Date: Wednesdays,

April 2, 9, 23, 30  & May 7

(5 sessions)

Time: 7:00 - 8:00 PM (CT) / 8:00 - 9:00 PM (ET)
 

Click here for enrollment: https://forms.gle/MQ7o69fehTSbf3RF9

Zoom link:  https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87168249935

 

Facilitators: Chris Miner & Mike
 

Course Summary: 

This course empowers participants to explore and shape their personal narratives, transforming experiences into impactful stories that connect with audiences.

Through hands-on exercises and guided instruction, participants will learn to structure their stories, create imagery, and emotional depth for greater resonance. Covering essential storytelling techniques across public speaking, writing, and digital formats, the course offers tools to communicate authentically and inspire listeners.

By the end, participants will be prepared to share their stories confidently and meaningfully with diverse audiences, fostering connection and understanding.

 

Course Objectives

Session 1: The Power of Storytelling

  • Topic: Presenting Your Story – Why It Makes a Difference

    • Discussion on the importance of sharing personal narratives, particularly in the context of post-incarceration.

    • Exploration of how stories can influence perceptions, foster empathy, and inspire change.

 

Session 2: Understanding Your Audience

  • Topic: Identifying Who You Need to Tell Your Story To

    • Activity focused on defining the target audience for personal stories and understanding their potential impact.

    • Discussion on the purpose behind telling your story and how to tailor it for different audiences.

 

Session 3: Crafting Your Narrative

  • Topic: Types of Stories and Strategies

    • Identification of various types of stories (personal, transformational, overcoming adversity) and effective storytelling strategies.

    • Workshop activities for participants to outline their narratives and incorporate key storytelling techniques.

 

Session 4: Emotions

  • Topic: Recognizing and Addressing Feelings About Storytelling

    • Open discussion on participants’ feelings regarding sharing their stories, including anxiety management techniques.

    • Strategies for building comfort and confidence when sharing personal experiences, particularly to strangers.

 

Session 5: Evaluation and Reflection

  • Topic: Assessing the Effectiveness of Your Storytelling

    • Review of assessment processes to evaluate the impact of shared stories (facilitator to fill in specifics).

    • Group discussion on what worked well during storytelling presentations and personal reflections on the experience.

    • Wrap-up activities to reinforce learning and discuss the next steps for participants.

 

 

 

The Facilitator:

Chris Miner  is a formerly incarcerated activist and a PhD student in Criminology, Law, and Justice at the University of Illinois at Chicago.  He also holds undergraduate degrees in Political Science and Urban Planning, as well as a Master of Social Work degree, all from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.  

During his time at UIUC, Chris started a Registered Student Organization called the TIME Scholars which focused on destigmatizing formerly incarcerated people on campus, worked with local organizations First Followers, the Education Justice Project, and DREAAM Academy before starting his own non-profit, A Way In, which assists people with felony convictions access higher education.  

Chris currently teaches Intro to Criminology, facilitates reentry courses with the Hinda Institute, works in community outreach with WIN Recovery, and works with Chicago State University Library and Information Services program to build pathways to reentry for returning citizens.