What 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 journey alone; she collaborates with her supervisor, Mike Wilson from the University of Loughborough, and learns from influential partners such as Common Language DST. Becky has co-created impactful stories like "False Peak" and "Stiletto" a narrative that highlights the emotional depth of a young woman's struggle with stage four bowel cancer. Through these stories, we witness the power of co-creation and empathy-building that digital storytelling fosters, particularly in personal and academic contexts. The episode underscores the potential of storytelling to bridge gaps and create understanding across diverse health experiences. Tune in for a compelling exploration of how personal stories can inspire change and shape the future of public health communication.

Episode Key Messages

• Introduces Becky McCall, medical journalist and researcher

• Discusses the journey from microbiology to public health

• Highlights the global challenge of antibiotic resistance

• Emphasizes the power of personal narratives in storytelling

• Shares the importance of collaborating with patient organizations

• Presents stories that illustrate the human toll of antibiotic misuse

• Explores the role of stigma in health communication

• Discusses future directions for storytelling in public health

• Calls for greater public engagement through shared narratives

Other Links Mentioned

• Watch more digital stories through the StoryBug website
• Read this episode's blog post
• Watch the Ep 10 Looking Back video with Mike Lang & Kristy Wolfe

Connect with Becky McCall here.

If this particular conversation resonated with you, tell a friend or a colleague about Co-Created or share one of the digital stories we were talking about. You can find the stories here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 immersive experience led by Melody Williamson. We spotlight poignant tales like Natalie's Story, where the adversity of a cancer diagnosis intertwines with the opportunities to engage with youth. These workshops aren't just about creating stories; they're about creating connections. During our conversation, we bring to light the touching group camaraderie that emerges during final screenings. This sense of achievement and solidarity proves that storytelling is not just a creative outlet but a therapeutic lifeline for many.

We also delve into how these narratives leap beyond workshops into broader platforms like film festivals, offering a richer experience than simply viewing stories online. By distilling complex life experiences into concise narratives, participants share profound insights and spark meaningful dialogue. This episode affirms the transformative power of storytelling as a tool for healing and connection, reminding us all of the impact that sharing our truths can have on the world.

Top 5 Key Messages

1. What is Wellspring Alberta? (0:56)

2. Digital Storytelling at Wellspring (3:37)

3. Impact of Digital Storytelling (8:25)

4. Community and Diversity in Workshops (15:48)

5. Wellspring's Film Festival (16:59)

Other Links Mentioned

• Watch more digital stories from Wellspring members
• Explore writing & storytelling programs at Wellspring
• Read this episode's blog post
• Watch the Ep 19 Looking Back video with Mike Lang & Kristy Wolfe

Connect with Bobbi Fridfinnson here.

If this particular conversation resonated with you, tell a friend or a colleague about Co-Created or share one of the digital stories we were talking about. You can find the stories here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join us on an inspiring exploration of digital storytelling with Burçu Şimşek, an associate professor from Hacettepe University and the visionary behind the Digital Story Hub. Burçu 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 Burçu's journey, we uncover the profound impact digital storytelling has across various fields, from education to medicine, revealing its power to foster empathy and understanding.

But the journey doesn’t stop there. We delve into the emotional depth of storytelling, featuring insights from the 1st International Digital Storytelling Festival. Experience the unique collaboration and emotional connections forged through this creative process, where participants visually express their innermost emotions and build profound bonds through shared experiences. Learn how these stories are not just narratives but bridges that connect diverse perspectives proving that storytelling is not just about telling tales—it's about transforming lives.

Top 5 Key Messages

1. Meet Burçu Şimşek (1:12)
2. How Burçu Caught the Digital Storytelling Bug (5:37)
3. Impact of Digital Storytelling on Education and Empathy (14:39)
4. Community and Collaboration in Digital Storytelling (20:15)
5. Future Aspirations and Reflection (25:17)

Other Links Mentioned

• Read Burçu's publications
• Watch a digital story by Burçu
• Check out the book Burçu mentioned Story Circle: Digital Storytelling Around the World
• Read this episode's blog post
• Watch the Ep 2 Looking Back video with Mike Lang & Kristy Wolfe

Connect with Burcu Şimşek and read her full bio here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.