Listen "Episode 194 / Melina Smith - Connecting Through Creative Storytelling"
Episode Synopsis
As we wrap up our Transparency in Storytelling mini series, I'm excited to have Mel join us on the podcast (for a second time) for this final conversation. Mel, the founder of Story Makers in NYC, shares how storytelling connects us with our inner lives, our communities, and even God's greater narrative. Through creating zines, memory cards, and playbooks, Story Makers helps kids discover and tell their own stories, sparking spiritual growth along the way. This conversation is about the real impact of these resources—from the creative process to the life-changing connections they foster. 00:00 - Introduction More about our guest today Melina Luna Smith is the founder of StoryMakers NYC, clergy wife, and mother of two. Drawing on her background in Social Work and Child Development and her eye for design, she imagined and developed Creative Arts Camp, a week-long outreach program to the Gramercy and East Village NYC neighborhoods. Each camp focused on one of the great stories of the Bible with Melina's trademark commitment to whimsy and beauty. Eventually, with her team of writers, artists and jacks-of-all-trades, Melina transformed Creative Arts Camp into StoryMakers, a non-profit creative studio that produces imaginative gospel resources to foster connection and more fun for Sunday school programs and families. Learn more about Mel and Storymakers in the episode 02:13 - Origin and First Products of Story Makers 07:02 - Product Development and Process 10:00 - Subscription Plans and Impact 11:47 - Personal Transformation and Testimony 15:19 - Interaction with Kids and Adults 16:47 - Storytelling and Vision for the Future 29:35 - Conclusion Mentions Storymakers Emoji Pillows EP 160 with Meluna - Creativity, Faith, and Collaborative Impact Connect with me: https://jennynuccio.com/contact Follow along with my Weekly Wild: Sign Up! Find me on social media: Jenny Nuccio Work with me through one-on-one mentorship and strategic coaching sessions: Join me! Sign up to receive a copy of the podcast slides covered in this week's episode: https://jennynuccio.myflodesk.com/ry8jrddbfx
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