Storytelling Matters

Embark on a transformative journey in this episode of our podcast, "Hanuman's Gift: The Storyteller's Journey with Usha and Jim." Join host Jim Brulé and special guest Usha Venkatraman as they explore the timeless wisdom of Hanuman, the legendary figure from the Ramayana, and uncover the power of storytelling to inspire, heal, and connect. Through personal anecdotes, ancient tales, and insightful conversation, Usha and Jim invite listeners to discover how the art of storytelling can become a gift—one that bridges cultures, generations, and hearts. Whether you're a seasoned storyteller or simply curious about the magic of myth and memory, this episode offers a tapestry of inspiration, practical wisdom, and heartfelt moments. Tune in to experience the storyteller's journey, and find out what Hanuman's gift can mean for your own path. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:27 Usha Venkatraman's Background 04:23 The Story of Valmiki and Hanuman 20:37 Discussion on Storytelling and Compassion 28:26 Reflections on Storytelling and Ambition 35:39 Closing Remarks and Future Discussions

This episode, our guest is Baya Salmon-Hawk, a storyteller, psychotherapist, and a specialist in the treatment of trauma who brings us her version of a traditional story which is sometimes called "The Silver Hands."

This episode, our guest is Kristin Pedemonti, a professional storyteller, speaker, facilitator, and coach from Washington DC who brings us her version of a traditional Yoruba story called "The Greatest Gift."

This episode, our guest is Cindy Rivka Marshall, a professional storyteller, workshop facilitator and consultant from Massachusetts who brings us her version of a traditional story which might best be called "The Magic Pomegranate."

This episode, our guest is Noa Baum, a storyteller originally from Jerusalem who now lives in Maryland. She brings us three powerful stories about healing: one about drought, a story about Nabek and a horse, and a story about a fire.

Welcome to this week's episode of the second season of Storytelling Matters. This episode, our guest is Hears Crow, a storyteller from the Narragansett people who has a story for us about a sparrow, some trees, some life-or-death challenges, and a lesson for us all. What you are hearing today originally aired in December of 2020, and yet I think you will find it very relevant today. Hears Crow tells us: "This story has been told by many different nations. I've heard it from native tribes, from Abenaki. I have seen it from up north. The most frequent time that I got to hear this story was Willow Greene, who is a well known Abenaki storyteller. And she I believe, told it about a sparrow and another tree. This, the little bird in the Cedar, is very much along the lines of the Narragansett tradition."

This episode, our guest is Martin Manasse, a storyteller from England who has a story for us about two kings, and two kingdoms, and ... well, you will be certainly be engaged by both the story and the way Martin tells it. What you are hearing today originally aired in November of 2020, and yet I think you will be moved by its currency.

David Heathfield, a storyteller and educator from England, tells a classic story about Fatima, with lessons for today.

Yours truly, Jim Brule, tells a traditional Hasidic story about how to open the gates of heaven.

Description Jim Brulé – yes, yours truly! – shares a traditional story from the Hasidic tradition about how to best open the gates of heaven. Storyteller Jim Brulé is a Maggid – an ordained transformational storyteller. His school to train spiritual storytellers is accredited by the NSN; he also works with organizations and communities to … Continue reading "Not with Keys"

Our guest this week is Laura Packer, who shares two classic Arthurian tales that she has woven together into a single story - with deep meaning for her, and important insights into healing and the power of story.

Storyteller Laura Deal tells "The Witch of Kamalalaya" - a story of healing. In addition to writing and telling stories, Laura Deal studied the deeper meanings of dreams for 18 years with dream expert Rev. Dr. Jeremy Taylor. She's a certified Dream Work Facilitator from the Marin Institute for Projective Dream Work, and the founder of the First Church of Metaphor.

Valentina Ortiz weaves together two stories that have a lot to teach us about wounds and healing.

Sangitaa Sehgall retells a portion of the Mahabharata epic set two days before the beginning of the battle of Kurukshetra.

Description In this episode, we share a memorable encounter with Sangitaa Sehgal, may her memory be a blessing, who offers a retelling of part of the epic Hindu poem Mahabharata: the moment in the epic two days before the beginning of the battle of Kurukshetra. Her passing in early 2021 was felt by storytellers around … Continue reading "Mahabharata"

In this episode, Rebecca Lemaire shares a traditional story from Northern Africa about the moon, grief, healing, and tears.

In this episode, Maja Bumberák, who weaves a traditional story with a very powerful encounter, and teaches us all about the power of story and healing.

Stories for Healing - the second season of Storytelling Matters - begins with a story from and discussion with Andrea Kamens. She weaves together both personal and traditional stories to create a compelling narrative about the power of story in our modern world.

This episode, we hear from yet another distinctive voice in storytelling: Eric Wolf, known in the storytelling world as Brother Wolf. He's a prolific storyteller, and amongst his many achievements, he produced a series of interviews with over 120 storytellers about a decade ago. We'll hear from him about some of the twists and turns of his career, a story from another world, and of course some pearls of wisdom for storytellers.

Introduction This episode, we hear from yet another distinctive voice in storytelling: Eric Wolf, known in the storytelling world as Brother Wolf. He’s a prolific storyteller, and amongst his many achievements, he produced a series of interviews with over 120 storytellers about a decade ago. We’ll hear from him about some of the twists and … Continue reading "Narrative Power"