Grandmothers Collective Storytelling Circle 

The monthly online storytelling events are an inclusive space for adults.  No storyteller will ever demean any race, ethnicity, economic class, geographic region, political affiliation, religion, gender, etc.

Each month has a theme, which can be interpreted as you choose. You’ll find a list of the dates and themes at the end of these guidelines..

What Stories Can Be

Stories can be sacred, funny, thought-provoking, or even difficult to hear. We hold space for each other as we honor the vulnerability and courage it takes to share.

We also trust that you know the basics: don’t comment in the chat during stories, unmute your mic, or do distracting things on camera while someone is telling their story. And thank you for leaving your camera on—it makes all the difference for storytellers to see the faces of their audience.

Grandmother as an Honorific

The Grandmothers Collective uses “grandmother” as an honorific, not a marker of having children. older women are a source of strength, wisdom, and joy in our communities. If you want to be in the grandmother’s collective storytelling circle, we want you there. 

You are welcome to have any children in your life listen to your story only, if you want them there. Other stories won’t be guaranteed family-friendly, so it’s not wise to invite them for the whole event.

Storytelling Basics

Your story will be 5–7 minutes long. If you are still talking at seven minutes, the host will hold up a 30-second flag. We know you won’t make us interrupt you because cutting someone off can kill the joy and flow of the circle—but we will if we have to.

If you’re new to storytelling, a great way to prepare is by practicing with a timer and a mirror for a few run-throughs. The host is also happy to help first-timers get ready. Don’t hesitate to call on friends for edits or suggestions as well.

First Time Telling a Story?

We are SO looking forward to hearing your story. People spend a lot of time trying to define what storytelling is, what role it plays in a community, and how it serves collective goals.

Here is our definition: is what you are planning to tell something you want to talk about, and have you got it to the point that you can do it in seven minutes without insulting anyone’s personal identity as a collective group (that whole race, religion, creed thing)? Then we want to hear it! (Folktale, personal story from work or home, fiction you wrote: it’s all good.)

Feedback on Your Story

If you’d like feedback on your story, share your email in the Zoom chat at the start of the event. This signals to other participants that they are welcome to email you privately with their thoughts after the circle ends. Asking for or providing feedback is entirely optional, and it stays between you and the person you connect with.

Not Ready to Tell? Join as a Listener!

Every story needs an audience. If you’re not ready to tell, come as a listener! Bring your favorite snack or craft, sit back, and enjoy the stories. Just make sure your mic is muted and your camera is on to help create a welcoming atmosphere.

How to Sign Up

Story Circles take place at 8 PM ET / 5 PM PT the second Tuesday of the month (adjust for Central and Mountain time zones).

Committee and Hosting

The Storytelling Circles are overseen by Wendy Welch, with support from Rosemarie Mollinedo and Jacqueline Siba. Committee members serve as rotating hosts. Interested in joining the committee? Contact Wendy for details.

Upcoming Themes for 2025: