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: The components of a perfect beginning to a story The power of effective vocal modulation Telling the story from the perspective (and maintaining that perspective) of your former self The way that small stories that say many things (and important, meaningful things) 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