submitted by Stories That Matter
Everyone has a story — experiences that shape us, moments that define us. Stories That Matter, under local nonprofit AZ Wordsmith, celebrates storytelling through live events and workshops, fostering connection and community.
Since its founding in September 2023, Stories That Matter has encouraged diverse voices to share their journeys. Its founders, passionate writers, understand storytelling’s power to heal, inspire and unite. As Lee Reeves says, “Cultures are passed on by stories … they are the glue that holds society together.”
The organization hosts storytelling events with themes as varied as life itself — personal triumph, heartache, humor and history. Topics have included My Moment of Truth, I Was Pushed into the Unknown, and A Holiday to Remember.
A past event, Fight, Flight or Freeze, featured gripping tales: facing a mountain lion, surviving the Yarnell fire and encountering danger as a merchant marine.
Stories That Matter draws inspiration from NPR’s The Moth. Founding members Janet Hopkins, Sue Favia, Lee Reeves, Steven Kartstein and Matt Santos partnered with the Elks Performing Arts Center’s Crystal Hall to provide a space where true stories unfold before a live audience.
“There’s a little theater,” Reeves says, and Kartstein adds, “You’re telling the story with your whole body… moving those emotions out into the crowd.”
Beyond entertainment, storytelling transforms both teller and listener, offering validation and connection. Kartstein describes it as “borrowed view,” bringing others’ experiences into our own and making them part of us.
In an age of constant digital distractions, storytelling fosters presence — an audience captivated, phones down, emotions laid bare through laughter, tears and gasps.
Stories That Matter also hosts workshops, guiding beginners and experienced storytellers alike in crafting compelling oral narratives.
Whether sharing stories at an event or in daily conversations, storytelling builds understanding and strengthens bonds.
Interested? Contact our team via email at storiesthatmatteraz@gmail.com or our pitch line by phone at 928.351.7899. Find event info on our Facebook & YouTube pages: www.facebook.com/wordsmiths.2 and www.youtube.com/@storiesthatmatteraz.
Tickets are available at www.prescottelkstheatre.org.
