True Story London Podcast

Join Donna Freed, a storyteller and author of the memoir 'Duplicity', as she shares her powerful journey of confronting her father about past trauma. She reflects on the impact of the Me Too era and how storytelling has transformed her life. The conversation dives into the complexities of grief and familial relationships, exploring themes of vulnerability and empathy. Freed also touches on historical gaslighting and the courage it takes to voice trauma, emphasizing the importance of sharing personal narratives for healing and connection.

Michaela Agapiou, a passionate storyteller and taekwondo enthusiast, shares her unexpected journey into martial arts as a self-proclaimed non-sporty person. She discusses the importance of belonging, the struggle for self-acceptance, and the emotional depth of storytelling. Michaela highlights how learning taekwondo transformed her confidence and perception of the world. She also delves into the significance of assertiveness in multicultural settings and reflects on the powerful connections forged through personal narratives.

Julian John, a storyteller with roots in Nigeria and experiences in Britain, shares his poignant journey of balancing personal ambitions with family expectations. He reflects on the humorous yet strict upbringing that shaped his identity and his transition from dreams of football to military life. Delving into the dynamics of birth order, he discusses how these factors influenced his academic pressures and motivations. Julian also highlights the importance of authenticity in storytelling, showcasing his Korak podcast, which connects musicians and their narratives.

Jess Kasriel, a storyteller and health coach, shares her inspiring journey from being the UK's number 2 tennis player at 14 to navigating the challenges of elite sports. She discusses the immense pressures and outdated attitudes towards health that led to her struggles with eating disorders. The conversation highlights the vital support of family, the importance of mental health awareness, and the journey towards self-acceptance. Jess also addresses hormonal health issues like PCOS, aiming to empower others facing similar challenges through nutrition and storytelling.

In this engaging conversation, Sergey Katsuba, a PhD student specializing in anti-LGBTQ+ laws in Russia, shares his poignant journey of reconciling his relationship with his mother against the backdrop of escalating propaganda. He discusses how societal pressures shape familial ties, revealing the emotional toll of communication breakdowns. Sergey also sheds light on the resilience of LGBTQ+ individuals in Russia, emphasizing the transformative power of empathy and storytelling in challenging discrimination and fostering understanding.

Heenu Nihalani, a passionate storyteller and zine maker, shares her adventure as an introvert navigating the daunting world of speed dating. She reveals how a simple book recommendation transformed her perspective on self-love and authenticity in romance. Their conversation delves into the emotional complexities of dating, the societal pressures that shape self-worth, and the importance of personal narratives in fostering self-acceptance. Heenu emphasizes the need for meaningful connections and encourages introverts to embrace their unique journeys toward love.

Anil Qasemi, a brave storyteller and entrepreneur who fled Afghanistan after surviving a terrorist attack, shares his incredible journey. He discusses the resilience and optimism that fuels his advocacy for displaced individuals. Anil highlights the critical importance of mental health support for refugees and the healing power of community connections. He shares his entrepreneurial success with a hat business while emphasizing how storytelling can forge understanding and hope among those facing adversity.

Kaitlyn Kelly, a talented storyteller and performer, shares her eye-opening experiences surrounding her wedding—an event imagined since childhood but transformed into an unexpected reality. She explores the contrast between traditional expectations and her own intimate celebration, reflecting on the challenges of navigating family dynamics and personal identity. Additionally, Kaitlyn discusses her life in Paris and the artistry of storytelling, revealing techniques for connecting audiences with authentic narratives that balance humor and depth.

In this engaging discussion, Christopher Wade, storyteller and founder of the Mulwade Foundation, shares a gripping tale of betrayal and forgiveness within the context of the LGBTQ+ community. He recounts his poignant journey following an HIV diagnosis, touching on themes of trust and resilience. Wade candidly reflects on the emotional turmoil of navigating complex relationships, including his experiences with medical authority. He also emphasizes the transformative power of community support and the importance of celebrating personal growth on the path to healing.

Martha McBrier, a comedian and storyteller, shares a gripping tale about receiving a chilling warning from a student. She skillfully blends humor with dark topics like fear and safety, illustrating the complexities of teaching in urgent situations. Martha also discusses her journey with hearing impairment and how it influenced her storytelling. Personal anecdotes highlight her struggles with confidence and the power of sharing experiences, revealing the art behind connecting with audiences through storytelling. Discover her aspirations of becoming a 'proper writer' as well!