Episode 194 / Melina Smith - Connecting Through Creative Storytelling

As we wrap up our Transparency in Storytelling mini series, I'm excited to have Mel join us on the podcast (for a second time) for this final conversation. Mel, the founder of Story Makers in NYC, shares how storytelling connects us with our inner lives, our communities, and even God's greater narrative. Through creating zines, memory cards, and playbooks, Story Makers helps kids discover and tell their own stories, sparking spiritual growth along the way.

This conversation is about the real impact of these resources—from the creative process to the life-changing connections they foster.

• 00:00 - Introduction

More about our guest today

Melina Luna Smith is the founder of StoryMakers NYC, clergy wife, and mother of two. Drawing on her background in Social Work and Child Development and her eye for design, she imagined and developed Creative Arts Camp, a week-long outreach program to the Gramercy and East Village NYC neighborhoods. Each camp focused on one of the great stories of the Bible with Melina's trademark commitment to whimsy and beauty. Eventually, with her team of writers, artists and jacks-of-all-trades, Melina transformed Creative Arts Camp into StoryMakers, a non-profit creative studio that produces imaginative gospel resources to foster connection and more fun for Sunday school programs and families.

Learn more about Mel and Storymakers in the episode

• 02:13 - Origin and First Products of Story Makers

• 07:02 - Product Development and Process

• 10:00 - Subscription Plans and Impact

• 11:47 - Personal Transformation and Testimony

• 15:19 - Interaction with Kids and Adults

• 16:47 - Storytelling and Vision for the Future

• 29:35 - Conclusion

Mentions

Storymakers

Emoji Pillows

EP 160 with Meluna - Creativity, Faith, and Collaborative Impact

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