LARPing and Narrative Therapy: Ben Stimpson on Finding Your Voice

The Savvy Communicator

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Ever wondered how storytelling can transform lives? I had such a wonderful time with this episode! Join me as we unpack this compelling subject with our special guest, Ben Stimpson—an author, therapist, and podcaster. Ben's journey begins in North Wales, where he faced significant speech challenges due to dyspraxia. Through dedicated speech therapy, he overcame these hurdles, leading him to a vibrant career in public speaking. Our conversation offers a nuanced look at his experiences, particularly his transition to Canada and the different educational systems he encountered there.
We then review the pressing issues within educational systems, especially for students with special needs. Ben opens up about his struggles within the underfunded Canadian school system, contrasting it with the more supportive UK environment he experienced. His reflections on high school and university are eye-opening, especially when he discusses finding his unique learning style and managing neurodivergence. The turning point came when he joined a Toastmasters club—an experience that became a cornerstone in building his public speaking skills. This chapter offers a critical perspective on traditional educational practices and the urgent need for inclusivity.
Finally, we turn our focus to the broader themes of storytelling in communication. Ben shares fascinating insights into the world of Live Action Role-Playing (LARP) and narrative therapy. Learn how LARP can provide a safe haven for individuals to explore and utilize their voice, and how storytelling shapes self-identity. We also delve into how these skills can benefit medical students through realistic role-play scenarios, emphasizing the importance of effective communication within cultural and social contexts. This episode promises to offer invaluable insights into the transformative power of storytelling and its pivotal role in enhancing communication skills.
You can reach Ben through his website at www.benstimpson.com .
Ben's book is available here: https://www.amazon.com/Ancestral-Whispers-Building-Veneration-Practices/dp/B0CHK4MG8B/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3HSGIODU9FW7M&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.g9IJqw1gpZXaNFmym-s-2oQlVHZmkH3Uks9iopMManiEN-RM0HoIqJM5LWNmWHV0SJT-WaXgjGSUHkA9X1Q4fbCNeuJ1YB_IpQe17nQhub2opRfsly1ySAscy9umtpl0Wm2B31a7TU2ieGLmoCziZAe98KP69EA42KttwupOgzQmmVZQ_qbUTvglTcaUWr959BwAFZVZ_Os0k4NcU23DWn_d9HEKp0USVqzwIiCu574.7u8R90gQjroU1POXENKZGJRekEw0PI-CgFImS0hrAds&dib_tag=se&keywords=book+ancestral+whispers&qid=1719252527&sprefix=book+ancestral+whispers%2Caps%2C181&sr=8-1
Ben's podcast, "Essence with Ben Stimpson", is available here: S04E13 Amy Blackthorn (youtube.com)

This is a show where ideas come together. The guest statements expressed on The Savvy Communicator Podcast are their own and not necessarily the views of The Savvy Communicator.
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Chapters

1. Transformative Power of Storytelling Through Communication (00:00:00)

2. Challenges in Educational Communication System (00:14:47)

3. The Power of Storytelling in Communication (00:23:50)

4. Discovering Communication Through Storytelling (00:37:34)