabis Harm Reduction 6:20 
3. Youth and DST Competency 14:51 
4. Adapting to Personal Strengths in DST Facilitation 17:16
5. The Power of Youth Voices in Policy Discussions 27:18

Other Links Mentioned

• Learn more about the Cannabis Harm Reduction Project
• Finding Myself on the Mat - A digital story by Rebecca
• Watch the digital story from Expecting to Quit Project of the BC Centre of Excellence for Women's Health
• Trace 5 Study
• Read this episode's blog post
• Watch the Ep 20 Looking Back video with Mike Lang & Kristy Wolfe

Connect with Rebecca through her website, rebeccasaah.com.

If this particular conversation resonated with you, tell a friend or a colleague about Co-Created or share one of the digital stories we were talking about. You can find the stories here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.