real people. real stories. real connections.

Your Story Matters-Let’s Share It!

We are dedicated to bringing storytellers and audiences together. Our mission is to celebrate the power of storytelling by connecting tellers with venues, encouraging participation in live events, and fostering a network of passionate storytellers.

🔹 Find a Venue – Discover storytelling events near you.
🔹 Join the Audience – Experience unforgettable stories told live.
🔹 Get Involved – Whether you’re a seasoned storyteller or just starting!
🔹 Stay Connected – Check out our event calendar, subscribe to our podcast, and be part of the storytelling movement.

Understanding the stage….

Our stages feature true-life stories centered around a single topic. The stories are shared without the aid of notes. Each stage has a time limit, ensuring that storytellers stay concise and engaging.

There are three types of storytelling events:

Open Mic – A more casual event where anyone can sign up to tell a story. Unlike curated shows, open mics are not pre-planned, making them spontaneous and inclusive.

Curated Show – This type of event is carefully planned. Storytellers are selected ahead of time, and their stories are often reviewed or coached to fit the theme and maintain quality.

Slam – A storytelling competition where participants share their stories based on a given theme. Names are thrown into a hat and are drawn at random. Each storyteller is judged, often by audience members, on elements like storytelling style, clarity, and impact.

attend

Every story needs an audience

tell

Your story matters

help

Join the community

share

Bring a friend, tell a buddy

★★★★★

Sharing real-life stories is a powerful way to build community. When we share our stories, we create connections based on honesty, vulnerability, and shared emotions. Stories help us understand each other beyond surface-level interactions, fostering empathy and trust

Jackie Andrews

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Story Swap Founder

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a show cost?

Each venue sets its admission price. The tickets can be anywhere from free to $50. You can check each show’s site by clicking on their icon under “Local Stages” on this page.

Can anybody get on stage to tell?

Yes, each stage has a different process. Open Mics are usually “first come, first serve”, and slams put your name in the hat and draw 10 tellers at random to compete. Show up early if you intend to share your story. Curated shows usually have a pitch night or request a written script to select tellers.

Do you have any tips for telling?

Yes. PRACTICE! Try to stay under the show’s stated time, and stay on topic. Find an intriguing opening for your story, and always plan the end of the story. Finally, have fun!

How do I find out the topic of the show?

You can check each show’s site by clicking on their icon under “Local Stages” on this page.

Story Swap