Ep 09 A Conversation with Maria Gillen – Storytelling, Healing, and Belonging

In this episode of the Empowered Self podcast, host Krystal Long engages in a heartfelt conversation with storyteller and friend Maria Gillen, who shares her journey from the corporate world to embracing the ancient art of storytelling. Maria reflects on the rich tapestry of Irish stories, their cultural significance, and their ability to connect people across generations and borders. Through laughter and shared memories, they explore the timelessness of storytelling, the importance of heritage, and the profound impact stories have on resilience and community. Maria also shares a poignant story about the Choctaw gift to Ireland during the famine, highlighting the deep connections between nations and the power of storytelling to heal and unite.

Takeaways

Storytelling is a deep-rooted tradition in Irish culture.
Maria's journey from corporate life to storytelling was transformative.
Stories serve multiple levels of understanding and connection.
The Choctaw gift to Ireland symbolizes resilience and solidarity.
Storytelling can bridge cultural gaps and connect people globally.
Irish storytelling is characterized by its rhythm and emotional depth.
The importance of preserving and sharing heritage through stories.
Stories can provide comfort and wisdom in difficult times.
Community storytelling fosters connection and understanding.
The magic of storytelling transcends language and time.

Titles

The Heart of Irish Storytelling
From Corporate Success to Storytelling

Sound bites

"This feels like coming home."
"Stories are a weaving."
"People love the food stories."

Chapters

00:00 The Art of Storytelling: A Warm Welcome
00:58 Roots of Storytelling: Personal Beginnings
04:37 The Depths of Storytelling: More Than Entertainment
06:29 From Corporate to Storyteller: A Transformative Journey
14:34 Global Connections: Storytelling Across Borders
17:06 The Timelessness of Irish Storytelling
19:41 Sharing the Magic: A Story from the Heart
34:39 The Power of Storytelling
39:03 Cultural Connections Through Stories
41:41 The Importance of Story Weaving
48:15 Stories of the Irish Diaspora
51:06 Wisdom from the Elders

 

Contact Maria Gillen on Facebook & Instagram on story from Seeds- Maria Gillen-Storyteller 

Maria is also on LinkedIn 

Check out Maria's storytelling resources and wisdom, free downloads and audio on 

https://storyfromseeds.com/