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Calling all creatives-in-training, middle children, over achievers, dropouts, heartbreakers, professional writers, weekend writers, ex-girlfriends, best girlfriends, empty journal owners, painters, unemployed star gazers, cell phone addicts, introverts, older brothers, drama queens, and everyone in between.

We’ve all got a story to tell.

enrolling now - to see upcoming retreats, go to “classes” page

 

 

 

jonathan bender

What made you want to take a storytelling class? 

  • A mix of "right post, right time." Creatively had been in a bit of a rut ,and took a leap of faith after catching a student of Carly's share their 'Written in Brooklyn' experience on their Instagram story. 

Your favorite thing about storytelling?

  • There's nothing more empowering than connecting to people on a grounded, personable level, all while entertaining and finding your voice in the process. 

What did you learn or discover as a result of the class?

  • Sharing and absorbing constructive criticism with the group allowed me to better navigate future edits, hone my voice, and think about my work with more confidence and perspective. 

Your favorite story you've written. What was it about and why did you like it?

  • I'm not sure I have a favorite just yet! However, my short essay Nightlight honored my grandmother's memory and resonates with me on a deeper level. It's about needing to find a sign in the dark while grieving the loss of my grandmother around my 21st birthday. 

  • “Storytelling 101 was exactly what I needed to get my thoughts on paper. The class is well structured, fun, and always left me wanting more! Carly creates a fun and creative environment. She offers thought provoking notes and will work with you to generate jokes that help bring your story to life. I can't recommend this class enough!”

    Kimmy Dunn, Actor

  • “Storytelling 101 was a joyous experience for me. Carly has given me the tools I need to feel confident to explore my writing in a way that feels validating. Her energy is warm, loving and authentic. I feel so much love for our class and the feedback and positive energy we gave to one another even if it was through our laptop cameras. I always left class with a smile on my face. If you are looking to get your feet wet, explore your creativity and your own life stories then take her class. Forever grateful to Carly for this experience!”

    Zulfiya

  • “Carly's class was everything I hoped for and more! The environment was safe, positive, and fun. The feedback was direct, clear, abundant, and helpful. I learned how to structure any event in my life into a story. Editing a story for class six that I had written for class two made it so clear to me how far I came in just a few weeks! Plus, she creates this incredible community you get to be a part of. I adore Carly's teaching and writing styles. I can't wait to continue learning from her for a long time!”

    Nicole

  • “Carly's class was so much more than I thought it would be because, on top of being an amazing teacher, she effortlessly creates a sense of community (even on google hangouts) that makes it so easy to relax, dig deep, and find the confidence to put your stories out there. I had wanted to take the 101 class for a few months but the idea of it was also so scary! I'm so glad I finally signed up, because it's not scary. It's incredible. She gave me the tools that have allowed me to start finding my voice and write in ways I didn't think I was capable of. I looked forward to every single class.”

    Peter Maxwell, Ginger

  • “I have become a confident writer thanks to Carly’s Storytelling class. I signed up shortly after moving to New York and it’s one of the best things I could have done! I went in convinced I only had one great story to tell and came out holding a notebook filled to the brim with unlocked memories. And if that’s not enough, I made creative friends for life! I would recommend this class for anyone (regardless of your career) who is looking to hone their skills and create hilarious/heartwarming memories.”

    Katie Verde, Writer & Former Horse Girl

  • “Carly Ann Filbin is one of the best teachers I have ever had. She has provided me with a new sense of confidence and admiration for the art of storytelling. Her wisdom and humor makes every class so fun and personal. Starting this class has been an absolute highlight of my 2020. “

    Liv Dei Dolori, Unemployed Creative