In storytelling, there’s a gentle rule whispered like ancient wisdom: don’t be the hero of your own tale. Yet there he was—conquering every challenge solo, without a single helping hand.
It reminded me of that recent Paris Hilton moment where she declared, “I’m self-made. I’ve done this all on my own. No one’s ever given me anything in my entire life.” Set the heiress detail aside for just a second. Even then, the idea doesn’t hold water. Nobody is self-made. Not Paris, not that storyteller, not anyone.
Even in a couple of my recent events, the list of people who helped me is long. Some of you I haven’t even met in person (yet!)—and still, your support pushes me to grow and perform better. Support comes in all shapes—huge, tiny, practical, emotional. Sometimes it’s a cheer from the sidelines, sometimes it’s a quiet “You’ve got this,” and sometimes it’s simply knowing someone is out there rooting.
That’s what makes stories richer: not perfection, not invincibility, but the web of nudges, hands, glances, and kindnesses that carry us forward.
Anyway, all this to say: here are some of my recent events.
Recent Funs ✨
(Yes, “funs.” Life should have more of them.)
Surprise Birthday Party by LA Storytelling friends
Surprise Birthday Dinner!
Some people know exactly what to do for their birthday. I am not one of those people. If nobody mentions it, the day passes quietly. Sure, a few friends send cards, texts, or take me to dinner every year—which I truly appreciate—but when my friend Kelly suggested dinner, I didn’t think anything of it. We eat together regularly.
Then I arrived at the restaurant and spotted Pablo and Gail. Still didn’t get it. My brain said, “Wow, what a coincidence! Maybe I should invite them to join… unless they’re discussing business… better not interrupt…”
Yes. I was that slow.
It finally sank in: this was a surprise birthday dinner for me! Kelly knew October was rough for me and rallied the storytelling friends. Despite legendary LA traffic (and West LA—arguably the boss level of traffic), people drove all the way to celebrate. Sitting there among friends, all warm and fuzzy, I realized again how deeply supportive the LA storytelling community is. They’re my extended family.
Ojai Storytelling Festival
Last month, I shared that I was a finalist in the Ojai Storytelling Festival Story Slam. Now I get to share the sequel: I won!
Thank you for cheering for me—both in person and in spirit. The festival was a joy. I got to see friends from all over, including people I’ve known for years but finally met in real life for the first time. (The internet is wild.)
2025 Ojai Storytelling Festival Story Slam Winners
ESL Comedy
Our fourth ESL Comedy show was a blast! We went head-to-head with the final MLB game—bold, I know. Many people chose baseball over us (rude, but understandable), yet we still had a great crowd. We had performers from Argentina, Hong Kong, the Philippines/China, and Kenya. They absolutely crushed it. —and one audience member from Chicago told us our show was the highlight of her entire LA trip. Yeah!
Next show: Saturday, February 7, 2025.
Mark your calendar, tattoo it on your arm—whatever works.
Tellabration ~ Once Upon A Time LA
StoryMasters teamed up with Community Storytellers and Women’s Voices for our first Tellabration, and I’m not bragging… but I’m bragging. It was one of the best storytelling shows in town. And we sold out!
We packed 9 ninety-second stories, 1 poem, 1 poem/story hybrid, 1 folktale, and 3 personal stories into 90 minutes—something for everyone. From start to finish, the show ran beautifully, thanks to my incredible co-producer, Tina Tomiyama. I learned so much just by watching how she works. I’m also grateful for all the storytellers who brought their talent and professionalism, and for Jiro Tomiyama, who supported us behind the scenes. It was trully teamwork!
After the show, some storytellers and audience members continued the celebration with Peruvian dishes nearby. The Sunday afternoon ended on such a high note!
Post-show hangout at a Peruvian restaurant
Before wrapping up, a huge shout-out to the Fanatic Salon Theater. Tommy Mitchell and Jane Morris always go above and beyond to make sure our shows shine, and I’m endlessly grateful for their support.
And last but not least—thank YOU. Yes, you. Thank you for being here and reading my stories. Your presence, your curiosity, your support… that’s what keeps me going.
Congrats on winning the Ojai Story Slam, Miyo! What awesome news. 👏
Thank you, Julia! Can’t wait to see your story on PBS’s Stories from the Stage!
Happy Birthday! Hope the new year brings you hope and joy.
Thank you, Christine! Looking forward to sharing more stages with you.