On episode #24 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!

In our followup segment, we talk about upcoming Speak Up shows and messages received from around the world. 

Next, we talk about finding and collecting stories in your everyday life using "Homework for Life." We talk about the value of preserving memories for storytelling but also because throwing away memories is something we do every day but later regret.  

Then we listen to Erin Barker's story about finding her love for learning thanks to a man with an axe. 

After listening, we discuss:

1. The effectiveness of a clear story arc
2. The difference between a funny story and a funny story with real heart and meaning
3. The potential humor of specificity
4. The power and inherent strength demonstrated in authentic, honest self-deprecation 
5. Embedding learning within a story
6. Chekov's gun 

Next, we answer questions about starting stories with the word "So" and the economics of storytelling. 

Finally, we each offer a recommendation.  

LINKS

Homework for Life: https://bit.ly/2f9ZPne

Matthew Dicks's website: http://www.matthewdicks.com

Matthew Dicks's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/matthewjohndicks 

Lexicon Valley's episode on the increasingly common use of the word "so" and how it's use has change today:
https://bit.ly/1GmKTao

RECOMMEDATIONS

Elysha:

• Take 5 candy bar
• Pilot's Frixion Erasable Marker:
  https://amzn.to/2qshwAB

Matt:

• Clare Johnson's Post-it Note Project:
  https://bit.ly/2qvtZ6t