The Odyssey Storytelling Podcast

Each month community storytellers take to the Odyssey Storytelling stage to relate true (well, mostly), personal stories loosely related to a pre-chosen theme in front of a live audience. The stories are not read or memorized, they are told from the life experiences and creativity of the teller.

April 2018: Mythic 01/24/2026

April 2018: Mythic “Mythology is the movement of stories and images across time and space, carrying our souls with it.” - Phil Cousineau Have you ever felt as if you’ve pissed off a god? Ever gone on a quest or ventured into another dimension? Are you, or do you know a trickster, a hero or a creator? Have you ever felt divine inspiration? If so, you’ve touched the realm of the Mythic. This week's storytellers include: Bella Vivante Miles Schneiderman Ana Montanez Mo Goldman Addison Beaux This episode was performed and recorded at Sea of Glass in Tucson, Arizona, on April 5th, 2018, and is curated by Steve Braun. For more information, please visit www.odysseystorytelling.com /episode/index/show/odysseystorytelling/id/39860225

December 2025: Wait, What?!? 01/24/2026

December 2025: Wait, What?!? December 2025: Wait, What?!? Surprise. Confusion. Disbelief. “Wait, what?” invites clarification, enlightenment, understanding, an answer to the question. Whether you need an explanation or you’re doing the explaining, handling “wait, what?” requires the telling of a story that helps the listener turn on the mental lightbulb and issue another exclamation: “Ohhh.” Storytellers: Noel Hennessey Stephen Robitaille Gayle Petrillo Steve Pender Amy H. Drewek Peter Axlerod Produced by Angela Orlando Curated by Steven Braun and Elena Acoba This episode was recorded and produced by Odyssey Storytelling Podcast host, Steven Braun. The music in this episode was: Kansas City Rag by James Scott Surefire Rag by Henry Lodge The Easy Winners by Scott Joplin /episode/index/show/odysseystorytelling/id/39860130

October 2025: Dark Side 01/06/2026

October 2025: Dark Side October 2025: Dark Side Listening to the devil on your shoulder, tiptoeing over the line, or feeling the call to break bad. Experiencing the paranormal or unexplained, feeling creeped out, or discovering the seedy underbelly. On October 2, 2025 we ventured to the “Dark Side” of life, as 5 storytellers shared true stories on stage at the Gallagher Theater on the campus of the University of Arizona in Tucson. The storytellers were: Sara Curtis Westlund Terri Haag Eric Aldrich Phyllis Brodsky Jeff Clashman Produced by Angela Orlando Curated by Roscoe Mutz This episode was recorded and produced by Odyssey Storytelling Podcast host, Steven Braun. The music in this episode was: Kansas City Rag by James Scott Surefire Rag by Henry Lodge The Easy Winners by Scott Joplin /episode/index/show/odysseystorytelling/id/39622845

August 2025: Belonging; Building a Better Tucson (A Joint Production of Odyssey Storytelling and Iskashitaa Refugee Network 01/05/2026

August 2025: Belonging; Building a Better Tucson (A Joint Production of Odyssey Storytelling and Iskashitaa Refugee Network August 2025: Belonging: Building a Better Tucson Belonging: Building a Better Tucson, a Joint Production of Odyssey Storytelling and Iskashitaa Refugee Network In a time of uncertainty, fear and misinformation, this evening shines a light on truth, resilience, and community. Five refugees and asylum-seekers from around the world—now part of the fabric of Tucson—shared powerful, personal stories of rebuilding, contribution, and hope. These are stories of giving back: learning, growing, creating art, fostering connection, and shaping a stronger community for all of us. These moving performances remind us what belonging really means—and how we all benefit when everyone has a place to call home. The storytellers are: Shamsadin Zamani Benson Gasanga Rebecca Ursule Audace Mbonyingingo Sara Haghighi Featuring the Wilondja & Family Singers Produced and curated by Laura Porfirio and Barbara Eiswerth This episode was recorded and produced by Odyssey Storytelling Podcast host, Steven Braun The music appearing in this episode was: Tunashinda by Ray Will /episode/index/show/odysseystorytelling/id/39618810

July 2025: Grudges 12/22/2025

July 2025: Grudges July 2025: Grudges Join Odyssey Storytelling as we dive into the depths of grudges—petty, powerful, and poetic. From long-held resentments to fleeting frustrations, our performers will unravel the weight of keeping score, the sting of betrayal, and the catharsis of letting go (or not). Our unforgettable stories might just make you rethink your own grudges. The storytellers were: Jurg Zundel Kevin Pratt Alex Richards Stephen Robataille Mary Schattenberg Ames Granados Produced by Angela Orlando Curated by Jodi Endelberg This episode was recorded and produced by Odyssey Storytelling Podcast host, Steven Braun The music appearing in this episode was: "Kansas City Rag" by James Scott "Surefire Rag" by Henry Lodge "The Easy Winners" by Scott Joplin /episode/index/show/odysseystorytelling/id/39490585

June 2025: Spicy! 12/11/2025

June 2025: Spicy! June 2025: Spicy! Whatever you’re into, food, humor, romance … How spicy do you like it? Do your jokes make ‘em blush? Does your chili cause a “fire in the hole?” Does your sex life need a little kung pao? Listen as five storytellers cook up some peppery tales when Odyssey Storytelling presents: Spicy! Recorded live at 191 Toole in Tucson, Arizona. The storytellers were: Jackie Tran Doug Levy Liane Hernandez Mel Blumenthal Dr. Brett Jones Produced by Angela Orlando Curated by Steven Braun and Anna Marie Trester This episode was recorded and produced by Odyssey Storytelling Podcast host, Steven Braun The music appearing in this episode was: "Kansas City Rag" by James Scott "Surefire Rag" by Henry Lodge "The Easy Winners" by Scott Joplin /episode/index/show/odysseystorytelling/id/39365215

April 2025: Losing My Religion 09/01/2025

April 2025: Losing My Religion Is that you in the corner? Is that you in the spotlight, losing or finding your religion? Consider this, consider standing on a stage, telling us your story. I thought that I heard them laughing. I thought that I heard them sing. I think I thought I heard applause. But that was just a dream. The storytellers were: Monica Elizabeth Bauer Ron Lancaster Terry Ahearn Steven Braun Ben Tyler Justine Walford Produced by Angela Orlando Curated by Lewis Palmateer and Anna Marie Trester This episode was recorded and produced by Odyssey Storytelling Podcast host, Steven Braun The music appearing in this episode was: "Kansas City Rag" by James Scott "Surefire Rag" by Henry Lodge "The Easy Winners" by Scott Joplin /episode/index/show/odysseystorytelling/id/38050025

March 2025: Tell Me a Story 07/28/2025

March 2025: Tell Me a Story Unbound by a set theme, anything is possible as five local storytellers shared thrilling adventures, unexpected journeys, and defining moments. Join us as we experience surprises, laughter, and—most of all—genuine connection as community members take the Odyssey stage to share their most remarkable true tales. The storytellers were: Dr. Nooshie Motaref Jewels Weissmann Roscoe Mutz Susanne Lasseter Laura Milkins Produced by Roscoe Mutz Curated by Mary Jo Pollack and Lisa Stafford This episode was recorded and produced by Odyssey Storytelling Podcast host, Steven Braun The music appearing in this episode was: "Back to Life" by Charles Hunter "Fluffy Ruffles" by C. Duanne Crabb "The Easy Winners" by Scott Joplin /episode/index/show/odysseystorytelling/id/37573495

February 2025: Queens 04/30/2025

February 2025: Queens On February 6, 2025 five storytellers took the Odyssey stage with "Queens," sharing their unique interpretations of the theme. In this episode you will experience tales that explore facets of queenship, from the regal to the shocking to the amusing. The storytellers were: Alexandra "Spiritual Cloud" Gutierrez Jennifer Teufel Schoenberger Jennifer Blanco Thomas Lisa Floran Rick "Wind" Herrera Produced by Angela Orlando Curated by Laura Porfirio This episode was recorded and produced by Odyssey Storytelling Podcast host, Steven Braun The music appearing in this episode was: "Swamptown Shuffle" by Henry W. Jones "Surefire Rag" by /henry Lodge "Sentimental Rag" by Mabel Tilton /episode/index/show/odysseystorytelling/id/36374415

January 2025: Safe Spaces 03/03/2025

January 2025: Safe Spaces Whether it’s a person we love, a place we cherish, or even just a feeling, a Safe Space brings us peace throughout our life’s journey. We rang in 2025, with six members of our Tucson community sharing about how they found their safe spaces! The storytellers were: Anna Darian Jodi Engelberg Ana Montanez Elena Acoba Emily Viola Produced by Angela Orlando Curated by Lewis Palmateer The music appearing in this episode was: "Kansas City Rag" by James Scott "Dill Pickles Rag" by Charles Leslie Johnson "Cannonball Rag" by Merle Travis This episode was recorded and produced by Odyssey Storytelling Podcast host, Steven Braun /episode/index/show/odysseystorytelling/id/35507110

December 2024: Upcycle 01/31/2025

December 2024: Upcycle Upcycle: “The act of taking something no longer useful to you and giving it a second life and new function so that the finished product becomes more practical, valuable, and beautiful than it was.” Like turning wooden pallets into patio furniture, leaving a boring job for a new challenge, or saving your kitchen scraps to make beautiful compost. Have you upcycled a relationship lately? What needs to be upcycled in your life? In this episode of the Odyssey Storytelling Podcast, seven storytellers relate their experiences of Upcycling. Those storytellers include: Harrison Orr Natasha Winnik Mohammed Al-Sammak Lynne Gillette Jonathan Grinder Carmelene Melani Siani Produced and curated by Penelope Starr and Adam Hostetter This episode was recorded and produced by Odyssey Storytelling Podcast host, Steven Braun /episode/index/show/odysseystorytelling/id/35100650

October 2024: Creepy 11/13/2024

October 2024: Creepy Strange sounds in the night. Eyes playing tricks (or not). Unexplained phenomena, or wading into unfamiliar territory. Whether you are creeped out or creeped on, enjoy this episode, recorded live at the Screening Room in Tucson, AZ on October 3rd, 2024, where our storytellers will share true stories of unease and fear, or endeavor to dispel general misconceptions of things typically defined as "Creepy." Produced by Ana Montañez Curated by Roscoe Mutz Storytellers include: Steven Braun Mary Jo Pollack Porter McDonald Ames Granados Brian Taraz, aka Satan Candace Ballesteros Molly McCloy (3-minute impromptu story) This episode was recorded and produced by Odyssey Storytelling Podcast host, Steven Braun. /episode/index/show/odysseystorytelling/id/33918506

September 2024: Manifestations 10/14/2024

September 2024: Manifestations Manifestations … embodiments, surprises, gifts, appearances, things going from abstract to reality, findings. Stories about things that happen, sometimes conjured, sometimes unexpected. On Thursday, September 5, 2024 7 Odyssey storytellers shared their experiences of release and realization, desire, and revelation. Produced by Roscoe Mutz Curated by Laura Porfirio Storytellers include: Jim Lipson Jesseca Banchy Elena Acoba Niccole Radhe Jill Hofer Christina Oré and Ana Ghoreishian This episode was recorded and produced by Odyssey Storytelling Podcast host, Steven Braun. /episode/index/show/odysseystorytelling/id/33444582

August 2024: Coming to America 09/23/2024

August 2024: Coming to America Refugees share powerful stories of home, displacement, and belonging in this live storytelling event that promises to be hilarious, heartbreaking, and everything in between. Produced by Christina Early, Angela Orlando and Steven Braun Curated by Laura Porfirio and Barbara Eiswerth Storytellers include: Nadiia Hordiienko Simba Rusita Marbelis Isabel Ávila Maluenga Richard Otim This episode was recorded and produced by Odyssey Storytelling Podcast host, Steven Braun. /episode/index/show/odysseystorytelling/id/33164572

July 2024: Dreamy 09/02/2024

July 2024: Dreamy Dreaminess is different for us all. Maybe the American Dream has changed the trajectory of your life. Maybe you feel uber-connected to Carl Jung. Maybe dreaminess to you is all ethereal vibes and symbolism, deeply personal and life-changing. Or perhaps Fleetwood Mac’s “Dreams” had a profound impact on you. Come hear 5 stories about how dreaminess has both dragged us down and lifted us out of the darkest spaces. Produced by Laura Porfirio Curated by Kenzie Morgan Storytellers include: Anna Darian Melanie Madden Hussein Al=Baiaty Taylor Baley Ty Young This episode was recorded and produced by Odyssey Storytelling Podcast host, Steven Braun. /episode/index/show/odysseystorytelling/id/32869322

Southern AZ Senior Pride presents 20/20 Vision: Looking Back and Looking Forward 08/09/2024

Southern AZ Senior Pride presents 20/20 Vision: Looking Back and Looking Forward On June 15, 2024 Odyssey Storytelling partnered with Southern AZ Senior Pride in celebration of their 20th Anniversary. In the words of Executive Director Mary O'Donoghue, "This celebration is a testament to the dedication and commitment of those who have supported Senior Pride over the years...We acknowledge that while much has been achieved, there is still significant work to be done. As we look into the future, we are inspired to continue building an inclusive and equitable environment which promotes good health, safety, and where every individual in our community can embrace their best life!" We at Odyssey Storytelling agree! 20/20 Vision: Looking Back and Looking Forward was recorded live at the Screening Room in Tucson, AZ, produced by Mary O'Donoghue and curated by Penelope Starr. The storytellers were: Nancy Wilsted Sarah Bahnson David Fitzsimmons Lavina Tomar Sandra Butler Cat Belue (3-Minute Impromptu Story) This episode was recorded and produced by Odyssey Storytelling Podcast host, Steven Braun. /episode/index/show/odysseystorytelling/id/32518387

June 2024: There's An App for that 07/21/2024

June 2024: There's An App for that Seeking a lover, a chimney sweep, a ride to the circus? Need to check your bank balance, play Parcheesi, or crowdfund your wedding? As we all know, "there's an app for that" -- along with almost anything else you can imagine. Join Odyssey storytellers as we tell true stories about all sorts of app experiences! Produced by Roscoe Mutz Curated by Mary Jo Pollack Storytellers include: A.J. Flick Roberto Bourjac Ana Montanez & Will Cole Martha McClements Emily Viola This episode was recorded and produced by Odyssey Storytelling Podcast host, Steven Braun. /episode/index/show/odysseystorytelling/id/32229522

May 2024: Dirty Jobs 07/07/2024

May 2024: Dirty Jobs I'm a fool to do your dirty work, oh yeah. Join us Thursday, May 2 to hear stories of unsavory, unsanitary, and downright filthy jobs, from the unique individuals who choose these lines of work. Produced by Angela Orlando Curated by Joe Silins Storytellers include: Eric Aldrich Lynne Gillette Alex Byron Mark Kugheit Molly McCloy Spontaneous Storytellers: Kathleen Boyle Ginny Price This episode was recorded and produced by Odyssey Storytelling Podcast host, Steven Braun. /episode/index/show/odysseystorytelling/id/32040282

April 2024: The Love Boat, Smooth Sailing or Sinking Ship? 06/28/2024

April 2024: The Love Boat, Smooth Sailing or Sinking Ship? Have your dreams flowed smoothly, like sailing on placid seas - or did you find yuorself crashing on hidden rocks? Everyone's got stories - sublime, tragic, outrageous. Love for another person, a dream, or a cup of coffee. Produced by Ethel Lee-Miller Curated by Bella Vivante Storytellers include: Linda Moran Lewis Palmateer Giuliana Fusco Jonathan Grinder Nino Molinaro Jenn Teufel Schoenberger This episode was recorded and produced by Odyssey Storytelling Podcast host, Steven Braun. /episode/index/show/odysseystorytelling/id/31924932

March 2024: Legacy, Our 20th Anniversary Show 06/10/2024

March 2024: Legacy, Our 20th Anniversary Show Legacy. It could be that antique chair you’ve coveted or a million dollars from the uncle in Zaire you never knew you had. It could be the bump in your nose or your infectious laugh. It could be the dark memory of a relationship gone bad or a ragged 40-year-old concert T-shirt you stole from your BFF. What does legacy mean to you? Produced and curated by Steven Braun Storytellers include: Beth Lisick Kathleen Williamson Angelo Orlando Lisa Floran John Barnes Ana Montañez This episode was produced by Odyssey Storytelling Podcast host, Steven Braun. /episode/index/show/odysseystorytelling/id/31675697

February 2024: Leap 06/03/2024

February 2024: Leap Stories of leaps into love, leaps of faith, risky (or risqué) leaps, or a literal leap off a cliff. Maybe you were going to leap but didn't ... Produced and Curated by Ana Montañez Storytellers include: Jen Blanco Jesseca Banchy Abby Louise Jensen Arlene Malinowski Dr. Jamal Früster Cortez Spontaneous Storyteller: Jonathan Grinder This episode was produced by Odyssey Storytelling Podcast host, Steven Braun. /episode/index/show/odysseystorytelling/id/31574127

January 2024: Inner Monologue 02/05/2024

January 2024: Inner Monologue You know that little voice in your head? Do you ever wonder what someone else is thinking when you see them? Let’s explore the depths of our inner monologues, as our storytellers take the stage to share what that little voice tells them every day! Curated by Lewis Pamateer Produced by Ana Montañez and Roscoe Mutz Storytellers include: Christina Early Steven Braun Czarina Nafarrate Kristina Macholtz Taylor Bailey Spontaneous Storyteller: Karen Wright This episode was produced by Odyssey Storytelling Podcast host, Steven Braun. /episode/index/show/odysseystorytelling/id/29797123

December 2023: Winterizing 01/09/2024

December 2023: Winterizing Darkness before the light, preparing for the freeze, getting cold, staying warm, hibernating. Tucson fills with tourists and snowbirds, escaping to the sunshine, still our pipes freeze. But like lizards on a warm rock, desert dwellers enjoy the cooler weather. Curated by Penelope Starr & Adam Hostetter Produced by Ana Montañez Storytellers: Silvia Kolchens Susan Friese Jordan Wiley-Hill Lisa Stafford Leigh Mileur Simon Donovan Spontaneous Storyteller: Mary Jo Pollack /episode/index/show/odysseystorytelling/id/29398453

November 2023: Lessons Learned 12/03/2023

November 2023: Lessons Learned We have all learned a lesson or two in our time. Join curator Jonathan Grinder as he introduces storytellers Brian Taraz, Lewis Palmateer, Rollie Grinder, Dr. Brett Jones, Pablo Valencia, Cecilia Arosemena, and Jon Logan-Rung and the lessons they've learned. This show was produced by the Odyssey Storytelling Podcast host, Steven Braun. /episode/index/show/odysseystorytelling/id/28901303

October 2023: Yikes! 11/21/2023

October 2023: Yikes! Blood-curdling screams, blushing with mortification, shame and regrets, and whoopsies! Join Odyssey Storytelling as our storytellers take us on a haunted journey through YIKES! situations. Produced and curated by Roscoe Mutz, Yikes! was Odyssey Storytelling's Halloween inspired October theme with storytellers: Hussein Al-Baiaty Jerry (Che) Diaz Liz Baldwin Danny Knee Terri (Tez) Haag The host of the Odyssey Storytelling Podcast is Steven Braun /episode/index/show/odysseystorytelling/id/28733803

September 2023: Arms & Legs, Act Two 11/20/2023

September 2023: Arms & Legs, Act Two Have you been on your last leg, dealt with the long arm of the law, didn’t have a leg to stand on, risked life & limb, or had a remarkable shot in the arm? Were you armed and dangerous or needed a leg up? Produced by Ana Montañez and curated by the incomparable Mary Jo Pollack, Arms and Legs was a star-studded event, played to a packed audience. The second act of an absolutely fabulous show in front of a near sellout crowd at the Screening Room in Tucson, AZ. The second act storytellers are: Richard Munchkin Molly McCloy Steven Braun The Odyssey Storytelling Podcast is hosted by Steven Braun. /episode/index/show/odysseystorytelling/id/28715423

September 2023: Arms and Legs 10/05/2023

September 2023: Arms and Legs Have you been on your last leg, dealt with the long arm of the law, didn’t have a leg to stand on, risked life & limb, or had a remarkable shot in the arm? Were you armed and dangerous or needed a leg up? Produced by Ana Montañez and curated by the incomparable Mary Jo Pollack, Arms and Legs was a star-studded event, played to a packed audience. The performance was so spellbinding that only the first half is being posted at this time. The second half will follow shortly. The first act storytellers are: Ethel Lee-Miller Mel Blumenthal Tracey Kurtzman The Odyssey Storytelling Podcast is hosted by Steven Braun. /episode/index/show/odysseystorytelling/id/28237106

DNA 07/06/2023

DNA What’s in your DNA? Ancestral traits of heroism, artistry, and brilliance … or ancient tales of intrigue and skullduggery? What do you know about the secrets encoded in your chromosomes? On June 1, 2023, five storytellers told true tales about the embedded human software that can enhance or disrupt your sense of who you are and where you’re headed. The storytellers include: Ethel Lee-Miller Dr. Rosalyn Dischiavo Tim Bentley Belle Fitz-Simmons Tez Haag Curated by Jan Stapleman Co-Produced by Ana Montanez and Roscoe Mutz /episode/index/show/odysseystorytelling/id/27395235

March 2023: Upgrade 06/02/2023

March 2023: Upgrade Upgrades: to a new car, a first-class seat, the dream house, maybe the life you’ve always wanted, stories of upgrades gone well and gone terribly wrong. Is the grass greener? Listen to these fine storytellers to get your answer: Stephanie Lyonga-Farrington, Dr. Brett Jones, Nancy Stanley, Jonathan Grinder, and Zora Thomas. Upgrade was curated and produced by Ana Montanez. /episode/index/show/odysseystorytelling/id/27021549

May 2023: Cycles 06/01/2023

May 2023: Cycles Wheels turning, seasons changing, and situations running their course. Whether a mode of transportation or periods of time passing, Odyssey Storytellers, Anna Marie Trester, Ames Granados, Tracey Kurtzman, and Andres Portela, share stories of the various “Cycles” of life. Cycles was curated by Laura Porfirio and Marty Dooley. /episode/index/show/odysseystorytelling/id/27010890

The Odyssey Storytelling Podcast

TOPICS