Our brains aren’t wired to memorize numbers and data; they’re designed to remember stories. In this episode, learn how storytelling through a variety of mediums, namely comics, podcasts, and apps, are powerful tools for engaging audiences, securing research funding, and delivering impactful messages.
For this episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with three remarkable guests who have harnessed the art of storytelling to amplify their research and engage diverse audiences.
In this conversation, we delve into the various methods these experts use to incorporate storytelling into their research, the challenges they face, and the transformative impact storytelling has on their work. Whether you’re a researcher looking to enhance your communication skills, a community partner interested in collaborative projects, or simply curious about the intersection of storytelling and research, this episode offers valuable insights on leveraging the power of narrative to make a lasting impact.
Meet the Speakers!
Our first guest is Dr. Elizabeth “Biz” Nijdam from the Department of Central, Eastern, and Northern European Studies in the Faculty of Arts. Biz founded and co-leads the Comic Studies Research Cluster in UBC’s Public Humanities Hub and brings a unique perspective on storytelling through graphic novels. Her work demonstrates how visual storytelling can make complex ideas accessible and engaging.
We are also joined by Gabriele Dumpys Woolever, Research Manager for Programs and Initiatives at the Centre for Migration Studies. Gabriele is the producer of the Global Migrations podcast and will share her insights on how podcasting can be an effective medium for storytelling in research. Her experience highlights the power of audio storytelling to amplify the voices of community partners.
Finally, we have Dr. Patricia Janssen, a Professor in the UBC School of Population and Public Health. Patricia is the founder of SmartParent Canada, a platform that uses texting to reach its audience. She will discuss how this innovative approach to storytelling helps deliver critical information to parents in a direct and impactful way.