We recently caught up with Recovery Storytelling curriculum creator and co-host of CCAR's upcoming Virtual Recovery Story Slam, Meghann Perry, for some helpful tips, insight and inspiration you can use while preparing and crafting your recovery story - JUST IN TIME for the
What is personal narrative storytelling, anyway?
This art form is summed up best by this: "True Stories Told Live". It's an audience, a microphone, and a single storyteller telling a true story about themselves on a given theme without any notes or props. Recovery Storytelling is this art form infused with recovery themes and positive recovery messages.
What are some guidelines for good storytelling?
  • The story must be 3–5-minute long, and in this case, based on the Story Slam theme "Recovery in Motion." 
  • Your story must be true and it must have happened to you. 
  • It should have a clear, strong beginning and ending, and a middle where the action is happening. 
  • Set the stakes early on. What do you have to lose or gain? 
  • Identify the turning point where things shift and the win or loss is determined, but don't tell us right away…Build up to it. 
  • Tell us your relationship to the events of the story.
  • How did you feel?
  • What did you think?
  • We need the emotional aspect of the experience you're telling us about, not just the facts.
Can you provide a few prompts that people can use for inspiration while crafting their story?
  • Have you ever felt like your recovery has been rocked?
  • Like things are moving too fast?
  • Have you taken your recovery with you on a journey to another place?
  • Has your recovery always been on the move?
 What are some examples of good storytelling people can check out, and use as a resource?

You can find great examples of Recovery Storytelling from this collaborative project with CCAR, Meghann Perry, and Retrospective Films.

Another great resource is The Moth- a non-profit group based in New York City dedicated to the art and craft of storytelling. They present a wide range of theme-based storytelling events often featuring prominent literary and cultural personalities.

  • Check out some tips from The Moth HERE
  • To better understand the storytelling form, click HERE 
Recovery Slam Zoom Meeting info:
Meeting ID: 819 9473 6877
Passcode: 230332
Looking to develop your Recovery Storytelling Skills?
Develop your story in a small workshop format with Meghann Perry, creator of the Recovery Storytelling curriculum. Register for Meghann's upcoming workshop Feb. 26-28th!