Shows
Digital Life UnfilteredDigital Life Unfiltered: How Gen Z and Thought Leaders Are Transforming Online Authenticity in 2025Digital life unfiltered. That’s the catchphrase for a culture that in 2025 is finally tired of curated perfection and scripts. In the age of ceaseless feeds and algorithm-driven dopamine hits, more listeners crave raw, complex realities over highlight reels. This has never been clearer than in spaces where “unfiltered” is more than a social media setting—it’s the new social currency.A twelve-hour, marathon live event yesterday put this need for unfiltered digital conversations in focus. World-renowned yogi Sadhguru faced down a global panel of Gen Z voices in what was billed as a “brutal” Q&A, live-streamed...2025-07-1904 min
Give Amplify ConnectFighting Crime Together: Alberta's Anonymous Tip LineCrime doesn't solve itself. Someone has to speak up. But what happens when fear, time constraints, or personal connections make direct reporting to police impossible? Enter Crime Stoppers – the anonymous bridge between what people know and what police need to solve cases.Crime Stoppers Alberta recovered over $22 million worth of stolen property, drugs, and weapons last year through their anonymous tip system that protects informants while helping solve crimes across the province. Mark Holik, board chair of the Alberta chapter, explains how this 40-year organization works behind the scenes to make communities safer while expanding educational initiatives....2025-07-1023 min
Co-CreatedEvery Business Starts With a Story That Matters with Trish TuttonThe most compelling marketing doesn't come from slick campaigns or catchy slogans—it emerges from authentic personal narratives that reveal why we do what we do. Mindfulness teacher and keynote speaker Trish Tutton joins us to explore how digital storytelling captured the pivotal moment that shaped her life's purpose.Discover how your authentic narrative might become your most powerful tool for reaching others.Episode Key MessagesEvery business comes from a story, especially purpose driven businessesDigital storytelling allowed Trish to share her pivotal life experience with potential clients before they even meet herCreating a su...2025-06-1134 min
Co-CreatedFacilitation in Action: DST Training Meets Advocacy with Katlyn LamontWhat happens when a simple four-minute digital story manages to capture the essence of a centuries-old military band tradition? For Katlyn Lamont, a registered psychotherapist and newly-trained digital storytelling facilitator, the answer came in the form of tough military veterans moved to tears.Katlyn's journey with Common Language Digital Storytelling began unexpectedly when her youth addiction agency secured her a last-minute spot in facilitator training. With a background in media production from high school, she quickly found herself rekindling dormant creative skills. But the real magic happened when she faced a moment of clarity the morning of...2025-05-2826 min
Capturing Essence for Care: Storytelling that Promotes Personhood in Healthcare5. Storytelling as Healing: Kristy Wolfe on Vulnerability and Authenticity in Digital NarrativesSend us a textShow NotesKristy Wolfe is a digital storytelling facilitator and a Wolfe Pack Warrior. She believes there is beauty in every story and she champions real stories in marketing and communication. Kristy exposes the human side of any organization, with consideration for ethics in storytelling, as well as storyteller wellness every step of the way.As a Common Language DST Certified Facilitator and Trainer, Kristy helps individuals and social purpose organizations share meaningful stories, turning their unique experiences into compelling narratives that inspire action.Kristy...2025-05-2033 min
Co-CreatedMind Mission: Military Families & Mental Health with Laryssa LamrockWhen Laryssa Lamrock created her digital story "Enveloped," she never anticipated how profoundly a four-minute video would transform her advocacy work with military families. As the National Strategic Advisor for Families at the Atlas Institute for Veterans and Families, Laryssa brings her lived experience as a military spouse, daughter, and mother to her work supporting those affected by service-related mental health challenges.The conversation explores the many ways digital stories become catalysts for healing and connection – from introducing presentations to facilitating psycho-educational workshops for family members affected by PTSD. We also discover how Laryssa's experience informed her wo...2025-05-1437 min
Co-CreatedDisrupting Death: Stories of MAiD with Kathy Cortes-Miller and Keri-Lyn DurantThe power of digital storytelling lies in its ability to capture what textbooks and lectures cannot - the raw, human experience of navigating life's most challenging moments. In this deeply moving conversation with Kathy Cortes-Miller and Keri-Lyn Durant, co-hosts of the Disrupting Death podcast, we explore how digital storytelling creates transformative spaces for processing grief and sharing experiences around Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID).When qualitative researchers like Kathy hear countless personal narratives that most people never access, digital storytelling emerges as the perfect vehicle to bridge this gap. Through a five-year research project, their team has...2025-04-3043 min
Everybody Hates Me: Let's Talk About Stigma"Sometimes when you share a story it frees the storyteller from stigma": On digital storytelling and stigma reduction with Dr. Mike Lang and Kristy WolfeThis podcast invited Dr. Mike Lang and Kristy Wolfe, digital storytelling experts at Common Language Digital Storytelling to reflect on the power of digital storytelling and stigma reduction. Carmen met Mike and Kristy at the First International Digital Storytelling Festival in Greece in 2024 where she was blown away by their powerful stories across the world. Carmen was then a podcast guest on the Common Language Digital Storytelling Podcast Co-Created, hosted by Kristy Wolfe.We discuss the potential power of digital storytelling in both freeing the storyteller from internalized and anticipated stigma, as well as increasing awareness and...2025-04-2339 min
Give Amplify ConnectRole Models in Motion: Girls Forward FoundationGaby Estrada, Executive Director of Girls Forward Foundation (formerly Fast and Female), shares the organization's journey from its Canmore roots to becoming a nationwide charity empowering girls through sport, physical activity, and education.Girls Forward DetailsFounded in 2005 in Alberta by Chandra CrawfordEmpowered over 34,000 youth across Canada and internationallyRecently rebranded from Fast and Female after 20 yearsCreates brave and welcoming spaces for girls to try new sportsConnects participants with diverse women role modelsProvides evidence-based curriculum focused on transferable skillsPodcast Key MessagesBuilt to Run programs...2025-04-2325 min
Co-CreatedBeyond Discharge: Stories from the NICU with Fabiana BacchiniWhat happens when personal trauma transforms into powerful advocacy? Fabiana Bacchini, Executive Director of the Canadian Premature Babies Foundation, takes us on a journey through her evolution from NICU parent to healthcare changemaker through the lens of digital storytelling.The conversation reveals the unique power of digital stories to transcend traditional limitations. Unlike presentations that exist in one moment for one audience, digital stories live online, cross borders, translate across languages, and remain relevant for years. They protect storytellers from repeatedly reliving trauma while maximizing impact and creating space for multiple perspectives – including those of siblings and pa...2025-04-1638 min
Co-CreatedLights, Camera, Story Slam Conversation with Dr. Mike LangWhat happens when you bring together passionate storytellers, skilled facilitators, and purpose-driven organizations? Magic—in the form of powerful digital stories that break barriers and create meaningful change. Mike Lang joins us discuss how the inaugural Common Language Story Slam transformed how we think about storytelling in the nonprofit space. Across three dynamic screenings, twelve uniquely crafted digital stories took center stage, each one developed through collaboration between a Common Language-trained facilitator and a charity partner. These short films, featuring personal narratives told through voice recordings and carefully selected images, sparked genuine conversations both in-person and online....2025-03-2632 min
Co-CreatedMultiple Perspectives: Stories in Medicine with Dr. Claudia GoreIn an empowering exchange, we speak with Claudia Gore, a passionate NHS doctor, who shares her journey of leveraging digital storytelling to change the narratives around healthcare. Through her personal encounters both as a healthcare provider and as a patient, Claudia sheds light on the deeply human aspects of medical care that often remain unseen.She introduces us to the concept of digital storytelling, emphasizing its potential to enrich patient-provider communication and foster empathy within the healthcare community. Claudia recounts the story of how she stumbled into storytelling workshops, where she unearthed her own creative voice and...2025-03-1936 min
Give Amplify ConnectThe Power of Dialogue in Nonprofit Capacity BuildingJoin Mike Grogan, President and CEO of Integral Org, to discuss the transformative power of conversations in nonprofit organizations and how they can fuel change and collaboration. Learn about the mission of Integral Org to support capacity building and organizational development in nonprofits across Alberta.Key MessagesExploring the role of conversations in facilitating nonprofit changeHighlighting Integral Org's capacity-building approach through education and support Strategies for nonprofit leaders to enhance organizational effectivenessInsights into the complexities of mergers and collaborations within the sector Discussing the importance of accessible resources for nonprofits Encouragement for nonprofits to emb...2025-03-1025 min
Co-CreatedFinding Joy and Community in Shared Experiences with Tash Bilau-HowieCan storytelling help heal trauma? Hear Natasha (Tash) Bilau-Howie's transformative journey from an ER nurse to a brain tumour survivor, and how digital storytelling became a part of it all. Her involvement with the Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada and subsequent participation in a storytelling workshop under Mike Lang's guidance helped her navigate a path from patient to storyteller. Tash opens up about the therapeutic power of revisiting her experiences, making connections with other survivors, and sharing her story with the world, offering hope and a sense of community to others facing similar challenges.The episode takes...2025-03-0533 min
Co-CreatedAccessing Creativity Through the Art of Story with Mike WilsonWhat if storytelling could be more than just a means of communication? Mike Wilson, the insightful Director of the Storytelling Academy at Loughborough University, unveils the transformative power of storytelling as a vital system of knowledge. From his journey in community theatre to shaping academia, Mike shares how narratives have the potential to address global issues like environmental challenges, health, and social justice, while also empowering creativity across various fields. This episode promises to change the way you think about stories and their impact on our world.Curiosity and collaboration are at the heart of our discussion...2025-02-1934 min
Give Amplify ConnectBow Valley Non-Profits: Innovation, Collaboration, and CommunityThe episode examines the evolving landscape of nonprofit collaboration in the Bow Valley, sharing insights from community leaders on how they are working together to address local needs. It highlights the importance of connection, resource-sharing, and the role of funding in supporting their initiatives.Key Messages• Exploring the impact of the pandemic on nonprofit organizations• Overview of the Bow Valley Non-Profits and its web platform• Insights from recent surveys addressing nonprofit challenges• Initiatives for collaborative funding discussions among local funders• Importance of collective events and asset mapping for nonprofits• Details abou...2025-02-1128 min
Co-CreatedStories for Good: Our Inaugural Story SlamJoin us as we pull back the curtain on the inaugural Common Language Story Slam, taking place at cSpace in Calgary, Alberta on March 2nd, 2025. Born from the success of our Kickstarter campaign, this festival is more than just storytelling—intertwines personal narratives with charitable causes. With twelve stories to be shared, the event promotes community connection, engagement, and awareness of the important work done by 12 different Canadian organizations. The Story Slam is a testament to the power of teamwork, featuring powerful narratives shared by storytellers and Common Language facilitators about causes that are close to their he...2025-01-3021 min
Co-CreatedMargins to Mainstream Through Storytelling with Dr. Carmen LogieDiscover the transformative potential of digital storytelling in tackling social stigma with the inspiring Carmen Logie. In this enlightening episode, Carmen shares her extensive work across East Africa and Canada, where storytelling is not just a tool but a movement that brings marginalized communities to the forefront. By crafting shared narratives, we're uncovering the powerful intersection of HIV projects and climate change initiatives, particularly through the eyes and voices of young people in Kenya and Uganda. This dialogue is not just about sharing stories but about empowering communities to find their voices and drive change from within....2025-01-2238 min
Give Amplify ConnectEmpowering Change with Radical Generosity & Shared ResourcesWhat if charities and non-profits could operate rent-free, channeling more resources towards their mission? Join us as we welcome Diana Davis, the Executive Director of the Jerry Forbes Centre Foundation, who shares her inspiring journey from the corporate world to spearheading a transformative model of shared workspaces. Discover how the centre's rent-free, collaborative environment is allowing organizations like Paralympic Sports of Alberta to thrive by redirecting financial savings into their vital programs. Through Diana's insights, we unlock the secrets behind the Jerry Forbes Centre's success in fostering an organic, problem-solving community that redefines efficiency in the nonprofit sector.2025-01-2021 min
Co-CreatedFrom Stilettos to Stigma: Unpacking Stories That Stick with Becky McCallWhat if the key to transforming public health communication lies in the art of storytelling? Join us as we explore this intriguing idea with Becky McCall, a seasoned medical journalist and a PhD candidate at University College London. Becky shares her unique journey from microbiology to medical journalism and reveals how digital storytelling can make complex health issues like antibiotic resistance more accessible. Inspired by historical narratives and equipped with insights from her experiences at the International Digital Storytelling Festival, Becky offers a fresh perspective on the importance of narrative in public health.Becky isn't on this...2025-01-0834 min
Co-CreatedHealing Narratives: Wellspring's Innovative Workshops Imagine a world where you can transform your profound life experiences into powerful narratives that resonate with others. That's exactly what we explore with guest, Bobbi Fridfinnson, from Wellspring Alberta, a charity that supports individuals with cancer and their caregivers through a variety of programs, including digital storytelling workshops. These workshops, originally spearheaded by Mike Lang, have blossomed into a vital space for participants to share their stories and foster a sense of community through the power of voiceover narration and personal imagery.We dive into the transformation of Wellspring’s digital storytelling program, now an eight-week im...2024-12-1429 min
Co-CreatedHow Burcu Caught the Storytelling BugJoin us on an inspiring exploration of digital storytelling with Burcu Şimşek, an associate professor from Hacettepe University and the visionary behind the Digital Story Hub. Burcu shares her innovative approach to amplifying women's voices through digital storytelling, drawing on her extensive research and passion for gender issues. Discover how her journey began with a PhD thesis that reimagined consciousness-raising meetings for the digital age and how this transformative tool is now empowering women across Turkey. As we navigate through Burcu's journey, we uncover the profound impact digital storytelling has across various fields, from education to medicine, revealing it...2024-12-0435 min
Give Amplify ConnectEnvisioning Tomorrow Today: Stollery Children's Hospital FoundationDiscover the powerful impact that philanthropy can have on children's lives as we speak with Sue McCoy, Vice President of Philanthropy at the Stollery Children's Hospital Foundation. Sue shares her heartfelt journey and connection to the Stollery, shedding light on the remarkable growth and innovative fundraising efforts that support children across Western Canada. Get inspired by their initiatives like the Lifecycle event and Radiothon, and hear the touching story of a new inclusive outdoor play area dedicated to healing through play. Learn about the Meet the Match fundraising event taking place from Dec 2-7 2024, where...2024-11-3017 min