The Joy of Storytelling

It gives me so much joy helping stories into the world. I'm known as The Story Midwife

When I started my business Speaking Savvy as a professional speaker and public speaking coach, I also wanted to create a philosophy of giving back, to share my knowledge and love of story, and to offer people the space and opportunity to share their story. 

I created Stories From The Heart? a live event where people come together to listen and share stories. All profits from ticket sales are donated to charity. 

The Perth Story Tribe - the beginning

Three years ago I held the first live storytelling event of this kind in Perth.

Twenty-five people squeezed into a room at a pub. I told one of my stories, and convinced six others to share as well.

It felt great. People wanted more, and before I knew it a list of eager people wanted to step up and speak, or attend a workshop to find and refine their story.

Since then, the events have moved to larger spaces, increased in audience size, the level of talent has grown, and the tickets sell out every time. 

I spent over 20 years as a midwife and during that time I delivered many babies into the world. Now I help birth stories. It is so rewarding to help empower others to speak and share their stories. 

Everyone has a story

Each of the storytellers are selected by myself or upon recommendation. There are certain qualities that I look for in a storyteller. 

Number one is an attitude of service and gratitude. My live events do not include overt self-promotion or unchecked egos. Storytellers are invited to share an original story, positive and uplifting stories are welcomed.

Every good story has a shape and structure, and whilst every story needs an element of struggle, there can be a risk of oversharing (to the detriment of self and others. A story has to be ready to be told, and the overall intent of the teller has to be to help others. If you would like a copy of my Find A Story in Five Guide you can begin to capture and harness your stories.

My event philosophy centres around the principle of RAISE - respect, authenticity, integrity, service, and excellence. 

A night to remember

On Sunday 24 March, the Perth Story Tribe came together to celebrate the third anniversary of Stories From The Heart. 

With a chosen theme of the night Epic and Legends, our storytellers delighted the crowd with their tales of adventure, love, loss and transformation. From epic failures to legendary heroes the evening held a tapestry of emotions and experiences. 

We had a total of thirteen stories as well as poetry from the very talented Maddie Godfrey (pictured) performing poetry from her book How To Be Held.

The event raised $1500 for the chosen charity the Heart Foundation. It was delighted to have the WA CEO Sarah Fordham in the audience. Here’s what she had to say about the event.

I just wanted to say a big thank you for making the Heart Foundation the beneficiary of last nights event. What a night, so many amazing stories of courage, gratitude, love and resilience - amazing. I felt very privileged to sit in the audience and to be part of your tribe.

There were so many highlights. It was such a proud moment to witness my mentees and clients, as well as those brand new to storytelling get up on stage and tell an authentic heartfelt story.

We all have an epic story. Sadly, many stories are never told. You may think your life and your story is ordinary Those are the best stories. 

Stories From The Heart is now a book series as well as a live event, and the show will go on the road to other cities.

Seeking Storytellers

How can you get involved?

As a speaker, a volunteer, brand ambassador, a sponsor, a charity partner. Contact me to find out more [email protected]

Upcoming opportunities to develop your storytelling skills

Public Speaking and Business Storytelling for Leaders Tuesday 30 April 9 - 4:30 find out more

High Impact Presentation Skills and Business Storytelling 27 may 5:30 - 8 pm Perth CBD book here

Next Stories From The Heart event 7 July tickets here

Apply to be a storyteller at the next Perth event here

What’s Your Story?

Lisa Evans, MBA is the Director of Speaking Savvy and the Founder/Curator of Stories From The Heart. An award-winning speaker, Certified World Class Speaking and Storytelling Coach, TEDx Speaker Coach, Author and Improvisation Actor, Lisa works with leaders to mine, refine and deliver captivating stories for their business and brand. Whether it is the boardroom, platform, podium or stage, Lisa will help you craft a powerful presentation with compelling business stories that are hard to forget.