Our 2026 Storytellers
Megan Wells
Megan Wells is truly, madly, deeply, wildly, whole-heartedly, indubitably, supercalifragilistically IN LOVE with the art and craft of Storytelling. She has four national awards and has been a touring professional teller for thirty-five years. With a theater career behind her, Megan marries the intimacy of story conversation with delicious theatrical timing, bringing worlds and characters vividly alive in the imagination of listeners. Part Mary Poppins and part Meryl Streep, Megan’s repertoire ranges from delighting interactive folklore to the ageless deep epics. She hails from the Chicagolands with two daughters now in college finding and forming their own unique passions. www.meganwells.com
Michael Reno Harrell
Michael Reno Harrell’s natural knack for storytelling comes as a direct result
of where he is from, the Southern Appalachian Mountains where storytelling
is as much a part of the culture as its music. His original stories and songs intertwine seamlessly into narratives that demonstrate that we all share common emotions and experiences and that nothing brings us together like a good laugh or a touch of nostalgia. Michael’s stories, songs and artworks reflect not only the southern experience, but also American’s story. His work, in whichever form it may take, all comes down to one thing…story. www.michaelreno.com
Mij Byram
“Mij Byram’s most powerful tools are her creativity and ability to relate and communicate with any audience in her warm and humorous style,” says Roslyn Bresnick.
Mij draws audiences into her stories. Whether traditional, personal or original fiction, she will introduce you to characters and images you will want to take home. She presents programs and workshops at local, state and national storytelling organizations including NSN, FSA, NEST, and Northlands. She served on the NSN staff, FSA board, and as President of the Palm Beach Storytelling Guild. From 2005- 2021, she published the Florida Storytelling News. Mij has been a teaching artist for the Broward Center for the Performing Arts since 2016. Add her performance experience as an improviser and standup comedian to her Children’s Creative Play Degree and you’ll find a fun, clever, and entertaining professional. No wonder Mij is busy all year long. www.mijbyram.com
Janel Woodland
Janel Woodland is an award-winning storyteller and graduate of the Ohio State University (Columbus, OH) where she received a bachelor’s degree in allied health. Although born and raised in Northwest Ohio, Janel currently calls the Gulf Coast of Florida home, where she can often be found creating community around a campfire through her passion for the ukulele and her gift of storytelling.
Janel draws upon her love of theater, music, and nature to create a unique story experience for her audience. She specializes in ancient allegories from original cultures, tall tales, and personal stories of her blended family that are often hilarious and always heartwarming. JanelWoodland.com
George Otieno
George Otieno is an ICU travel nurse who started telling African stories, riddles and proverbs 5 years ago during Covid lockdown. It was mostly a way to connect with his patients and their families during those tough times. With roots in Mfangano Island in Lake Victoria, Kenya and branches all over the world, George aka Fishmonger Stories, tells stories that entertain, challenge and transform. George tells stories at Museums, Libraries, schools , graduations, weddings, festivals and even baby showers. Visit him on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/@fishmongerstories5565