Transformational Humor


In this podcast, we visit the world of humorous stories – and how they can be transformational.

Many times, when we imagine a transformational story, we think of something deep, with layers of meaning that are soul-stirring, full of emotional moments and archetypic characters, plot, and setting. However, light-hearted stories can be full of healing in unexpected ways; and healing, after all, is an important kind of transformation.

In this episode, we hear stories that lift our souls with joy and a little mischief. One, a story from the canon of Hershel of Ostropol, is told by our guest, Hanita Blair, who also shares her more serious thoughts on how a storyteller must connect with their audience. I share a short collection of the tales of the city of Chelm, a place more fictional than real (although it is found in modern Poland).

We also discuss the ways in which humor can actually be an important source of transformation.

Tracking

  • Introduction, and a taste of things to come.
  • Just Like My Father, Hanita Blair’s Hershel of Ostropol story…
  • Hanita Blair’s thoughts about storytelling and audiences.
  • The Mikveh, three short stories from the mythical land of Chelm.
  • Humor and Transformation, a chance to think differently about light-hearted tales.
  • Pearls of Wisdom, our recurring segment of advice from this week’s guest.
  • Introduction, and a taste of things to come.
  • Just Like My Father, Hanita Blair’s Hershel of Ostropol story…
  • Hanita Blair’s thoughts about storytelling and audiences.
  • The Mikveh, three short stories from the mythical land of Chelm.
  • Humor and Transformation, a chance to think differently about light-hearted tales.
  • Pearls of Wisdom, our recurring segment of advice from this week’s guest.

Contributors and Thanks

Hanita Blair
Hanita Blair

Hanita Blair is a storyteller and musician – a minstrel in the true sense of the word. She is also an author and holds degrees in ethnomusicology and illustration. Please consider acquiring her album, “Minstrel.”

Thanks to musician, producer, and mensch Joe Eglash for composing, performing, and recording our theme music.

Transformational Storytelling, the home for short courses, onsite programs, and master training in transformational storytelling.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *