Connecting Through Narratives in 2024

Every person has a story to tell—a narrative woven into the very core of who they are. Stories aren’t just sequences of events; they are the heartbeats of our lives, pulsing with the power to connect, educate, inspire, entertain, and influence us. From childhood fairy tales to the epic sagas on the big screen, stories guide us, offering a way to understand the world and ourselves. They bridge gaps between people and across time.

My journey into storytelling began unexpectedly in the aisles of a grocery store at the age of six. That day, drawn to a woman offering samples, I found more than just grape Kool-Aid and Chips Ahoy cookies. In our simple conversation, I discovered the essence of “story.” This moment taught me that storytelling isn’t just about words—it’s about connection. That lesson has stayed with me, shaping the way I see the world.

Growing up, stories were always my companions, from the lessons of Sesame Street to the gentle wisdom of Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood. As I got older, I realized that stories weren’t just for entertainment—they could create empathy, inspire change, and build deep connections between people. This understanding led me to a career as a mental health clinician, where I became not just a listener but a guardian of stories. Over time, I rediscovered my own voice through my studies on the psychology of media and storytelling.

In 2022, I made a pivotal decision to step into the role of active storyteller, reclaiming my voice and sharing it with others. Now, in 2024, my commitment to storytelling is stronger than ever. Through this series, I will continue to explore the stories we tell and how they shape our relationships and our understanding of the world. This journey isn’t just about telling stories—it’s about unraveling the rich experiences behind them and exploring the ways they connect us.

In the coming year, I’ll be diving into the many ways we experience stories—whether through books, TV shows, live performances, or even daily conversations. Along the way, I’ll draw from the social sciences, psychology, and beyond to help us understand not just how stories are told, but why they resonate so deeply. Because ultimately, this is how we story.