Story Theater Retreat Testimonials

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“Doug Stevenson has to be experienced. Words can’t convey the uncanny ability he has to reach in and capture one’s natural talent and masterfully stretch that talent to a new level. I was absolutely thrilled with the progress I was able to make and the tools I now have at my disposal.”
                    Karyn Buxman, CSP, CPAE - St. Louis, MO

"This is the best money I have spent in my professional development all year. Invaluable.”
                    Jan Carothers, Portland, OR

Testimonial letter from Allison Blankenship: Professional speaker gets nine bookings off of a speaker showcase. 

“The retreat worked for me because there was space for each person to be him/herself. This gave me full permission to be myself. In a nutshell, there was no judgment in the room, either from Doug or from the other students. There was really no space for judgment to enter the process, which made it safe. I particularly appreciated how Doug was able to work with each person at the level of that person. It was amazing to watch Doug coach each person right past his/her comfort zone. Also, because Doug is so committed to the process, we become committed to the process.”
                    Dana Lightman, Tucson, AZ

“This retreat made me see the difference between amateur and professional speaking. It allowed me to compare my Toastmasters speaking against members of a professional speakers association. I learned that if I work hard I will be able to become a professional speaker. I also learned that my timing and my deadpan humour are a strength which can be exploited in the future. In my mind, it was the best value for money course that I have been on in the last five years.”
                    Ciaran Blair – Dublin, Ireland

“This is the best coaching I have had. Doug has designed a program that pushes the participant in both technique and authenticity. He creates an atmosphere to take risks. He models the behaviors. This is worth three times the cost. It is a must investment for any speaker.”
                    Marjorie Brody, CSP – Philadelphia, PA

“In the retreat I learned that I am my worst self-critic. Watching myself on video was amazing.....I was not at all what I envisioned. I have spent a lifetime, using negative self-talk. In the first taping, I watched body language that I was totally unaware of. It was a gesture that demonstrated that inner, negative self-talk. During the second taping, I caught myself the first time I did it and amazingly enough, I was able to NOT repeat the gesture. I actually had to say ‘Who is that amazing woman? This can’t be me!’”
                    Mary Morgan, Phoenix, AZ

“Thanks to you for helping me to tell my story more effectively. When I told it recently, it was well received. I was shocked, however. I got emotional. So did they. In the middle of the day when I shared it, they gave me a standing ovation. Couldn't believe it.”
                    Lois Creamer, St Louis, MO

Testimonial letter from Dan Maddox:  Executive Director reveals the difference between the ordinary presenter and the extraordinary storyteller.

“I arrived at the Story Theater Retreat without significant speaking skills. Less than two days later I delivered a powerful speech that connected with and moved my audience. I was shocked! I’m already preparing to tell the most powerful stories that are inside me in a way that my audiences will connect with me, get the real message, and respond. I learned that people need the stories I have…and I can now give it to them like they’ll want! I learned to tell MY stories…for myself and others. How about you? What powerful stories and messages are bottled up inside of you? What are your stories that can change lives…yours and others…when you tell them powerfully? Commit the time and money it takes and fully participate in a Story Theater Retreat. Learn how to really tell your stories…for yourself and others.”
                    Phil Hamilton, Austin, TX

“Your workshop and book have truly provided the push in the right direction.  My feedback has been huge and I'm booking gigs like crazy.  It's a total blast to ride the wave when telling my favorite stories, especially my Bank Bag Story. Thanks for making a positive impact.”
                    Rob Bell, Lancaster, WI 

"You cannot get this anywhere else!  Unique!"
                    Stephen Head - London

"It's not an easy thing to commit one full weekend out of our busy lives, in addition to the financial investment.  However, the opportunity to absorb yourself in intense work on your skills and craft is crucial to stretching and growing.  It's not an easy thing to expose yourself to coaching in front of people you may not have met before and open yourself up to the possibility that you don't have all the answers and your favorite approach may not be working as well as something new and different.  But we're not in this business because it's easy...we're in it to have an impact on others through the spoken word and through who we are as people.  It's up to us to use a vehicle that helps others ‘get’ who we are, what we've been through, and what we've learned from the process. Doug's Story Theater workshop is the perfect vehicle.”
                    Laura Benjamin, Colorado Springs, CO

“If you want to grow as a speaker, I can think of no better way, no faster way, and no more fun way than to attend a Doug Stevenson Story Theater Retreat.”
                    Sam Silverstein, NSA Board member - St. Louis, MO

“Let me just say that Doug Stevenson’s Story Theater Retreat was the best money I have ever spent on my speaking career...and I’ve spent a lot. I’ve been with several coaches and he’s the best.”
                    June Cline, CSP – Atlanta, GA

“People from diverse backgrounds were able to come together and sincerely work as a team to help each person reach their potential as a speaker. A unique bonding took place. We were encouraged to find our inner truth and this freed us to allow everyone else to do so. People often hide behind masks and try to be socially correct. We were supported and rewarded for being "real." Doug set the tone by modeling the behavior. The various improvisations forced us to "get out of the box." Also, the presentations followed by intense feedback helped everyone learn more about the Art of Storytelling.”
                    Sandra Sowell-Scott – Norfolk, VA

“I found the audio six-pack a great preparation but I needed the retreat to help me start doing it. The retreat is a great combination of well thought out methods that are easy to follow and a highly creative experience that helps everyone go outside their comfort zones. The magic ingredient was Doug. His coaching examples were practical and inspiring at the same time.”
                    Carl French - London

“Take this workshop now! This is the single best workshop on storytelling that I have ever attended. Doug is direct, to the point, positive and very helpful. I got so much more for my money here than at any other workshop. Just fabulous. Even better than I had hoped.”
                    Mary Ellen Barnes - Los Angeles, CA

“You are an insightful, helpful coach. What I liked best was that you helped us discover the best in ourselves. You made suggestions, not commands. To be honest, this is the best I’ve ever felt about my gifts and talents in this area. It was a true blessing.”
                    Dr. Pat Gangi – Phoenix, AZ

“Story telling is a dance between connecting and theater and Doug is the best chorographer! He doesn't change you - he stretches you. I had only 8 days between two international engagements but something in my gut said you can't afford to miss this. Three weeks later, I got that fantastic telephone call inviting me to do a general session at NSA. Timing is everything. Be prepared. Sign up now!"
                    Marcia Steele – Atlanta, GA

Testimonial letter from Ric Giardina
(Keynote speech on Human Issues in Management is a breakthrough success.)

“I left the class with a renewed confidence in my ability to deliver material and make it more entertaining than it’s been in the past. I finally understand the block I’ve had with conveying my humor through storytelling to an audience. This retreat is an absolute must for anyone who wants to improve their ability to captivate and audience with a story. I will recommend it to anyone who will listen!”
                    Dan Maddux – San Antonio, TX

“Story Theater was unlike anything I have ever been through. It took me a day to let it all sink in. When people asked me on Sunday how it was, all I could do was say “good/fine/different.” Today, I am saying, ‘The best learning experience I have had in over a decade. Doug is in his element and is so totally immersed in the experience it is energizing.’ This isn’t just about the mechanics of telling a good story, it is about becoming a better human (of course, better humans are better speakers). One who is more aware, more alive, and more aligned with the future God put here for them – if they go for it. Be prepared to be taken out of your comfort zone. Be prepared for the unexpected, but it is all good. Be prepared to take your craft to a new level.”
                    Wally Adamchick, Raleigh, NC

“I learned more in two days with Doug than with any other coach. I now have a model to develop new materials. The class was cheap for the value received.”
                    Carol Mills, Denver, CO

"Doug has a terrific way of positively affirming each and every member of the group while still making suggestions for significant improvement. Now that I know my performance is up to me and not in relation to a particular audience's response, the roller coaster of emotion after each program will be minimized. "
                    Bill Karlson, Nashville, TN

"This is the best money I have ever spent on any training including the NSA national convention. I'm still blown away by your training. I didn't expect it to have such a specific impact on my overall presentation. This technique of speaker and actor is a must in today's competitive marketplace.”
                    Margie Seyfer, Wheat Ridge, CO

"I have always considered myself a good and frequent storyteller, but Doug's presentation showed me that there are myriad things I can do to make my good stories great! While I learned what I was doing was intuitively right, most importantly Doug taught me the technical aspects of telling a tale-the components, the mechanics, and format in order to make sure each of my stories is the best it can be. Doug's information and enthusiasm sparked my imagination. With just the limited time we spent together, I'm excited to get going improving my old stories, developing new ones and most importantly crafting my signature story."
                    Karen Rowinsky, Kansas City, MO

"I now really get how the great entertainers do it - Carson, Leno, it's with calculated detail, not just a genetic disposition or luck. I learned that I really can be funny. Thanks so much for helping me break out of my box. I think it will help me skyrocket."
                    Sue Artt , Denver, CO

"Doug is a master at making a simple story a masterpiece that will live on after we have left the stage. He clearly took my stories and me to the next level. I wanted to work on one story and had the time to improve four. I'll be more clear, concise, visual, entertaining and memorable.”
                    Ruby Newell-Legner, Denver, CO

"I very much appreciated your sense of organization, well thought out exercises, and excellent feedback and presence. I loved your coaching. It was very positive, very helpful and empowering. This class is for any kind of speaker, beginner or advanced. It will support you in really honing in on what you can transmit to an audience through voice, body and movement.”
                    Peggy O'Neill-Laise, Los Angeles, CA

"I learned how to create and write humor and what was holding me back. It helped me to overcome obstacles of inexperience and uncertainty. Doug helps you to realize your performance potential and rise to a level of excellence. Great coaching, fabulous mentor. It was worth twice the money.”
                    Linda Shepherd, Longmont, CO

"Doug is totally engaged and engaging. He has the ability to remain present and 'laser beam' each speakers strengths and weak spots. You'll learn to replicate your spontaneity so every audience experiences the brilliant diamond in you.”
                    Carolyn Martin, Happy Valley, OR

"I know you like feedback. The benefit of the follow-up coaching for me was that when left alone to work on something different from a single story like I worked on for the retreat and the CAPS showcase, I went back to my old ways. It was good to be pulled out of that. This coaching is a very valuable part of the follow up to the retreat and I appreciated it very much. I can't tell you how much I feel I have found something I was looking for in Story Theater. I have taken acting lessons and stand up comedy lessons. I even stood on the stage at YukYuk's and made them laugh for five minutes. I just didn't know how to pull this all together. Especially the feeling that I didn't just want to do comedy. Story Theater lets you put across any message you want to in a way people will listen and get it. I will be back for more coaching."
                    Pat Beelby, Sherwood Park, AB

"What I learned about myself is how much deeper I must look to be authentic. When you get still and ask, your wonderful mind will respond and show you pictures you have forgotten, hurts that have been hidden and dreams that have been forgotten. That is the message of a good speaker, to show you how to take the garbage and make gourmet. Doug, you have provided the road for my travel. I won't forget this time. It was transformational."
                    Nancy McMillon, Greenville, SC

"I want to thank you for the quality, intensity and insights of your Story Theater Retreat, not to mention the effectiveness of your hands-on coaching. It has done more for my speaking ability than any other coaching I have ever received. Not only do I not know anyone better than you, I cannot imagine anyone better at this than you. We will work together again."
                    David McIlhenny, Carlisle, MA

"Wow! I knew this would be an exceptional weekend, but it exceeded those expectations. It was phenomenal! In 48 hours you have provided more insightful, constructive and useful feedback than I have received in twenty years in the speaking arena. You are a master at this and your passion is evident. I will be the first in line for your advanced workshops and for your audio series."
                    David Dempsey, Atlanta, GA

“The retreat worked because of your constant pushing us to the edge. The book can never do that. I believe the book will be a resource to help us remember what we learned from you. The exercises, and  your feedback are tremendous. Seeing you work with others and seeing how your advice to them is so dead on,  makes it easier to trust the advice you give us. Because inevitably, your advice takes us to places that we don’t really trust. For that reason, I would advice people to take your workshop before taking individual coaching. After attending the retreat, I am to the point where I trust your advice and would follow it. So individual coaching from you will work better for me now. I am more apt to apply what I learned. The video is absolutely priceless. After watching the video, I could not believe how much I had already forgotten. “By the way, I used the ‘new and improved’ keynote and got rave reviews. I had several people tell me they’d never seen anything like it and that the “IN” parts were the most powerful and memorable. I’m going back through the book and CD’s to pick up and implement everything I can. Thanks again!"
                    Ruben Gonzales, Three-time Olympian Luge Racer, Katy, TX

“A combination of things makes the retreat a very powerful learning experience:

1. A small group of people who have willingly chosen to be there for the specific purpose of improving their story telling ability
2. The prep work helps make sure that everyone gets the most out of the workshop experience by being prepared and not just "winging it”
3. A wonderful coach who provides specific feedback in a caring and non-judgmental way
4. Being able to see significant changes in ourselves and in others through observation and videotape
5. Having this retreat in your home studio is a real plus. It makes everyone feel more comfortable and relaxed.”

                    Joan Brannick, Tampa, FL
 

“I had the pleasure of attending your Story Theatre workshop in Ft. Lauderdale last summer, and I loved it.  I recently had a chance to perform my story for a very tough audience - about 500 inner-city high school students from the local vo-tech school, half of them with serious discipline problems.  These kids have seen it all, let me tell you, so I pretty much expected to bomb. Why in the world they would respond to me, an old white lady, telling a sailing story to teach them how to set goals?  Well, those kids were hanging off their seats, waiting breathlessly for the next line, laughing at every point where I expected them to laugh, and even calling out the Phrase that Pays at the right places.  Since I had practiced the whole performance so often, I could really relax and focus on the delivery. You can imagine how much I enjoyed myself, and it got even better when half the audience came up to me afterwards saying, "I want to be like YOU!"  What a great experience!
 
“Just thought you'd like to know that I got my money's worth (and then some) from working with you.”
                    Ellen Bristol, Bristol Strategy Group, Miami, FL
 

"I must say that my investment in your two-day Story Theater Retreat was the best investment I've made in the three years I've been in NSA. I spoke to the Georgia Speakers Association in December and received my first standing ovation! What a thrill. I had it taped and edited into a demo. As a result, I've booked six speeches in the next 60 days. So, it's fair to say that my investment has been returned at least ten times over."
                    Marilynn Mobley – Atlanta, GA
 

“I have just gotten a taste of the outrageous person I can be on the platform. I learned that I can be brilliant and hilarious. Doug helps you find your stories and yourself. I really appreciated Doug’s loose style, very relaxed but also very attentive to each speaker. This is an unbelievable opportunity to practice, learn, develop and create your stories.”
                    Diane Seig – Denver, CO
 

“If you're willing to use your mind, your body, your face, your memory and your emotions, you will learn from Doug how to be authentic on the platform, no matter what your audience and what your topic. Doug's full concentration on each person is wonderful, as is the way he had us work on a few sections of our stories right then and there, and captured it on tape.”
                    Susan Trivers - Washington, D.C.
 

“Doug reinforced my strengths, but helped me to see, with great clarity, what I needed to change.  He was very nurturing and supportive, yet very matter of fact.  He helped to jump-start the inner work that needed to happen before the outer work could be done. I learned a structure that allows me to use my high energy more effectively - the "Step In/Step Out" technique provides a space for me to turn up the volume, as well as a place to give the audience a breather.  He taught me how to be authentic, to show up in my life.  What a blessing!  The Retreat was worth the monetary investment, as well as the emotional investment.”
                    Marilyn Sprague-Smith - Washington, D.C.
 

“What worked about the retreat for me was lots of personal attention and the quality of your coaching. It was specific, supportive, on-point, and helped us improve our own story and style, rather than trying to make us clones of Doug. I knew I could make people laugh, but I learned that I can expand my range of ways in which I do that, and that there is a technique that can be applied that ups the percentage of times people will actually laugh.”
                    Rick Maur – Baltimore, MD
 

“If you really want to improve your storytelling ability, and your keynoting skills, if you really want to take your professional speaking to a much higher level, if you really want to see IMMEDIATE and SIGNIFICANT improvement, you MUST attend this. I learned that I can cut loose up there, have a good time, and be funny. This will push me to work hard to perfect my delivery, and will allow me to connect with audiences. The course was well worth the investment because it showed immediate results in improved storytelling and it taught me a process to use in the future. It would have literally taken years to develop this on my own through research and experience.”
                    Terry Wall – Philadelphia, PA