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Sarah Marie Young Sarah Marie Young Sarah Marie is an award winning singer, songwriter and musician. She was a semi-finalist in the 2010 Thelonious Monk Competition and the winner of the 2011 Montreux Voice Competition (judged by Quincy Jones). After being signed by the dutch label Snip Records in 2014, Sarah Marie released and toured Europe with her second album, "Little Candy Heart." Sarah's latest album, "Recess," was released in April 2016. Sarah Marie's website https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/9152912e-a516-46da-abc8-d33a62ba47aa/rafe%252Bbass.jpg Musicians - Rafe Bradford RAFE BRADFORD, who studied double bass performance at the University of Illinois, has toured and worked with many great jazz, pop, and R&B greats, including Nancy Wilson, Stanley Turrentine, McCoy Tyner, Aretha Franklin, Lou Rawls, and David Foster. On The Tom Joyner Morning Show, Rafe performed with Luther Vandross, Mavis Staples, and many others in the live house band. He was in The Bonnie Hunt show band with Paul Shaffer, The Swell Season, and Dave Koz, and he is famous for playing bass for Patti LaBelle on Oprah’s theme song. Rafe teaches, plays all around Chicago, and he owns music mastering company. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1631034175741-L7U2OXW51WX0D68P3DKH/chuck+telling**.JPG Musicians - Chuck Lacy Chuck Lacy (drums) was encouraged to go into music by his talented family. He started playing drums at age 12 for his church and soon began working for various churches and community choirs. He went on to study music in high school learning to read and study different genres of music. In college he began working in local Jazz, Blues, R&B, and Rock clubs as well as working for many cooperate bands. Today he is a working fixture in Chicago’s music scene and beyond playing everything from country to neo-soul. He has worked with: Ana Popovic, Buddy Guy, Keb Mo, Rahsaan Patterson, Avery Sunshune, Regina Belle, Shirley Murdock, Angela Winbush, Miki Howard, K-Jon, Kenya, Mike Phillips, Shana Tucker, Vince Ingala, Steve Oliver, Marion Meadows, Norman Brown, Larry Carlton, Marc Antoine, Phil Denny, Paul Taylor, and many more. He tours with Folk/Rock artist Peter Himmelman, Gospel Legends The Caravans, Edwin Hawkins, Richard Smallwood, Donnie McClurkin, and many more. In addition to being a drummer he is also a songwriter and producer. One of the projects he produced, “Music Made Rhythm” by Kenya, was considered for a Grammy nomination. Another project he co-produced was #1 on the UK Soul Charts. He is also the music director for Just Friends as well as MTV Star Maker runner up Melody Angel. Chuck is equally busy on stage and in the studio drawing on his various influences to create good music. Chuck Lacy is a Sabian Cymbals and Reunion Blues artist. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1589321722868-TCUI9BD0ZSPRT84ECSW0/kari+down.JPG Musicians - Kari Nelson KARI NELSON (vocals) has traveled all over the world, lending her voice to special events, concerts, recordings, and as a singer-songwriter. Following in the career of her musical family, Kari graduated from Berklee College of Music, and is now one of Chicago’s most sought-after singers, known for her signature stage presence and monster pipes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1630422490184-670HS009377ZKJZAJMN1/Anne+Harris+1.JPG Musicians - Anne Harris ANNE HARRIS is Chicago based American Roots fiddle player. She has toured extensively and recorded with a wide array of artists including Otis Taylor, Guy Davis, Cathy Richardson, Cracker, Anders Osborne, Living Colour, Vieux Farka Toure, and hippie legends Jefferson Starship. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/d269a2d9-0ccc-438f-a1b8-34dc5a7a5f32/dave+on+guitar.JPG Musicians - Dave Hiltebrand Dave Hiltebrand has been a full-time musician for over 25 years. Since graduating from DePaul University School of Music, Dave has had extensive experience as a performer, composer and studio musician. Highlights include the Broadway National Tour of Jersey Boys, co-writing and co-producing two national top-ten songs, composing work for clients including the Oprah Winfrey Show, Nike and Allstate, and tours to South Africa, Cuba, Spain, Italy and Egypt. His debut solo guitar album Yoguitar, Vol. 1 was released in 2016. Dave is currently an adjunct professor of Digital Music at Elmhurst University. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1589248355535-LHSP23RYEFS7BA6JERSB/steph%252Bsmile%252Blean%252Bcity%252Bcopy.jpg Musicians - Stephanie Rogers Stephanie Rogers Stephanie is the host, creator, and producer of STORY JAM. She’s been in dozens of rock, pop, and folk bands, and she she has acted in theatre, film, tv, and on commercials. With a theatre degree from Northwestern University, and a master's in writing from National Louis University, Steph leads storytelling and performance classes and workshops for Story Jam Studio. Stephanie's website. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1592276242938-1EY1QCPC01FB5SJ1XRFK/Fred2****.jpg Musicians - Fred Simon FRED SIMON (keys) has been making music for more than thirty years, composing for records, live performance, film, dance, and television, with instrumentation ranging from solo piano to symphonic orchestra. His recorded work includes seven albums of original music under his name, three albums (as principle composer) with the Simon and Bard Group, numerous appearances on compilations and samplers, and many appearances as side-musician. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1589322050865-DV950RSTMNYWGKOP8R6S/40966256014_19228f56a5_b.jpg Musicians - Nicholas Barron Nicholas Barron Nicholas’ raw energy and charisma have earned him over five million You Tube views! A prolific artist, he has released ten albums of original music, and he is an accomplished abstract painter. He has opened for Pat Benatar, Michael Bolton, James Brown, Johnny Cash, The Doobie Brothers, Shawn Colvin, The Neville Brothers, and James Taylor, among many, many others. Nicholas' website https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1592276033785-FJGEJZROOBP9QDCA8MVN/bowes%2Bon%2Bflute***.jpg Musicians - John Bowes JOHN BOWES One of the “go-to” guys in Chicago when looking for a soulful sax sound, John’s early influences include Rufus, Earth, Wind, & Fire, Tower of Power, Stevie Wonder, Steely Dan, and almost anything Motown. He received musical training at Berklee College of Music in Boston, MA. John has recorded with and arranged for a variety of bands in Chicago, among them the Grammy-nominated debut CD of the 911 Mambo Orchestra, The Buckinghams, Pete Special, BrotherBrother, Dick Holliday and the Bamboo Gang, Uneek, and The Robert Cornelius 7. Artists who have called upon John to lend his talents to their concerts include Aretha Franklin, Melissa Etheridge, The O’Jays, The Funk Brothers (Motown Studio Band), Bettye LaVette, The Temptations, Smokey Robinson, Lou Rawls, The Supremes, The Dells, and many others. He can be heard on the soundtrack to the Stanley Tucci film, “The Impostors”. Theater performances include “Love, Janis” (based on the life of Janis Joplin) at the Royal George Theater, Chicago, and “Imagine Tap”, which had its world premiere at the Harris Theater, Chicago. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1607732962535-F4EF0S9I8JUBA5YH4U8W/samotta%2Bgorgeous****.jpg Musicians - Samotta Acklin Samotta Acklin is the talented daughter of legend Barbara Acklin. Samotta is a triple threat dancer, singer, actor and a coach and mentor to many. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/be1c2019-7cff-4e17-b67e-617fd35d7d7c/CUTE+LAMAR*****.jpg Musicians - Lamar Jones Lamar Jones (bass) was born to be a musician. A native of Chicago and coming from a musical family, he is a versatile bassist who has performed with a variety of musical groups during his 25 year career. Being a well-rounded musician, Lamar has played various genres spanning from smooth jazz, rock, gospel, r&b, funk and house-music in a variety of different venues from Music halls to outdoor festivals across the US and abroad. Raised as a Christian, Lamar gained more experience by playing with Gospel bands and artists such as The Thompson Community Singers, Fred Hammond and Kirk Franklin. In addition, Lamar performs with multi-talented contemporary jazz artist Brian Culbertson, along with Steve Cole, Nick Colionne and Michael Manson. Lamar currently resides in Chicago and has been blessed with two beautiful young daughters. When he is not on tour, you can find him building custom basses and performing in church. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1589321327829-AOEB3CYRLVCNCAB1ZS7O/kari%2Band%2Bsteph%2Band%2Bandy.jpg Musicians - Andrew Distel ANDREW DISTEL (trumpet) is a native of Cincinnati, and music has been part of his life for about as long as he can remember. Both his parents are educators and music lovers, and they encouraged their four sons to learn a musical instrument. Andrew, however, was the only one of the Distel brothers who had an abiding interest in music and taught himself to play his brother’s trumpet by imitating Chuck Mangione records. His music journey began in earnest in 5th grade when he joined the school band and started taking private music lessons. He continued his music studies and played trumpet in various bands throughout his years in public school, but singing was also a passion of his, and he found the time to sing in several choirs as well. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1589323295087-Z69GHPY0CLSIA5LOZV4G/SHANNON+CUTE+SHOT.JPG Musicians - Shannon Wright SHANNON WRIGHT (vocals) is a Chicago diva. She’s sung for many years with various local bands, and she now leads her own events band. A creative soul, Shannon is a photographer, a speaker, a jewelry designer, and a solo show performer, who’s hit show, “Love Shannon, XO” was a hit at The Lifeline theatre’s Filet of Solo Festival this year. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1589248279867-GQWVHSNR2OQBB9QUC3YM/danny%2Bon%2Bguitar%2B1.jpg Musicians - Danny Shaffer DANNY SHAFFER co-produces the music of Story Jam. He is a veteran of the Chicago music scene, having produced and played with hundreds of bands. Danny has toured, written, and produced music professionally since he was a teenager. https://www.storyjamshow.com/about-us1 daily 0.75 2025-04-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/52dbec61-16e9-4e2b-b795-837c5b14583d/girls+in+band.jpg ABOUT - Here is Our Story Story Jam Inc. produces STORY JAM, a vibrant storytelling show with customized original music played by a band, and STORY SERENADE, a storytelling show with improvised songs that respond to the stories. With true, personal stories plus clever music written for each story, Story Jam spotlights diversity in an effort to build community and connection. READ OUR ONE SHEET. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/825188b3-f4e1-4ce7-89f1-9884c2bfd110/larger%252Bgroup%252Bsitting*.jpg ABOUT - Trainings•Classes Story Jam offers excellent storytelling trainings, programs, classes, workshops, & retreats through Story Jam Studio. Story Jam Studio helps companies and individuals excel at public speaking, live performances, building community, winning contests, developing pitches, sharing personal stories, and improving corporate culture. Find out about our classes and retreats. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1659666510098-59NP4JWS9MM6S1P4GDWM/D85_3825.JPG ABOUT https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1659666317284-3U7J5DAE6IEAWII1G08O/D85_3332.JPG ABOUT https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1659666257813-O6OCHQZGF08JDXPOB5NJ/Side+view+Jackson+copy.JPG ABOUT https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1659666287589-SM647BMFZNMSUQYVO1PE/Binkey%2C+Sam%2C+Nestor%2C+Steffie.JPG ABOUT https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1659666332144-8WVDC88SMTFYNFN2FPRR/D85_3433.JPG ABOUT https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1659666533546-D7UK9MUB1VLDFUNL4YTH/D85_3847.JPG ABOUT https://www.storyjamshow.com/november daily 0.75 2020-03-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1583789627494-0RRK8GV6MN72EIJOKCVN/SC_Alumni_McKay_Antoine_600x600_001.jpg Past Even Paget: Chicago Luminaries ANTOINE MCKAY has been acting and directing for over 20 years. He studied acting under the world famous coach, Uta Hagen, at Eastern Michigan. Mr. McKay has also been blessed to work on the Second City Main Stage in Detroit and Chicago, where he wrote and performed in over 20 shows. He has starred in numerous commercials and T.V. shows including: Detroit 187 (ABC), ER (NBC), Prison Break (FOX) , Sports Action Team (NBC) and in Feature films such as: “The Weatherman” with Nicholas Cage, ”Someone to Eat Cheese With” with Jeff Garland, “Standing in the Shadows of Motown” and “Osso Bucco” with Mike Starr. Antoine currently stars on the hit shows "Empire" and "Patriot", and he can be seen in "Review" on Comedy Central. His show, "Written off," in which Antoine stars as well s wrote and directed, has received awards and accoladed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1583789666396-OVGAS6DHIZWLNKJIESRV/sagal-grid-08c1d1f83e1edd411f54d4e27df16ac5bf9435cd-s800-c85.png Past Even Paget: Chicago Luminaries PETER SAGAL is, has been, and perhaps someday will be again, a husband, father, playwright, screenwriter, author, journalist, columnist, marathoner, Jeopardy contestant, dramaturg, podcast host, documentary host, foreign correspondent, wedding officiant, and magician's assistant. Sagal appeared as a panelist on the first broadcast of "Wait, Wait... Don't Tell Me!", the most listened to show in all of public radio; and he eventually became its host. He has made appearances on "Late Night with Jimmy Fallon" and other television shows, and he appears on a narrowly popular podcast, "Nerdette Recaps Game of Thrones with Peter Sagal", because he is a giant nerd. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1583789713764-YUUGI6WAY2ID4DO188AZ/45735-137210.jpg Past Even Paget: Chicago Luminaries TRACY BAIM is publisher and executive editor at The Reader, and formerly Windy City Media Group, which produces Windy City Times, Nightspots, and other gay media. She started in Chicago journalism in 1984 at GayLife newspaper, one month after graduating with a news-editorial degree from Drake University. She has founded several Chicago-based LGBTQ publications as well as the Pride Action Tank, which works to improve safety, health, and progress in the LGBTQ+ community. She’s written several books, and in 2005, she won the Studs Terkel Award, which honors Chicago journalists that offer new perspectives on social issues. In 2013, Baim founded the March on Springfield for Marriage Equality, and in 2014, she was inducted into the National Lesbian and Gay Journalists Association Hall of Fame. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1583789854962-66PAHXEHY9F5HFJ27T00/David-Pasquesi_highrez-7148.jpg Past Even Paget: Chicago Luminaries DAVID PASQUESI has been improvising since the early 1980s, and is half of "TJ and Dave." He wrote and performed four reviews at the Second City (Chicago); has appeared at Steppenwolf and Goodman theaters, among others; and has many TV and film credits including Lodge 49, VEEP, At Home with Amy Sedaris, Strangers with Candy, Angels and Demons, and Ice Harvest. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1583789887614-ZCQBEDHFHZORRPT76PD5/Patti-Vasquez-1024x643.jpg Past Even Paget: Chicago Luminaries PATTI VASQUEZ is the host of The Patti Vasquez Show podcast, a stand up comedian, inspirational speaker, and an advocate for individuals with disabilities. Patti was born and raised in Chicago and is an internationally performing comedian. As a host, Patti quickly claimed the number 1 spot for late night radio. She has appeared as a commentator on WGN- TV Morning News and Fox Good Day Chicago. She also served as a fill-in host for WCIU’s You & Me in the Morning. Patti was recently honored by the National Museum of Mexican Art and The University Of Illinois for her contributions to art and advocacy work. https://www.storyjamshow.com/event-template daily 0.75 2020-03-09 https://www.storyjamshow.com/2017-events-landing-page daily 0.75 2020-04-23 https://www.storyjamshow.com/2017-events-landing-page-1 daily 0.75 2020-04-23 https://www.storyjamshow.com/2016-events-landing-page-1 daily 0.75 2020-04-16 https://www.storyjamshow.com/2016-events-landing-page-2 daily 0.75 2020-04-23 https://www.storyjamshow.com/2015-events daily 0.75 2020-04-23 https://www.storyjamshow.com/contact daily 0.75 2024-09-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1630611554520-M4FP56U84GIYM0NSITTV/Story+Jam.png Contact - Email Us! General inquiries/Press: info@storyjamshow.com Bookings: steph@storyjaminc.com https://www.storyjamshow.com/past-event-page-template daily 0.75 2020-04-23 https://www.storyjamshow.com/past-event-page-template-copy daily 0.75 2020-04-23 https://www.storyjamshow.com/featured-storytellers-2020 daily 0.75 2024-01-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588853358755-A2JMDXKYV9B8NKDBVJ00/Carmenita%2BPeoples.jpeg Featured Storytellers 2020 - Carmenita Peoples, Storyteller Carmenita Peoples Carmenita is a formally trained Montessori educator, financial services officer, and artistic performer who skillfully combines these unique talents to “edutain” audiences. With a brilliant, creative thread, she weaves storytelling, musical improvisation, and poetry to connect and elevate cross-cultural and generation gaps. Carmenita will offer an entertaining story, featuring her signature lovable sense of humor! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588693097973-EKUTXCP01H4ETLC6DSKW/Nestor%2BGomez.jpeg Featured Storytellers 2020 - Nestor Gomez, Storyteller Nestor Gomez Nestor is a household name in the world of storytelling. He has won more Moth Slams and Grand Slams (40 in total), nationally, than anyone alive. Nestor was born in Guatemala and he became a US citizen in 2018. He produces a popular storytelling show, "80 Minutes Around the World: Immigration Stories," which boasts a podcast on NPR. Nestor is one of the most sought-after storytellers in Chicago. You can find out all about Nestor here. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588050334857-0BBKW6NKAU1Q0PVAIL9P/Erica%2BNicole%2BClark.jpeg Featured Storytellers 2020 - Erica Nicole Clark, Storyteller Erica Nicole Clark Erica studied comedy at Improv Olympic before she became a touring comedian. Erica is also a Moth Grand Slam winner. She grew up in Lake Forest, IL, one of three children of the famous "Mr. T." https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588560538020-66FX0G58X4FJZH8YWL1N/shane%2BHendrix****.jpg Featured Storytellers 2020 - Shane Hendrix, Storyteller Shane Hendrix Shane is a magnificent talent, back in the game after a twenty-year hiatus (lots of stories there!)! Shane is a veteran solo show artist who is currently crafting a new play. We welcome Shane to the Story Jam family at this special MLK Day event! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588692905929-WCN9XHXEC8DEW5M62P50/archy%2Bcool%2Bangle****.jpg Featured Storytellers 2020 - Archy Jamjun, Storyteller Archy Jamjun Archy is a Story Jam team member and curator for OUTspoken LGBTQ Stories at Sidetrack in Chicago. Archy is a commanding storyteller, who blew the roof off at his sold-out debut solo show in 2019. He is a Moth Slam and Grand Slam winner, and he has told stories at almost every show in Chicago. Archy teaches storytelling and writing at Story Jam Studio, and he holds an MFA in Creative Writing from Roosevelt University. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1630020901913-W2PGUNXE3JNKCRD67CYJ/Anne+Purky+at+City.JPG Featured Storytellers 2020 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1630020898831-ZVXQYLEPBBJ8PD0UUC9H/Archy+at+City.JPG Featured Storytellers 2020 https://www.storyjamshow.com/featured-storytellers-2016 daily 0.75 2024-01-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588478557215-3UI2BBUTHLSIT0SE67VX/minita%2Btelling.jpeg Featured Storytellers 2016 - Minita Gandhi, Storyteller MINITA GANDHI is an actress/playwright/writer who was born in Mumbai, India. Raised in the Bay Area, she is proud to call Chicago her artistic home. She's performed at The Lookingglass Theatre, Berkeley Repertory Theatre, Arena Stage, Milwaukee Repertory Theatre, and in her acclaimed first play, MUTHALAND. Minita plays Dr. Prospere on NBC's Chicago Fire, and has appeared on Empire, NBC's Crisis, ABC's Betrayal, Fox's The Chicago Code, and as The Onion News' anchor, Nina Shankar. She is a Master Instructor for Pinnacle Performance Company, and a gifted storyteller. Minita's website. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588478597056-25DLVO2IASX9GAVMH4IM/Nestor%2Btelling.jpeg Featured Storytellers 2016 - Nestor Gomez, Storyteller NESTOR "THE BOSS" GOMEZ is a twelve-time winner of the Chicago Moth Slam and two-time winner of the Moth Grand Slam. He has also won "audience favorite" at North Side Stories and Here Chicago; and he sealed the win at the first ever Joyfest storytelling contest. Despite all his wins, Nestor will tell you that his greatest achievements are making his mother proud and wining the heart of his girlfriend, "Sweet Mel." Nestor's first ever solo show will debut in January 2017 at Fillet of Solo. For more information about Nestor, check his web site http://www.nestorgomezstoryteller.com/ https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1593353566987-H4V309INL4E0LH7ZH0KQ/SCOTT+WHITEHAIR+1.JPG Featured Storytellers 2016 - Scott Whitehair, Storyteller SCOTT WHITEHAIR is passionate about both hearing and telling stories. As a performer, he has brought his dynamic blend of vulnerability, humor, and insight to dozens of venues throughout the Chicago area, ranging from the backrooms of neighborhood taverns to the world-famous Steppenwolf Theater. He has also appeared on NPR, WGN Radio, and in such festivals as Fillet of Solo, Printer's Row Lit Fest, and The Chicago Improv Festival. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588478450911-JBDUMMSX9V6TKIZFTVA9/Annalize%2Btelling.jpeg Featured Storytellers 2016 - Annalise Raziq, Storyteller ANNALISE RAZIQ is a versatile performer. She has worked with renowned playwright Tony Kushner, and also played the back end of a dragon. A singer with the Americana band “Annalise and the Backsliders,” her warm, arresting voice is garnering attention on the Chicago music scene. She is also a writer and improviser, and used these skills to help create the show “Sisters Rising” with a group of formerly incarcerated women. Annalise is a three-time Moth Slam winner and has had a story featured on NPR's The Moth (here). She has also told stories for Risk!, This Much Is True, and the Truth or Lie Reading Series. By far, her most creative act has been raising her amazing daughter Kalila Holt. annaliseraziq.com. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588478692629-Q513R679QG2HYEB3NTOF/Jacoby%2Bopen%2Barms.jpeg Featured Storytellers 2016 - Jacoby Cochran, Storyteller JACOBY COCHRAN was born on the Southside of Chicago, before resting his head everywhere from Chicago Heights to Englewood, Roseland to Chatam, Wicker Park and now Hyde Park (and so many more in between) If you ask his mother he hasn't stopped telling stories since he learned what sentences were. With a Masters in Communication from Syracuse he has coached thousands and hosted a ton of public speaking and story telling workshops across the country. The kid who couldn't keep his damn mouth shut as a kid, constantly questioning authority and asking why, is now a performer in the local Chicago scene (the Moth, the Stoop, story jam) and a national record holder as the only Four-Time Collegiate Top Speaker in the Country. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588478636205-B901Q3GH25O49PPCOZ7L/Sarah%2Btelling.jpeg Featured Storytellers 2016 - Sarah Bunger, Storyteller SARAH BUNGER grew up in one of the smallest towns imaginable outside of Dayton, Ohio (think: flashing caution light, a gas station/Subway sandwich shop, and lots and lots of cows). Since moving to the big city seven years ago, she is adjusting to the long winters and nearly complete lack of cows. She teaches English to sophomores and seniors, relishing every minute she gets to re-experience Holden Caulfield, Blanche Dubois, and Nick Carraway. (But not those boys from Lord of the Flies. Because, gross). She has told stories at Solo Theatre, Story Lab, and This Much Is True. Sarah is also producer of the Truth or Lie reading series and a two-time Moth Grand Slam Story Champion. She hopes to tell more stories in 2016 and beyond. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588478739610-3A4HVGURUQ19S408GXT5/Bill%2Btelling.jpeg Featured Storytellers 2016 - Bill O’Callaghan, Storyteller BILL O'CALLAGHAN The second youngest of nine children, plus an adopted brother, Bill was raised on the north side and north shore of Chicago. He is a general contractor and real estate developer who, with his wife, is raising two sons. He’s a long-suffering Sox and Bears fan who spends his spare time making inappropriate comments, playing recreational sports and coaching his sons’ teams. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588478499350-AIFPYQ6C5QV3VEDC3GYM/Stephanie%2BRogers%2BSmiling.jpeg Featured Storytellers 2016 - Stephanie Rogers, Singer/Songwriter/ Producer STEPHANIE ROGERS is a singer-songwriter, bandleader, and performer who holds a degree in acting from Northwestern University. A huge fan of live lit and creative live lit, Stephanie combines her love for music, theatre, and personal story to produce STORY JAM. She is currently pursuing a Master's in Written Communications at National Louis University. For Stephanie's personal site, please visit hipchick.com. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588487358850-Z2A0DA5FOATFTWNLW63V/eliz.jpg Featured Storytellers 2016 - Elizabeth Gomez, Storyteller ELIZABETH GOMEZ is a Chicago-based comedian, storyteller, writer, and experienced napper. She is a founder of the Windy City Rollers, Chicago's premiere all female roller derby league; a founding writer atDrinkers with Writing Problems; and has appeared on WGN Radio, WBEZ, Vocalo, and TouchVision. She has performed at The Laugh Factory, Drop Comedy Club,the Kates, This Much is True, Beast Women Rising, and many other showcases and storytelling events throughout the city. A Story on her blog, was labeled "Freshly Pressed" for My Life as an English to Engrish Translator. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588486384492-PKR2LB70E1O1S84T3FDB/14086398_1338098356215400_8940124376871807858_o.jpg Featured Storytellers 2016 - Lindsay Eanet, Storyteller LINDSAY EANET works at a nonprofit by day and writes, edits and discreetly commandeers the jukebox at Farragut's by night. She has performed at Essay Fiesta, Is This A Thing, You're Being Ridiculous, and the 1999 JCC Camp Chi Talent Show. She is excited to make her debut at Story Jam. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588486434966-VIQYCT1KC2WCDG39OK8U/14125079_1338098526215383_927235766519797220_o.jpg Featured Storytellers 2016 - David Barish, Storyteller DAVID BARISH is a harmonica player who has long been troubled by the fact that he wanted to make up new lyrics and sing the songs while he was supposed to be playing his instrument. Finding it difficult to sing and play at the same time he has been telling stories while keeping the harmonica in his pocket. David has been featured on stages across the Chicago area over the past few years including Story Sessions, That's All She Wrote, Essay Fiesta, Homewood Stories, Is this a Thing?, Story Club and others. He has one of those cheesy little Write Club cups on a shelf somewhere. David is thrilled to tell his story and listen to all the great tunes created by Stephanie and the gang. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588486586932-X7MO6I99R9VHPBF06JDH/14086474_1338097366215499_2199395694421646762_o.jpg Featured Storytellers 2016 - Chris Trani, Storyteller CHRIS TRANI is a storyteller, stand-up comedian, and documentary filmmaker. His film, “An American House," focuses on the journey of migrants to America and their stay at a halfway home in Texas. Chris has traveled the U.S. and Europe to present his stand-up comedy, movie, and humorous stories. Chris is a MOTH Winner and recently won the storytelling category for SNUBFEST 2015. His story will be featured on Audible.com and he will appear as a guest on “It’s All True” to discuss comedy, his career and more. Chances are Chris will not be running when you read this. He hates running. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588486485915-RAR4RVV2C2PWPS6PBUH7/14102926_1338098256215410_8178987763765870135_o.jpg Featured Storytellers 2016 - Tim Murtaugh, Storyteller TIM MURTAUGH is a Wilmette-based teacher, voice talent, emcee, husband & father. He hosted the McKenzie Variety Show from 2007 to 2013 and is the emcee for the Wilmette District 39 Educational Foundation Annual Fashion Show. He is currently prepping his lesson plans for the 2016-2017 school year, so he can't write any more about himself. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588486554388-OSNTWQ5YYSSDUTHBZC0H/14188240_1338097609548808_8655465971717461386_o.jpg Featured Storytellers 2016 - Jacoby Cochran, Storyteller JACOBY COCHRAN was born on the Southside of Chicago, resting his head everywhere from Chicago Heights to Englewood, Roseland to Chatam, Wicker Park and now Hyde Park (and so many more in between). If you ask his mother he hasn't stopped telling stories since he learned what sentences were. With a Masters in Communication from Syracuse he has coached thousands and hosted a ton of public speaking and story telling workshops across the country. The kid who couldn't keep his damn mouth shut as a kid, constantly questioning authority and asking why, is now a performer in the local Chicago scene (the Moth, the Stoop, Story Jam) and a national record holder as the only Four-Time Collegiate Top Speaker in the Country. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588482678721-CQ1XMRPJY73DB64RWX4M/14102926_1338097702882132_5680555352009049446_o.jpg Featured Storytellers 2016 - Annalise Raziq, Storyteller ANNALISE RAZIQ is a versatile performer. She has worked with renowned playwright Tony Kushner, and also played the back end of a dragon. A singer with the Americana band “Annalise and the Backsliders,” her warm and arresting voice is garnering attention on the Chicago music scene. She is also a writer and improviser, and used these skills to help create the show “Sisters Rising” with a group of formerly incarcerated women. Annalise is a three-time Moth Story Slam winner and has had a story featured on public radio’s The Moth Radio Hour (also available on the podcast), and has also told stories for Risk!, This Much Is True, and the Truth or Lie Reading Series. But by far, her most creative act has been raising her amazing daughter Kalila Holt. If you want to know more, check out annaliseraziq.com. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588486457317-DFW80ZW08UPWFUNSAG6G/14115641_1338098566215379_9005028824055434887_o.jpg Featured Storytellers 2016 - Nestor Gomez, Storyteller NESTOR "THE BOSS" GOMEZ is a nine-time winner of the Chicago Moth Slam; two-time winner of the Milwaukee Moth Slam; winner of the March 2015 Chicago Moth Grand Slam; and winner of the August 2016 Chicago Moth Grand Slam. Nestor also won "Audience Favorite" at Story Club North Side and he won the first ever Joyfest Chicago Story Slam. In spite of all his wins, Nestor will tell you that his greatest accomplishment is making his mother proud and winning the heart of his girlfriend, "Sweet Mel." You can find more information about Nestor at http://www.nestorgomezstoryteller.com/. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588482259930-27JJY7591GRKBBHUT4VD/14103071_1338097062882196_6633115395168590638_o.jpg Featured Storytellers 2016 - Stephanie Rogers, Singer/Songwriter/ Producer STEPHANIE ROGERS is a singer, bandleader, actor, and songwriter who holds a degree in acting from Northwestern University. She was inspired to create STORY JAM after taking a solo show writing class. A huge fan of NPR and creative live lit, Stephanie combines her love for music, theatre, and personal story to produce STORY JAM. She is currently pursuing a Master's in Written Communications at National Louis. For Stephanie personal site, please visit hipchick.com. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588484508711-PG9FB9GKCTDCTZ2XHPGZ/tori.jpg Featured Storytellers 2016 - Tori Szekeres, Storyteller TORI SZEKERES leads a double life: by day, she's a housewife in the Northwest Suburbs. By night, she tells stories around Chicagoland at monthly shows like The Stoop, Miss Spoken, and Serving the Sentence. She thanks you for being interested in what she has to say. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588483713252-463IS2UL06AG65GSOWGS/jasmine.jpg Featured Storytellers 2016 - Jasmin Cardenas, Storyteller JASMIN CARDENAS As writer and performer, Jasmine has produced and toured her one woman show, Niña Buena. A professional SAG actress, Jasmin is an ensemble member with Urban Theater Company and has worked with (among others): The Goodman Theater; Victory Gardens; Lookingglass Theater; Adventure Stage Chicago; Teatro Luna and Collaboraction. Jasmin is a bilingual storyteller, and a Cuentos Aquiteller at The Chicago Public Library. This year, she was awarded the Race Bridges Storytelling Fellowship, a national award. Jasmin is a member of the Chicago Storytelling Guild and a board member of the Pedogogy and Theatre of the Oppressed, a non-profit organization that promotes critical thinking and social justice. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588483535692-NIGZLXZRCPMLHA3N6SYV/scott.jpg Featured Storytellers 2016 - Scott Whitehair, Storyteller SCOTT WHITEHAIR is as passionate about both hearing and telling stories. As a performer, he has brought his dynamic blend of vulnerability, humor, and insight to dozens of venues throughout the Chicago area, ranging from the backrooms of neighborhood taverns to the world-famous Steppenwolf Theater. He has also appeared on NPR, WGN Radio, and in such festivals as Fillet of Solo, Printer's Row Lit Fest, and The Chicago Improv Festival. As a full-time professional teller, Scott's effortless delivery and likable stage presence have made him a fixture of the Windy City's burgeoning live literature scene. Scott hosts several storytelling shows throughout the city and is a Second City alumnus. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588483770341-NP3VXPWI7I5RR8N63SQ3/diane.jpg Featured Storytellers 2016 - Diane Kastiel, Storyteller DIANE KASTIEL is a writer and storyteller from Chicago. She’s a three-time Moth StorySLAM winner whose work has been featured on NPR’s Moth Radio Hour, its podcast, and on stage at WBEZ’s inaugural New Year’s Eve party. Diane has told stories at the Park West, Second City, Victory Gardens, Mayne Stage and Lifeline theaters. She’s also told stories in bars, at art shows, around campfires, in women’s shelters, and in the basement of a tattoo parlor. Diane has been a featured storyteller with Story Sessions, You’re Being Ridiculous, Story Club, This Much is True, and Louder than a Mom. She’s thrilled to be back at the ‘Mette with Story Jam! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588486628803-NOC86B9CE5T1PEQ2E6Q6/julie.jpg Featured Storytellers 2016 - Julie Saltzman, Storyteller By day, JULIE SALTZMAN is the director of content development at a trading education firm. By night, she is a haphazard parent to her 15,13 and 11 year old boys. By choice, she performs with 2nd Story, plays ice hockey and does crossfit. The last two activities both her body and her mother believe to be poor choices for a middle age woman. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588483564034-R3BXVMPCIXRMF90DUF2F/lindsey.jpg Featured Storytellers 2016 - Lindsay Eanet, Storyteller LINDSAY EANET works at a nonprofit by day and writes, edits and discreetly commandeers the jukebox at Farragut's by night. She has performed at Essay Fiesta, Is This A Thing, You're Being Ridiculous and the 1999 JCC Camp Chi Talent Show. She is excited to make her debut at Story Jam. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588483624689-9E3XRPU46RAWXPTDVAIU/nestor%2B9.jpg Featured Storytellers 2016 - Nestor Gomez, Storyteller NESTOR "The Boss" GOMEZ was born in Guatemala and has called Chicago his home for 25 years. He is a salsa dancer, self taught poet, t-shirt designer (who works during the day at S&C Electric), and he drives Uber and Lyft on weekends. As a child, Nestor used to stutter; he began telling stories to overcome his fear of speaking publicly. Nestor has won or placed at many Moth Slams in Chicago and the midswest. He also hosts Do Not Submit on Pilsen and is an active member of the Stoop Collective. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588484733377-204EVKQEVG0QVK1UCWRK/15318016_10211112697636229_2180206077811163221_n.jpg Featured Storytellers 2016 - Mac Macdevitt, Storyteller MAC MACDEVITT is deep into exploring the wonders of the Windy City since moving from a small town in the Adirondack Mountains of New York two years ago. He has become an urban bike warrior who fixes and ships bikes with the volunteer crew at Working Bikes in Pilsen. He is deeply in love with the storytelling community in Chicago, and has told at Story Lab, TenX9, Sunday Morning Stories, Homewood Stories and a bunch of Do Not Submit’s all over the city. Mac has studied storytelling with Scott Whitehair, with whom he shares the bill tonight. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588485603212-NIEP2OBLXCNLU0WGWEV2/kelly%2Bl.jpg Featured Storytellers 2016 - Kelly Leonard, Storyteller KELLY LEONARD (President & CEO, Kelly Leonard Productions/Creative Advisor, The Second City) has worked at Second City for nearly three decades in various creative/leadership positions. He has produced shows with Tina Fey, Stephen Colbert, Amy Poehler, Seth Meyers, Keegan Michael Key and Steve Carell. He has created shows with Lyric Opera Chicago, The Kennedy Center, Hubbard Street Dance, La Jolla Playhouse and The Actors Theatre in Louisville. His book, Yes, And: Lessons From The Second City, was published by Harper Collins in 2015 to critical acclaim. Mr. Leonard speaks frequently on the power of improvisation to transform business and personal life. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588485814133-4MX54W7UNOHLLFF2KMZX/paul%2Bt.jpg Featured Storytellers 2016 - Paul Traynor, Storyteller PAUL TRAYNOR is a STORY JAM fave. He most recently appeared in the comedy “The Art of Motivation” at Stage 773 in Chicago, and in his own web series entitled "Turner." As a corporate speaker, he’s done presentations for dozens of Fortune 500 companies throughout North America and Europe. As a filmmaker, he's produced videos for hospitals, law firms, churches and non-profits. Paul wrote & directed the feature film "Witches' Night," and is currently working on several original projects. He lives in Wilmette with his beautiful wife, Lindley, and his five above-average children. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588485935979-AWN0G4KVZUOH4KKN3H2O/ryan%2Bp.jpg Featured Storytellers 2016 - Ryan Robert Patterson, Storyteller RYAN ROBERT PATTERSON is a Detroit native calling Chicago home for the past 21 years. Ok, he’s from just outside of Detroit. Ask him, he’ll show you on his hand. Having stepped away from acting for a decade, he was last seen on stage playing Schroeder in a very long run of "You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown," and in educational children’s theatre throughout the Chicagoland area. So, if you were ten a decade ago he probably taught you about arachnids or neutrons or subject verb conjugation at some point. He accepts your thanks and you are welcome. A Northwestern alum with a degree in writing, Ryan is stepping back into the performing game and is thrilled to hear himself talk out loud in front of an audience and more thrilled the audience is you. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588486109230-0VTXKGKM6PJEVHQ6IOG6/linda%2Bm.jpg Featured Storytellers 2016 - Linda Montgomery, Storyteller On hiatus for the last 11 years from acting, LINDA MONTGOMERY was thrilled to find the Live Lit Community here in Chicago. After seeing Arlene Malinowski’s show “Speak Easy, Speak Hard," she caught the bug and jumped into writing and storytelling, and has been having a balls-out great time ever since! Linda is currently working on a compilation of stories that depict her L.A. dating experiences. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588486289338-2BIFZF8TCT3ZPZ2FD8GO/step.jpg Featured Storytellers 2016 - Stephanie Rogers, Singer/Songwriter/ Producer STEPHANIE ROGERS is a singer, bandleader, and songwriter who holds a degree in acting from Northwestern University. She was inspired to create STORY JAM after taking a solo show class at Chicago Dramatists, and hitting the live lit scene. A huge fan of creative live lit, Stephanie combines her love for music, theatre, and personal story to produce STORY JAM. She is currently pursuing a Master's in Written Communications at National Louis University. More: hipchick.com. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588485700431-UWVHHBDS0EQB94AI04EM/mel%2Bp.jpg Featured Storytellers 2016 - Melissa Perrin, Storyteller MELISSA PERRIN is a co-host of Do Not Submit Evanston, an open mic storytelling night in the Snug at the Celtic Knot. She has told stories at the Laugh Factory, Do Not Submit and Storylab. An ardent teacher, Melissa illustrates through stories and narration while giving seminars, at retreats and on stage. She believes the stories we tell about ourselves can define who we are, for better or for worse. Altering that story can be a powerful tool in living a full life. Melissa is a native of the North Shore. She secretly wishes she had been born and raised in Phoenix Arizona so that she could introduce herself as a Native Phoenician. [She just likes how that sounds.] https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588485991758-IFX5M7EY59ELSW6TV12U/marg.jpg Featured Storytellers 2016 - Margaret Ghielmetti, Storyteller MARGARET GHIELMETTI currently lives in Singapore. Before that, she lived in Egypt, Thailand, Italy, Paris and New York. Her adventures (and misadventures!) abroad often inspire her traveler's tales. Originally from Evanston, Margaret loves to spend time with her 92-year old dad; she credits him with her love for both stories and improv (when they read bedtime stories together, when she was a pup, he took on the role of Beauty–so she could be The Beast!). Margaret’s grateful to have won a Moth Story Slam last month…to get to share her stories in Chicago and in Singapore…and to hear others’ stories wherever she goes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588486048487-9L9GL067Z4HDQ2ZLCD8J/diane%2Bk.jpg Featured Storytellers 2016 - Diane Kastiel, Storyteller DIANE KASTIEL is a writer and storyteller from Chicago. She’s a three-time Moth StorySLAM winner whose work has been featured on NPR’s Moth Radio Hour, its podcast, and on stage at WBEZ’s inaugural New Year’s Eve party. Diane has told stories at the Park West, Second City, Victory Gardens, Mayne Stage and Lifeline theaters. She’s also told stories in bars, at art shows, around campfires, in women’s shelters, and in the basement of a tattoo parlor. Diane has been a featured storyteller with Story Sessions, You’re Being Ridiculous, Story Club, This Much is True, and Louder than a Mom. She is thrilled to make her debut with Story Jam at the Wilmette Theater. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588487405953-2J0F48SGKFHVOYJEX4FB/eliz.jpg Featured Storytellers 2016 - Elizabeth Gomez, Storyteller ELIZABETH GOMEZ is a Chicago-based comedian, storyteller, writer, and experienced napper. She is a founder of the Windy City Rollers, Chicago's premiere all female roller derby league; a founding writer atDrinkers with Writing Problems; and has appeared on WGN Radio, WBEZ, Vocalo, and TouchVision. She has performed at The Laugh Factory, Drop Comedy Club,the Kates, This Much is True, Beast Women Rising, and many other showcases and storytelling events throughout the city. A Story on her blog, was labeled "Freshly Pressed" for My Life as an English to Engrish Translator. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588122389032-3XA98CO6R7GJECBMKAQD/KEVIN+D%E2%80%99AMBROSIO++.jpg Featured Storytellers 2016 - Kevin D’Ambrosio, Storyteller KEVIN D’AMBROSIO is a motivational speaker, storyteller, and stand-up comedian. Originally from Peabody, MA, he moved to Chicago near the turn of the century to follow artistic interests at iO Chicago, Annoyance Productions, and The Artistic Home. Shortly thereafter he helped establish the Piven Empowerment Enrichment Program for adults with developmental disabilities at the Piven Theatre in Evanston. As a storyteller Kevin has performed at Here, Chicago, The Stoop, This Much Is True, Homewood Stories, Tenx9, Do Not Submit, and The Moth. He is a co-host and co-producer of Second City Training Center’s storytelling show "Sunday Morning Stories," and was a featured at The Moth GrandSLAM this past summer. Find out more info about his pursuits at www.kevindambrosio.com and @dambro101. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588487588325-LW2P9W3H8BMKWCD24WAL/carol%2Bmoss%2B7.jpg Featured Storytellers 2016 - Carol Moss, Storyteller CAROL MOSS is a local singer, actor and psychotherapist. She is thrilled to be back on the Wilmette Theatre stage, having performed here as a Sparkle Sister and in the "Secret Lives of Mom's" for five years. She is a veteran of stage and screen, and appeared in over 50 commercials and 70 industrial films. Currently, she is on the speaker's bureau for Abbvie and does motivational speaking as well as seeing private clients. www.carolmoss.com https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588487619309-II3W6MNYC9V5EQGSUAS0/61465075_2978312812193938_3158632654442594304_o.jpg Featured Storytellers 2016 - Nestor Gomez, Storyteller NESTOR "The Boss" GOMEZ was born in Guatemala and has called Chicago his home for 25 years. He is a salsa dancer, self taught poet, t-shirt designer (who works during the day at S&C Electric), and he drives Uber and Lyft on weekends. As a child, Nestor used to have a speech impediment: he stuttered. A little over a year ago, he participated in his first Moth Slam as a goal to get over his fear of public speaking, and placed second on the July 2015 Grand Slam. Nestor hosts Do Not Submit on Pilsen and is an active member of the Stoop Collective. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588487464171-2XJBMVY2K9I9C2VBWYVM/chris%2Btrani%2B1.jpg Featured Storytellers 2016 - Chris Trani, Storyteller CHRIS TRANI is a storyteller, stand-up comedian, and documentary filmmaker. His film, “An American House”, focuses on the journey of migrants to America and their stay at a halfway home in Texas. Chris has traveled the U.S. and Europe to present his stand-up comedy, movie, and humorous stories. Chris is a MOTH Winner and recently won the storytelling category for SNUBFEST 2015. His story will be featured on Audible.com and he will appear as a guest on “It’s All True” to discuss comedy, his career and more. Chances are Chris will not be running when you read this. He hates running. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588487442674-NQJ9Z2MZ7KRVOQIV0QO9/lynnejordanopenarms2.jpg Featured Storytellers 2016 - Lynne Jordan, Storyteller LYNNE JORDAN returns to the STORY JAM stage for the third time. An entertainer who is both profound and hilarious, Lynne is currently developing her much-awaited SOLO SHOW, comprised of personal stories and songs. A Northwestern University grad, Lynne has been one of Chicago's best-known singing divas for many years. Her event band plays clubs as well as private parties, and she has performed to sold-out crowds on stages throughout the US and Europe. https://www.storyjamshow.com/featured-storytellers-2015 daily 0.75 2024-01-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1589436485571-BSBTC12Q66HRIXPZ2WN9/Lisa+Homes.jpg Featured Storytellers 2015 - Lisa Holmes, Storyteller LISA HOLMES is a creative soul, a creative director, and the author of a new novel for young adults. She has also written plays, and was the winner of the 2013 Citizen’s Play Festival for her new play-in-development, "Transients Welcome." Her stories can be found on her blog whimsycity.com. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1589436863968-Q04FGPKFKGNTN9J56S6J/Lily%2BSmiling.jpg Featured Storytellers 2015 - Lily Be, Storyteller LILY BE is a momma, a nanny, activist, and storyteller who was born and raised in Chicago's Humboldt Park neighborhood. Lily is the first Latina Moth GrandSLAM champion, WNEP Maelstrom improvised storytelling champ, and host/producer of The Stoop at Rosa’s Lounge. Her stories are featured on the RISK podcast, WBEZ Nerdette podcast, WBEZ presents Shannon Cason's Homemade Stories podcast and The Moth Radio Hour to name a few. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1589436731501-JAQXMWTK4BPPTUNBQ3WC/Arlene%2BTelling.jpg Featured Storytellers 2015 - Arlene Malinowski, Storyteller ARLENE MALINOWSKI is a rare, multi-talent. As a playwright/actor, Arlene's award winning solo shows have toured in NY, Chicago, LA, and internationally. In addition to her TV and film work—some of it good, most of it bad—she has performed on dozens of plays. Arlene loads up each personal tale with depth, heart, smarts, and profound humor. She teaches writing in Chicago and Los Angeles; and she is the only actor to have appeared in Shakespeare AND Doogie Howser in the same 24 hours. Find out more at: Arlene Malinowski. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1589436618179-33C8NX2DUAS6LHSRPYLI/Nestor%2Btelling.jpg Featured Storytellers 2015 - Nestor Gomez, Storyteller NESTOR "THE BOSS" GOMEZ was born in Guatemala and has called Chicago his home for the last 25 years. He is a salsa dancer, self taught poet, t-shirt designer (who works during the day at S&C Electric), and he drives Uber and Lyft on weekends. As a child, Nestor stuttered, but a little over a year ago, he placed second at the July 2015 Moth Grand Slam. If you ask him about his mayor accomplishments, he will tell you about his kids, winning the heart of his girlfriend Melissa Pavlik ("Sweet Mel") and making his mother proud. Nestor hosts Do Not Submit in Pilsen, and he is an active member of the Stoop Collective. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/a0d22068-ddb3-45b4-b98f-9f6cdd813b97/PAUL+TRAYNOR+MARCH+ARMS+UP.jpg Featured Storytellers 2015 - Paul Traynor, Storyteller PAUL TRAYNOR is a STORY JAM fave. He most recently appeared in the comedy “The Art of Motivation” at Stage 773 in Chicago, and in his own web series entitled "Turner." As a corporate speaker, he’s done presentations for dozens of Fortune 500 companies throughout North America and Europe. As a filmmaker, he's produced videos for hospitals, law firms, churches and non-profits. Paul wrote & directed the feature film "Witches' Night," and is currently working on several original projects. He lives in Wilmette with his beautiful wife, Lindley, and his five above-average children. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588488171721-2XQVHY1BQX1M6WMMXA98/LYNNE%252BJORDAN-----.jpg Featured Storytellers 2015 - Lynne Jordan, Storyteller Lynne Jordan is Chicago's unstoppable DIVA who joins us again after wowing audiences in February this year. She is a skilled songstress and a riveting performer who masterfully moves and inspires her audience. She is currently developing her much-awaited first SOLO SHOW, with stories and songs, and will share a bit of both with us tonight! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588488398470-8Z4JRT507QA6KF6L55OR/Julie%2Bsitting%2Btelling.jpg Featured Storytellers 2015 - Julie Ganey, Storyteller Julie Ganey is a Chicago actor, writer, and teacher. As a performer, she has worked with the Goodman Theatre, Victory Gardens, Northlight, Shattered Globe, and Drury Lane Theatre, among others. Her original solo shows, The Half-Life of Magic and Love Thy Neighbor...till it hurts have been produced by Fillet of Solo, Next Theatre, 16th Street Theatre, and the side project theatre. Julie is a company member at 2nd Story, and her work has been featured on WBEZ. In addition, Julie is a teaching artist at Lifeline Theatre and the Goodman, and is particularly proud of her work with students of all ages. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588488281707-WOSQQRIHMUONE06VLL1Y/paul%2Bt.jpg Featured Storytellers 2015 - Paul Traynor, Storyteller Paul Traynor made his StoryJam debut in February, and most recently appeared in the new comedy “The Art of Motivation”, at Stage 773 in Chicago. As a corporate speaker, he’s done presentations for dozens of Fortune 500 companies throughout North America and Europe. As a filmmaker, he's produced videos for hospitals, law firms, churches and non-profits. Paul wrote & directed the feature film "Witches' Night," and is currently working on a new web series entitled "Turner." He lives in Wilmette with his beautiful wife, Lindley, and his five above-average children. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588121089673-H4YDJB0VXZCLT2IGPGHG/Laurie+Empen+.jpg Featured Storytellers 2015 - Laurie Empen, Storyteller Laurie Empen is a Chicago-based actress, musician and early childhood development specialist. Having recently dipped her toes back in the ‘stage waters’, she is happy to be part of STORY JAM. You can find her teaching/guiding young children and their parents/caregivers at Ms. Laurie’s Play Group – www.mslauries.org- an award winning program she created during her studies towards a Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Development from Erikson Institute, and caring for many children as a childcare provider, when her schedule allows. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588486896393-5QZYSUUJZGSBY8IUPA87/Lily%2Btelling.jpg Featured Storytellers 2015 - Lily Be, Storyteller Lily Be is a momma, a nanny, activist, and storyteller who was born and raised in Chicago's Humboldt Park neighborhood. Lily is the first Latina Moth GrandSLAM champion, WNEP Maelstrom improvised storytelling champ, and host/producer of The Stoop at Rosa’s Lounge. Her stories are featured on the RISK podcast, WBEZ Nerdette podcast, WBEZ presents Shannon Cason's Homemade Stories podcast, and The Moth Radio Hour, to name a few. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588488149257-E0XITTM4IZJUCFXNO18P/step%2Bpointing.jpg Featured Storytellers 2015 - Stephanie Rogers, Singer/Songwriter/ Producer Stephanie Rogers is a musician, actor, bandleader and live-lit lover who is pursuing a Master's in Written Communications at National Louis University in Chicago. She received her undergraduate degree in Theatre from Northwestern University and has since been seen and heard on tv, stages, films, websites and in clubs, bars and hotels. Her own website features three original cds released on her label, Hipchick Records, and contains information about her supercool event band. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588486819928-E82DM5CFCODUMB1X72PC/Lily.jpg Featured Storytellers 2015 - Lily Be, Storyteller LILY BE is a momma, a nanny, activist, and storyteller who was born and raised in Chicago's Humboldt Park neighborhood. Lily is the first Latina Moth GrandSLAM champion, WNEP Maelstrom improvised storytelling champ, and host/producer of The Stoop at Rosa’s Lounge. Her stories are featured on the RISK podcast, WBEZ Nerdette podcast, WBEZ presents Shannon Cason's Homemade Stories podcast and The Moth Radio Hour to name a few. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588486843155-V4KKLT11GHG5ALTP6AM0/PAUL%252BTRAYNOR.jpg Featured Storytellers 2015 - Paul Traynor, Storyteller PAUL TRAYNOR is a devilishly handsome and hilarious actor, writer, film-maker and spokesperson. As a corporate speaker, Paul has done presentations for dozens of Fortune 500 companies throughout North America and Europe. As a filmmaker, he's produced videos for hospitals, law firms, churches and non-profits. Paul wrote & directed the feature film "Witches' Night", and is currently working on a new web series entitled "Turner". He lives in Wilmette with his beautiful wife, Lindley, his five endearing and above-average children, and his nippy new puppy, Arrow. Paul is deeply honored that his talented friend and neighbor, Stephanie, is writing a song about him. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588486781127-2MVVIBV5SX7Y3BPN60F8/peggy.jpg Featured Storytellers 2015 - Peggy Ward, Storyteller Many of you will remember PEGGY WARD's hit show MAMAPHOBIA, about her hilarious take on motherhood. A consummate entertainer, Peggy is everyone's funniest friend, especially when you follow her around on errands. Also a riot in the theatre, Peggy graces our Wilmette stage all the way from her home in Glenview, where she finds daily, riveting humor in her three kids, husband and dog, Mulligan. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588486796929-RQ7XO6FBL6D29F1N1C2E/Doug.jpg Featured Storytellers 2015 - Doug Reed, Storyteller DOUG REED (aka “BaronVonReed”) is a truly compelling, brainy-witty storyteller, as well as an actor, award-winning playwright, novelist, and former sportswriter. His work appears regularly in Madison-area theaters, most notably at: Broom Street; The Bartell; and The Stoughton Opera House. He has astonished audiences in Chicago and Milwaukee, New York, and Los Angeles. Check him out at: BaronvonReed https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588486867264-VIIW2QPSHP8BW0ERIF9N/steph%252Bsolo.jpg Featured Storytellers 2015 - Stephanie Rogers, Singer/Songwriter/ Producer STEPHANIE ROGERS is a musician, actor, bandleader and live-lit lover who is pursuing a Master's in Written Communications at National Louis University in Chicago. She received her undergraduate degree from Theatre at Northwestern University and has since been seen and heard on tv, stages, films, websites and in clubs, bars and hotels. Her own website features three original cds released on her label, Hipchick Records, and contains information about her supercool event band. https://www.storyjamshow.com/featured-storytellers-2019 daily 0.75 2024-01-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588560954065-13RJ936QJ2NMUYSYU43O/patti%2Bvasquez+****.JPG Featured Storytellers 2019 - Patti Vasquez, Storyteller PATTI VASQUEZ is the host of The Patti Vasquez Show podcast, a stand up comedian, inspirational speaker, and an advocate for individuals with disabilities. Patti was born and raised in Chicago and is an internationally performing comedian. As a host, Patti quickly claimed the number 1 spot for late night radio. She has appeared as a commentator on WGN- TV Morning News and Fox Good Day Chicago. She also served as a fill-in host for WCIU’s You & Me in the Morning. Patti was recently honored by the National Museum of Mexican Art and The University Of Illinois for her contributions to art and advocacy work. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588541583036-KGZ7CS0MK1QUI0EXOWUB/David%2BPasquesi.jpeg Featured Storytellers 2019 - David Pasquesi, Storyteller DAVID PASQUESI has been improvising since the early 1980s, and is half of "TJ and Dave." He wrote and performed four reviews at the Second City (Chicago); has appeared at Steppenwolf and Goodman theaters, among others; and has many TV and film credits including Lodge 49, VEEP, At Home with Amy Sedaris, Strangers with Candy, Angels and Demons, and Ice Harvest. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588694431100-RG7D1WUCH79PJM64AHHK/Peter%2BSagal.jpeg Featured Storytellers 2019 - Peter Sagal, Storyteller PETER SAGAL is, has been, and perhaps someday will be again, a husband, father, playwright, screenwriter, author, journalist, columnist, marathoner, Jeopardy contestant, dramaturg, podcast host, documentary host, foreign correspondent, wedding officiant, and magician's assistant. Sagal appeared as a panelist on the first broadcast of "Wait, Wait... Don't Tell Me!", the most listened to show in all of public radio; and he eventually became its host. He has made appearances on "Late Night with Jimmy Fallon" and other television shows, and he appears on a narrowly popular podcast, "Nerdette Recaps Game of Thrones with Peter Sagal", because he is a giant nerd. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588560800969-B7T4JENQ873JABB6T4XG/antoine%2Bmckay%2521.jpg Featured Storytellers 2019 - Antoine McKay, Storyteller ANTOINE MCKAY has been acting and directing for over 20 years. He studied acting under the world famous coach, Uta Hagen, at Eastern Michigan. Mr. McKay has also been blessed to work on the Second City Main Stage in Detroit and Chicago, where he wrote and performed in over 20 shows. He has starred in numerous commercials and T.V. shows including: Detroit 187 (ABC), ER (NBC), Prison Break (FOX) , Sports Action Team (NBC) and in Feature films such as: “The Weatherman” with Nicholas Cage, ”Someone to Eat Cheese With” with Jeff Garland, “Standing in the Shadows of Motown” and “Osso Bucco” with Mike Starr. Antoine currently stars on the hit shows "Empire" and "Patriot", and he can be seen in "Review" on Comedy Central. His show, "Written off," in which Antoine stars as well s wrote and directed, has received awards and accolades. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588473844657-E11RNFFMNPMX20OUBCS5/tracy%2Bbaim.jpeg Featured Storytellers 2019 - Tracy Baim, Storyteller TRACY BAIM is publisher and executive editor at The Reader, and formerly Windy City Media Group, which produces Windy City Times, Nightspots, and other gay media. She started in Chicago journalism in 1984 at GayLife newspaper, one month after graduating with a news-editorial degree from Drake University. She has founded several Chicago-based LGBTQ publications as well as the Pride Action Tank, which works to improve safety, health, and progress in the LGBTQ+ community. She’s written several books, and in 2005, she won the Studs Terkel Award, which honors Chicago journalists that offer new perspectives on social issues. In 2013, Baim founded the March on Springfield for Marriage Equality, and in 2014, she was inducted into the National Lesbian and Gay Journalists Association Hall of Fame. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588848319937-JGHGTPBC3IWSQEYJ2MKQ/groupatend%E2%80%A2%E2%80%A2%E2%80%A2%E2%80%A2%E2%80%A2%E2%80%A2.JPG Featured Storytellers 2019 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588473498978-MIXK8M5XAJ5JINNIF7CC/Elizabeth%2BGomez.jpeg Featured Storytellers 2019 - Elizabeth Gomez, Storyteller ELIZABETH GOMEZ is a Chicago based comedian, writer, and storyteller. She established the city's first all female roller derby league, The Windy City Rollers, in 2004. She is the founding writer of a writing collective called Drinkers with Writing Problems, and an editor at Heauxs Magazine (a magazine where smart people talk about dumb things). Elizabeth spends her days working for an Alderman on Chicago's city council, and spends her nights trying to learn all the dance moves from Magic Mike. You can learn more about her at thatelizabethgomez.com. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588473573928-887VJBOT3W67QJ29E01M/Archy%2BJamjun.jpeg Featured Storytellers 2019 - Archy Jamjun, Storyteller ARCHY JAMJUN is one of Chicago's premiere tellers, originally from Lincolnwood, IL, and Story Jam's assistant producer. He is a member of Drinkers with Writing Problems, a writing/performance group, and he curates OUTspoken, an LGTBQ live lit series. Archy is a two-time Moth Grand Slam winner, professor, server, guncle, and proud father of a coddled cat. He recently performed his first solo show, "A Boy and a Diva," at Lifeline Theatre's 2019 Filet of Solo Festival (directed by Story Jam producer Stephanie Rogers) to sold out crowds and great reviews. Archy's website. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588473548704-D6FRX4QWC5N6L752CGZP/Arlene%2BMalinowski.jpeg Featured Storytellers 2019 - Arlene Malinowski, Storyteller ARLENE MALINOWSKI a playwright, actor, and teaching artist. Her perfomance work is an extension of the social justice work she has been committed to for the last 30 years, and her 5 award-winning solo shows have been produced nationally and abroad. Arlene is a resident playwright at Chicago Dramatists where she has developed the Solo/Storytelling curriculum. She’s a contributor to several publications and writes on the issues of disability. Her memoir about her crazy deaf parents is in the works. She's been a Ragdale Resident and supporter. Finally, she is, to her knowledge, the only actor to have appeared in Shakespeare’s Measure for Measure AND Dougie Howser in the same 24 hours. Arlene's website. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588850111544-1RV8CX4IYUHYBPALSTMC/PAUL+TRAYNOR+MARCH+ARMS+UP.JPG Featured Storytellers 2019 - Paul Traynor, Storyteller PAUL TRAYNOR is a Story Jam fave. He most recently appeared in the comedy “The Art of Motivation” at Stage 773 in Chicago, and in his own web series entitled "Turner." As a corporate speaker, he’s done presentations for dozens of Fortune 500 companies throughout North America and Europe. As a filmmaker, he's produced videos for hospitals, law firms, churches and non-profits. Paul wrote & directed the feature film "Witches' Night," and is currently working on several original projects. He lives in Wilmette with his beautiful wife, Lindley, and his five above-average children. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588849850078-UNUXZB19ZPZD6HHI9KI4/anne%2Bpurky.jpeg Featured Storytellers 2019 - Anne Purky, Storyteller ANNE PURKY has burst on the storytelling scene depicting the dark side of a privileged upbringing, stirring up trouble on the North Shore, and being the renegade mom of an astonishing, differently-abled daughter. She studied film & writing at Northwestern and the School of the Art Institute. Anne is active in politics, disability rights, and advocates for the homeless with PADS in Waukegan & Zion. Anne has performed at Story Jam, Chicago Dramatists, Truth Be Told, Beast Women, Story Lab, Pour One Out, You’re Being Ridiculous, and sold out her one-woman show at Lifeline Theatre's Filet of Solo festival this year. She resides in Lake Forest where she chronicles entitlement with raucous glee! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588850289571-Q0CXMS7SNX68E37US8CA/jeremy%2Bowens.jpg Featured Storytellers 2019 - Jeremy Owens, Storyteller JEREMY OWENS hosts and produces You're Being Ridiculous, a live lit show which is regularly featured at Steppenwolf Theatre's LookOut series. He is also the co-editor for Heauxs Chicago, and a writer for Oy!Chicago. His writing has appeared in The Daily Dot, Story Club Magazine, Role Reboot, The JUF News, and Thread; and he has been featured in dozens of live lit shows, including Story Jam. He is a graduate of The University of Arkansas, Fayetteville and has an MFA in performance from Roosevelt University. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588850537306-YVTTZSMKWV5OTEJY1A6V/Archy%2BJamjun*****.jpg Featured Storytellers 2019 - Archy Jamjun, Storyteller ARCHY JAMJUN is one of Chicago's premiere tellers, originally from Lincolnwood, IL. He is a member of Drinkers with Writing Problems, a writing/performance group, and he curates OUTspoken, an LGTBQ live lit series. Archy is a two-time Moth Grand Slam winner, professor, server, guncle, and proud father of a coddled cat. Archy recently performed his first solo show, "A Boy and a Diva," at Lifeline Theatre's 2019 Filet of Solo Festival (directed by Story Jam producer Stephanie Rogers). Archy's website. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588850967426-U4LISXXHRGH655B83WQP/arlene%2Bstage.jpg Featured Storytellers 2019 - Arlene Malinowski, Storyteller ARLENE MALINOWSKI is a supremely talented performer and writer. Arlene's award-winning solo shows have been produced internationally, and she has performed on stages and film sets all over the U.S. An extraordinary talent, Arlene infuses depth and humor into every performance. She also teaches solo performance, and coaches writers and performers. She's surely the only person to have appeared in Shakespeare and "Doogie Howser" in the same 24 hours. Find out more at Arlene's website. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588850908932-U2Y2ERS7BMKEO8EYFKYB/Stephanie%2BRogers%2BDAN%2BROCKING%2Bcopy.jpg Featured Storytellers 2019 - Stephanie Rogers, Storyteller/Creative Director STEPHANIE ROGERS. is the creative director of Story Jam and Story Jam Studio. Steph has been acting, singing, and songwriting since college, and she discovered Chicago’s live lit scene in 2013. She holds a bachelor’s degree in theatre from Northwestern, and a Master’s degree in writing from National Louis. More here. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588472903561-SK99T247OJHITLII31QD/jeremyfromcrowd.jpg Featured Storytellers 2019 - Jeremy Owens, Storyteller JEREMY OWENS hosts and produces You're Being Ridiculous, a live lit show which is regularly featured at Steppenwolf Theatre's LookOUT series. He is also the co-editor for Heauxs Chicago, and a writer for Oy!Chicago. His writing has appeared in The Daily Dot, Story Club Magazine, Role Reboot, The JUF News, and Thread; and he has been featured in the live-lit shows: Essay Fiesta, Fillet of Solo Theatre Festival, Guts & Glory, Story Club Chicago, Story Sessions, Story Jam, The Paper Machete, This Much Is True, That's All She Wrote, and others. He is a graduate of The University of Arkansas, Fayetteville and has an MFA in performance from Roosevelt University. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588851601219-QOWU89V6Z3R3JSVVXBFF/lynnejordanopenarms.jpg Featured Storytellers 2019 - Lynne Jordan, Storyteller LYNNE JORDAN is a STORY JAM favorite. The mesmerizing singer-performer-diva extraordinaire is currently workshopping her much-awaited solo show, "A Great Big Diva," which features her incredible personal stories and gorgeous singing voice. A Northwestern theatre grad, Lynne leads her own popular event band, Lynne Jordan and The Shivers, and has performed to sold-out crowds in the US and abroad. Read more about Diva Lynne. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588697527522-VQO1369XPHJ98S19M8PK/maryamorris.jpg Featured Storytellers 2019 - Marya Morris, Storyteller MARYA MORRIS has won a whole bunch of live lit contest shows because she is both hilarious and funny (haha). She is making her official Story Jam debut, and she is a valued member of the Story team. Marya is a city planner and freelance writer-editor living in Wilmette, IL with her husband, mother, three emerging adults, a puppy, and all of their cats. Lots and lots of cats. Marya began performing at Louder Than a Mom in 2015 and has since been on stage at You’re Being Ridiculous, This Much Is True, Is This a Thing?, Pour One Out, Appetite for Rock n’ Roll, and as a regular winner at local Moth StorySlams. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588851490275-MLLSQTDR7IL74OHEHHKJ/arlenehandsup.jpg Featured Storytellers 2019 - Arlene Malinowski, Storyteller ARLENE MALINOWSKI is a multi-talented performer and writer. Arlene's award-winning solo shows have been produced internationally, and she has performed on stages and film sets all over the U.S. An extraordinary talent, Arlene infuses depth and humor into every performance. She also teaches and coaches writers and performers, and she's surely the only person to have appeared in Shakespeare AND Doogie Howser in the same 24 hours. Find out more at Arlene's website. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588473059181-5BY6P6JUXKTDR1FS3A5M/annepurkyquotes.jpg Featured Storytellers 2019 - Anne Purky, Storyteller ANNE PURKY has burst on the storytelling scene depicting the dark side of a privileged upbringing, trouble stirring on the North Shore, and being a renegade mom of an astonishing, differently abled daughter. Anne studied film & writing at Northwestern and the School of the Art Institute, and she is active in politics, disability rights, and advocating for the homeless with PADS in Waukegan & Zion. Anne has performed at Story Jam, Chicago Dramatists, Truth Be Told, Beast Women, Ragdale, Story Lab, Pour One Out, and others. She resides in Lake Forest where she chronicles entitlement with raucous glee! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588473042594-QQA7GU7FPQFGZS56DUFV/archybigstage.jpg Featured Storytellers 2019 - Archy Jamjun, Storyteller ARCHY JAMJUN is one of Chicago's premiere tellers, originally from Lincolnwood, IL. He is a member of Drinkers with Writing Problems, a writing/performance group, and he curates OUTspoken, an LGTBQ live lit series. Archy also co-produces Talk Stories, an Asian American Storytelling Show, and he is a two-time Moth Grand Slam winner, professor, server, guncle, and proud father of a coddled cat. Archy recently performed his first solo show, "A Boy and a Diva," at Lifeline Theatre's 2019 Filet of Solo Festival (directed by Story Jam producer Stephanie Rogers). Archy's website. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588473708707-4OH91BHN0IMYYW3LRXBG/Archy%252Bat%252BEV%252BSPACE%252B1.21.19.jpg Featured Storytellers 2019 - Archy Jamjun, Storyteller ARCHY JAMJUN is a gifted writer and storyteller, originally from Lincolnwood. He is a member of Drinkers with Writing Problems, a writing/performance group, and he is also curator of Outspoken GBTLQ stories, and co-producer of Talk Stories, An Asian American Storytelling Show. Archy is a two-time Moth Grand Slam winner, professor, server, guncle, and proud father of an undisciplined and coddled cat. He is also performing his solo show, "A Boy and a Diva" at Lifeline Theatre's 2019 Filet of Solo Festival (directed by Story Jam producer Stephanie Rogers) Archy's website. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588848741724-QRIOPDPWGWRZEY77BL3W/shannon+cason+1.JPG Featured Storytellers 2019 - Shannon Cason, Storyteller SHANNON CASON was a huge hit at Story Jam this past May, and he is back by popular demand all the way from Detroit! The incredible Mr. Cason has told stories all over the country with The Moth, Snap Judgment, and his own popular podcast, Homemade Stories. He recently launched a new show with WBEZ Chicago called The Trouble with Shannon Cason, available on Apple Podcasts. Shannon is a husband and a father, and he’s making a rare Chicago appearance for our special MLK Day show. Shannon's website. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588473652789-4XHXKP59XNVAG0GUYPHR/mama%252Bedie%252B1.jpg Featured Storytellers 2019 - Mama Edie Armstrong, Storyteller MAMA EDIE ARMSTRONG is nationally beloved veteran storyteller. A bilingual speech and language pathologist and percussionist, Mama Edie has been known to blend music and spoken English and Spanish word with Sign Language. She has traveled the world sharing her stories and songs, and captivating audiences. In 2007, Edie was published in a book, Tell the World: Storytelling Across Language Barriers with her chapter entitled "How to Reach a Multilingual Audience." Edie has also been featured on PBS, and has two award-winning DVD's. More about Mama Edie. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588473692261-UIZOY4YYAC5076UB2TLL/rc%252Briley.jpg Featured Storytellers 2019 - R.C. Riley, Storyteller R.C. RILEY is a queer warrior woman, writer, performer, and storyteller who began writing as a means of healing after a sexual assault. R.C.'s work challenges heteronormative views and seeks to find justice for and liberate those who have felt left out, forgotten, ignored, and unloved by our society. Her one-woman show, Wrong Way Journey, delineates her personal journey of healing from trauma to triumph. When she's not performing her solo show, R.C. can be found telling short stories around the Chicagoland area. R.C.'s website. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588473668447-XWR0G9YNZMJ7985MJX8D/nestor.jpg Featured Storytellers 2019 - Nestor Gomez, Storyteller NESTOR GOMEZ has won more Moth Slams and Grand Slams than anyone ever (we've lost track of the count, but it's over 30). He has also won at North Side Stories, Here Chicago, and Joyfest. Nestor has been featured on NPR and Vocalo, and at dozens of storytelling shows in Chicago, including regular appearances with us at STORY JAM. Nestor started telling stories to overcome his childhood stuttering, and now his heartfelt stories are heard all over the world. Nestor's website. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588473726840-W1492J5GKK8U7X3J3U09/lynne%2Bjordan%252B5.jpg Featured Storytellers 2019 - Lynne Jordan, Storyteller LYNNE JORDAN returns for her sixth visit to the STORY JAM stage. The mesmerizing singer-performer-diva extraordinaire is currently workshopping her much-awaited solo show, "A Great Big Diva," which features incredible personal stories and songs. A Northwestern theatre grad, Lynne leads her own popular event band, Lynne Jordan and The Shivers, and has performed to sold-out crowds in the US and Europe. More about Lynne. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588848983104-ZIH4QXE3XRDIWNMT4MJ9/group+love+MLK+DAY******.JPG Featured Storytellers 2019 https://www.storyjamshow.com/featured-storytellers-2018 daily 0.75 2024-01-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588195207188-6BV0QL4BO89ESV0YGD87/PAUL+TEODO.JPG Featured Storytellers 2018 - Paul Teodo, Storyteller PAUL TEODO is a storyteller and retired healthcare executive born and raised on Chicago’s south side. Paul recently published his first novel, "PASTAMAN." This is Paul's first appearance at Story Jam. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588195243518-DOKWMYGOG4HSG6WPQOBR/LILY+BE+1.JPG Featured Storytellers 2018 - Lily Be, Storyteller LILY BE is an activist, storyteller, teacher, and producer who was born and raised in Chicago's Humboldt Park neighborhood. Lily was the first Latina Moth GrandSLAM champion, and she is also a WNEP Maelstrom improvised storytelling champ, and host/producer of The Stoop at Rosa’s Lounge. Her stories are featured on the RISK podcast, WBEZ Nerdette podcast, WBEZ presents Shannon Cason's Homemade Stories podcast, and at The Moth Radio Hour. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588195181883-8Q6W0MS2QVB4LV9FY0ZM/ARCHY+1.JPG Featured Storytellers 2018 - Archy Jamjun, Storyteller ARCHY JAMJUN is an extremely popular storyteller-writer from Chicago. He is a regularly featured teller at: Story Jam, The Stoop, This Much is True, The Moth, and OUTspoken (which he hosts every month). He has won The 25th Annual Chicago's Biggest Liar Contest and The Moth Grand Slam. Archy recently earned his MFA from Roosevelt University, and he is on staff at North Park University, teaching literature. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588852127897-Y5SCMAFQ5GGH6S8MN8A7/Jenn%2BSodini%2Bhappy%2Bface.jpeg Featured Storytellers 2018 - Jenn Sodini, Storyteller JENN SODINI grew up in Pittsburgh, then moved to Chicago and never looked back. Her Moth Radio Hour story has surely helped her career as an analyst for a medical consulting firm. She hosts and co-produces CHIRP Radio's The First Time storytelling and live music show, which won "Best Live Lit Event" in The Chicago Reader's 2017 Best Of poll (http://firsttime.chirpradio.org). She also co-hosts and co-produces Psychotic Break, Chicago’s premiere mental-illness-themed variety show (1st Wednesday of the month at Schubas). She loves all sorts of projects (making light fixtures, refinishing furniture, building computers, hydroponic gardening) so long as it's not the thing she's supposed to be doing. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588195287860-RU5W88SGUIKWP98ZG1MA/SARAH+BUNGER.JPG Featured Storytellers 2018 - Sarah Bunger, Storyteller SARAH BUNGER grew up in one of the smallest towns imaginable outside of Dayton, Ohio (think: flashing caution light, a gas station/Subway sandwich shop, and lots and lots of cows). Since moving to the big city ten years ago, she is adjusting to the long winters and nearly complete lack of cows. In addition to teaching English Lit and directing the Community Partnerships program at an area high school, she hosts the Truth or Lie Reading Series, an awesome live lit show every first Sunday of the month. She has been a featured teller at Solo Theatre, Story Sessions, This Much is True, You're Being Ridiculous, and WBEZ's New Year's Eve celebration. She is also a two-time Moth Grand Slam Champion and has been featured on The Moth Radio Hour and podcast. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588852418366-7AGCWRSKSWNMLKUTCU1P/Lindsay%2BDSC_2216.JPG Featured Storytellers 2018 - Lindsay Eanet, Storyteller LINDSAY EANET works at a nonprofit by day and writes, edits and discreetly commandeers the jukebox at Farragut's by night. She has performed at Essay Fiesta, Is This A Thing, Story Jam, You're Being Ridiculous, and the 1999 JCC Camp Chi Talent Show. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588197235220-WIHLNEEQ9S3DMMOF3K14/Shannon%2BDSC_2286.JPG Featured Storytellers 2018 - Shannon Cason, Storyteller The incredible SHANNON CASON has told stories all over the country with The Moth, Snap Judgment, and his own popular podcast, Homemade Stories. He recently launched a new show with WBEZ Chicago called The Trouble with Shannon Cason, available on Apple Podcast. Shannon is a husband and a father, and he’s making a rare Chicago appearance with Story Jam. Here's more about Shannon. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588196909751-ZZ3Y0PYWZ312S41G1PSO/nestor%2B%22theboss%22%2Bgomez.JPG Featured Storytellers 2018 - Nestor Gomez, Storyteller NESTOR "THE BOSS" GOMEZ has won more Moth Slams and Grand Slams than anyone, ever (twenty-nine total). He has also won at North Side Stories, Here Chicago, and Joyfest. Nestor has been featured on NPR and Vocalo, and at dozens of storytelling shows in Chicago, including regular appearances at Story Jam. Nestor will tell you that his greatest achievements are making his mother proud, and winning the heart of his wife, "Sweet Mel." Last year, Nestor's first ever solo show debuted to sold out crowds. For more information about Nestor, check out his website. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588852361230-G7H7QGR23E1SDZN2A5LG/Archy*****.JPG Featured Storytellers 2018 - Archy Jamjun, Storyteller ARCHY JAMJUN is an extremely popular storyteller-writer from Chicago. He is a regularly featured teller at: Story Jam, The Stoop, This Much is True, The Moth, and OUTspoken! He has won The 25th Annual Chicago's Biggest Liar Contest and The Moth Grand Slam. Archy just earned his MFA from Roosevelt University, and he is developing his much-awaited solo show with us here at Story Jam (to be presented this fall). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588196871643-94RWJNGYQI3MDCHDSA8H/Arlene%2BDSC_2499.JPG Featured Storytellers 2018 - Arlene Malinowski, Storyteller ARLENE MALINOWSKI is a multi-talented performer and writer. Arlene's award-winning solo shows have been produced internationally, and she has performed on stages and film sets all over the country. An extraordinary talent, Arlene infuses depth and humor into every performance. She teaches writing, and she's the only person to have appeared in Shakespeare AND Doogie Howser in the same 24 hours. Find out more at Arlene's website. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588197018260-ARHC5GKSLGW091YNJDE3/annalise+black+and+white.JPG Featured Storytellers 2018 - Annalise Raziq, Storyteller ANNALISE RAZIQ has worked with renowned playwright Tony Kushner, and has also played the back end of a dragon. A singer with Americana band, “Annalise and the Backsliders,” she is a writer, storyteller, and improviser. Annalise is a three-time Moth Slam winner and has had one of her stories featured on NPR's The Moth (here). She has also told stories for Story Jam, Risk!, This Much Is True, and the Truth or Lie Reading Series. By far, her most creative act has been raising her amazing daughter Kalila Holt. More stuff about Annalise. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588198326690-UCKO0QPILYBCZBS20GIV/Nestor%2BGomez.jpeg Featured Storytellers 2018 - Nestor Gomez, Storyteller NESTOR "THE BOSS" GOMEZ has won more Moth Slams and Grand Slams than anyone, ever (29). He has also won at North Side Stories, Here Chicago, and Joyfest. He has been featured on NPR and Vocalo, and at dozens of storytelling shows in Chicago, including Story Jam. Nestor will tell you that his greatest achievements are making his mother proud, and wining the heart of "Sweet Mel," his wife. Nestor's first ever solo show debuted in January 2017 to sold out crowds. For more information about Nestor, check his web site. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588198156219-ZMK8XKJI14JL7RNU4PIY/corrbette.JPG Featured Storytellers 2018 - Corrbette Pasko, Storyteller CORRBETTE PASKO is a writer, actor, singer, speed talker, and professional swearer. You can find a lot of her writing on corrbette.com (where you can also hire her for any of the above), and her face at various shows and live lit events around Chicago. She writes plays with her theater wife, Sara Sevigny, and you can buy one (The League of Awesome) on Amazon. You can also see their very stupid YouTube series, Get In the Car, and subscribe to their channel. Her parents named all three kids nine-lettered names that began with C and she was last, that's why. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588198193716-JODNA5KAEFK99IMSBXAP/kimmy.JPG Featured Storytellers 2018 - Kimmy Fleishman, Storyteller As a Second City Musical Improv conservatory graduate, KIMMY FLEISHMAN sucks at Musical Improv. Nonetheless, Kimmy has been acting, singing, directing, and telling stories since she was born. She used to charge a penny to every one of her parent's friends, so they could watch her one-woman show. Since growing up into a real life adult, she has fallen in love with live lit & the vulnerability that comes along with it. During the week she lives that Mad Men life, even though she hates commercials interrupting her Hulu binges. And in her free time she explores and engages in new things, people, and places, because she's curious like a cat. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588198013828-0NF5OUU2W1212PE4QMEF/jeremy+shoulders.JPG Featured Storytellers 2018 - Jeremy Owens, Storyteller JEREMY OWENS is the creator, producer and host of the live-lit/storytelling show You're Being Ridiculous, which is part of The Steppenwolf Theatre's LookOUT series. He lives in Rogers Park with his adorable husband, Andy, and their adorabler dog Sally Field. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588198229776-TST0F0I9UKUYUEH0ZVKO/lynne.JPG Featured Storytellers 2018 - Lynne Jordan, Storyteller LYNNE JORDAN returns to the STORY JAM stage. The talented singer-performer is about to launch her much-awaited solo show, "A Great Big Diva," which features personal stories and songs. A Northwestern theatre grad, Lynne leads her own popular event band, Lynne Jordan and The Shivers, and she has performed to sold-out crowds in the US and Europe. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588198111504-JT68MP9N1O4PJ00RM11A/josh%2Bpointing.jpg Featured Storytellers 2018 - Josh Zagoren, Storyteller JOSH ZAGOREN is a voice and stage actor, and Iowan, in Chicago. You know him from that thing. No not that one, the other one. The one with the...yeah THAT one. As a writer, he's worked with STORY CLUB, GUTS AND GLORY, PLEASURETOWN, LITMASH, and a host of other Live Lit events and productions throughout the city. He's also a director and combatant with WRITE CLUB, and every Saturday at 3pm you can find him as CHAD THE BIRD at The Paper Machete (Green Mill). Or if you're lazy like him: CHAD THE PODCAST on iTunes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588198402019-JJHGK5FBD1LPVRA3EZWC/steph+and+band+in+march.JPG Featured Storytellers 2018 - Stephanie Rogers, Singer/Songwriter/ Producer STEPHANIE ROGERS (host) combines her love for music, theatre, and personal story to produce and write music for each STORY JAM show. A Northwestern theatre grad, Stephanie is furthering her pursuit of the impractical by studying in the Written Communication grad program at National Louis. She also does some other fancy stuff, which can be explored at Hipchick.com. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588112016453-95L8LW11I2Y3CAVCCYVZ/Susan%2BKarp.jpeg Featured Storytellers 2018 - Susan Karp, Storyteller SUSAN KARP is an actor-writer who has performed solo shows and monologues at Steppenwolf, Curious Theatre Branch, Timeline Theatre, and Live Bait Theatre. She has also been heard or seen on WBEZ, and at many literary events in Chicago, including: The Write Club; The Encyclopedia Show; 2nd Story, and The Interview Show. As an improviser, Susan was a member of Cast on a Hot Tin Roof, Jazz Freddy and Bang-Bang. As an actor, she has worked with Live Bait, Raven Theatre, Next Theatre, and the Neofuturists. Susan lives in Glencoe with her husband Josh and their four boys. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588112394744-RIWX1GUNS1DFGJ4YHX66/Akagunbiade%2BStephanieRogers.jpeg Featured Storytellers 2018 - Ak Agunbiade, Storyteller AK AGUNBIADE is a comedian, storyteller, and blogger who was born in Nigeria, but grew up in the awe-inspiring cornfields of Indiana. His foray into stand up comedy was accidental in nature. He told a funny story once on stage at a college comedy show, and people laughed. The rest is history. You can usually find him performing at various venues in Chi-town and different colleges nationwide. When not performing, he is either sleeping, eating, or writing....but most likely he’s eating (or being an outstanding MD!). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588112172596-WMCL6MN2KI6T6N8AD7XH/Archy%2BJamjun.jpeg Featured Storytellers 2018 - Archy Jamjun, Storyteller ARCHY JAMJUN is an extremely popular storyteller-writer from Chicago. He is a regularly featured teller at: Story Jam, The Stoop, This Much is True, The Moth, and OUTspoken! He has won The 25th Annual Chicago's Biggest Liar Contest and The Moth Grand Slam. He just earned his MFA from Roosevelt University this past month. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588112254703-MABRQUH20UWZOU2W3AW4/Miriam%2BCarey%2Bpointing.jpeg Featured Storytellers 2018 - Miriam Carey, Storyteller MIRIAM CAREY is a writer and content marketer with a strong background in journalism. She came to Chicago ten years ago from Cleveland (where many of her wonderful stories originate), and she is a beloved teller around town. Miriam is currently the marketing director at eContext in Chicago, and she has authored four books, including the popular "52 Romantic Outings in Greater Cleveland." Check out her swanky site. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588112304709-5IEMMMG41JP4Z857SFGG/CarolMoss%2BBand.jpeg Featured Storytellers 2018 - Carol Moss, Storyteller CAROL MOSS is a local singer, actor and psychotherapist. She is thrilled to be back on the Wilmette Theatre stage, having performed here as a Sparkle Sister and in the "Secret Lives of Mom's" for five years. She is a veteran of stage and screen, and appeared in over 50 commercials and 70 industrial films. Currently, she is on the speaker's bureau for Abbvie and does motivational speaking as well as seeing private clients. www.carolmoss.com https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588113134096-N644QYMDL9OHB837HRAQ/Paule%2BBarile.jpeg Featured Storytellers 2018 - Paul Barile, Storyteller PAUL BARILE is new to the Story Jam stage. He is a writer/actor working and playing in Chicago. His debut novel “My Brother’s Hands” (Lexographic Press) is out now. His audio-book “Chasing Happy” (Mint 400 Records) is available wherever fine mp3s are sold. His comic book “The Summit of Justice” will be out early 2018. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588198790459-4HJ0C9OTFN0243FRM6UM/Duayne%2BBlackandWhite.jpeg Featured Storytellers 2018 - Duayne Meyer, Storyteller DUAYNE MEYER has been the Senior Pastor at Northfield Community Church for the last 18 years. Before that, he worked with churches in St. Louis and southern Illinois. Duayne is an avid traveler, an activist, a humanitarian, a community leader, and an all-around cool dude who rides his bike all over Chicago. Oh, he also once toured with a rock band. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588112624883-DGM3HNJ809V5I2VQW1RM/StephanieDouglas.jpeg Featured Storytellers 2018 - Stephanie Douglass, Storyteller STEPHANIE DOUGLASS is a Moth GrandSLAM Champion, co-founder of New York Theatre Co. the TEAM, and was the head writer for OLN's "Outside Magazine's Ultimate Top Ten.” She hosts Story Club North Side and cohosts the Englewood Storytelling Open Mic at Kusanya Cafe. Stephanie served as the Farm Enterprise Director at Growing Home, overseeing job training on Chicago's first high-production organic farm. She is also a co-founder of Cyahafi (Cha-HA-fi) Blooms, a resource training collective in southwestern Uganda. Stephanie recently became the Assoc. Director of the Greater West Town Project, which provides job training for disadvantaged adults and re-enrolls students who have dropped out or been pushed out of CPS schools. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588112462926-5WGNYM8RNA9OZZYZYNH2/Welcome+to+Story+Jam%2BSteph%2Bthe+band.jpeg Featured Storytellers 2018 - Stephanie Rogers, Singer/Songwriter/ Producer STEPHANIE ROGERS proudly holds (onto for dear life) a degree in acting from Northwestern University. She was inspired to create STORY JAM after taking a solo show class and attending storytelling events in Chicago and NYC. A huge fan of NPR, story podcasts, and non-fiction theatre, Stephanie combines her love for music, theatre, and personal story to produce—and write music for—each Story Jam show. She is currently pursuing a master's in Written Communication at a snail's pace, at National Louis University. More here. https://www.storyjamshow.com/featured-storytellers-2017 daily 0.75 2024-01-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/ceef6fe1-d3ca-47c1-940b-803b01f8fb9e/nestor+cute****.jpg Featured Storytellers 2017 - Nestor Gomez, Storyteller NESTOR "THE BOSS" GOMEZ is a twelve-time winner of the Chicago Moth Slam and two-time winner of the Moth Grand Slam. He has also won "audience favorite" at North Side Stories and Here Chicago; and he sealed the win at the first ever Joyfest storytelling contest. Despite all his wins, Nestor will tell you that his greatest achievements are making his mother proud and wining the heart of his girlfriend, "Sweet Mel." Nestor's first ever solo show will debut in January 2017 at Fillet of Solo. For more information about Nestor, check his web site http://www.nestorgomezstoryteller.com/ https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588108576912-1ESWF8FYPF7F1CTNKM52/Lynne.jpg Featured Storytellers 2017 - Lynne Jordan, Storyteller LYNNE JORDAN returns to the STORY JAM stage for the fourth time. An entertainer who is both moving and funny, Lynne is currently developing her much-awaited one-person show, comprised of personal stories and songs. A Northwestern University grad, Lynne has been one of Chicago's hottest vocal divas for many years. Her event band regularly plays clubs and private parties, and she has performed to sold-out crowds on stages throughout the US and Europe. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588108358606-XEDYFB2OGSM1NECB4N6E/Anne+Purky+at+City.JPG Featured Storytellers 2017 - Anne Purky, Storyteller ANNE PURKY is a veteran Story Jammer. She claims she is an astronaut, a housewife, and a graduate of Northwestern University, though we only know her as one of Chicago best storytellers. She attended the MFA program in writing at The School of the Art Institute of Chicago, and she holds a degree in Radio, TV, and Film from Northwestern. Anne has written and performed for many shows in and around Chicago, and she is a Story Jam team member, helping to organize the events and storytelling and creativity retreats. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588108265711-IMCH9WVDU70Z36FOOJ1R/Archy+at+City.JPG Featured Storytellers 2017 - Archy Jamjun, Storyteller ARCHY JAMJUN is a popular, hilarious storyteller-writer from Chicago. He is a regularly featured teller at shows around Chicago, including Story Jam, The Stoop, This Much is True, and OUTspoken! He has won The 25th Annual Chicago's Biggest Liar Contest and The Moth Grand Slam. When not storytelling or working, you can catch him eating dessert, chasing drag queens, or just being lazy. He is also an MFA student at Roosevelt University. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588108461869-AGCQC8TZVKBLYBIVYR9A/drew+arms+up+nice.JPG Featured Storytellers 2017 - Drew Love, Storyteller DREW LOVE is a documentarian and stop motion animator on a journey to perfect his craft as a story artist. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/ed58efdd-1fff-48bb-8165-d905b26e3a67/Screenshot+2024-01-08+at+6.02.55+PM.png Featured Storytellers 2017 - Steve Glickman, Storyteller STEVE GLICKMAN has been telling stories at weddings and funerals his whole life to wide critical acclaim. He is the co-host of the monthly open-mic storytelling show Do Not Submit at Uptown Underground in Chicago, and has performed at the Laugh Factory, the Moth, the Evanston Storytelling Festival, This Much Is True, Story Club, OUTspoken, and other shows in Chicago. Steve is a software engineer by day and a proud nerd. He loves classical music and can often be seen air-conducting whatever symphony or opera is playing on his iPod or in his head. He lives in the Uptown neighborhood of Chicago with his partner Mark and their imaginary dog Ruffles. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/756ea192-b406-41c9-9d5f-b4201a896fc1/Screenshot+2024-01-08+at+6.03.50+PM.png Featured Storytellers 2017 - Erin Diamond, Storyteller ERIN DIAMOND is a writer and comedian. She is a frequent contributor to The Paper Machete and co-producer of the new show The Kiki a monthly queer comedy variety hour at The Laugh Factory. She is a devoted fan of the band Third Eye Blind. While Erin possesses The Trump Family Chin— or lack thereof, she is no relation.” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588110225102-DI8I1QJ54WAPZZU15NZ0/josh+zagoren.JPG Featured Storytellers 2017 - Josh Zagoren, Storyteller JOSH ZAGOREN is from Iowa, schooled in Boston and has been a writer/actor in Chicago since 2006, performing in four WildClaw productions (Legion, Carmilla, The Shadow Over Innsmouth and the 2015 remount of The Revenants) as well as hosting our annual Deathscribe. On the sly, he performs every Saturday as Chad the Bird of The Paper Machete at Chicago’s Historic Green Mill Lounge. Terrified of airplanes, totally has a collection of skulls and falls asleep to The X-Files, he is very happy to be home. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588110495336-81ILZFX0YTV5KUD9W17X/bill+oc+2.JPG Featured Storytellers 2017 - Bill O’Callaghan, Storyteller BILL O'CALLAGHAN The whip-smart-witty, ultrafun, second-to-youngest of nine (plus an adopted brother), Bill O'Callaghan hails from the north side and north shore of Chicago. He is a general contractor and real estate developer who, with his wife, is raising two sons. He’s a long-suffering Sox and Bears fan who spends his spare time making inappropriate comments, playing recreational sports, and coaching his sons’ teams. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588110281316-H08CJRWJS9245XY675IB/heidi+cute.JPG Featured Storytellers 2017 - Chris Trani, Storyteller CHRIS TRANI is a storyteller, stand-up comedian, and documentary filmmaker. His film, “An American House," focuses on the journey of migrants to America and their stay at a halfway home in Texas. Chris has traveled the U.S. and Europe to present his stand-up comedy, movie, and humorous stories. Chris is a MOTH Winner and recently won the storytelling category for SNUBFEST 2015. His story will be featured on Audible.com and he will appear as a guest on “It’s All True” to discuss comedy, his career and more. Chances are Chris will not be running when you read this. He hates running. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588110063293-GT24QGXP3ZF618PZ3QDB/rebecca+1.JPG Featured Storytellers 2017 - Rebecca Anderson, Storyteller REBECCA ANDERSON has been a farmer and gardener, a docent at a Shaker village, an ox-drover, a nanny, a stand-up comic, and now she's a minister. She owns a loom, and uses it. She runs outside year-round but won't bike into a headwind. In Chicago, Rebecca has worked with companies and events like 2nd Story, The Moth, This Much is True, and co-hosts a Do Not Submit open mic. She's a founding pastor at GileadChicago.org, a new inclusive creative church where they tell true stories that save lives, and she is the founder of EarshotStories.com. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588110349602-ET4TJDF7RSVWCEFN75P4/drew+love.JPG Featured Storytellers 2017 - Drew Love, Storyteller DREW LOVE is a documentarian and stop motion animator on a journey to perfect his craft as a story artist. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588110749273-SU7RBUM17Q1YZEUMQYFF/brenna+kearney.jpg Featured Storytellers 2017 - Brenna Kearney, Storyteller BRENNA KEARNEY is a Chicago-based writer and editor. She grew up in a suburb of Kansas City, KS and has lived in New York, London, and other charming towns and villages throughout the UK. She performs with the hilarious storytellers of You’re Being Ridiculous and writes the blog for the Chicago League of Lady Arm Wrestlers. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588474318722-MSWNGYUBVXTIUHZZ79KV/erin%2Btelling%2B1.jpg Featured Storytellers 2017 - Erin Diamond, Storyteller ERIN DIAMOND is a writer and comedian. She is a frequent contributor to The Paper Machete and co-producer of the new show The Kiki a monthly queer comedy variety hour at The Laugh Factory. She is a devoted fan of the band Third Eye Blind. While Erin possesses The Trump Family Chin— or lack thereof, she is no relation.” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588474588667-82T6GABUT8DF8CHKKGGG/megan%2Bwells.jpg Featured Storytellers 2017 - Megan Wells, Storyteller MEGAN WELLS is a bridge teller – one foot in the new movement of personal telling and the other foot in the traditional model. She has been a full-time professional touring storyteller for 25 years, and has been recently named an Oracle by the National Storytelling Network, inducting her into America’s Circle of Excellence in Storytelling. So, all that really means, is she knows a lot of folk stories, epic stories, world myth and historical stories and she tells them anywhere, everywhere and a lot. ON THE OTHER FOOT, Megan is a passionate supporter of this exciting new movement of personal narrative and thrives on its intimacy, heart and edge. I guess you could say she’s some kind of story fanatic. Except without guns. There is a theater passion too, and a bio for that, but you can see that at www.meganwells.com. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588474374790-BEVD8Z3PEO38VYH5U97Y/nina%2Btelling.jpg Featured Storytellers 2017 - Nina Uziel-Miller, Storyteller NINA UZIEL-MILLER is a seasoned psychologist and an aspiring writer. She earned both her bachelor’s degree in theatre and her doctorate in clinical psychology from Northwestern University, where she is currently an assistant professor of Clinical Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences. Nina is delighted to be returning to the stage after a twenty-plus year hiatus; she recently made her storytelling debut at Evanston Live. Her essays can be found at https://www.litro.co.uk/ and https:/www.thesmartset.com. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588474539516-6019TKQ8V3QL6J2TQEHB/don%2Bhall.jpg Featured Storytellers 2017 - Don Hall, Storyteller DON HALL is really just your average middle-aged white guy (without the raging conservative streak or need to purchase a sports car...). Formerly a theatrical producer, a public school teacher, a massage school facilities manager, professional trumpet player, former five-year host of The Moth Story Slam, and a homeless busker, he currently makes a living as the Director of Events for Chicago Public Media. He has published two books (available on Amazon) and plans to write and publish, like, 60 more. He writes daily at Literate Ape. He lives in Wicker Park with his poet/musician wife, Dana Jerman. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588474468294-FQR5H57778J0MTCCVSPA/jimmy%2Bcarrane%2Btelling.jpg Featured Storytellers 2017 - Jimmy Carrane, Storyteller JIMMY CARRANE started his career in comedy at The Second City and IO Chicago (then known as Improv Olympics), and The Annoyance Theater. His hit shows, “I Am 27, I Still Live at Home and Sell Office Supplies,” and “Living in Dwarf’s House,” gained Jimmy his great reputation as a solo performer. He was the host of "Studio 312" on NPR, and he has written two improv books. Jimmy is the host of the podcast "Improv Nerd" on FeralAudioand; and he teaches his award-winning Art of Slow Comedy classes and workshops in Chicago and across the country. As a corporate trainer, Jimmy has worked with Fortune 500 companies, salespeople, and ad agencies to bring the art of improv to the workplace. He may also be seen in movies and tv, including: Public Enemies, The Playboy Club, Natural Born Killers, The Untouchables, ER, Early Edition and many independent films. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588474426286-ISNAXMYTFXMBX5SX9B2A/ARCHY%2B1.jpg Featured Storytellers 2017 - Archy Jamjun, Storyteller ARCHY JAMJUN is a beloved storyteller and writer from Chicago. He has participated in many shows around the city including The Stoop, This Much is True, and OUTspoken! In 2014 he won The 25th Annual Chicago's Biggest Liar Contest and in 2015 he won The Moth Grandslam. When not storytelling or working, you can catch him eating dessert, chasing drag queens, or just being lazy. He is also an MFA student at Roosevelt University. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588476686535-03G5YSBQY5HBBEHJ5Q71/Anne%2Btelling.jpg Featured Storytellers 2017 - Anne Purky, Storyteller ANNE PURKY is an astronaut & housewife and a graduate of Northwestern University. She also attended the MFA program in Writing at The School of the Art Institute of Chicago. She has performed at: "Louder Than a Mom," "Tellin' Tales," Ragdale, Mayne Stage, and others. She lives in the Enchanted Forest up North with her husband and amazing 18 year old. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588476344172-XDRM3M6WA9VC7538J1VS/Ada%2Bcheng%2Btelling.jpg Featured Storytellers 2017 - Ada Cheng, Storyteller ADA CHENG is a professor turned storyteller, improviser, and stand up comic. She is a Moth story slam winner, Bughouse Square Debates runner up, and presenter at The National Storytelling Network Conference. Her book, Standing Up: From Renegade Professor to Middle-Aged Comic, just came out in December 2016. She wants to encourage, especially midlifers, to unstuck themselves and to pursue their dream and passion. In her free time, she loves sleeping (with or without cats) and playing with cats (sleeping or not). Her motto is: Make your life the best story you tell. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588477732518-XOUXVV5U1BE3Y8WD60XA/Paul%2BTraynor.jpeg Featured Storytellers 2017 - Paul Traynor, Storyteller PAUL TRAYNOR is a STORY JAM fave. He most recently appeared in the comedy “The Art of Motivation” at Stage 773 in Chicago, and in his own web series entitled "Turner." As a corporate speaker, he’s done presentations for dozens of Fortune 500 companies throughout North America and Europe. As a filmmaker, he's produced videos for hospitals, law firms, churches and non-profits. Paul wrote & directed the feature film "Witches' Night," and is currently working on several original projects. He lives in Wilmette with his beautiful wife, Lindley, and his five above-average children. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588477259844-Y8WL1SK1KL6N5HSH4PBV/Mac%2Btelling.jpg Featured Storytellers 2017 - Mac Macdevitt, Storyteller MAC MACDEVITT is deep into exploring the wonders of the Windy City since moving from a small town in the Adirondack Mountains of New York three years ago. He has become an urban bike warrior who fixes and ships bikes with the volunteer crew at Working Bikes in Pilsen. Look for him near the lizards at the Lincoln Park Zoo where he is a volunteer educator. Mac is deeply in love with the storytelling community in Chicago. He is the co-host of Do Not Submit in Old Town and has told at Story Lab, This Much is True, TenX9, Homewood Stories and a bunch of Do Not Submit’s all over the city. He is thrilled to be back telling at Story Jam this year. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588477462387-0P0W0ZFLJYVXUBJBLWJ2/Carol%2BMoss%2Btelling.jpeg Featured Storytellers 2017 - Carol Moss, Storyteller CAROL MOSS is a local singer, actor and psychotherapist. She is thrilled to be back on the Wilmette Theatre stage, having performed here as a Sparkle Sister and in the "Secret Lives of Mom's" for five years. She is a veteran of stage and screen, and appeared in over 50 commercials and 70 industrial films. Currently, she is on the speaker's bureau for Abbvie and does motivational speaking as well as seeing private clients. www.carolmoss.com https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1588476470861-GOMMFGL0L4V05VOPQ4QG/Archy%2Bscreams.jpeg Featured Storytellers 2017 - Archy Jamjun, Storyteller ARCHY JAMJUN is a storyteller and writer from Chicago. He has participated in many shows around the city including The Stoop, This Much is True, and OUTspoken! In 2014 he won The 25th Annual Chicago's Biggest Liar Contest and in 2015 he won The Moth Grandslam. When not storytelling or working, you can catch him eating dessert, chasing drag queens, or just being lazy. 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https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1631217204904-RDOHIOG7JZU51XNG0SOJ/SPACE+GROUP+1.21.19****.JPG Donate https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1631217394972-LTHX28XRBDZXRAUI1KC2/laughingmore*****.JPG Donate https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1631217285123-85GPGH9R0KUZK5L8I4D2/arlene%27s+class******.jpg Donate https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1649545545910-30HANC5Z8KJO18KCDFGM/carm+down+copy.jpeg Donate https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1649545558373-3GOCCIW4Q4INET17VUM4/kory+sideways+copy.jpeg Donate https://www.storyjamshow.com/storytellers2021 daily 0.75 2024-01-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1630419849728-BNEZ0ZAW3804KNPMIZNY/maryamorris.jpeg Storytellers 2021 - Marya Morris, Storyteller Marya Morris is an event producer with Story Jam. She is also an urban planner, editor, writer, master gardener, and storyteller who lives in Wilmette, Illinois, with her husband, her mother, her inlaws, and one, two, or three adult children depending on the time of year. Her stories draw on the often absurd and usually relatable events in her complicated life. She is a two-time Moth Grand Slam Champion and will be performing live at the Moth Mainstage on October 9, 2021, in Champaign, Illinois. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1630419958646-KYK88KS6QI0QBDGXYPQC/archy%2Bcool%2Bangle____.jpeg Storytellers 2021 - Archy Jamjun, Storyteller Archy Jamjun is a Story Jam team member and curator for OUTspoken LGBTQ Stories at Sidetrack in Chicago. Archy is a commanding storyteller, who blew the roof off at his sold-out debut solo show in 2019. He is a Moth Slam and Grand Slam winner, and he has told stories at almost every show in Chicago. Archy teaches storytelling and writing at Story Jam Studio, and he holds an MFA in Creative Writing from Roosevelt University. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1630417687432-OF7HZUXSILWK8QUVK2A3/Levy+Mic+Shot.jpeg Storytellers 2021 - Ronna Levy, Storyteller Ronna Levy lives in Brooklyn, New York, but she’s been a lifelong Boston Red Sox fan. She’s been teaching for the City University of New York and telling her students stories for over 30 years. Now, she’s begun telling stories outside the classroom, well, on Zoom and has been featured in Stories from the Stage, Speak Up, Grit’s 7X7 and the Deja-True series, But That’s Another Story, The Otter Storytelling Hour, True Theatre, and she is a proud “99 Second Story” slam winner. Ronna is so happy to be telling stories on a stage, so THANK YOU Story Jam! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1631215756082-5ZVTV0Y6KNJSJTA08Z11/SAD+9-18-20-28.jpg Storytellers 2021 - Maria Kostas, Storyteller With over fifty years of working with people, Maria has witnessed the transformative magic that can happen through shared stories. She teaches meditation and often meditates while driving her convertible around the city she loves, something she does not recommend for beginners! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1632804521689-164T1I4DKHCAVR1M1IWS/Shane_1.jpg Storytellers 2021 - Shane Hendrix, Storyteller Shane Hendrix is an actor, singer and storyteller from Chattanooga, TN. He has appeared on film, TV, and Chicago stages. Shane is excited and honored to be a part of Story Jam's 7th anniversary. Thank you, Stephanie Rogers, for the love and support you bring to the Chicago storytelling community. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1630419201851-PCPANK6OVJ1L2OPK2V87/Story+Jam+Logo+Screenshot.png Storytellers 2021 - Richard Munchkin, Storyteller Richard Munchkin is a writer, director, and performer. He is the author of Gambling Wizards, and the cohost of the "Gambling With an Edge" podcast. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1632928713305-QRDZ22BCH1G9EY4U8TSP/Seattle-Business-Brand-Headshot-Photographer-64.jpg Storytellers 2021 - Melissa Reaves, Storyteller Melissa Reaves (she/her) is a professional and award-winning storyteller and storytelling coach to executives. Melissa works with CEOs, Founders and Senior Executives to build their storytelling skills and enrich their leadership. This combination of sales, marketing, acting, writing, directing and producing storytelling shows, ultimately led her to found Story Fruition to help others find and tell their stories--with impact. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1630986164624-83Q9MHRRG2Y8R6L2FUXP/nestor+cute****.JPG Storytellers 2021 - Nestor Gomez, Storyteller Nestor Gomez is a household name in the world of storytelling. He has won more Moth Slams and Grand Slams (40 in total), nationally, than anyone alive. Nestor was born in Guatemala and he became a US citizen in 2018. He produces a popular storytelling show, "80 Minutes Around the World: Immigration Stories," which boasts a podcast on NPR. Nestor is one of the most sought-after storytellers in Chicago. You can find out all about Nestor here. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1630419572666-K974COCPFXJH9WIKD0U9/Stephanie%2BRogers%2BSMILE%252BSHOT.jpeg Storytellers 2021 - Stephanie Rogers, Singer/Songwriter/ Producer Stephanie Rogers is the producer and creative director of Story Jam, a storytelling and music show, podcast, and storytelling school. A professional actor and singer, Steph holds a B.A. in acting from Northwestern University and an M.A, in writing from National Louis University, Steph is connected to the Old Town School of Folk Music as a former teacher, a storytelling workshop leader, and, with astounding persistence, she once cajoled a reluctant two year-old niece to attend Wiggleworms classes with her! Steph’s website: Hipchick.com. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1630419784901-XYH81RFWGVJ26JOQAFQD/danny%2Band%2Bgerald%2B1____.jpeg Storytellers 2021 - Danny Shaffer, Guitar/Music Director Danny Shaffer co-produces the music of Story Jam. He is a veteran of the Chicago music scene, having produced and played with hundreds of bands. Danny has toured, written, and produced music professionally since he was a teenager. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1630423311716-HUU6JPC7NIVLJIS2SWK5/rafe%252Bbass.jpeg Storytellers 2021 - Rafe Bradford, Bass Rafe Bradford, who studied double bass performance at the University of Illinois, has toured and worked with many great jazz, pop, and R&B greats, including Nancy Wilson, Stanley Turrentine, McCoy Tyner, Aretha Franklin, Lou Rawls, and David Foster. On The Tom Joyner Morning Show, Rafe performed with Luther Vandross, Mavis Staples, and many others in the live house band. He was in The Bonnie Hunt show band with Paul Shaffer, The Swell Season, and Dave Koz, and he is famous for playing bass for Patti LaBelle on Oprah’s theme song. Rafe teaches, plays all around Chicago, and he owns music mastering company. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1630419047164-09ZA9UC8FQFKZN86BVG4/Anne+Harris+1.JPG Storytellers 2021 - Anne Harris, Violinist Anne Harris is a Chicago based American Roots fiddle player. She has toured extensively and recorded with a wide array of artists including Otis Taylor, Guy Davis, Cathy Richardson, Cracker, Anders Osborne, Living Colour, Vieux Farka Toure, and hippie legends Jefferson Starship. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1630419552567-4TR1N20ZNO7IM591J8H6/Lynne%2BJordan%252B5.jpeg Storytellers 2021 - Lynne Jordan, Storyteller Lynne Jordan is a Story Jam favorite. The mesmerizing singer-performer-diva extraordinaire is currently workshopping her much-awaited solo show, "A Great Big Diva," which features her incredible personal stories and gorgeous singing voice. A Northwestern theatre grad, Lynne leads her own popular event band, Lynne Jordan and The Shivers, and has performed to sold-out crowds in the US and abroad. Read more about Diva Lynne. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1630940742958-BV7STS4I0QAVBN4GAM5D/unnamed.jpeg Storytellers 2021 - Melinda Hernandez, Storyteller From Chicago's West side to Stanford, from poet to emcee, Melinda is a spoken word-music-writer and artist whose poems have since been featured on Button Poetry and Write About Now as well as featured in "The End of Chiraq: a Literary Mixtape" and "The Breakbeat Poets Volume 4: LatiNEXT". With a passion for lyricism and an ear for music, Melinda has released a handful of singles and an EP. Melinda (known on musical stages as Linda Sol) has had the pleasure of opening for artists such as 2 Chainz, Ella Mai, Shangela, Dreezy, A.Chal, Samaria, and Mereba as well as performing for Lollapalooza 2020. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1630419758469-BL7PJBBPQOUMZ0D2MS1F/annepurkyquotes.jpeg Storytellers 2021 - Anne Purky, Storyteller Anne Purky is a writer/storyteller/producer on the Chicago storytelling scene. She produces Stand & Deliver, a storytelling show in Lake Forest, and is a relationship manager & producer for Story Jam in Chicago. She is thrilled to be part of this powerhouse show, & loves Stephanie Rogers! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1630417764889-KZ163KNST3PH78WCGU53/54435835_10216434282122662_2674568962347368448_n.jpg Storytellers 2021 - James R. Petersen, Storyteller James R. Petersen was an editor/senior staff writer for Playboy for almost 40 years. He sums up the experience this way: "I wrote about sex when sex was new, when it was something you did in person." Now retired, he gets his breaking news from the History Channel. He discovered live storytelling in 2017 and has performed at over 30 Story Slams in Chicago, and at various bars and galleries around Chicago (some of which were actually hosting events). For the past year and a half, he participated in virtual storytelling events. "It was like a prison visit, picking up a phone, and talking to someone on the other side of a glass window." Like sex, it is better in person. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1630417699319-2X9DA0M25R3UJLMR3V6G/Kory+Thomas+May+cropped+headshot.jpg Storytellers 2021 - Kory May, Storyteller Kory May, DTM, joined Toastmasters in 2006. Inspired by a mentor’s comment that she could see a future world champion in him, Kory promptly proceeded to make mistakes. He made so many mistakes so quickly that he began to improve at speaking. Kory is a twelve time District 19 (Iowa) speaking champion, including being a five-time Toastmasters International World Championship of Public Speaking Semifinalist, ranking in the top 20 in the world in 2015 and in the top 30 in the world in 2018. Recently, Kory began telling stories in story slams around the country. If history is correct, he’ll get better there too! Please welcome the tall guy with the short name, Kory May. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1630525597233-SRSO2GZXKZIPQFW008YV/carmenita+awesome_____.JPG Storytellers 2021 - Carmenita Peoples, Storyteller Carmenita Peoples is a formally trained Montessori educator, financial services officer, and artistic performer who skillfully combines these unique talents to “edutain” audiences. With a brilliant, creative thread, she weaves storytelling, musical improvisation, and poetry to connect and elevate cross-cultural and generation gaps. Carmenita will offer an entertaining story, featuring her signature lovable sense of humor! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1630418566556-0K3FGW5KU1RITID9BDVN/IMG_3514.jpeg Storytellers 2021 - Sean Wellington, Storyteller Sean Wellington is a displaced NYer living in NC. He likes Cuban salsa, pickleball and yoga. He dislikes hair and sleeves. He is also the founder of GRIT: True Stories that Matter. Check it out. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1630423207180-WMKW53HLZUP370Y1VG0Y/liamsolo.jpeg Storytellers 2021 - Liam Davis, Songwriter Liam is a multi-talented producer/songwriter/performer with a veritable rock star swagger. Liam has toured all over the world, and he’s been nominated for three grammys as a producer and songwriter. His brilliant songs for Story Jam are always a highlight of the show. Liam’s website https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1630419616736-S3LBFLKFHUYDMA9H47FK/sarah%2Bmarie%2Byong%2Bsound%2Bcheck%2B1.jpeg Storytellers 2021 - Sarah Marie Young, Singer-Songwriter Sarah Marie is an award winning singer, songwriter and musician. She was a semi-finalist in the 2010 Thelonious Monk Competition and the winner of the 2011 Montreux Voice Competition (judged by Quincy Jones). After being signed by the dutch label Snip Records in 2014, Sarah Marie released and toured Europe with her second album, "Little Candy Heart." Sarah's latest album, "Recess," was released in April 2016. Sarah Marie's website https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1631028286702-DWM4LFOQIETXLQMMCS4C/kari%2Bdown.jpeg Storytellers 2021 - Kari Nelson, Singer Kari Nelson (vocals) has traveled all over the world, lending her voice to special events, concerts, recordings, and as a singer-songwriter. Following in the career of her musical family, Kari graduated from Berklee College of Music, and is now one of Chicago’s most sought-after singers, known for her signature stage presence and monster pipes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1631034175741-L7U2OXW51WX0D68P3DKH/chuck+telling**.JPG Storytellers 2021 - Chuck Lacy, Drums Chuck Lacy was encouraged to go into music by his talented family. He started playing drums at age 12 for his church and soon began working for various churches and community choirs. He went on to study music in high school learning to read and study different genres of music. In college he began working in local Jazz, Blues, R&B, and Rock clubs as well as working for many cooperate bands. Today he is a working fixture in Chicago’s music scene and beyond playing everything from country to neo-soul. He has worked with: Ana Popovic, Buddy Guy, Keb Mo, Rahsaan Patterson, Avery Sunshune, Regina Belle, Shirley Murdock, Angela Winbush, Miki Howard, K-Jon, Kenya, Mike Phillips, Shana Tucker, Vince Ingala, Steve Oliver, Marion Meadows, Norman Brown, Larry Carlton, Marc Antoine, Phil Denny, Paul Taylor, and many more. He tours with Folk/Rock artist Peter Himmelman, Gospel Legends The Caravans, Edwin Hawkins, Richard Smallwood, Donnie McClurkin, and many more. In addition to being a drummer he is also a songwriter and producer. One of the projects he produced, “Music Made Rhythm” by Kenya, was considered for a Grammy nomination. Another project he co-produced was #1 on the UK Soul Charts. He is also the music director for Just Friends as well as MTV Star Maker runner up Melody Angel. Chuck is equally busy on stage and in the studio drawing on his various influences to create good music. Chuck Lacy is a Sabian Cymbals and Reunion Blues artist. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1630423119995-56JBSGXTULZLBR8SZ658/Fred%2BSimon____.jpeg Storytellers 2021 - Fred Simon, Keys Fred is a master pianist and jazz composer who has toured the world and released several albums of original piano music. Fred is a favorite for both his playing and telling at Story Jam shows. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1611101066835-3AFSTF3280DG3QW5U3S8/storytelling+%E2%80%A2music+%E2%80%A2+spoken+word-2.png Storytellers 2021 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1611000503636-NCFSIP0VAQ9ZAT4H3DKZ/mama%2Bedie%2B1.jpg Storytellers 2021 - Mama Edie Armstrong, Storyteller Mama Edie McLoud Armstrong has been standing for justice since a child standing up for her family and friends. Participating in the march with Dr. King in 1966 at 15 years old was the beginning of several marches: from the one in Marquette Park in Chicago, to the marches against the Viet Nam War while in college to marching in the pilgrimage of Arba’een for an international peace conference in Iraq in 2017. Blending stories in Spanish and English, Mama Edie uses training as a speech and language pathologist to provide performances and workshops that highlight the importance of connecting beyond cultural and language differences in order to heal ourselves, the planet and the world. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1610999730759-0WEZYBOEO3C96AVJ0LY6/Nathaniel-Viets-VanLear.PNG Storytellers 2021 - Nathaniel Viets-VanLear, Storyteller Nathaniel identifies as a Multiracial Activist, Youth Social Worker, Facilitator, and Teaching Artist. Born and raised in Chicago, Nathaniel is most passionate about work with children, youth, and young adults in under-served communities in the city. He values art and music based approaches for learners of all ages, and had incorporated these mediums across a myriad of demographics and audiences. With over a decade of youth leadership development experience, he strives to only grow more in his work through the youth of the social impact organization” My Block My Hood My City”. Nathaniel believes radical change can happen in communities with the right tools and investment: He is thankful for every opportunity to be a part of that change. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1611002224232-U6SGAU8D0P80NLKYLRS6/Ashton%2BCynthia%2BClarke%2Bheadshot.jpg Storytellers 2021 - Ashton C. Clarke, Storyteller Ashton Cynthia Clarke is a writer and true personal storyteller. In 2019, she was an invited, featured teller at more than 30 live performances throughout the Los Angeles area, and performed on multiple virtual stages in 2020. Most notably, she has appeared twice on RISK! -- Live in Los Angeles in 2019 and online in 2020, as well as having both of her stories selected for the podcast. Ashton is originally from New York City and is now based in the Los Angeles area. In her regular 9 to 5, she has fun as an executive search consultant. Find her on YouTube at Ashton Cynthia Clarke. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1611004441228-G8DL734SXDDQ62X773QU/CL-24_lowRez.jpg Storytellers 2021 - Cara Lopez-Lee, Storyteller Cara Lopez Lee joins us from Ventura, California. She’s a winner of The Moth StorySlam and performs in storytelling shows throughout L.A., though lately she prowls the virtual scene wherever it takes her. She’s the author of the memoir, They Only Eat Their Husbands. You’ll also find her writing in many publications, including her essay Disaster Pants, recently published by the nonprofit Writing For Peace. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1611006712699-7WWASMYIXXHPXAEQJMJZ/Taylor%2BFagins.jpg Storytellers 2021 - Taylor Fagins, Singer-Songwriter Taylor grew up with a love of music in southern California and received his bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Irvine for Drama. He became a playwright and actor and started producing his own work. His most recent plays are: LIVING: A Now Musical; Queen: A Wonderland Sequel,; A Song; and I'M NOT A RACIST!. During the COVID-19 Pandemic and the height of the Black Lives Matter Movement, his gift for songwriting served to spread healing and awareness with his latest singles we need more. and 8.28.20. Taylor’s greatest goal is to tell the stories that are unheard and give a voice to those who are unseen. He feels blessed to meet the beautiful people that will help him move this vision forward at a time when the world really needs it the most. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1611207412885-WV1SDT7KJQJGTO04TKWE/Stephanie%2BRogers%2BSMILE%252BSHOT.jpg Storytellers 2021 - Stephanie Rogers, Singer/Songwriter/ Producer Stephanie started Story Jam in 2014 after leading an event band for over ten years. Steph has been in many rock, pop, folk, and funk bands, and she holds a B.A. in acting from Northwestern University and an M.A, in writing from National Louis University. More info can be found at: Hipchick.com https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1611009930281-1OOH8BSVYGBQ0TXXIJ8M/Chandreyee_BueHair_Lake.jpg Storytellers 2021 - Chandreyee Lahiri, Storyteller Chandreyee is from Kolkata, India (via various countries in the Middle East) and has called the Boston area 'home' for over 20 years. By day she work's to protect the Environment as a GIS Specialist by day. In her free time, she's an aspiring-writer, StoryTeller and mother to an entertaining 14 year old son. She believes in incremental change and the value of small moments (http://silverliningscloudydays.blogspot.com/), tends to be maniacally optimistic and believes this will never let her down (QED). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1611101236860-CYN1U39G1QYCFWDI8PT5/Slipnote_Profile.jpg Storytellers 2021 - Slipnote Music, “Look Around” Slipnote Music is a sync licensing company that creates music for advertising, TV, film, gaming, brand design & development, and all multi-media content. Co-founders Jen Zias and Kari Nelson are honored to debut their song, “Look Around (MLK Tribute)”, for tonight’s show, written and produced by them with the invaluable assistance of Kraig McCreary (Lucky Penny Studios). Slipnote’s mission is to cultivate a community of musical creatives in Chicago to share their art with the world through sync licensing! Find us at slipnotemusic.com or email us at Jen or Kari @slipnotemusic.com. We will officially launch next month - you’ll find us on social media and Spotify then! Peace and Light - Kari & Jen https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1611002668295-0VJU9FTVDAQY2ASP8PGF/Sasha%2BIm.png Storytellers 2021 - Sasha Im, Storyteller Sasha Im is a Moth GrandSlam winner from Seattle. She works as a web content strategist at the University of Washington and she is the editor of Table Tales - 150 word stories exploring food and memory. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1611003701625-A2CG18IB3LI3GS4GYVJT/Lynne%2BJordan%252B5.jpg Storytellers 2021 - Lynne Jordan, Storyteller Lynne Jordan is a Story Jam favorite. The mesmerizing singer-performer-diva extraordinaire is currently workshopping her much-awaited solo show, "A Great Big Diva," which features her incredible personal stories and gorgeous singing voice. A Northwestern theatre grad, Lynne leads her own popular event band, Lynne Jordan and The Shivers, and has performed to sold-out crowds in the US and abroad. Read more about Diva Lynne. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1611005352833-4QQLANODNGKDDFS1JT1D/Fred%2BSimon****.jpg Storytellers 2021 - Fred Simon, Pianist/Composer Fred composed the music for the Dr. King montage at the top of the show. Fred is a master pianist and jazz composer who has toured the world and released several albums of original piano music. Fred is a favorite for both his playing and telling at Story Jam shows. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1611004304167-P5WCR74S0FWOH321T4H9/Dr.Raymond%2BChristian.jpg Storytellers 2021 - Dr. Raymond Christian, Storyteller Ray is retired Army Paratrooper, Combat veteran, Doctor of Education, Fulbright Specialist Expert in Education and Storytelling Narrative and former Adjunct professor teaching African American History and Storytelling at Appalachian State University. His stories have appeared in Reader’s Digest’s 2016 Best Stories in America and 2017 American Hero’s editions. As a competitive storyteller, Ray is a 12 time Moth Story Slam Champion, and winner of the 2016 National Storytelling Festival Story Slam. His stories have been featured on the “Moth Radio Hour”, “Snap Judgment”, “Back Story Radio” and the “Spooked”, “Story Collider” and “Risk” podcast. He resides in the remote, mountains of Watauga County, NC He host and produces the podcast What’s Ray Saying the podcas https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1611007167513-5JJEJ6BOUQR6ZLAMQM58/sarah%2Bmarie%2Byong%2Bsound%2Bcheck%2B1.jpg Storytellers 2021 - Sarah Marie Young, Singer-Songwriter Sarah Marie is an award winning singer, songwriter and musician. She was a semi-finalist in the 2010 Thelonious Monk Competition and the winner of the 2011 Montreux Voice Competition (judged by Quincy Jones). After being signed by the dutch label Snip Records in 2014, Sarah Marie released and toured Europe with her second album, "Little Candy Heart." Sarah's latest album, "Recess," was released in April 2016. Sarah Marie's website https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1611007668064-EQQ1EM34Q2ZB2I0DEVA6/Anne+Harris+1.JPG Storytellers 2021 - Anne Harris, Violinist Anne Harris is a Chicago based American Roots fiddle player. She has toured extensively and recorded with a wide array of artists including Otis Taylor, Guy Davis, Cathy Richardson, Cracker, Anders Osborne, Living Colour, Vieux Farka Toure, and hippie legends Jefferson Starship. https://www.storyjamshow.com/pastshows daily 0.75 2026-01-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/0538dccb-620c-4e5f-bfff-65de6937250a/Band+w%3A+dancers***.JPG Past Performers - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/8d3dbf22-d0b3-42a2-860e-52d648bda473/steffie+rock+star+w+room*+copy.JPG Past Performers - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/85f5f3bd-ab4d-4358-8df0-b03b13518b11/everybody+here+1111.jpeg Past Performers - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/ef6f2a33-3f4e-473f-a0c2-477a065a6973/Binkey%2C+Sam%2C+Nestor%2C+Steffie.JPG Past Performers - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1b7a76e2-1372-4809-9b83-53f7e5964663/Roderick+w%3A+crowd+smaller+size.JPG Past Performers - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1630429566580-F0KUEA7G4UVH7KD1G2BK/group%2Bshot%2Bat%2Bthe%2Bend___.jpg Past Performers - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1632711439838-S1E55MD2LX91FXUU88RI/michael+and+anne+throwing+down.JPG Past Performers - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/ed7ce4cb-e0a2-42ec-9d79-b6bbe614e653/frontline****.JPG Past Performers - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/6125f897-08c1-4354-b56d-650f32f5379a/all+the+singers+********4.jpg Past Performers - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/79ea8483-f005-4dab-9fdb-40b2eb2cd3dd/nicebandshow****.jpg Past Performers - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/939a1954-6aca-4542-9151-3eb78067c4d1/POINT+EM+UP*****.JPG Past Performers - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1630429423661-EUO5QUP40163OOLENUP5/BAND+JAMS+LOFT+ROOM.JPG Past Performers - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/7a40413d-15fe-42c7-8aeb-daae22942451/sammy+sangin+praise****.JPG Past Performers - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1b74909e-3c40-4ad6-b39d-24b54f7be49e/3+SINGERS*****.JPG Past Performers - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/e66e3a28-0571-4a9d-b40b-7bfc0ae819c0/DOOPY+SHANNY+STEFFIE+NOV+2015.JPG Past Performers - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.storyjamshow.com/about-classes daily 0.75 2021-10-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1630439335691-X2LBGIIABRKERYEXYCG0/jumping%2Bppl.jpg Story Jam Studio - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1630439520239-WKFJSWA13ZULV75ZR441/lightbulbs.jpg Story Jam Studio - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.storyjamshow.com/trainings daily 0.75 2021-09-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1630440449823-1YG8LFADT89QXC42Y8VM/steffie%2Bsammy%2Band%2Bshanny%2B_____%2Bcopy.jpg Trainings - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.storyjamshow.com/story-jam-is-seven daily 0.75 2021-10-01 https://www.storyjamshow.com/contest-rules daily 0.75 2021-11-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1a40be96-8e6b-4080-a015-ee2229d8d0a3/Front+line+at+Old+Town********.jpeg Contest - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.storyjamshow.com/press daily 0.75 2026-03-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/72755a47-255c-4f73-9567-e44175a25d21/9340418788912606411.jpeg PRESS - Spiritual Shitshow Podcast March 2026 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/69059842-76a0-4b4a-854c-458b86e31e1a/IMG_4464.JPEG PRESS - Stephanie Rogers visits DAYTIME CHICAGO on WGN TV (VIDEO) AUGUST 2022 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/3ca06d1b-e715-4de0-a930-0759206ebc0f/Broadway+World.jpeg PRESS - Broadway World: “Exciting New Music & Storytelling Event Coming to Artifact Events in Chicago” by A.A. Cristi, 2022 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/c596e444-80b5-45ac-ac6b-99d203bcf881/Binkey%2C+Sam%2C+Nestor%2C+Steffie.jpg PRESS - Daily Herald Spotlight by Barbara Vitello, 2022 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/239a148b-fd11-4454-8642-def9e0cd1408/Screen+Shot+2022-08-26+at+7.05.56+AM.png PRESS - Let Us Tell You Our 99-Second Stories, with Story Jam’s Stephanie Rogers by Marjie Killeen/Stylechangers, 2021 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1657191571030-GYMUN1KYQ0EAWH08H79J/girls%2Bin%2Bband.jpg PRESS - Story Jam a fun-day in Chicago AROUND THE TOWN CHICAGO, 2018 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/4f242ad4-92cd-4e55-8ee5-ca0f58b8f8a4/Story+Jam+MLK+LOVE.JPG PRESS - Stephanie Rogers created Story Jam and made it a celebration of all of us. CHICAGO NOW, 2017 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/78cf89dc-9d99-4a57-afb2-9374a41938fe/Screen+Shot+2022-08-28+at+3.49.49+PM.jpg PRESS - Chicago Artist You Should Know: Stephanie Rogers WGN’S THE DOWNLOAD WITH JUSTIN KAUFMANN, 2017 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/3c06921e-2170-4500-a856-71a1ae6e3cae/POINT+EM+UP*****+copy.JPG PRESS - Meet Stephanie Rogers of Story Jam VOYAGE CHICAGO, 2017 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/740a1ba8-e1fb-418e-a861-34a160bb62a6/Screen+Shot+2022-06-27+at+4.05.08+PM.png PRESS - Story Jam at the Wilmette Theatre THIRD COAST REVIEW, 2016 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/4bc517a1-58c5-4e96-9082-dce26faae4c5/tribune+v4.jpeg PRESS - “Stephanie Rogers gathers top storytellers for Story Jam” CHICAGO TRIBUNE, 2016 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/93237b63-bf83-4335-b443-129dd0603073/Screenshot+2025-05-10+at+9.16.26%E2%80%AFAM.png PRESS - Article: The Loomis Chaffee School May 2025 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/4e5be8fa-ac0b-4d56-8110-32f9b0ca89bc/POSTCARDS+MLK+2023.png PRESS - VIDEO: Story Jam on WGN TV January 2024 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/f04fa454-08fb-42a8-918f-c4a5c74389f0/Envision+Podcast+2022.png PRESS - Envision Rise podcast Interviews Steph Rogers October 2022 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/f014def3-ae5d-426a-817f-34989f2e9474/Steph+%26+Jacob.png PRESS - Stephanie Rogers on The Storyteller Co-Op Podcast (AUDIO) August 2022 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/d8cf2cfe-2fc5-46b2-aa1e-09ec5a727848/wgn4.jpg PRESS - SECOND CITY INTERVIEW for WGN Radio’s “Getting to Yes, And…” (AUDIO) With Kelly Leonard, June 2022 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/edbbb84e-f190-4a78-bc5e-e4839170b2ee/Screen+Shot+2022-06-28+at+11.44.39+AM.png PRESS - TimeOut: “Things to do in Chicago: Story Jam” 2021 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/3b8b6367-0e14-4b09-b6dc-26f796cb59e9/erica+nicole+web.JPG PRESS - Inclusion and Diversity, Story Jam’s new show celebrating MLK Day (VIDEO) Medill Reports Chicago, 2020 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/29e69fe1-0851-4333-ac4b-95a02ae791b8/Screen+Shot+2022-06-28+at+11.32.29+AM.png PRESS - BTSCELEBS: “Story Jam’s Stephanie Rogers: This Is An Exciting Time for The Art Form” 2019 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/3a28733a-bec5-481e-a117-0815b587b570/Screen+Shot+2022-06-28+at+12.12.33+PM.png PRESS - Third Coast Review: Your Chicago Curated Weekend by Julian Ramirez, 2018 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/e7adfc0e-c827-4ea9-9a72-76ce2ff15285/steph+image.jpg PRESS - Sunday Breakfast with Stephanie Rogers JWC MEDIA, 2018 https://www.storyjamshow.com/storytellers-2022 daily 0.75 2024-01-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/bf4e8aae-90f3-4454-ac5a-599ac7a3e5cf/Easy+Recipes+Insta+Post.jpg Featured Storytellers 2022 - Elizabeth Gomez, Host Elizabeth Gomez is a Chicago based comedian, writer, and storyteller. She established the city’s first all female roller derby league, The Windy City Rollers, in 2004. She is the founding writer of a writing collective called Drinkers with Writing Problems, and an editor at Heauxs Magazine (a magazine where smart people talk about dumb things). Elizabeth spends her days working for an Alderman on Chicago’s city council, and spends her nights trying to learn all the dance moves from Magic Mike. You can learn more about her at thatelizabethgomez.com. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/50925d73-6205-40e7-b23d-e4983fb80d29/2022+archy+2.jpg Featured Storytellers 2022 - Archy Jamjun, Judge Archy Jamjun is a Story Jam team member and curator for OUTspoken LGBTQ Stories at Sidetrack in Chicago. Archy is a commanding storyteller, who blew the roof off at his sold-out debut solo show in 2019. He is a Moth Slam and Grand Slam winner, and he has told stories at almost every show in Chicago. Archy teaches storytelling and writing at Story Jam Studio, and he holds an MFA in creative writing from Roosevelt University. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/ef322720-0812-4d3f-b4f1-c2018cf2b386/STORY+SLAM+POSTER-2.jpg Featured Storytellers 2022 - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/54e3500b-738d-4be3-8f1e-bb94587997c7/binkey+2022.jpeg Featured Storytellers 2022 - Lawrence “Binkey” Tolefree, Judge Hailing from Chicago's south side, Lawrence "Binkey” Tolefree’s original art form loves are hip hop and poetry. He also specializes in acting, improv, hosting, stand up, and so much more. Recently, he created Just Us Improv, a comedy troupe that has performed in venues spanning from local clubs to living rooms to sold out theaters across the U.S. Some of his other accomplishments include the 2010 MGD Freestyle Champion, Mixtape Mondays Rap Battle Champion, Jokes and Notes Stand Up winner, and many more. Whenever he's not writing or performing music, he also teaches comedy and even independently produces his own shows in several countries around the globe. As an artist and performer, Binkey serves not only as a household name but as a community staple in a city that proudly claims him as one of its own. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/b3ed6a84-ddf6-4f7b-8d47-bbb5b31e17d5/samotta+2022.jpg Featured Storytellers 2022 - Samotta Acklin, Judge Samotta Acklin is the daughter of Chicago musical Superstar and Legend, Miss Barbara Acklin. Known for her Grammy Nominated hit song, "Love Makes a Woman," and for the many other hit songs she wrote, such as "Have You Seen Her" by the Chi Lites and Jackie Wilson and "Whispers Getting Louder”…to name a few! Samotta was raised in the industry and is known as a quadruple threat - Singer, Actor, Dancer, Choreographer - and she has recently added Producer to her many credits. She's won numerous awards in each category and she has performed in every major venue in Chicago and throughout the U.S. and internationally, including shows in Germany, Italy, Spain, Dubai and even for the Ambassador of Abu Dhabi. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/9ea863ed-1e8d-4c9a-b490-096d48770f9b/2022+jacoby.jpeg Featured Storytellers 2022 - Jacoby Cochran, Storyteller Jacoby Cochran is a writer, educator, and master storyteller from the South Side of Chicago. He is the host of City Cast Chicago, a daily news podcast about all things Chicago! The podcast was named Best of 2021 by the Chicago Reader and Chicago Magazine calls it “the essential Chicago podcast.” Jacoby has collaborated with local initiatives, voiced national campaigns, and led international story workshops. Learn more at JacobyCochran.com https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/fae8a18b-b7fb-48df-82ef-5462cb65bf1e/marya+2022.jpeg Featured Storytellers 2022 - Marya Frankel, Storyteller Long ago, Marya Frankel was an extremely mediocre office-temp in Chicago. These days, she and her 2nd husband enjoy their blended family of 6 kids, 1 cat, 2 dogs and sometimes a lizard. She loves Prince, swimming pools and Bolognese and before smart phones, actually read books and tried to be writer. Now Marya just watches documentaries about cults and Googles medical emergencies. This week it’s a heart condition. Next week… who knows! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/49ebb53c-7f89-4f43-a4cb-9e8a74e2e76d/lily+2022.jpeg Featured Storytellers 2022 - Lily Be, Storyteller Lily Be is a Chicago westside born and raised award-winning storyteller and story doula. Lily Be is the first Latina winner of a Moth GrandSLAM championship. She is the creator and producer of Stoop Style Stories live and Story Neighborhood storytelling game. She is also the senior producer and Education Director at Story Collider. A huge advocate for the marginalized, a lot of her storytelling work is centered around helping underrepresented people discover their voices and be heard. Most of her work is now behind the scenes, helping companies and organizations shape and frame stories to better serve their clients, customers, and communities. From team building to Ted Talks, Lily has coached clients worldwide to BE authentically and unapologetically themselves. Working with EVERYONE she can, from the inner-city to the upperclass, Lily’s talent for pulling stories that live within us is unparalleled. Storytelling has the power to transform and save lives and Lily Be is living proof. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/69daa749-1dd9-4fab-aec6-4a5c1b3d436e/connor+2022.jpeg Featured Storytellers 2022 - Connor Gorman, Storyteller Connor Gorman is a filmmaker, comedian, storyteller, and producer. He is the creator/ co-host of the show Karaoke Storytellers, where performers tell a short story about a song followed by a karaoke performance of the song. As a filmmaker he specializes in unscripted comedy, documentary, and music montage. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1a6f57f5-1d7d-447b-b118-7e5162d97de8/STORY+DUETS.jpg Featured Storytellers 2022 - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/9b839bf5-f190-4ecf-a1c9-4ba4e0faa581/ian+2022.jpeg Featured Storytellers 2022 - Ian Maksin, Musician Breaking boundaries both musical and geographical, cellist, composer and multilingual vocalist Ian Maksin has created his own unique style by blending elements of different genres and traditional music from around the globe in a new way using his cello as the main unifying force. In addition to cello, he uses an electronic device called the loop pedal, which allows him to create "loops" or layers by recording and replaying his own playing in real time. His diverse musical experience, including playing rock and blues guitar and passion for jazz and world music has allowed him to take the cello to a new dimension and develop his own distinct style as a musician and composer. In Ian's own words: "At some point I realized that music is much more than mere entertainment. Music is one of most powerful and unifying forces in the world.” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/54e3500b-738d-4be3-8f1e-bb94587997c7/binkey+2022.jpeg Featured Storytellers 2022 - Lawrence “Binkey” Tolefree, Storyteller Hailing from Chicago's south side, Lawrence "Binkey” Tolefree’s original art form loves are hip hop and poetry. He also specializes in acting, improv, hosting, stand up, and so much more. Recently, he created Just Us Improv, a comedy troupe that has performed in venues spanning from local clubs to living rooms to sold out theaters across the U.S. Some of his other accomplishments include the 2010 MGD Freestyle Champion, Mixtape Mondays Rap Battle Champion, Jokes and Notes Stand Up winner, and many more. Whenever he's not writing or performing music, he also teaches comedy and even independently produces his own shows in several countries around the globe. As an artist and performer, Binkey serves not only as a household name but as a community staple in a city that proudly claims him as one of its own. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/12a890c2-dae7-4676-91c1-e4f4b6093b8f/IMG-3535+cropped.jpg Featured Storytellers 2022 - Reba Meshulam, Storyteller Reba Meshulam is a video writer, producer, director and editor, making a living telling her clients’ stories. After 30 years she decided to tell her own. A native Chicagoan, she now lives and works in the northern suburbs. When she’s not baking sourdough bread, she’s down dogging in her yoga studio or speed-walking the neighborhood. She’s a Moth storyslam winner, and has been telling stories all around Chicago for the last 5 years. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/a6f36389-1a79-4ee0-b55f-f7e0d8095435/AUG+2022+POSTER.jpg Featured Storytellers 2022 - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/b531b193-826c-4832-9bcb-f84a83630643/shane+2022.jpg Featured Storytellers 2022 - Shane Hendrix, Storyteller Shane Hendrix is a brilliant actor, singer and storyteller originally from Chattanooga, TN. He has appeared in film, TV, and on Chicago and LA stages for decades and he has been a top featured storyteller at Story Jam for the last three years! Few artists can bring both humor and poignancy to the same moment like Shane. He is a rare talent! Shane is excited and honored to be a party of Story Jam Solo this month where he honors his family legacy in story and song. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/6ec26fd6-c85a-42cc-a6cc-1149f7709b16/Lynne+2022.jpg Featured Storytellers 2022 - Lynne Jordan, Storyteller In a city brimming with classic blues & jazz voices, Lynne’s talent stands out! She has performed at numerous Live lit shows & venues in Chicago, New York, Atlanta, Kyiv, Moscow and Paris. Lynne has honed her storytelling skills with every song, concert, and event and she has created a brilliant one-woman show “A Great Big Diva.” Lynne is a 3Arts Make a Wave Artist who just completed a “Diva Residency” as artist in residence at the Raue Center for the Performing Arts. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/ebccd2a7-4be7-40bf-a8f2-a7edf45646a8/Arlene+2022.jpg Featured Storytellers 2022 - Arlene Malinowski, Storyteller Arlene is recipient of a Fellowship at UIC Disability in the Arts, LA Theater Ovations Award, and the LA Garland Award. She was a finalist in the New Plays From the Heartland, semi-finalist at the O’Neill and Blue Ink Award, and nominated for 3 Arts. Two of her works have been Commissioned by 16th Street Theater. As an actor, she has worked in film, television and theater. As actor, playwright, and teaching artist, Arlene views her solo & story work as an artistic extension of the social justice work she has been committed to for the last 25 years. She has performed all across the US and internationally, and she is one of Story Jam Studio's most beloved and popular instructors. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/a998a1ce-e8dd-4a8e-930f-0a73004a153c/Screen+Shot+2022-08-09+at+12.32.16+PM.png Featured Storytellers 2022 - Typhanie Monique, Musician Soul-infused-jazz vocal stylist, Typhanie Monique has been a force on the Chicago music scene for over twenty years. Typhanie’s daring rhythmic ideas and unique improvisatory delivery place her in an elite class of vocalists. As a versatile vocalist and master technician, she confidently defies categorization. She is a story-teller, a phraseologist, delivering lyrics straight from the heart taking you on an emotional journey through grooves and moods. Spontaneous compositions are revealed in every performance. She is a fierce bandleader, known from her days at the Elbo Room with SUMO, Peking Turtle and Jive Council, lending her talent to Tributosaurus, leading her improv funk outfit, The Booty Movement Coalition, dropping House singles with Mr. Egg Germ. Typhanie has graced jazz’s most distinguished venues in the U.S. and abroad. and she’s shared the stage and recorded with Joe Lovano, Chris Potter, The Manhattan Transfer, Mavis Staples, Joel Frahm, Ken Peplowski, Victor Goines, and Tony Monaco to name a few. Typhanie’s latest project, CALL IT MAGIC, released on Dot Time Records was produced by Grammy award winning producer, Jeff Levenson. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/079d2078-873b-43a2-897b-a665d41eec27/binkey+2022.jpg Featured Storytellers 2022 - Lawrence “Binkey” Tolefree, Storyteller/Musician Hailing from Chicago's south side, Lawrence "Binkey” Tolefree’s original art form loves are hip hop and poetry. He also specializes in acting, improv, hosting, stand up, and so much more. Recently, he created Just Us Improv, a comedy troupe that has performed in venues spanning from local clubs to living rooms to sold out theaters across the U.S. Some of his other accomplishments include the 2010 MGD Freestyle Champion, Mixtape Mondays Rap Battle Champion, Jokes and Notes Stand Up winner, and many more. Whenever he's not writing or performing music, he also teaches comedy and even independently produces his own shows in several countries around the globe. As an artist and performer, Binkey serves not only as a household name but as a community staple in a city that proudly claims him as one of its own. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/b3ed6a84-ddf6-4f7b-8d47-bbb5b31e17d5/samotta+2022.jpg Featured Storytellers 2022 - Samotta Acklin, Storyteller/Musician Samotta Acklin is the daughter of Chicago musical Superstar and Legend, Miss Barbara Acklin. Known for her Grammy Nominated hit song, "Love Makes a Woman," and for the many other hit songs she wrote, such as "Have You Seen Her" by the Chi Lites and Jackie Wilson and "Whispers Getting Louder”…to name a few! Samotta was raised in the industry and is known as a quadruple threat - Singer, Actor, Dancer, Choreographer - and she has recently added Producer to her many credits. She's won numerous awards in each category and she has performed in every major venue in Chicago and throughout the U.S. and internationally, including shows in Germany, Italy, Spain, Dubai and even for the Ambassador of Abu Dhabi. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/8b5e50e2-1c08-4de8-b122-7e72ab3fb361/brennen+looks+up.JPG Featured Storytellers 2022 - Brennen Renteria, Dancer Brennen began dancing in Corona, CA, and in 2011, he attended American Academy of Ballet summer intensive, training with ballet masters David Howard, Sean Lavery, and Galina Samsova. He earned his B.A. in Dance from Cal State Fullerton in 2014 then joined Thodos Dance Chicago where he worked with choreographers Brian Enos, Lucas Crandall, Garfield Lemonius, Brian McGinnis, and Kevin Iega Jeff, among others. He has danced with Elements Ballet and in various Chicago productions. He joined CRDT in 2017. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/e0e345f9-c0b8-4037-86a2-2a412a0e8456/archy+2022.jpeg Featured Storytellers 2022 - Archy Jamjun, Storyteller Archy Jamjun is a Story Jam team member and curator for OUTspoken LGBTQ Stories at Sidetrack in Chicago. Archy is a commanding storyteller, who blew the roof off at his sold-out debut solo show in 2019. He is a Moth Slam and Grand Slam winner, and he has told stories at almost every show in Chicago. Archy teaches storytelling and writing at Story Jam Studio, and he holds an MFA in creative writing from Roosevelt University. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/77ec1cd1-5dfb-4753-906d-d5c09e723d96/nestor+2022.jpeg Featured Storytellers 2022 - Nestor Gomez, Storyteller Nestor Gomez is a household name in the world of storytelling. He has won more Moth Slams and Grand Slams (40 in total), nationally, than anyone alive. Nestor was born in Guatemala and he became a US citizen in 2018. He produces a popular storytelling show, "80 Minutes Around the World: Immigration Stories," which boasts a podcast on NPR. Nestor is one of the most sought-after storytellers in Chicago. You can find out all about Nestor at his website. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/9e14b193-dfd1-4f99-80eb-0ca0224fc07c/catera+sq.jpg Featured Storytellers 2022 - Catera Burgess, Dancer Catera Burgess earned a BFA in Dance from Western Michigan University. During her time there she was cast in works including BAIRA, Kate Skarpetowska, Jennifer Archibald, Mike Esperanza, and David Curwen. She was a member of Western Dance Project under the direction of Whitney Moncrief, and performed at the American College Dance Association in 2018-2020 in works by Alyssa Brutlag and Monique Haley. Catera currently choreographs and teaches around the Midwest. She joined CRDT in 2022. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/3118e6bb-6e9b-4a75-8b0a-6e8024eb9902/danny+2022.jpeg Featured Storytellers 2022 - Danny Shaffer, Musician Danny Shaffer co-produces the music of Story Jam. He is a veteran of the Chicago music scene, having produced and played with hundreds of bands. Danny has toured, written, and produced music professionally since he was a teenager. Danny also produces the Story Jam podcast, and serves as music director for the 10-piece Story Jam Band. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/7479f9ce-e3a8-4bd8-8e2c-d788a0af87ac/steph+2022.jpeg Featured Storytellers 2022 - Stephanie Rogers, Host/Producer/ Musician Stephanie Rogers is the producer and creative director of Story Jam, a storytelling and music show, podcast, and storytelling school. A professional actor and singer, Steph holds a B.A. in acting from Northwestern University and an M.A. in writing from National Louis University. Steph started Story Jam in 2014 after leading an event band for 15 years. Steph’s personal website: Hipchick.com. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/0e097be4-98a1-4fa7-8508-1bcf437b178e/2022+delaney.jpeg Featured Storytellers 2022 - Delaney Roegner, Storyteller You can frequently find Delaney Roegner camping in the woods, running along the lakefront, or on a patio with her friends. Delaney has lived in Chicago with her dog, Ollie, for 3 years and is currently finishing her masters and education specialist degree in school psychology. She is passionate about reforming the education system and providing psychological services in schools. She enjoys reading, dancing, jumping to conclusions, and all things queer. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/7dcf4f3b-48e1-4544-b677-a622a402fead/2022+roderick.jpeg Featured Storytellers 2022 - Roderick Hawkins, Storyteller Roderick Hawkins is the Associate Dean of External Affairs and Chief of Staff at Northwestern University’s School of Communication. In this role, he supports the strategic vision of the Dean of the school and leads the teams that manage communications, events, high school programs, and performing arts venues in Evanston and Chicago. Hawkins’ civic engagement includes serving on the board of directors of the Auditorium Theatre, the alumni board of the Manship School of Mass Communication at Louisiana State University, and the iHEART Media Chicago Local Advisory Board. From 2015-2021 he served on the board of directors of Lambda Legal, the nation’s largest legal organization serving the LGBTQ+ community and people living with HIV. In 2018, he was on the inaugural list of Chicago’s notable LGBTQ executives in Crain’s Chicago Business. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/cc510310-8adc-473d-ba1a-6f0db2662060/2022+archy.jpeg Featured Storytellers 2022 - Archy Jamjun, Host/Storyteller Archy Jamjun is a Story Jam team member and curator for OUTspoken LGBTQ Stories at Sidetrack in Chicago. Archy is a commanding storyteller, who blew the roof off at his sold-out debut solo show in 2019. He is a Moth Slam and Grand Slam winner, and he has told stories at almost every show in Chicago. Archy teaches storytelling and writing at Story Jam Studio, and he holds an MFA in creative writing from Roosevelt University. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/c1ff320c-04c7-4d33-acce-d915ca718b94/2022+barb.jpeg Featured Storytellers 2022 - Barb Sessler, Storyteller Barb Sessler grew up on the Southwest Side of Chicago, spending lots of time with her Polish grandmother and hanging on every word of the stories she often told. She works in the craft beer industry by day and is a Dolly Parton superfan by night. (And day. Who are we kidding?) In her spare time, Barb enjoys playing guitar, writing songs, and trading stories with folx over a good beer or a well-crafted cocktail or two. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/51be9119-a737-4cf2-b97c-fb0d7833d6dc/2022+jack.jpg Featured Storytellers 2022 - Jack Rothmund, Storyteller Jack is known by many names — on Instagram he’s @rothdaddy, if the government’s asking consider him Jackson McKenzie, and if you’re the sweet barista who knows his coffee order by heart, you’ll confidently call him Jake every single morning… he’s just never had the heart to correct her. Weighing in at 6’1'“ and standing tall at 173.4 pounds, Jack would describe his body type at 25 years old to be reheated “lean cuisine”. He’s a single November Scorpio with a passion for crying on the CTA and a recent chronic vertigo diagnosis — so if your kinks are emotional baggage and a lack of equilibrium, look for Jack out back after the show. With an open mind and degrees in sociology and political science, he considers himself an ally to the straight community this Pride month — it’s not that he has a problem with you, he just doesn’t know how to explain it to his kids. And though Jack can’t promise his story will be good, he *can* at least promise that it’s supposed to be! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/a019e2d0-3dfb-46fb-b80a-4542f2e38924/2022+olivia+2.jpg Featured Storytellers 2022 - Olivia Flanigan, Singer-Songwriter Olivia Flanigan, singer-songwriter and gender-affirming voice educator based out of Chicago, IL, found her passion for songwriting as early as age 4. She started as a choral and classical singer, and began writing songs and singing jazz in her teens. Olivia holds a MM in jazz studies, voice, from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and spent the year after her graduation as the jazz voice faculty member there. She was then recruited to spend a year as the Director of Jazz Voice at Universidad San Francisco de Quito in Quito, Ecuador, a Global Partner of Berklee College of Music. Olivia has also been a guest clinician at Valparaiso University in Valparaiso, Indiana, and at Colorado Mesa University in Grand Junction, Colorado. Outside of her teaching work, Olivia performs regularly in a variety of contexts and genres around the Chicagoland area. Her first album as a songwriter, Girl, was released on March 26, 2021. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/6a6033c7-d4e0-419f-a8bb-937baf3d7729/2022+xoe+2.jpg Featured Storytellers 2022 - Xoe Wise, Singer-Songwriter Xoe Wise is a singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and producer originally from a small town in NC. Xoe began playing music around 8 years old and when she was enlisted as a triangle player for a local Zydeco band. Her releases have spanned from folk to rock. Xoe has also been seen and heard in Netflix shows such as Sense8 and Showtime’s Work in Progress. Xoe enjoys making records, comedic improv songs, and homemade hot sauce. In 2020 Forbes magazine and Chicago Tribune featured her series “Curbside Live” where she played pop up shows off her motor scooter to raise money for local music venues and bring some joy to carry out lines. Wise’s music has been recognized by NPR and The Huffington Post and has shared the stage with artists Lisa Loeb, Guster, The Verve Pipe, and more. You can find her not only on stage but also developing songwriting and music programs for Chicago LGBTQ youth which help inspire self-exploration, like music did for her as a young queer artist looking for ways to heal. In addition to her work as a professional musician, she holds a BS in psychology and a master’s in social work from The University of Chicago where she focuses on music as body-focused (trauma responsive) and creative arts care. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/7d325368-7e26-4ee0-b00b-a2289d19b073/2022+steph.jpeg Featured Storytellers 2022 - Stephanie Rogers, Producer Stephanie Rogers is the producer and creative director of Story Jam, a storytelling and music show, podcast, and storytelling school. A professional actor and singer, Steph holds a B.A. in acting from Northwestern University and an M.A, in writing from National Louis University, Steph is connected to the Old Town School of Folk Music as a former teacher, a storytelling workshop leader, and, with astounding persistence, she once cajoled a reluctant two year-old niece to attend Wiggleworms classes with her! Steph’s website: Hipchick.com. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/b0d86a37-02ac-4126-9e9a-ea26c85db809/2022+xavier.jpg Featured Storytellers 2022 - Xavier Sumpter, Singer-Songwriter Xavier Sumter is a Conference Manager and professional Mixologist who has worked extensively in the events services industry. He’s done Customer Service, Customer Relationship Management (CRM), Management, Bartending, and Product Development. You can find him slinging drinks and singing behind the bar at Nobody’s Darling in Andersonville! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/44a38223-ec42-487c-8b2a-7f1d2b2ceaef/2022+chante.jpg Featured Storytellers 2022 - DJ Chanté, DJ Known for her ability to take even the quietest and sleepiest of audiences and have them dancing in minutes, Chanté is an exception to all the rules you think you know. Between blazing her own path as a Chicago-based DJ, actor and comedian, raising three beautiful young boys, creating empowering event series Pu$$y Control & GRLS, founding her own organization—Cliché (Collectiv)—to encourage collaboration among creative women, and building a dollhouse inside of a bar to celebrate Women’s History Month, you could say being busy is Chanté’s specialty. With a background in film and improv, her witty and self-deprecating humor is not surprising but reflective of the humility she possesses and encourages in others. But don’t let her humility fool you! She is the first to stand behind the causes she has spent so many years fighting for, both in her personal and professional life. https://www.storyjamshow.com/new-page-2 daily 0.75 2024-01-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/efbf584a-d650-4b1f-8b9f-9368d6a76909/jasmin.jpg Storytellers 2023 - Jasmin Cardenas Jasmin Cardenas is a Colombian-American bilingual storyteller, actress, director and arts educator. Her one-woman show, written and performed by Jasmin is called ¿Niña Buena? and toured in Chicago (Links Hall), the Midwest, and to an international theater festival in Puebla, Mexico. A professional storyteller, Jasmin was an Exchange Place Teller at the 2016 National Storytelling Festival in Jonesborough, TN. She tours her program Cuentos From The Americas to schools, libraries, festivals, and is a regular contributor with 2nd Story. She has been featured on NPR and was one of the first Latina’s to be awarded the Race Bridges Storytelling Fellowship to create new social justice stories. Over the past 12 years Jasmin has been using theater as a device to spark dialogue, dig deep into real social issues plaguing Chicago communities and to bridge build between populations that might not otherwise engage each other. Reaching across divides of language, socio-economic bubbles, cultural, geographic, educational and cross-generational chasms, she has been busy breaking bread and strategizing change with Chicagoans everywhere. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/943559f8-43be-4cce-b7df-fa6fdb6bfaef/IMG_2390.jpeg Storytellers 2023 - Sarah Marie Young Sarah Marie Young is an award winning (Montreux Jazz Competition, Thelonious Monk Competition) versatile singer, songwriter and musician. She has been featured with Postmodern Jukebox, Playing For Change's "Skin Deep" video with Buddy Guy, and has played festivals on tour all over Europe and Brazil. With four albums out, Sarah also sings with the acoustic group, The Oh Yeahs, and is a songwriter for the Story Jam storytelling series. In 2020, she began producing her own children’s music show, Sarah's Music Room for the National YMCA, and released two children’s EPs in 2021. Her holiday album "The Most Wonderful Time" was released in 2022. Currently you can find Sarah singing around town, and leading Chicago's premier event band, Rendezvous. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/12ffa59f-5c84-41d2-afac-aed747f7a4da/-RilS92E_400x400.jpg Storytellers 2023 - Stacy McMichael Stacy McMichael is a professional upright & electric bassist and music professor who has most recently been featured in Broadway shows & tours - such as “Hairspray,” "Teatro ZinZanni,” "Taste of Things to Come,” and the MEGA-hit "SIX: the Musical" (historical retelling of the 6 wives of Henry VIII as pop divas.) Stacy received her Masters degree (Jazz Bass performance & pedagogy) from the prestigious University of Miami Jazz School and her Bachelors degree (Double Bass performance) from the University of Nebraska - Omaha. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/74123e1d-a39d-4d01-88e5-3de61ecc52c2/Steffie+Shot.jpg Storytellers 2023 - Stephanie Rogers Steph is the founder and producer of Story Jam. She has starred in over 50 films, plays, and commercials, and she has released three cds of original music. Steph studied acting at Northwestern University while singing in progressive rock bands. She got her M.A. in writing three years ago from National Louis University and she teaches and leads classes at Story Jam Studio. Steph is excited to host and produce LES FEMMES, and share the stage with some kickass females! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/3132b6d8-e78b-4820-b862-1caa4f252f49/XW+%281%29.jpg Storytellers 2023 - Xoe Wise Xoe Wise is a singer-songwriter, and producer originally from a small town in NC, now based in Chicago. Xoe began playing music around 8 when she was enlisted as a triangle player for a local Zydeco band. Her releases have spanned folk to rock. Xoe has also been seen and heard in Netflix shows such as Sense8, and Showtimes Work in Progress. Xoe enjoys making records, comedic improv songs, and homemade hot sauce. In 2020 Forbes magazine and Chicago Tribune featured her series “Curbside Live” where she played pop up shows off her motor scooter to raise money for local music venues and bring some joy to carry out lines. Wise’s music has been recognized by NPR, and Huffington post. You can find her not only on stage but also developing songwriting and music programs for Chicago LGBTQ youth that help inspire self-exploration, like music did for her as a young queer artist looking for ways to heal. In addition to her work as a professional musician, she holds a BS in psychology and a master’s in social work from The University of Chicago where she focuses on music as body-focused (trauma responsive) psychotherapy and creative arts care. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/2b78d7a2-5535-40db-92a4-60aacf9266bd/FDJ8tkRWEAoKA2r.jpg Storytellers 2023 - Channyn Lynn Parker Channyn Lynne Parker is a Human Rights advocate, public speaker, community-centric leader and Director of Strategic Partnerships for Howard Brown Health Center. She serves on the board, at Equality Illinois. Channyn has served as manager of The Broadway Youth Center’s, Youth Development Program, and manager of Chicago House Social Service Agency’s, TransLife Project (2017). Channyn, is the first openly transgender woman to work in the Cook County Dept. of Corrections, working with populations in protective custody. Inaugural Trans100 awardee (2013). White House speaker, National HIV/AIDS Strategy (2015). Chicago Women’s March speaker (2017, 2018). Recipient of the Henrietta Lacks award, Women in Health in Chicago (2018) and Equality Illinois prestigious, Humanitarian, Freedom Award (2019). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/7d991217-033f-4619-a1a0-008228b37179/JT-Stairs-BW-1500px-1024x699.png Storytellers 2023 - Jeannie Tanner Jeannie Tanner is an award winning composer with 7 Grammy-considered albums and 5 ASCAP composer awards. She is a singer-songwriter, vocalist, piano player, trumpeter, percussionist and producer who performs and records her original music: a mix of pop, jazz, R&B and Latin rhythms. As a performer, Ms. Tanner has headlined at top Chicago area venues/festivals performing with her groups 3 Martini Jeannie (3MJ) and the Jeannie Tanner Quartet. Her music has also been featured in many movies as well as Indie films. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/f199de5b-f995-4ca1-b633-fd07e4755a50/ELIZABETH+CUTE.JPG Storytellers 2023 - Elizabeth Gomez Elizabeth Gomez is a Chicago based comedian, writer, and storyteller. She established the city’s first all female roller derby league, The Windy City Rollers, in 2004. She is the founding writer of a writing collective called Drinkers with Writing Problems, and an editor at Heauxs Magazine (a magazine where smart people talk about dumb things). Elizabeth spends her days working for an Alderman on Chicago’s city council, and spends her nights trying to learn all the dance moves from “Magic Mike.” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/3e543f72-f1c7-42d6-9524-caa00438585a/carm+down.jpeg Storytellers 2023 - Carmenita Peoples Carmenita Peoples is an artistic performer, writer, and certified Montessori educator. She also serves as part-time staff member at the University of Chicago Lab Schools. Her company, Innovative Art and Education, LLC, works with students and teachers to offer Diversity, Equity, Inclusion programming, education, and support through performance art. She is also a writer of children’s stories and plays. As a graduate of The Second City Training Center musical conservatory, improv, and writing programs, Carmenita uses her artistry to bridge inter-cultural and generational gaps. Her mantra is, “Let’s connect through our stories.” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/73db88d7-c5e4-4125-8100-d881e86f6843/LES+FEMMES+w+CARM.jpg Storytellers 2023 - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.storyjamshow.com/performers2024 daily 0.75 2025-06-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/5d57454b-a12a-483b-9372-621817885474/Kari+nelson+triumphant*.JPG Storytellers 2024 - Kari Nelson Kari Nelson (songwriter, vocalist) has traveled all over the world, lending her voice to special events, concerts, recordings, and as a singer-songwriter. Following in the career of her musical family, Kari graduated from Berklee College of Music, and is now one of Chicago’s most sought-after singers, known for her signature stage presence and monster pipes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/91600879-a646-4a6d-a9e6-289897a78cd6/chuck*.JPG Storytellers 2024 - Chuck Lacy Chuck Lacy (drummer) was encouraged to go into music by his talented family. He started playing drums at age 12 for his church and soon began working for various churches and community choirs. He went on to study music in high school learning to read and study different genres of music. In college he began working in local Jazz, Blues, R&B, and Rock clubs as well as working for many cooperate bands. Today he is a working fixture in Chicago’s music scene and beyond playing everything from country to neo-soul. He has worked with: Ana Popovic, Buddy Guy, Keb Mo, Rahsaan Patterson, Avery Sunshune, Regina Belle, Shirley Murdock, Angela Winbush, Miki Howard, K-Jon, Kenya, Mike Phillips, Shana Tucker, Vince Ingala, Steve Oliver, Marion Meadows, Norman Brown, Larry Carlton, Marc Antoine, Phil Denny, Paul Taylor, and many more. He tours with Folk/Rock artist Peter Himmelman, Gospel Legends The Caravans, Edwin Hawkins, Richard Smallwood, Donnie McClurkin, and many more. In addition to being a drummer he is also a songwriter and producer. One of the projects he produced, “Music Made Rhythm” by Kenya, was considered for a Grammy nomination. Another project he co-produced was #1 on the UK Soul Charts. He is also the music director for Just Friends as well as MTV Star Maker runner up Melody Angel. Chuck is equally busy on stage and in the studio drawing on his various influences to create good music. Chuck Lacy is a Sabian Cymbals and Reunion Blues artist. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/d41c6bab-6df5-42b6-acfb-171cd1f90a0b/vandy+smiles.JPG Storytellers 2024 - Anne Vandy Purky Sharing hilarious tales from the world of Chicago’s north shore, Vandy (Storyteller) has been entertaining storytelling audiences for almost ten years! She is currently writing a memoir which chronicles an upbringing of turbulent privilege. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1f7ff41d-4936-453c-8f5a-6dd1594599c4/lamar+bass.JPG Storytellers 2024 - Lamar Jones Lamar Jones has been one of Chicago’s best and most well-known bass players for many years. He has played with world-class performers and on international recordings. Currently, Lamar plays out most nights in and around Chicago. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/d0a7ac2c-f7c3-4469-a76c-eada3202042e/dave+h+1.JPG Storytellers 2024 - Dave Hiltebrand Dave Hiltebrand (guitarist) has been a full-time musician for over 25 years. Since graduating from DePaul University School of Music, Dave has had extensive experience as a performer, composer and studio musician. Highlights include the Broadway National Tour of Jersey Boys, co-writing and co-producing two national top-ten songs, composing work for clients including the Oprah Winfrey Show, Nike and Allstate, and tours to South Africa, Cuba, Spain, Italy and Egypt. His debut solo guitar album Yoguitar, Vol. 1 was released in 2016. Dave is currently an adjunct professor of Digital Music at Elmhurst University. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/62b4b9da-0884-401d-80c1-3724eeac7dd9/Jim+w+Steffie.JPG Storytellers 2024 - Jim Petersen Jim has won Moths and Moth Grand Slams because of his classically hilarious and amazing skill for weaving a story. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/b82323e2-bbe2-4b35-8cf5-e7684936983a/Lynne+with+slide.JPG Storytellers 2024 - Lynne Jordan Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/3f450b25-7737-4af3-abd4-69066dae96d4/cute+sarah1*.JPG Storytellers 2024 - Sarah Marie Young Sarah (singer songwriter, ukelele, piano, vocals) is an award winning (Montreux Jazz Competition, Thelonious Monk Competition) and versatile singer, songwriter and musician. She has been featured with Postmodern Jukebox, Playing For Change's "Skin Deep" video with Buddy Guy, and has played festivals on tour all over Europe and Brazil. With four albums out, Sarah also sings with the acoustic group The Oh Yeahs, and she is a songwriter for the Story Jam storytelling series. In 2020, she began producing her own children’s music show, Sarah's Music Room, for the National YMCA, and she released two children’s EPs in 2021. Her holiday album "The Most Wonderful Time" was released in 2022. Currently you can find Sarah singing around town, and leading Chicago's premier event band, Rendezvous. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/87f4cb78-25a6-4a75-ac72-32ca08d2bb13/arlene+gorgeous*.JPG Storytellers 2024 - Arlene Malinowski Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/74123e1d-a39d-4d01-88e5-3de61ecc52c2/Steffie+Shot.jpg Storytellers 2024 - Stephanie Rogers Steph is the producer and creative director of Story Jam and Story Jam Studio. She found her way into storytelling through music, theatre, and personal narrative writing, which have been her passions since college. Steph has produced four cds of her own music, and she’s sung with dozens of bands. She’s also been seen playing everything from FBI agents to Marlene Dietrich as an actor. Check out Steph’s website. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/461ffba6-38ac-442d-b495-0ff8f2d37b85/Archy+hands+up.JPG Storytellers 2024 - Archy Jamjun Archy is one of Story Jam’s favorite voices. His hilarious and honestly woven tales are truly artful. Archy is a server, writer, comedian, and stroytelliing instructor. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/037f2704-1f4f-4459-b344-ef5c2e387537/JP+Frary.JPG Storytellers 2024 - JP Frary Hailing from California, JP is one of live lit storytelling’s greatest treasures. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/988f2c0b-7df1-41ea-bc53-e581b4c4019d/carm+big+arms*.JPG Storytellers 2024 - Carmenita Peoples Carmenita (Storyteller) is an artistic performer, writer, and certified Montessori educator. She also serves as part-time staff member at the University of Chicago Lab Schools. Her company, Innovative Art and Education, LLC, works with students and teachers to offer Diversity, Equity, Inclusion programming, education, and support through performance art. She is also a writer of children’s stories and plays. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/75fd9b5b-a6b6-495e-a08c-fcbce34c1942/margaret+g+.JPG Storytellers 2024 - Margaret Ghielmetti Margaret is a Chicago storyteller and author. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/f2fffbef-4720-45a6-bbd6-091c9a3eb18f/Photo+-+Edie%27s+headshot++Mark+Joseph+Photo+.jpg Storytellers 2024 - Mama Edie Armstrong Mama Edie McLoud Armstrong (storyteller) began this journey of professional storyteller as a speech and language pathologist. She recognized the blatant omissions in the education of her predominately African American students, which left them with little knowledge of the phenomenal contributions of people who looked like them. Images of people like the physician who performed the first successful open-heart surgery weren’t hung in places of honor among the others on the walls, even though this African American, Dr. Daniel Hale Williams, also developed the first African American Hospital in the Country, Provident Hospital, which was right in their own neighborhood. Provident was created because Black people on the south side were dying on their way to Cook County Hospital on the West Side because they weren’t allowed treatment at the White- run hospitals that were nearby. The stories, poems and songs that Mama Edie subsequently created and taught her children helped to fill these gaps as she incorporated this knowledge into their speech and language activities. Their pride, confidence and academic scores began to rise. They came to see that they too were capable of great things. Mama Edie is grateful that when she left the public schools and began accepting invitations to tell her stories in other settings - for pay - that this new profession would allow her to continue her journey to educate, uplift and empower. She uses all of what she is to advance the cause of social justice. Today she shares with us, “I Walk by Faith.” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/3132b6d8-e78b-4820-b862-1caa4f252f49/XW+%281%29.jpg Storytellers 2024 - Xoe Wise Xoe Wise (songwriter) is a singer-songwriter, and producer originally from a small town in NC, now based in Chicago. Xoe began playing music around 8 when she was enlisted as a triangle player for a local Zydeco band. Her releases have spanned folk to rock. Xoe has also been seen and heard in Netflix shows such as Sense8, and Showtimes Work in Progress. Xoe enjoys making records, comedic improv songs, and homemade hot sauce. In 2020 Forbes magazine and Chicago Tribune featured her series “Curbside Live” where she played pop up shows off her motor scooter to raise money for local music venues and bring some joy to carry out lines. Wise’s music has been recognized by NPR, and Huffington post. You can find her not only on stage but also developing songwriting and music programs for Chicago LGBTQ youth that help inspire self-exploration, like music did for her as a young queer artist looking for ways to heal. In addition to her work as a professional musician, she holds a BS in psychology and a master’s in social work from The University of Chicago where she focuses on music as body-focused (trauma responsive) psychotherapy and creative arts care. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/54e3500b-738d-4be3-8f1e-bb94587997c7/binkey+2022.jpeg Storytellers 2024 - Binkey Tolefree Lawrence “Binkey” Tolefree (storyteller) Hailing from Chicago's south side, Lawrence "Binkey” Tolefree’s original art form loves are hip hop and poetry. He also specializes in acting, improv, hosting, stand up, and so much more. Recently, he created Just Us Improv, a comedy troupe that has performed in venues spanning from local clubs to living rooms to sold out theaters across the U.S. Some of his other accomplishments include the 2010 MGD Freestyle Champion, Mixtape Mondays Rap Battle Champion, Jokes and Notes Stand Up winner, and many more. Whenever he's not writing or performing music, he also teaches comedy and even independently produces his own shows in several countries around the globe. As an artist and performer, Binkey serves not only as a household name but as a community staple in a city that proudly claims him as one of its own. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/66ac1072-0b4f-4449-9b16-dc603c7f4548/IMG_1239.jpeg Storytellers 2024 - Aisha Jumah Aisha Jumah (storyteller), a vibrant 36-year-old of Nigerian descent, wears many hats. She's the heart behind Mon-ara LLC, where she flourishes as an esthetician, crafting experiences that merge beauty and wellness. Her zest for travel infuses her storytelling endeavors, a newfound passion she's embracing wholeheartedly. With a penchant for literature, Aisha's love for storytelling blossoms from her avid reading habit. Keeping her body and soul in harmony, she finds joy in dance and the art of cooking. A polyglot in the making, she's driven by the fascination of languages, amplified by her tenure as an interpreter for ECOWAS in 2012. Aisha's known for her captivating smile, illuminating every space she enters. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/d269a2d9-0ccc-438f-a1b8-34dc5a7a5f32/dave+on+guitar.JPG Storytellers 2024 - Dave Hiltebrand Dave Hiltebrand (guitarist) has been a full-time musician for over 25 years. Since graduating from DePaul University School of Music, Dave has had extensive experience as a performer, composer and studio musician. Highlights include the Broadway National Tour of Jersey Boys, co-writing and co-producing two national top-ten songs, composing work for clients including the Oprah Winfrey Show, Nike and Allstate, and tours to South Africa, Cuba, Spain, Italy and Egypt. His debut solo guitar album Yoguitar, Vol. 1 was released in 2016. Dave is currently an adjunct professor of Digital Music at Elmhurst University. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/bcd5e2b2-7f6a-4238-8699-e9caf3fa3f9f/IMG_3710.jpg Storytellers 2024 - David Barish David Barish (storyteller) has been telling stories since his parents came home and asked what had happened while they were gone. Since then he has told stories at stages all over the Chicago area and has had his stories published by Chicago Story Press and Stitch. When he is not telling stories he is listening to them in his day job as a workers' compensation and Social Security disability lawyer. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/be1c2019-7cff-4e17-b67e-617fd35d7d7c/CUTE+LAMAR*****.jpg Storytellers 2024 - Lamar Jones Lamar Jones (bassist) was born to be a musician. A native of Chicago and coming from a musical family, he is a versatile bassist who has performed with a variety of musical groups during his 25 year career. Being a well-rounded musician, Lamar has played various genres spanning from smooth jazz, rock, gospel, r&b, funk and house-music in a variety of different venues from Music halls to outdoor festivals across the US and abroad. His multi-faceted talent of being able to comfortably play by ear or read music quickly makes him a sought-after musician for touring and session work. “My interest in music began when I was 16 years old. I actually wanted to play the drums in church but quickly decided to give the bass a try since everyone in church wanted to be a drummer.” The wheels were set in motion from the time Lamar picked up the bass, being inspired by the mystical deep low-end bass sound. It was during this time that Lamar’s cousin, Barry Halliburton (deceased) being a masterful bass musician himself, inspired Lamar to pursue a now life long career in music. Self-taught throughout most of his life, Lamar is quick to learn various licks while continuing to showcase great timing and phrasing. “There are several clubs in the Chicago area where I have performed. The training ground back in the day was known as “The Jazz Bulls". Most of the well-known musicians who are playing with artists today such as: bassist and vocalist Larry Graham, bassist Mike Manson (George Duke), bassist Darryl Jones (Rolling Stones), bassist Richard Patterson (Miles Davix, Boz Scaggs, and David Sanborn), bassist Bill " The Buddha" Dickens and myself shared the stage with these now headlining performers". Raised as a Christian, Lamar gained more experience by playing with Gospel bands and artists such as The Thompson Community Singers, Fred Hammond and Kirk Franklin. In addition, Lamar performs with multi-talented contemporary jazz artist Brian Culbertson, along with Steve Cole, Nick Colionne and Michael Manson. Lamar currently resides in Chicago and has been blessed with two beautiful young daughters. When he is not on tour, you can find him building custom basses and performing in church. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/d13d389f-2661-4041-947e-78360f469937/JenZias.jpg.jpeg Storytellers 2024 - Jen Zias Jen Zias can be seen throughout the Chicagoland area fronting her own jazz combo, as the lead singer in Mr. Lucky & His Orchestra of Tomorrow, as one third of The Merry Janes Holiday Trio; and as a featured performer in The Paul Windsor Orchestra and The Lola Bard Holiday Carolers. Her original music has been featured in film and television series. As one half of Slipnote, she is honored and thrilled to perform their song, “Look Around”, at Story Jam! @jenzias, jenzias.com https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1631028259050-KBSILZP4YBQT9JSCFJMX/kari%2Bdown.jpeg Storytellers 2024 - Kari Nelson Kari Nelson (songwriter, vocalist) has traveled all over the world, lending her voice to special events, concerts, recordings, and as a singer-songwriter. Following in the career of her musical family, Kari graduated from Berklee College of Music, and is now one of Chicago’s most sought-after singers, known for her signature stage presence and monster pipes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1631034175741-L7U2OXW51WX0D68P3DKH/chuck+telling**.JPG Storytellers 2024 - Chuck Lacy Chuck Lacy (drummer) was encouraged to go into music by his talented family. He started playing drums at age 12 for his church and soon began working for various churches and community choirs. He went on to study music in high school learning to read and study different genres of music. In college he began working in local Jazz, Blues, R&B, and Rock clubs as well as working for many cooperate bands. Today he is a working fixture in Chicago’s music scene and beyond playing everything from country to neo-soul. He has worked with: Ana Popovic, Buddy Guy, Keb Mo, Rahsaan Patterson, Avery Sunshune, Regina Belle, Shirley Murdock, Angela Winbush, Miki Howard, K-Jon, Kenya, Mike Phillips, Shana Tucker, Vince Ingala, Steve Oliver, Marion Meadows, Norman Brown, Larry Carlton, Marc Antoine, Phil Denny, Paul Taylor, and many more. He tours with Folk/Rock artist Peter Himmelman, Gospel Legends The Caravans, Edwin Hawkins, Richard Smallwood, Donnie McClurkin, and many more. In addition to being a drummer he is also a songwriter and producer. One of the projects he produced, “Music Made Rhythm” by Kenya, was considered for a Grammy nomination. Another project he co-produced was #1 on the UK Soul Charts. He is also the music director for Just Friends as well as MTV Star Maker runner up Melody Angel. Chuck is equally busy on stage and in the studio drawing on his various influences to create good music. Chuck Lacy is a Sabian Cymbals and Reunion Blues artist. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/764f50b4-c0b1-45e2-812f-ad7228b3560e/Margaret+Burk+7.jpg Storytellers 2024 - Margaret Burk Margaret Burk (storyteller) brings decades of performance, teaching and producing experience to her storytelling programs and workshops. She tells personal stories, as well as traditional folktales throughout the Chicago area, and on the nationwide virtual stage. Margaret’s one woman shows include: Civil Rights: A Personal History and Irish Roots. Margaret produces Tellers' Night, a monthly show in Forest Park and Back Room Stories OUTSIDE! in the summer months in River Forest. She was featured in the 2022 Women's Storytelling Festival in Fairfax, VA. www.margaretburk.com https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/5b335956-cb38-488f-bb27-e0f5d0847123/CUTE+FRED.JPG Storytellers 2024 - Fred Simon Fred Simon (pianist) is a master pianist and jazz composer who has toured the world and released several albums of original piano music. Fred is a favorite for both his playing and telling at Story Jam shows. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/ddee7353-e4dc-4e1a-8d81-c89016efa0a0/Maggie+Cain+-+headshot.jpeg Storytellers 2024 - Maggie Cain Maggie Cain (storyteller) has been an actor for a long time and a storyteller for a short time. She has also been short for a long time. She has played old ladies in Pornography at Steep Theatre and in the Jeff-award winning Men Should Weep at Griffin Theatre. She played Amanda Wingfield in 100+ performances of The Glass Menagerie at Mary-Arrchie and Theatre Wit. She has also worked at Goodman, Steppenwolf, Northlight, Chicago Dramatists, The Factory, Broken Nose, City Lit, Pride Arts and Raven theatres, pretending to be everyone from Anne Frank to Mrs. Claus. She’s a three-time choral gold-medalist with Sweet Adelines International and is now a member of the champion New Tradition Chorus. You may have seen her on Chicago Fire, in her COVID TIME YouTube videos or Watching Game of Thrones with Your Mom. She is now enjoying performing as herself. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/9f8d224e-c6db-4258-a9d7-0b6cc1ebc77f/bowes+blows.JPG Storytellers 2024 - John Bowes John Bowes (saxophonist) - - One of the “go-to” guys in Chicago when looking for a soulful sax sound, John’s early influences include Rufus, Earth, Wind, & Fire, Tower of Power, Stevie Wonder, Steely Dan, and almost anything Motown. He received musical training at Berklee College of Music in Boston, MA. John has recorded with and arranged for a variety of bands in Chicago, among them the Grammy-nominated debut CD of the 911 Mambo Orchestra, The Buckinghams, Pete Special, BrotherBrother, Dick Holliday and the Bamboo Gang, Uneek, and The Robert Cornelius 7. Artists who have called upon John to lend his talents to their concerts include Aretha Franklin, Melissa Etheridge, The O’Jays, The Funk Brothers (Motown Studio Band), Bettye LaVette, The Temptations, Smokey Robinson, Lou Rawls, The Supremes, The Dells, and many others. He can be heard on the soundtrack to the Stanley Tucci film, “The Impostors”. Theater performances include “Love, Janis” (based on the life of Janis Joplin) at the Royal George Theater, Chicago, and “Imagine Tap”, which had its world premiere at the Harris Theater, Chicago. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/7aaa9192-58ff-4108-a61b-bfa0bdb561a2/steffie%2Bsammy%2Band%2Bshanny%2B_____%2Bcopy.jpg Storytellers 2024 - Stephanie Rogers Stephanie Rogers (producer) is the producer and creative director of Story Jam, a storytelling and music show. She’s also the founder of Story Jam Studio, a storytelling school where groups and individuals work on the art of first person storytelling. As an actor and singer, Steph has performed on many stages and in TV and film, and her personal stories have been published in three anthologies. She has also released three CDs of her original music on her label, Hipchick Records. Stephanie holds a B.A. in acting from Northwestern University and an M.A. in writing from National Louis University. Visit Steph’s website at: Hipchick.com. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/28e94d25-b365-4727-a431-c87fa7e90b7e/62479e_b9406cc37d0e4cfb818aa1ceb06defe8%7Emv2.jpg Storytellers 2024 - Devin Thompson Devin Thompson (songwriter, vocalist) started his music career in his early teens in the city of Joliet, just southwest of the Windy City. He was the product of a musical family, and, like many a soul great, he has a church background. His father was a choir singer whose voice attracted the attention of the famed producer Thom Bell, and his sister also led a choir. Thompson increasingly segued into singing as the group played shows around the Midwest. “Because I was a horn player,” he says, “at first I didn’t really look to vocalists as any kind of inspiration. I was looking at instrumentalists — Miles Davis, Jimi Hendrix, Johnny Guitar Watson. Those were the people I gravitated towards. Later on it was Marvin Gaye, Sam Cooke, the Staples, Donny Hathaway. Then I was introduced to the music of Joe Williams, the jazz singer, Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett. I didn’t become interested in songwriting until I heard Prince, who became my favorite artist.” Thompson has worked in Chicago-based society bands, including the Georgia Francis Orchestra and The CHicago Catz. Thompson’s 2020 release, “Tales of the Soul” is bursting with tunes that offer a vital new take on the music’s ballad and dance traditions. But its most striking track, and certainly its most prescient, is the set-closing “Tell Me.” A pointed meditation on race in the style of Curtis Mayfield’s “We People Who Are Darker Than Blue” and Syl Johnson’s “Is It Because I’m Black,” it was written long before demonstrations began to roil the nation this summer. “It’s just about the experience of being a Black man in America,” says Thompson. “The first thing I started with was, ‘Tell me what it is about my skin that you don’t like.’ It’s a real question — people who claim white supremacy can’t tell me why they don’t like me. But then it became a lot more real when Colin Kaepernick was going through some of the things that he was going through. The song is about challenging people to have empathy. In America, people seem to lack the ability to walk in someone else’s shoes.” Though it was created half a continent away from his Midwestern stomping grounds, Devin B. Thompson’s Severn debut proved a surprising and rewarding experience for the musician, as it will for listeners. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/1d3c4e7e-c1dc-4cd2-afe7-2627e1d4f552/Screenshot+2024-01-09+at+9.42.51+AM.png Storytellers 2024 - Toni DiDonato Toni DiDonato (singer) is the creative force behind Rendezvous Music. She hold a B.S. in Music from Northwestern University and has been singing many forms of music—including classical, pop, jazz, folk, R&B, and musical theatre—since she was a teenager! https://www.storyjamshow.com/one-sheet daily 0.75 2025-01-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/d68d1d82-45c6-4f84-ac67-196b92b55143/1.png One Sheet - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/8e3e0ebb-035c-47d1-8249-21989adb1ed7/2.png One Sheet - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.storyjamshow.com/talent-1 daily 0.75 2026-01-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/14b125fe-8828-4824-b186-d878918d4471/kory+sideways+copy.jpg Featured Talent - Kory May Kory May tells stories to make sense of the world. Since the world doesn’t make sense, he continues to tell stories. From childhood storytelling to winning Moth GrandSlams and performing on a Moth Mainstage, Kory has made his mark as a powerhouse storyteller across the Midwest. As a founding member of TellersBridge, an Eastern Iowa storytelling collective, and a facilitator for Story Jam’s “The Cocoon,” he’s deeply committed to building and enriching storytelling communities. His latest venture into personal narrative prose adds another layer to his creative journey. For a taste of his work, check out a clip of his last appearance at Story Jam, or Grit Talks in the Des Moines Storytellers Project. He’s also shared his talents with Spring Grove Storytelling. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/585d872d-2d66-404b-972c-6122bd810377/IMG_3142.jpg Featured Talent - Karla Leroy-Brown KARLA (vocals) sings with a variety of bands and groups, and at events including the Chicago Humanities Festival’s production of “Four Women” where she put her college French to use singing tunes made popular by Eartha Kitt, Josephine Baker and Nina Simone. She has been a featured soloist on Royal Caribbean Cruiselines, and she has appeared in many plays, national tours, and televesision shows, including “Mamma Mia”, “Doubt”, “Sunday in the Park with George”, “Xanadu” (where she wore roller skates!),“Ragtime”, “Dessa Rose” and Once on This Island,” “Chicago Med”, "Chicago Fire" “Chicago PD”, “Empire”, “Mind Games” and a variety of commercials. Karla is the Early Childhood General Music teacher at Catherine Cook School. She emphasizes cultural competence, and diversity and social justice in her community and school. She is grateful to have her husband, Jean-Christophe and her two children Dominique & Mireille along for the ride. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/36e628fa-8ccf-42c3-8658-c762b2e749df/Xoe+funny+1.jpg Featured Talent - Xoe Wise Xoe Wise (songwriter) began playing music around 8 when she was enlisted as a triangle player for a local Zydeco band. Her releases have spanned folk to rock. Xoe has also been seen and heard in Netflix shows such as Sense8, and Showtimes Work in Progress. Xoe enjoys making records, comedic improv songs, and homemade hot sauce. In 2020 Forbes magazine and Chicago Tribune featured her series “Curbside Live” where she played pop up shows off her motor scooter to raise money for local music venues and bring some joy to carry out lines. Wise’s music has been recognized by NPR and Huffington post. You can find her not only on stage but also developing songwriting and music programs for Chicago LGBTQ youth that help inspire self-exploration, like music did for her as a young queer artist looking for ways to heal. Xoe holds a BS in psychology and a master’s in social work, focusing on music as body-focused (trauma responsive) psychotherapy and creative arts care. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/16d7403e-7f2d-4e7f-a42e-102a747fb2ae/Screenshot+2025-06-04+at+8.57.25%E2%80%AFPM.jpg Featured Talent - Rafe Bradford Rafe Bradford (bass) who studied double bass performance at the University of Illinois, has toured and worked with many great jazz, pop, and R&B greats, including Nancy Wilson, Stanley Turrentine, McCoy Tyner, Aretha Franklin, Lou Rawls, and David Foster. On The Tom Joyner Morning Show, Rafe performed with Luther Vandross, Mavis Staples, and many others in the live house band. He was in The Bonnie Hunt show band with Paul Shaffer, The Swell Season, and Dave Koz, and he is famous for playing bass for Patti LaBelle on Oprah’s theme song. Rafe teaches, plays all around Chicago, and he owns music mastering company. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/32b1c1a1-3ba0-40ee-b75a-f46ad208f6c7/IMG_1864.jpeg Featured Talent - Charlie Garrido Charlie Garrido (storyteller), as he is now known came to the US from Havana Cuba at 3 years of age. He had no marketable skills other than being potty trained. He grew up in Miami or as he calls it North Habana. After learning English he escaped to the MidWest where hilarity ensued. He is a graduate of Purdue University with a BS in Chemical Engineering. He has worked for Dow Chemical during and out of college. He found his passion forty-three years ago as a financial advisor. Charie has been straight, bi and now claims that being gay is his final stop on the sexual orientation train. He has two children from a previous phase in college and has been married to his husband going on 24 years. Tonight he hopes to give you a peak as to what growing up Cuban was like for him. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/f2fffbef-4720-45a6-bbd6-091c9a3eb18f/Photo+-+Edie%27s+headshot++Mark+Joseph+Photo+.jpg Featured Talent - Mama Edie Armstrong Mama Edie McLoud Armstrong (storyteller) began this journey of professional storyteller as a speech and language pathologist. She recognized the blatant omissions in the education of her predominately African American students, which left them with little knowledge of the phenomenal contributions of people who looked like them. Images of people like the physician who performed the first successful open-heart surgery weren’t hung in places of honor among the others on the walls, even though this African American, Dr. Daniel Hale Williams, also developed the first African American Hospital in the Country, Provident Hospital, which was right in their own neighborhood. Provident was created because Black people on the south side were dying on their way to Cook County Hospital on the West Side because they weren’t allowed treatment at the White- run hospitals that were nearby. The stories, poems and songs that Mama Edie subsequently created and taught her children helped to fill these gaps as she incorporated this knowledge into their speech and language activities. Their pride, confidence and academic scores began to rise. They came to see that they too were capable of great things. Mama Edie is grateful that when she left the public schools and began accepting invitations to tell her stories in other settings - for pay - that this new profession would allow her to continue her journey to educate, uplift and empower. She uses all of what she is to advance the cause of social justice. Today she shares with us, “I Walk by Faith.” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/0f35dc5d-7a6b-44d3-8db7-beb7f5758eee/steffie+rock+star+1.jpg Featured Talent - Stephanie Rogers Stephanie Rogers (songwriter) is the host, creator, and producer of STORY JAM. She’s been in dozens of rock, pop, and folk bands, and she has acted in plenty of obscure (and a few non-obscure!) theatre, film, and TV roles. With a B.A. in acting from Northwestern University, and a master's in writing from National Louis University, Steph currently leads storytelling classes and workshops for Story Jam Studio. A lifelong lover of hearing true personal stories, Steph loves teaching individuals and groups the art of personal narrative storytelling. Learn more about Steph HERE. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/fb026f4f-0c13-49b9-8c86-6c7a549ef42b/https___s3.amazonaws.com_gather.fandalism.com_avatar-639831E8-A35E-4FF5-A41B0AB0486FCFDC.jpg Featured Talent - Alysha Monique ALYSHA MONIQUE (singer) is a singer, lyricist, actress, member of the Chicago Cabaret Professionals, and Graduate from Columbia College Chicago, where she received her B.A. in Vocal Performance. In 2022, she received the prestigious Denise Tomasello Emerging Artist Scholarship Award. Alysha has worked with New York Voices, Buddy Guy, Koko Taylor, Mavis Staples, Brian Culbertson, Frieda Lee, Lynne Jordan, Kimberly Gordon, Margaret Murphy-Webb, Michele Thomas, Anne Burrell, Tecora Rogers, Greta Pope, Cynthia Clarey, Jenifer French, Jeannie Tanner, Ellen Winters Reynolds under Daryl Nitz Entertainment, and Story Jam. She is currently a freelance vocalist while singing with the Soundtracks of a Generation, embodying Aretha Franklin in the show titled "R.E.S.P.E.C.T." She also works with Mike Zabrin & the Funktastic Band, and the Chicago Soul Jazz Collective. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/42c270e6-dd83-41c8-8d19-18beebe9dc6c/fred+ok.jpg Featured Talent - Fred Simon Fred Simon (keys) has been making music for more than thirty years, composing for records, live performance, film, dance, and television, with instrumentation ranging from solo piano to symphonic orchestra. His recorded work includes seven albums of original music under his name, three albums (as principle composer) with the Simon and Bard Group, numerous appearances on compilations and samplers, and many appearances as side-musician. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/9d804a91-a51b-4399-990a-6bf417c7dc37/chuck*.JPG Featured Talent - Chuck Lacy Chuck Lacy (drums) was encouraged to go into music by his talented family. He started playing drums at age 12 for his church and soon began working for various churches and community choirs. He went on to study music in high school learning to read and study different genres of music. In college he began working in local Jazz, Blues, R&B, and Rock clubs as well as working for many cooperate bands. Today he is a working fixture in Chicago’s music scene and beyond playing everything from country to neo-soul. He has worked with: Ana Popovic, Buddy Guy, Keb Mo, Rahsaan Patterson, Avery Sunshune, Regina Belle, Shirley Murdock, Angela Winbush, Miki Howard, K-Jon, Kenya, Mike Phillips, Shana Tucker, Vince Ingala, Steve Oliver, Marion Meadows, Norman Brown, Larry Carlton, Marc Antoine, Phil Denny, Paul Taylor, and many more. He tours with Folk/Rock artist Peter Himmelman, Gospel Legends The Caravans, Edwin Hawkins, Richard Smallwood, Donnie McClurkin, and many more. In addition to being a drummer he is also a songwriter and producer. One of the projects he produced, “Music Made Rhythm” by Kenya, was considered for a Grammy nomination. Another project he co-produced was #1 on the UK Soul Charts. He is also the music director for Just Friends as well as MTV Star Maker runner up Melody Angel. Chuck is equally busy on stage and in the studio drawing on his various influences to create good music. Chuck Lacy is a Sabian Cymbals and Reunion Blues artist. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/28e94d25-b365-4727-a431-c87fa7e90b7e/62479e_b9406cc37d0e4cfb818aa1ceb06defe8%7Emv2.jpg Featured Talent - Devin Thompson Devin Thompson (songwriter, vocalist) started his music career in his early teens in the city of Joliet, just southwest of the Windy City. He was the product of a musical family, and, like many a soul great, he has a church background. His father was a choir singer whose voice attracted the attention of the famed producer Thom Bell, and his sister also led a choir. Thompson increasingly segued into singing as the group played shows around the Midwest. “Because I was a horn player,” he says, “at first I didn’t really look to vocalists as any kind of inspiration. I was looking at instrumentalists — Miles Davis, Jimi Hendrix, Johnny Guitar Watson. Those were the people I gravitated towards. Later on it was Marvin Gaye, Sam Cooke, the Staples, Donny Hathaway. Then I was introduced to the music of Joe Williams, the jazz singer, Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett. I didn’t become interested in songwriting until I heard Prince, who became my favorite artist.” Thompson has worked in Chicago-based society bands, including the Georgia Francis Orchestra and The CHicago Catz. Thompson’s 2020 release, “Tales of the Soul” is bursting with tunes that offer a vital new take on the music’s ballad and dance traditions. But its most striking track, and certainly its most prescient, is the set-closing “Tell Me.” A pointed meditation on race in the style of Curtis Mayfield’s “We People Who Are Darker Than Blue” and Syl Johnson’s “Is It Because I’m Black,” it was written long before demonstrations began to roil the nation this summer. “It’s just about the experience of being a Black man in America,” says Thompson. “The first thing I started with was, ‘Tell me what it is about my skin that you don’t like.’ It’s a real question — people who claim white supremacy can’t tell me why they don’t like me. But then it became a lot more real when Colin Kaepernick was going through some of the things that he was going through. The song is about challenging people to have empathy. In America, people seem to lack the ability to walk in someone else’s shoes.” Though it was created half a continent away from his Midwestern stomping grounds, Devin B. Thompson’s Severn debut proved a surprising and rewarding experience for the musician, as it will for listeners. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/ceef6fe1-d3ca-47c1-940b-803b01f8fb9e/nestor+cute****.jpg Featured Talent - Nestor Gomez Nestor Gomez (storyteller) is a household name in the world of storytelling. He has won more Moth Slams and Grand Slams nationally than anyone alive. Nestor was born in Guatemala and became a US citizen in 2018. He produces a popular storytelling show, "80 Minutes Around the World: Immigration Stories," which boasts a podcast on NPR. Nestor is one of the most sought-after storytellers in the country. You can find out all about Nestor at his website. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/5a90b8a8-5c88-4f2c-a131-271fed6830a6/dave+hiltebrand+****+guitar.jpg Featured Talent - Dave Hiltebrand Dave Hiltebrand (guitar) has been a full-time musician for over 25 years. Since graduating from DePaul University School of Music, Dave has had extensive experience as a performer, composer and studio musician. Highlights include the Broadway National Tour of Jersey Boys, co-writing and co-producing two national top-ten songs, composing work for clients including the Oprah Winfrey Show, Nike and Allstate, and tours to South Africa, Cuba, Spain, Italy and Egypt. His debut solo guitar album Yoguitar, Vol. 1 was released in 2016. Dave is currently an adjunct professor of Digital Music at Elmhurst University. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/6dc12099-830d-44a5-b5dd-b6e675f26647/MLK+2026.png Featured Talent - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.storyjamshow.com/storytellers-2025 daily 0.75 2026-01-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/0f35dc5d-7a6b-44d3-8db7-beb7f5758eee/steffie+rock+star+1.jpg Storytellers 2025 - Stephanie Rogers Stephanie Rogers (songwriter) is the host, creator, and producer of STORY JAM. She’s been in dozens of rock, pop, and folk bands, and she she has acted in theatre, film, and TV. With a B.A. theatre degree from Northwestern University, and a master's in writing from National Louis University, Steph leads storytelling classes and workshops for Story Jam Studio., which she created in 2018. Learn more about Steph . https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/9d804a91-a51b-4399-990a-6bf417c7dc37/chuck*.JPG Storytellers 2025 - Chuck Lacy Chuck Lacy (drums) was encouraged to go into music by his talented family. He started playing drums at age 12 for his church and soon began working for various churches and community choirs. He went on to study music in high school learning to read and study different genres of music. In college he began working in local Jazz, Blues, R&B, and Rock clubs as well as working for many cooperate bands. Today he is a working fixture in Chicago’s music scene and beyond playing everything from country to neo-soul. He has worked with: Ana Popovic, Buddy Guy, Keb Mo, Rahsaan Patterson, Avery Sunshune, Regina Belle, Shirley Murdock, Angela Winbush, Miki Howard, K-Jon, Kenya, Mike Phillips, Shana Tucker, Vince Ingala, Steve Oliver, Marion Meadows, Norman Brown, Larry Carlton, Marc Antoine, Phil Denny, Paul Taylor, and many more. He tours with Folk/Rock artist Peter Himmelman, Gospel Legends The Caravans, Edwin Hawkins, Richard Smallwood, Donnie McClurkin, and many more. In addition to being a drummer he is also a songwriter and producer. One of the projects he produced, “Music Made Rhythm” by Kenya, was considered for a Grammy nomination. Another project he co-produced was #1 on the UK Soul Charts. He is also the music director for Just Friends as well as MTV Star Maker runner up Melody Angel. Chuck is equally busy on stage and in the studio drawing on his various influences to create good music. Chuck Lacy is a Sabian Cymbals and Reunion Blues artist. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/36e628fa-8ccf-42c3-8658-c762b2e749df/Xoe+funny+1.jpg Storytellers 2025 - Xoe Wise Xoe Wise (songwriter) began playing music around 8 when she was enlisted as a triangle player for a local Zydeco band. Her releases have spanned folk to rock. Xoe has also been seen and heard in Netflix shows such as Sense8, and Showtimes Work in Progress. Xoe enjoys making records, comedic improv songs, and homemade hot sauce. In 2020 Forbes magazine and Chicago Tribune featured her series “Curbside Live” where she played pop up shows off her motor scooter to raise money for local music venues and bring some joy to carry out lines. Wise’s music has been recognized by NPR and Huffington post. You can find her not only on stage but also developing songwriting and music programs for Chicago LGBTQ youth that help inspire self-exploration, like music did for her as a young queer artist looking for ways to heal. Xoe holds a BS in psychology and a master’s in social work, focusing on music as body-focused (trauma responsive) psychotherapy and creative arts care. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/16d7403e-7f2d-4e7f-a42e-102a747fb2ae/Screenshot+2025-06-04+at+8.57.25%E2%80%AFPM.jpg Storytellers 2025 - Rafe Bradford Rafe Bradford (bass) who studied double bass performance at the University of Illinois, has toured and worked with many great jazz, pop, and R&B greats, including Nancy Wilson, Stanley Turrentine, McCoy Tyner, Aretha Franklin, Lou Rawls, and David Foster. On The Tom Joyner Morning Show, Rafe performed with Luther Vandross, Mavis Staples, and many others in the live house band. He was in The Bonnie Hunt show band with Paul Shaffer, The Swell Season, and Dave Koz, and he is famous for playing bass for Patti LaBelle on Oprah’s theme song. Rafe teaches, plays all around Chicago, and he owns music mastering company. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/e9828dfe-0861-4d50-a191-620da629c886/bowes+good****.jpg Storytellers 2025 - John Bowes One of the “go-to” guys in Chicago when looking for a soulful sax sound, John Bowes’s (sax, flute) early influences include Rufus, Earth, Wind, & Fire, Tower of Power, Stevie Wonder, Steely Dan, and almost anything Motown. He received musical training at Berklee College of Music in Boston, MA. John has recorded with and arranged for a variety of bands in Chicago, among them the Grammy-nominated debut CD of the 911 Mambo Orchestra, The Buckinghams, Pete Special, BrotherBrother, Dick Holliday and the Bamboo Gang, Uneek, and The Robert Cornelius 7. Artists who have called upon John to lend his talents to their concerts include Aretha Franklin, Melissa Etheridge, The O’Jays, The Funk Brothers (Motown Studio Band), Bettye LaVette, The Temptations, Smokey Robinson, Lou Rawls, The Supremes, The Dells, and many others. He can be heard on the soundtrack to the Stanley Tucci film, “The Impostors”. Theater performances include “Love, Janis” (based on the life of Janis Joplin) at the Royal George Theater, Chicago, and “Imagine Tap”, which had its world premiere at the Harris Theater, Chicago. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/12220629-e9fd-4464-aaf9-7e1b6ea1834b/with+orchids.jpg Storytellers 2025 - Cathy Colton Cathy Colton (storyteller) is a recently-retired English professor, who has enjoyed her time in the Writing Room over the last few years. She lives very close to Lake Michigan, one of her favorite places to walk, sit and think, or play in the water. Inside, she is often required to serve as a lap for one of the six cats sharing her and her husband’s home. Her poetry and creative non-fiction have been published in Willow Review, Seeds, and now Stories from the Writing Room. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/5cd826d7-b498-437b-8d5d-9ed0ab127ce9/IMG_3044.PNG Storytellers 2025 - Oshada Oshada Jagodzinski (storyteller) is a psychic medium, teacher, and author. She is a spiritual counselor who works with the dying, the bereaved, and those seeking an understanding of continued life after the change called death. Her book, “My Life Among the Spirits,” is a memoir of her experiences with the spirit world. She can reached at www.oshada.com https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/618ea8e2-9070-4bfb-a3a3-1c2b414fbf4d/8a920f08-d696-43c0-9753-66144b31d631.jpg Storytellers 2025 - Marya Frankel Marya Frankel (storyteller) grew up in San Jose CA and Chicago. In the 1990’s she worked in a bank, taught junior high, and most notably, was one of the worst office temps in the Windy City. In 2019, Marya took a Story Jam story telling workshop and has been performing ever since. Now that Marya and her husband are empty nesters, she decided to re-enter the workforce, this time as a preschool teacher. Oh the tales she could tell! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/ddee7353-e4dc-4e1a-8d81-c89016efa0a0/Maggie+Cain+-+headshot.jpeg Storytellers 2025 - Maggie Cain Maggie Cain (storyteller) has been an actor for a long time and a storyteller for a short time. She has also been short for a long time. She has played old ladies in Pornography at Steep Theatre and in the Jeff-award winning Men Should Weep at Griffin Theatre. She played Amanda Wingfield in 100+ performances of The Glass Menagerie at Mary-Arrchie and Theatre Wit. She has also worked at Goodman, Steppenwolf, Northlight, Chicago Dramatists, The Factory, Broken Nose, City Lit, Pride Arts and Raven theatres, pretending to be everyone from Anne Frank to Mrs. Claus. She’s a three-time choral gold-medalist with Sweet Adelines International and is now a member of the champion New Tradition Chorus. You may have seen her on Chicago Fire, in her COVID TIME YouTube videos or Watching Game of Thrones with Your Mom. She is now enjoying performing as herself. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/6239a721-1678-470e-8593-50310678ccf1/ria-blog.jpg Storytellers 2025 - Ria Spencer Ria Spencer (storyteller) is an aspiring world traveler and wannabe foodie who’s spent years belting classic rock and sweet soul music for marginally sober audiences with her band Girls on Top. She’s also delighted to be a grown-ass woman who’s lived long enough to have some stories to tell. Ria produced and hosted Where Are They Now: The GenX Years in the New York Frigid Festival and has also appeared on the No Name Comedy/Variety Show, RISK!, Better Said Than Done, Dead Rock Stars and The Volume Knob. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/cec6f1d9-30c5-49ef-a3ae-2df0b81d9674/r Storytellers 2025 - LaShera Moore LaShera Moore (singer) is a singer, lyricist, actress, member of the Chicago Cabaret Professionals, and Graduate from Columbia College Chicago, where she received her B.A. in Vocal Performance. In 2022, she was the 1st recipient of the prestigious Denise Tomasello Emerging Artist Scholarship Award. At Columbia, she became known for her versaility, which led her to work with such greats as New York Voices, Buddy Guy, Koko Taylor, Mavis Staples, Brian Culbertson, and other respected pros. Since college, she has sung with Frieda Lee, Lynne Jordan, Kimberly Gordon, Margaret Murphy-Webb, Michele Thomas, Anne Burrell, Tecora Rogers, Greta Pope, Cynthia Clarey, Jenifer French, Jeannie Tanner, Ellen Winters Reynolds under Daryl Nitz Entertainment, and Story Jam. She is currently a freelance vocalist while singing with the Soundtracks of a Generation, embodying Aretha Franklin in the show titled "R.E.S.P.E.C.T." She regularly works with Mike Zabrin & the Funktastic Band, and the Chicago Soul Jazz Collective. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/42c270e6-dd83-41c8-8d19-18beebe9dc6c/fred+ok.jpg Storytellers 2025 - Fred Simon Fred Simon (keys) has been making music for more than thirty years, composing for records, live performance, film, dance, and television, with instrumentation ranging from solo piano to symphonic orchestra. His recorded work includes seven albums of original music under his name, three albums (as principle composer) with the Simon and Bard Group, numerous appearances on compilations and samplers, and many appearances as side-musician. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/5a90b8a8-5c88-4f2c-a131-271fed6830a6/dave+hiltebrand+****+guitar.jpg Storytellers 2025 - Dave Hiltebrand Dave Hiltebrand (guitar) has been a full-time musician for over 25 years. Since graduating from DePaul University School of Music, Dave has had extensive experience as a performer, composer and studio musician. Highlights include the Broadway National Tour of Jersey Boys, co-writing and co-producing two national top-ten songs, composing work for clients including the Oprah Winfrey Show, Nike and Allstate, and tours to South Africa, Cuba, Spain, Italy and Egypt. His debut solo guitar album Yoguitar, Vol. 1 was released in 2016. Dave is currently an adjunct professor of Digital Music at Elmhurst University. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/7ebd85ab-8a57-444d-bd72-a234ec719d8b/IMG_2952.jpg Storytellers 2025 - Jerome Collins Jerome JC Collins (vocalist) is a vibrant artist known for soulful melodies and powerful storytelling. Originally from Chicago's South Side, he now enriches Charlotte, NC, with his diverse cultural blend (fine-arts painter, singer/songwriter, music producer, photographer, author. A seasoned performer and songwriter, Jerome skillfully blends neo-soul, gospel, R&B, and jazz, creating heartfelt music that deeply resonates with audiences. Jerome JC Collins’ music thoughtfully explores life's beauty and complexity. He also advocates for creative empowerment through initiatives like Harmonic Impact Studio, promoting creativity and community. Jerome serves as Board Chair of JOYEMOVEMENT, a nonprofit contemporary dance company dedicated to artistic excellence. Today's performance promises an inspiring, soulful experience celebrating art and storytelling. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/6237f30b-43f6-4a20-aad4-46417f51f251/471683123_10162145309684704_5500600084840267546_n.jpg Storytellers 2025 - Alisa Niles Alisa Niles (vocals) hails from the Windy City as an accomplished vocalist and songwriter. Alisa's vocals have been featured in lead and background vocals for a number of award winning artists locally and nationally, including Samotta Acklin, the daughter of legendary artist Barbara Acklin and Marshall Thompson of The Chi-lites. Her work can be viewed on Facebook and InstaGram. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/954b8048-3701-48ee-96cf-cbadb92e2b8e/FSS_6472.jpg Storytellers 2025 - Francesca Sobrer Recognizing that her first career choice of professional sea siren was too ambitious, Francesca (storyteller) went to the next obvious option: High school English and theatre teacher where she realized the power of the personal narrative. Semi-retired from teaching, she is also an actor and stage director. Her favorite thing to do is work with other artists and help them craft and tell the best version of their stories. A multi MothStorySLAM winner Francesca tells stories wherever and whenever she can. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/8720b692-7aa2-4f9e-aa56-06e15f9c3911/kory+sideways+copy.jpeg Storytellers 2025 - Kory May Kory May tells stories to make sense of the world. Since the world doesn’t make sense, he continues to tell stories. From childhood storytelling to winning Moth GrandSlams and performing on a Moth Mainstage, Kory has made his mark as a powerhouse storyteller across the Midwest. As a founding member of TellersBridge, an Eastern Iowa storytelling collective, and a facilitator for Story Jam’s “The Cocoon,” he’s deeply committed to building and enriching storytelling communities. His latest venture into personal narrative prose adds another layer to his creative journey. For a taste of his work, check out a clip of his last appearance at Story Jam, or Grit Talks in the Des Moines Storytellers Project. He’s also shared his talents with Spring Grove Storytelling. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/80b1dd6a-ff48-4808-aec4-0cfcc239a46e/KEH+prof+headshot+greeneryCROPPED.png Storytellers 2025 - Katherine Hoffman Katherine E. Hoffman is an anthropologist and professor at Northwestern University. Her research on law, colonialism, and language is based in North Africa and France from the early 20th c. to the present. She is author of We Share Walls: Language, Land and Gender in Berber Morocco (2008, Wiley-Blackwell) and the forthcoming Mirror of the Soul: Amazigh Legal Worlds and Words under the French Protectorate (2026, Indiana University Press) and is co-editor of Berbers and Others: Beyond Tribe and Nation in the Maghrib (Indiana University Press, 2010). Katherine is a life coach, asylum expert, and consultant with clients such as National Geographic and Fodor’s. She lives in Highland Park with her high school fisherfolk twins. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/6ab9b155-1cc4-4d85-8d3e-ac22ac0326a9/Sarah+Head+Shot.jpeg Storytellers 2025 - Sarah Squires-Doyle Sarah Squires-Doyle discovered the power of the pen after her mom died and left her stacks of personal essays. She started writing her own stories and recently launched My Mini Memoirs (myminimemoirs.com) to inspire personal narratives about life, grief, and loss. Earlier this year, she took a shot at producing her first storytelling show about love and heartbreak called "Love Notes” to a sold-out crowd, which will become an annual event in February. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/ea69b797-25f0-4238-a641-2ee4e380a3d4/REBADOLL+pic.jpg Storytellers 2025 - Reba Meshulam Reba Meshulam (storyteller) is THAT girl! She captains a Soobie (a Subaru for those not in the know!), revels in yoga, and is the OG master Sourdough baker. Appearing on her first Moth stage years ago, she won the night and has been sharing scintillating stories ever since. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/5600b0df-0717-4bdf-99b2-8e50f148918d/David+Edler_Story+Lab_9-19.jpg Storytellers 2025 - David Edler Originally from a small town in Ohio, David Edler (storyteller) came to Chicago with dreams of working in the theater. Life, however, had other plans. After retiring from a fulfilling 40-year career in Vision Care, David is thrilled to return to the stage as a storyteller. David’s favorite roles include being a husband, parent, cyclist, and former youth sports coach. He also briefly played keyboards and cowbell in a local garage band. These chapters of his life shape the stories he loves to share. David is a Moth Story Slam Winner. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e6017bda88213721314f36e/a639bf8d-7135-49a1-b0ec-b52ff35b2981/1.png Storytellers 2025 - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.storyjamshow.com/merch daily 0.75 2020-04-21