York Story Slam

Welcome to the York Story Slam podcast, where we feature select stories from our monthly open mic storytelling events in York, Pennsylvania. On April 15, fourteen storytellers shared their stories with our audience at The Hangar at New York Wire Works, in downtown York. The theme for our April story slam was MY BETTER HALF. We heard stories about meeting future spouses, helping each other through difficult times, and even one about sharing clothing with a partner of similar stature. In the end, our winner Swapna Deshpande, who shared a story about a patient she worked with through the course of his degenerative illness. Swapna earned a spot in our Grand Slam in November. Our next story comes from Matt McDunnell, who shared about the magic his mom created for an early birthday. Our next story comes from Adam Nugent, who shared his story about the positive effect his wife has had on his early-20s shenanigans. Our final story on this month’s podcast comes from Doc Yoder, who told the story of meeting a beautiful

Welcome to the York Story Slam podcast, where we feature select stories from our monthly open mic storytelling events in York, Pennsylvania. On March 18, nine storytellers shared their stories with our audience at The Hangar at New York Wire Works in downtown York. The theme for our March story slam was NO HARD FEELINGS. We heard stories about getting tackled in football games, losing items from the lost & found at a Hollywood hostel, learning to let go, and even one story about Kevin Bacon (not that one). In the end, our winner was Mark Lentz, who shared a story about reflecting on the resentments he carries. Mark earned a spot in our Grand Slam in November. Our next story comes from Eric Zeltmann, who shared about playing tabletop games with his son, and the consequent lessons on losing and winning. Our final story on this month’s podcast comes from Megan Hine, who tells the story of her pet pig, Kevin Bacon, and how she and her family were at odds on the best way to honor his memory. All the winners fr

Welcome to the York Story Slam podcast, where we feature select stories from our monthly open mic storytelling events in York, Pennsylvania. On February 18, six storytellers shared their stories with our audience at The Hangar at New York Wire Works, in downtown York. The theme for our February story slam was CULTURE SHOCK. We heard stories about being made to feel “othered,” what happens when you welcome someone new, and one story about spending a long weekend with four toddlers. In the end, our winner was Marianne Sheely, who shared a story about getting to know her new neighbor. Matt earned a spot in our Grand Slam in November. Our next story comes from Phil Broder, who shared about a memorable experience participating in a kite festival in India. Our final story on this month’s podcast comes from Tim McGuinness, who tells the story of a time he confused the staff at a KFC far from home. All the winners from this year’s open mic story slam events will return at the end of the season to compete for the titl

Welcome to the York Story Slam podcast, where we feature select stories from our monthly open mic storytelling events in York, Pennsylvania. On January 21, ten storytellers shared their stories with our audience at The Hangar at New York Wire Works, in downtown York. The theme for our January story slam was TIPPING POINT. We heard stories about starting a business, new-parent anxiety, and a treacherous solo motorcycle trip. In the end, our winner was Matt McDunnell, who shared a story about bonding with a date about a mutual acquaintance. Matt earned a spot in our Grand Slam in November. Our next story comes from Kimberley Parsley, who shared her story about challenging some of the standards instilled throughout her conservative upbringing as she became a parent. Our final story on this month’s podcast comes from Bob Ulrich, who recounted the misadventure of setting up a PA system for Elvis Presley. All the winners from this year’s open mic story slam events will return at the end of the season to compete for

Welcome to the York Story Slam podcast, where we feature select stories from our monthly open mic storytelling events in York, Pennsylvania. On September 19, ten storytellers shared their stories with our audience at Archetype Pizza in downtown York. Our theme this month was COMING HOME. We heard stories about moving, about finding a sense of home, a couple about dogs, and even one about a 50th high school reunion. In the end, our winner was Corey Wolfe, who told a story about how long it took him to move to an apartment across the street. Corey earned a spot in our Grand Slam in November. Our second story comes from Bridget Hudacs, who told us about how, despite her initial resistance, she became a dog mom. Our final story on this month’s podcast comes from Matt McDunnell. Matt shared what he learned when his mother came home at an inopportune moment. All the winners from this year’s open mic story slam events will return at the end of the season to compete for the title of Best Storyteller in York at our Gr

Welcome to the York Story Slam podcast, where we feature select stories from our monthly open mic storytelling events in York, Pennsylvania. On August 15, ten storytellers shared their stories with our audience at Archetype Pizza in downtown York. Our theme this month was WARNING SIGNS. We heard stories about scary situations, new places and relationships, a highly anticipated celebrity encounter, and of course stories about warning signs that were summarily ignored. In the end, our winner was Beth McLaughlin, who told a story about the times when everything was fine… until she showed up. Beth earned a spot in our Grand Slam in November. Our second story comes from Swapna Deshpande, who told us about a time she got caught up in the anticipation of a celebrity encounter. Our final story on this month’s podcast comes from Helen Dempsey. Helen shared what she learned while seeking a miracle on a trip to Arizona. All the winners from this year’s open mic story slam events will return at the end of the season to c

Welcome to the York Story Slam podcast, where we feature select stories from our monthly open mic storytelling events in York, Pennsylvania. On July 18, eleven storytellers shared their true stories with our audience at Archetype Pizza in downtown York. We heard stories about riding in the car, riding bikes, delayed and missed flights, and stories about surgery and terminal illness. Our winner was Kat Knapp, who told a story about spending the first summer of her 20s at Cedar Point amusement park. Kat earned a spot in our Grand Slam in November. Our second story comes from Jim Goldsmith, who told us about a recent 500-mile charity ride on his beloved bike. Our final story on this month’s podcast comes from Monee Myers. Monee shared about a health issue she faced during her senior year of college. All the winners from this year’s open mic story slam events will return at the end of the season to compete for the title of Best Storyteller in York at our Grand Slam. Updates on our events are available on our webs

Welcome to the York Story Slam podcast, where we feature select stories from our monthly open mic storytelling events in York, Pennsylvania. On June 20, eight storytellers shared their stories with our audience at Archetype Pizza in downtown York. The theme for our June story slam was SUMMER LOVE. We heard stories about connections that spanned decades, the risks in putting yourself out there, and what happens when you don’t close the curtains. In the end, our winner was Mina Edmondson, who shared her story about feeling her brother’s presence and love, even after he’d passed. Mina earned a spot in our Grand Slam in November. Our second story comes from John Joyce, with his story about his fourth-grade classmate Debbie Quinn, and a moment of kindness he never got to re-pay. Our final story on this month’s podcast comes from Debbie Gable, who shared her story about moving from friends to something more, and all the awkward and sweet moments in between. All the winners from this year’s open mic story slam event

Welcome to the York Story Slam podcast, where we feature select stories from our monthly open mic storytelling events in York, Pennsylvania.   On May 16, nine storytellers shared their stories with our audience at Archetype Pizza in downtown York.   The theme for our May story slam was LISTEN TO YOUR MOTHER. We heard stories about Ouija boards, the power of a good nap when needed, and our mothers’ often outsized influence on our lives.   In the end, we had a tie. Our first winner was Scott Blanchard, who shared his story about a mom’s ability to find anything – and his mom’s sage advice about perseverance.   Scott earned a spot in our Grand Slam in November. Our second winner was Doc Yoder, with his story about the power of written stories when his mother’s memory began to fail.   Doc also earned a spot in our Grand Slam in November. Our final story on this month’s podcast comes from Mina Edmondson, who shared her story about a time not to take advice from her mother.   All the winners from this year’s open m

Welcome to the York Story Slam podcast, where we feature select stories from our monthly open mic storytelling events in York, Pennsylvania.   On April 18, twelve storytellers shared their stories with our audience at Archetype Pizza in downtown York.   The theme for our April story slam was OTHER DUTIES AS ASSIGNED. We heard stories about going above and beyond at work, stepping outside your comfort zone, and the beauty (sometimes) of the unknown.   In the end, we had a tie. Our first winner was Nick Dowling, who shared his story about flexing his muscles beyond his IT role.   Nick earned a spot in our Grand Slam in November. Our second winner was Sarah Chain, who shared a messier side of being a dog mom.   Sarah also earned a spot in our Grand Slam in November. Our next story comes from Jamie Beth Cohen, who told her story about experiencing loss as a school administrator.   Our final story on this month’s podcast comes from Jason Plotkin, our reigning champion and Best Storyteller in York, who talks about

Welcome to the York Story Slam podcast, where we feature select stories from our monthly open mic storytelling events in York, Pennsylvania.   On March 21, eight storytellers shared their stories with our audience at Archetype Pizza in downtown York.   The theme for our March story slam was HOPE SPRINGS ETERNAL. We heard stories about second chances, the search for romantic partners, and the dangers of hope.   In the end, our winner was Mike Reed, with his story of the lead-up to his first junior high basketball shot.   Mike earned a spot in our Grand Slam in November. Our next story comes from Carol Stowell, who shared about the hope she's found in activism.   Our final story on this month’s podcast comes from Kir Evancho, who talks about hanging her hopes on romantic relationships.     All the winners from this year’s open mic story slam events will return at the end of the season to compete for the title of Best Storyteller in York at our Grand Slam.   Updates on our events are available on our website, Yo

Welcome to the York Story Slam podcast, where we feature select stories from our monthly open mic storytelling events in York, Pennsylvania.   On January 17, nine storytellers shared their stories with our audience at Archetype Pizza in downtown York.   The theme for our January story slam was A TIME LIKE NO OTHER. We heard stories about the birth of a child, shared moments with loved ones, and pre-cellphone era adventures.   In the end, we had a tie. Our first winner was Matt McDunnell, with his story of giving an elementary school bully his comeuppance.   Matt earned a spot in our Grand Slam in November. Our second winner was David MacVeigh, who shared about the characters he encountered in his role as a public defender.   Our final story on this month’s podcast comes from Michelle Dacey, who shared how her father’s terminal illness brought her family together for a few final days.   All the winners from this year’s open mic story slam events will return at the end of the season to compete for the title of

Welcome to the York Story Slam podcast, where we feature select stories from our monthly open mic storytelling events in York, Pennsylvania. On June 21, eight storytellers shared their stories with our audience for our virtual slam. The theme for our June story slam was FATHER KNOWS BEST. We heard stories about lessons learned, thoughtful kindness bestowed, and generational differences. In the end, our winner was first-time storyteller Ryan Roe, with his story about playing in the elementary school band with his dad. Ryan earned a spot in our Grand Slam in November. Next up we have Tony Crocamo, with the story of the first time he shaved. Our final story on this month’s podcast comes another first-time storyteller, Emily Golihew, who shared her story of her relationship with her father. All the winners from this year’s open mic story slam events will return in November to compete for the title of Best Storyteller in York. Updates on our upcoming events and tickets for purchase are available on our website, Yo

Welcome to the York Story Slam podcast, where we feature select stories from our monthly open mic storytelling events in York, Pennsylvania. On May 17, ten storytellers shared their stories with our audience for our virtual slam. The theme for our May story slam was CHAOS. We heard stories about dealing with children, facing wild animals, and septic troubles. In the end, our winner was Randall Arthur, with his story about piquing the imaginations of a class of second graders. Randall earned a spot in our Grand Slam in November. Next up we have Mina Edmondson, with her story of a time she played a softball game while her children entertained themselves on the adjacent playground. Our final story on this month’s podcast comes from Phil Broder, who told a story about some of his home ownership experiences from the last few years. All the winners from this year’s open mic story slam events will return in November to compete for the title of Best Storyteller in York. Updates on our upcoming events and tickets for

Welcome to the York Story Slam podcast, where we feature select stories from our monthly open mic storytelling events in York, Pennsylvania. On April 19, ten storytellers shared their stories with our audience for our virtual slam. The theme for our April story slam was COURAGE. We heard stories about facing and overcoming fear, learning about courage by observing others, and conscientious objection. In the end, our winner was first-time storyteller John Joyce, with his story about a childhood skirmish. John earned a spot in our Grand Slam in November. Next up we have Melissa Snavely, with her story of what she learned about courage from the Wizard of Oz and her mother. Our final story on this month’s podcast comes from David MacVeigh, who told a story about the time a friend saved his life, and the sense of obligation it left him with. All the winners from this year’s open mic story slam events will return in November to compete for the title of Best Storyteller in York. Updates on our upcoming events and ti

Welcome to the York Story Slam podcast, where we feature select stories from our monthly open mic storytelling events in York, Pennsylvania. On March 15, nine storytellers shared their stories with our audience for our virtual slam. The theme for our March story slam was CLOSE CALL. We heard stories about missing the bus, escaping death, and a run-in with a gang. In the end, our winner was first-time storyteller Helen Dempsey, with her story about getting off course during a Hash while living in France. Helen earned a spot in our Grand Slam in November. Next up we have David Smith, who shared about his history as an unlucky person, and how his luck changed after receiving a leukemia diagnosis. Our final story on this month’s podcast comes from another first-time storyteller, Amos Stoltzfus. Amos told us a story about the time his dog was attacked at the dog park. All the winners from this year’s open mic story slam events will return to compete for the title of Best Storyteller in York. We’ll host our first i

Welcome to the York Story Slam podcast, where we feature select stories from our monthly open mic storytelling events in York, Pennsylvania.   On February 15, nine storytellers shared their stories with our audience during a virtual slam. The theme for our February story slam was ABOUT LAST NIGHT. We heard stories about blind dates, international travel, lost loved ones, and imbibing to excess. In the end, our winner was Jason Plotkin, with his story of his dad's final days, and how it affected the people around him. Jason earned a spot in our Grand Slam in November. Next up we have Eileen Joyce, who shared about making friends with people a bit younger than she and her travel companion. Next up is Elizabeth Erenberg, who shared how her focus was diverted on two surreal days.   Our final story on this month’s podcast comes from Randy Schulz. Randy told us a story about learning some lessons from the morning after. All the winners from this year’s open mic story slam events will return at the end of t

Welcome to the York Story Slam podcast, where we feature select stories from our monthly open mic storytelling events in York, Pennsylvania. On November 30th, the nine winners from our monthly open mic story slams returned to compete for the title of Best Storyteller in York.  The theme for the evening was NEXT TIME. We heard stories of memorable animal interactions, wishing for a do-over, and the lessons we can learn from relationships. Randy Schulz won with his story of his reactions to three different snake-related scenarios.  Randy took home the trophy and bragging rights as the Best Storyteller in York. Next up we have a story from Tony Crocamo, who shared the story of a surprising way his parents showed affection. Our final story on this month’s podcast comes from Mina Edmondson. Mina told the story of how she’s managed her mother’s many phone calls. We'd like to extend huge thanks to KBG Injury Law for sponsoring this year's Grand Slam. The themes for our 2022 season have already been annou

Welcome to the York Story Slam podcast, where we feature select stories from our monthly open mic storytelling events in York, Pennsylvania. The theme for our October story slam was BLOOD AND GUTS. We heard stories about stubbed toes, childhood and adult accidents, and one very detailed description of what to do with hunting spoils. In the end, Randall Arthur won with his story about his snowy-night encounter with a familiar neighborhood dog. Randall earned a spot in our Grand Slam in November.  Next up we have Dom Sciortino. Dom shared the story of impaling himself on a visit to Haiti. Our final story on this month’s podcast comes from Mina Edmondson. Mina shared detailed instructions on how to prepare squirrels for eating. This was the last open mic story slam of our season. All the winners from this year’s Story Slam events will return to compete in our Grand Slam in November for the title of Best Storyteller in York. Updates on our events are available on our website, and while you’re there, you ca

Welcome to the York Story Slam podcast, where we feature select stories from our monthly open mic storytelling events in York, Pennsylvania. The theme for our September story slam was HOMESICK. We heard stories about missing home, redefining one’s sense of home, and one about staying home sick from school. In the end, our winner was Sarah Chain, who shared her story about saying goodbye to her grandparents’ home. Sarah earned a spot in our Grand Slam in November.  Next up we have Thaddeus Abbott, who talks about finding an answer to the complicated question "Where are you from?" Our final story on this month’s podcast comes from Joanna Kopinetz. Joanna shared her story about traditions around food, and how she brought some of them with her when she immigrated to the U.S. All the winners from this year’s open mic story slam events will return to compete for the title of Best Storyteller in York at our Grand Slam event in November. Updates on our events are available on our website, and while you’re there,