Why Do Stories Matter?
Let me count the ways… To communicate our values, our lives, our feelings, to teach lessons. To inspire people! To get them to take action A story bring to life facts and figures and can compel people.
If you don’t speak, someone else will
What makes a great personal narrative?
challenge
choice
outcome
details
values
What is your story? Think about… When you decided to make a change by moving to a new city, taking a new job, breaking up with a partner, etc. Experiences which drove you to become involved in the food justice movement Personal challenges and achievements Passing a graduate level physics class Competing for a starting role on a team Joining a political campaign or rally Adapting to or learning a new language/culture This should be a vignette, not your entire life story!
Listen for… challenge, choice, outcome
Refine Your Story Coaching 101: Listen for… Identifiable challenge A choice made in response The outcome? DO: Ask about details, point out confusing elements, give critical feedback on the structure of the story. DON’T: Judge the content, critique the person’s speaking style or delivery, interrupt the storyteller!
Using Your Story Sisters of the Road Cafe Paul Davis, Clay Street Table
We aren’t making this up! (resources) New Organizing Institute: Story of Self Org: Telling Your Story Marshall Ganz: Telling your public story Youtube keyword search: Marshall Ganz Public Narrative
Contact Us Oregon Food Bank: Micaela Shapiro-Shellaby: Evan Weaver: Panelists: Kris Soebroto, Sisters of the Road, ext. Paul Davis, Clay Street Table,