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    Arts

    Speak Up Storytelling

    Learn to tell better stories from the producers of Speak Up, a Hartford-based storytelling organization. Bestselling author, 53-time Moth StorySLAM champion, and 7-time GrandSLAM champion Matthew Dicks partners with his wife, Elysha Dicks, to share stories recorded from years of Speak Up shows. More importantly, they offer tips, feedback, strategies, and advice on these stories, all in an effort to help you tell your best stories.

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    Latest Episodes:
    Ted Zablotsky: "A Salad and Three Dinner Rolls" Mar 25, 2019
    Show notes

    On episode #42 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!

    In our followup segment, we read a heartwarming email from a listener about Homework for Life and our new favorite review from a listener.

    ALSO, UPCOMING SHOWS:

    March 30: "Courage" at Real Art Ways April 14: "Voices of Hope" at the Mandell JJ, West Hartford, CT April 27: "Put Me in Coach: Stories of Athletic Endeavors" at CHS May 18: Speak Up Storytelling: Live podcast recording at CHS June 8: "Nature Calls: Stories of the Outdoors" at Infinity Hall August 17: Solo storytelling show, Taproot Theater, Seattle, WA

    In our Homework for Life segment, we talk about how storyworthy moments can often be identified by finding moments in our lives that cause us to ask big questions and express controversial ideas.

    Next we listen to Ted Zablotsky's Voices of Hope story about returning to his father's hometown decades after the Holocaust.

    Voices of Hope is an organization dedicated to preserving the stories of the Holocaust, and we partner with this organization to help the children and grandchildren of Holocaust survivors tell their stories.

    After listening, we discuss:

    1. Telling stories about other people through the lens of your own story
    2. The effectiveness of telling your story in scenes
    3. The power of a subtle ending
    4. Remaining within the moment of a story at all times and not projecting forward

    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

    Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter: http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe

    Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter: http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up

    STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2019

    May 4: Storytelling workshop (beginner), CT Historical Society May 18: Storytelling workshop (advanced), CT Historical Society June 1: Storytelling workshop (master class), CT Historical Society July 29-August 2: Storytelling bootcamp, CT Historical Society August 17: Storytelling workshop, Taproot Theater, Seattle, WA October 25-27: Storytelling workshop, Kripalu Center for Yoga and Heath December 6-8: Storytelling workshop, Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health

    RECOMMEDATIONS

    Elysha:

    • Spotify's "Bluegrass Covers" playlist

    Matt:

    • Aaron Sorkin's Masterclass


    Tom Ouimet: "Secret in My Pants" Mar 18, 2019
    Show notes

    On episode #41 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!

    In our followup segment, we congratulate friend of the podcast Robin Gelfenbien on her recent (and momentous) Moth StorySLAM victory. Robin is the producer and host of Yum's the Word, an award-winning NYC storytelling show and podcast:

    http://www.yumsthewordshow.com

    Next, we pass on AirTable, a Homework for Life suggestion from a listener:

    https://airtable.com https://vimeo.com/album/3513053/format:detail

    ALSO, UPCOMING SHOWS:

    March 30: "Courage" at Real Art Ways April 14: "Voices of Hope" at the Mandell JJ, West Hartford, CT April 27: "Put Me in Coach: Stories of Athletic Endeavors" at CHS May 18: Speak Up Storytelling: Live podcast recording at CHS June 8: "Nature Calls: Stories of the Outdoors" at Infinity Hall August 17: Solo storytelling show, Taproot Theater, Seattle, WA

    In our Homework for Life segment, we talk about the challenge of tell a hero story when the act of heroism is not all that impressive or interesting.

    Next we listen to Tom Ouimet's story about a secret in his pants.

    After listening, we discuss:

    1. The exceptional layering and efficiency of the story
    2. The strategic use of pauses and silence to enhance humor
    3. The importance of choice and consistency when it comes to the perspective adopted by the storyteller
    4. The escalation of stakes
    5. Making choices consistent with the tone and theme of a story

    Next, we answer questions about critiquing stories and telling stories from a third person perspective.

    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

    Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter: http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe

    Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter: http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up

    STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2019

    May 4: Storytelling workshop (beginner), CT Historical Society May 18: Storytelling workshop (advanced), CT Historical Society June 1: Storytelling workshop (master class), CT Historical Society July 29-August 2: Storytelling bootcamp, CT Historical Society August 17: Storytelling workshop, Taproot Theater, Seattle, WA October 25-27: Storytelling workshop, Kripalu Center for Yoga and Heath December 6-8: Storytelling workshop, Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health

    RECOMMEDATIONS

    Elysha:

    • www.designmom.com

    Matt:

    • 'The Middle': Watch How a Pop Hit Is Made | NYT - Diary of a Song


    John Smith-Horn: "A Visitor and Some Cookies" Mar 11, 2019
    Show notes

    On episode #40 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling.

    In our followup segment, we announce our first LIVE PODCAST RECORDING!

    May 18: CT Historical Society. Tickets just $5. All proceeds go to the CT Historical Society.

    Purchase here: https://chs.org/event/speak-up-podcast-live

    ALSO, UPCOMING SHOWS:

    March 16: "Exposed: Lies, Secrets, and Indiscretions Revealed" at Space Ballroom

    March 30: "Courage" at Real Art Ways

    We also discuss a listener's suggestion regarding pausing at the very end of a story (as well as some of our strategies to get yourself ready to tell your story) and another listener's suggestion of the Day One app for Homework for Life:

    https://dayoneapp.com

    In our Homework for Life segment, we talk about the need for storytellers to keep their eyes opened for moments of transformation and realization in their own lives (however small they may seem) in order to find new stories to tell.

    Next we listen to John Smith-Horn's story about making cookies.

    After listening, we discuss:

    1. The components of a perfect beginning to a story
    2. The power of effective vocal modulation
    3. Telling the story from the perspective (and maintaining that perspective) of your former self
    4. The way that small stories that say many things (and important, meaningful things)
    5. Revealing the secrets and suspense in a story by spooling out the moment and allowing the audience to bear witness to the unveiling

    Next, we answer questions about finding themes in storytelling, maintaining audience interest in less formal storytelling settings, and the struggle to find stories on every single day of your life.

    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

    Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter: http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe

    Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter: http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up

    STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2019

    STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2019

    May 4: Storytelling workshop (beginner), CT Historical Society May 18: Storytelling workshop (advanced), CT Historical Society June 1: Storytelling workshop (master class), CT Historical Society July 29-August 2: Storytelling bootcamp, CT Historical Society August 17: Storytelling workshop, Taproot Theater, Seattle, WA October 25-27: Storytelling workshop, Kripalu Center for Yoga and Heath December 6-8: Storytelling workshop, Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health

    RECOMMEDATIONS

    Elysha:

    • Hallmark's Recordable StoryBooks

    Matt:

    • Conversations with the disabled

    Matthew Dicks: "Trio" Mar 04, 2019
    Show notes

    On episode #39 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew Dicks talks storytelling!

    With report cards and parent-teacher conferences filling Elysha's week, she takes some time off from the podcast, shifting our format again. I'm going it alone this week. Rather than posting a re-run, we have some exciting new content for you.

    Hope you enjoy!

    In our follow up segment, Elysha and I talk about the cover release of my new novel Twenty-one Truths About Love, which you can see here in the show notes.

    Then, instead of listening and critiquing a new story, I play three of my stories (chosen for a specific reason) with some commentary about the crafting of each.

    After listening, I discuss:

    1. The variety of chronological formats available to storytellers
    2. When to choose a specific chronological format for a story
    3. The strategies used to preserve and enhance surprise in a story

    LINKS

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

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

    Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter: http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe

    Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter: http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up

    Speak Up at Space Ballroom on March 16: Exposed: Lies, Secrets, and Indiscretions Revealed

    STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2019

    May 4: Storytelling workshop (beginner), CT Historical Society May 18: Storytelling workshop (advanced), CT Historical Society June 1: Storytelling workshop (master class), CT Historical Society July 29-August 2: Storytelling bootcamp, CT Historical Society August 17: Storytelling workshop, Taproot Theater, Seattle, WA October 25-27: Storytelling workshop, Kripalu Center for Yoga and Heath December 6-8: Storytelling workshop, Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health


    Lauren Doninger: "The Expert" Feb 25, 2019
    Show notes

    On episode #38 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling.

    In our followup segment, we talk about upcoming shows and workshops and offer a shout-out to a listener who we recently met IRL!

    In our Homework for Life segment, we talk about four entries in Matt's Homework for Life, and how when combined, they can tell a complete story. We also talk about the value of saying things that other may think but not often speak aloud, and how even when presenting yourself in a less-than-positive light, a storyteller can get an audience on their side.

    Next we listen to Lauren Doninger's story about her son's illness and her fight to be heard.

    After listening, we discuss:

    1. The weaving of details throughout a story rather than piling them at the top
    2. Connecting character details to plot points to allow them to feel seamlessly integrated into the story
    3. Effective ways of teaching our audience about content needed to understand our stories (without bringing the story to a halt)
    4. Effective summarizing within a story
    5. Revealing information (and a surprise) by remaining in the moment
    6. Activating imagination at the top of a story
    7. Injecting humor into the beginning of a story
    8. Identifying and fully developing critical scenes in a story

    Next, we answer questions about titling stories and turning a negative moment into a positive moment.

    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

    Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter: http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe

    Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter: http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up

    Speak Up at Space Ballroom on March 3: Exposed: Lies, Secrets, and Indiscretions Revealed

    STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS 2019

    May 4: Storytelling workshop (beginner), CT Historical Society May 18: Storytelling workshop (advanced), CT Historical Society June 1: Storytelling workshop (master class), CT Historical Society July 29-August 2: Storytelling bootcamp, CT Historical Society August 17: Storytelling workshop, Taproot Theater, Seattle, WA October 25-27: Storytelling workshop, Kripalu Center for Yoga and Heath December 6-8: Storytelling workshop, Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health

    RECOMMEDATIONS

    Elysha:

    • Westworld on HBO

    Matt:

    • Maeve in America by Maeve Higgins

    Steve Brouse: "Everything Happens for a Reason" Feb 18, 2019
    Show notes

    On episode #37 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling along with storyteller and guest host Steve Brouse!

    In our followup segment, we talk about how a listener is using Homework for Life to remain in communication with his son, who is completing basic training. We also review listener feedback on the epic debate over the description of telepathy in Maire Greene's story.

    In our Homework for Life segment, we talk about turning an unexpected snowball fight into a story that pushes back against conventional norms, and Steve Brouse shares his Homework for Life moment, combining two moments into a single idea for a story.

    Next we listen to Steve Brouse's story of a missed phone call and all that happened because of it.

    After listening, we discuss:

    1. The value of opening windows into worlds we might not otherwise ever see
    2. Effective ways of teaching our audience about content needed to understand our stories (without bringing the story to a halt)
    3. When and how to use humor effectively in a story
    4. The way in which the crafting of a story can also be a discovery process for the storyteller
    5. Managing emotions during the telling of a story
    6. Identifying and fully developing critical scenes in a story

    Next, we answer a question about teaching storytelling to children.

    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

    Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter: http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe

    Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter: http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up

    RECOMMEDATIONS

    Elysha:

    • Crashing on HBO

    Matt:

    • Commissioning portraits of meaningful places for loved ones (via Etsy)

    Steve:

    • Puzzles comprised of family photos (via Shutterfly)

    Maire Green: "Grave Shopping" Feb 11, 2019
    Show notes

    On episode #35 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!

    In our followup segment, we talk about the confusion between Tom of Brisbane and Tom of Long Island. We also discuss the origin of "telling stories from scars and not wounds" as well as advice on handling our explicit episodes of the podcast.

    We also announce our Seattle ticketing for this summer's workshop and performance.

    In our Homework for Life segment, we talk about finding memories from the past through Homework for Life. We also discuss list-making in storytelling and the importance of having many options when making choices.

    Next we listen to Maire Greene's story about grave shopping.

    After listening, we discuss:

    1. Subtlety in storytelling
    2. The power of bringing an audience into a new world

    3. Small sentences that build stakes and momentum in a story.
    4. Accessibility of the story (Elysha and Matt disagree like never before!)

    5. Reminding the audience of key characters and plot points if they have disappeared for any length of time

    Next, we answer questions about displaying visuals during talks and additional outlets for storytelling.

    Finally, we each offer a recommendation.

    LINKS

    Harry Belafonte on The Muppets

    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

    Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter: http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe

    Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter: http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up

    Seattle workshop on August 17: https://bit.ly/2E1QU0S

    Seattle solo show on August 17: https://bit.ly/2URekLY

    RECOMMEDATIONS

    Elysha:

    • The LEGO Movie: The Second Part: https://bit.ly/2BvaEIR

    Matt:

    • Jeff Bezos open letter: https://bit.ly/2WOLuOf
    • Nina Garcia piece: https://bit.ly/2Djr0Ep

    Ophira Eisenberg: "Box in the Closet" Feb 04, 2019
    Show notes

    On episode #35 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!

    In our followup segment, we hear from a teacher who is using Homework for Life in her classroom and a listener who had to do one of the strangest things I've ever heard of in a storytelling show.

    We also get a little more information on Harry Belafonte.

    In our Homework for Life segment, we talk about how we're often in the middle of the story, and if we're patient enough, an ending will eventually reveal itself (as unfortunate as that ending might be). We also talk about choosing the structure of a story based upon the time frame of your story.

    Next we listen to Ophira Eisenberg's story about a mysterious box in the closet.

    After listening, we discuss:

    1. Effective humor throughout the story
    2. Stakes!

    3. Echoing the thoughts of your listeners
    4. Effective pacing in a story when the surprise is no longer surprising

    5. Specificity

    Next, we answer a question about extending stories told on the stage to the written form.

    Finally, we each offer a recommendation.

    LINKS

    Harry Belafonte on The Muppets

    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

    Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter: http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe

    Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter: http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up

    RECOMMEDATIONS

    Elysha:

    • Hidden Figures: The True Story of Four Black Women and the Space Race by Margot Lee Shetterly

    Matt:

    • Ophira Eisenberg - The Accident

    Chion Wolf: "This is NPR" Jan 28, 2019
    Show notes

    On episode #34 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!

    In our followup segment, we hear from a listener who hosted an evening of stories at this home with great success. We also resume our debate about jokes within a story.

    In our Homework for Life segment, we talk about the process of taking a single moment from the week and crafting out the skeleton of a story, including the importance of recognizing, protecting, and enhancing any surprises contained therein.

    Next we listen to Chion Wolf's story about the biggest job interview of her life.

    After listening, we discuss:

    1. Effective transitions of time and space
    2. Telling stories in vivid, easily imagined scenes

    3. The power of effective inner dialogue
    4. The preservation and enhancement of surprise

    5. Effective ways of speaking highly of yourself

    Next, we answer a question about ending a story early and leaving the audience hanging on unspoken, final details of a story.

    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

    Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter: http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe

    Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter: http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up

    This Is Going to Suck

    RECOMMEDATIONS

    Elysha:

    • Terry Gross -Earlonne Woods interview
    • Terry Gross - Marc Maron

    Matt:

    • Technology, Ranked

    Bobbi Klau: "The Perfect Gift" Jan 21, 2019
    Show notes

    On episode #33 of the Speak Up Storytelling podcast, Matthew and Elysha Dicks talk storytelling!

    In our followup segment, we thank our listeners, including American military personnel from around the world who have been reaching out to us this week, as well as those listeners kind enough to rate and review Speak Up Storytelling during this past week.

    We went over 100 reviews and rating this week!

    In our Homework for Life segment, we talk about how a simple but powerful statement from a stranger can be enough material for a story.

    Next we listen to Bobbi Klau's story about the search for the perfect gift.

    After listening, we discuss:

    1. Pacing, both as it related to authenticity and the ability of the audience to follow a story
    2. The power of humor at the top of a story, particularly when it demonstrates honesty, authenticity, and self-deprecation to your audience

    3. Telling stories in scenes

    4. Strategically humorous moments in stories vs. a joke placed within a story
    5. Kurt Vonnegut's philosophy on short stories

    6. The hazards of cultural references

    7. Avoiding the de-activating of your audience's imagination when you need to provide your audience with information

    Next, we answer a question about the difference between stories that end in a moment of emotional resonance vs. a light-hearted observation or decision and a question about the role of EQ vs. logic in storytelling.

    Finally, we each offer a recommendation.

    LINKS

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

    Wire Tap with Jonathan Goldstein: https://bit.ly/2W5pZbz

    "Deformed Cow and the Moonlight Deer": https://bit.ly/2Do8OKS

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

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

    Subscribe to Matthew Dicks's weekly newsletter: http://www.matthewdicks.com/matthewdicks-subscribe

    Subscribe to the Speak Up newsletter: http://www.matthewdicks.com/subscribe-speak-up

    RECOMMEDATIONS

    Elysha:

    • Workplace lunch clubs

    Matt

    • Martin Luther King's "I Have a Dream" speech

    • Deadpool

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