The Teller and the Tale

Storyteller Nootauau Kaukontuoh ("she who hears crow") tells tales in the tradition of the Narragansett people of Turtle Island. Based in Vermont, U.S.A., HearsCrow, as she is familiarly known, is a storyteller of Longhouse tales, which she also signs in Native Sign Language. During COVID, she has become a popular teller on social media: you can often find her "Tales from the Longhouse" being streamed live on Facebook. Learn more about HearsCrow and her stories at http://storyteller.eenantowash.org/.

Host Michael Williams speaks to American storyteller Kevin McMullin from his home in Wisconsin. While recovering from the death of his father as well as brain surgery, Kevin has found light in the darkness through his storytelling. Listen to Kevin talk about his life, his struggles, and how he transformed them into a dramatic stage show and book: "Into the Black Sea: Stories of Darkness and Light". Enjoy his telling of Robert Service's classic "The Cremation of Sam McGee". Previously broadcast on bluesandrootsradio.com.

Indian journalist and activist Sudha Umashanker uses her skills as a storyteller to empower women and address issues of social justice. Join host Michael Williams as he enters into conversation with Sudha about her life and work and listens to her share one of her favourite stories. Learn more about Sudha at https://tinyurl.com/y545ubnm.

A few years ago, British storyteller Claire Obermark transplanted herself in Arizona, U.S.A. but it didn't take her long to establish herself there as the seasoned storyteller that she is. Join me as I enter into conversation with Claire about her past, her life in Scotland and her new life in Arizona as well as listen to her share one of her favourite stories. And, by the way, if you ever in Sedona, you have an invitation to join her at a local storytelling club and share a story or two.

This month, host Michael Williams presents Winter tales in the midst of the pandemic. Stories feature Lev Ropes’ “Coyotes’ Solstice”, Peter Vallance’s “Beira, Queen of Winter”, and “The Twelve Months” by Allison Galbraith. Music by Coco Love Alcorn.

Host Michael Williams talks with Scottish singer-songwriter Elle Valentine about her life and music. Recorded October 2020.

On December 18th, 2019, storyteller Peter Snow died unexpectedly following complications from surgery. Peter was not only a dear friend and colleague but a loving father and husband and he will be sorely missed. I recorded this interview with Peter back in 2013 when the "Teller and the Tale" was just getting started. In fact, Peter was my very first guest as he was eager to support my new venture. Seven years later, I am re-releasing this episode as my tribute to a talented and well-respected storyteller and dear friend. NEWS: Order Peter’s posthumous collection of poetry entitled “Recoveries” https://www.finishinglinepress.com/product/recoveries-by-peter-snow/

Host Michael Williams invites you to join him for a half hour of storytelling and music on The Teller and the Tale.