Many of us long to hear a good story and have meaningful conversation about things that matter. 

Who we are, as individuals and a community. The strange twists and turns of this moment. Our philosophical questions. The mystery in life.

If you are looking for a speaker with a different twist on the usual topics or want an engaging hour or two of storytelling for your group or gathering, contact me and tell me what you have in mind.

I combine my academic expertise and love for the old stories with a unique ability to create space for conversation and group process. My mission is to entertain and inspire, to mix laughter with insight.

My story-based programs are suitable for organizations, groups, and gatherings of friends, in a range of settings from private homes to community centers and music festivals.

They are created for thoughtful, open-minded adults and hold special appeal for writers and artists, therapists, educators, creative change-makers and seekers of all stripes.


You’re never too old to enjoy a story.

Once Upon a Time Beatnik Cafe

Fees are negotiable based on the size and needs of the group and the length of the program. If you are more than 50 miles from Fort Collins, CO and/or an overnight is required, expect to cover my travel costs.

Scroll down to find a contact form. I look forward to hearing from you!

“The stories speak to something inside us that wants to know how our world lives, that wants to make order of it and find some meaning.” — Joseph Campbell


Want to hear a story? Click here to listen to an episode of the Myth Matters podcast and get the flavor of my storytelling.

Special resource: Would you like to try your hand at storytelling or do some work with a story on your own? Are you interested in the work of Joseph Campbell, the Hero’s Journey, and the value in “following your bliss?” Download your free copy of “Blisters On the Way to Bliss,” a guide to three stories that Campbell often told.


“In her well-crafted performance, Dr. Catherine Svehla invites audiences to journey into her magical world of storytelling,

where she weaves archetypal motifs and depth psychological perspectives into each telling of a mythic story. She understands the relationship between story, storyteller, and audience, so her approach uniquely creates opportunities for the listener to understand how myths can chart a path to live with more awareness and creativity.”
Carolyn Millar, PhD
Writing Specialist, Soka University, Joseph Campbell® Mythological RoundTable® Leader 

“When I started the Storyteller Series in Idyllwild, CA one of the first presenters I reached out to was Dr. Catherine Svehla.

I’m glad I did. Catherine has a unique way of not only telling stories but engaging the audience both during and after the telling of them. Her Storyteller presentation had one of the most lively and stimulating question and answer sessions of the entire season. I look forward to having her return to engage and entertain us again.”
Brian Michael Tracy
Founder/ Idyllwild Storytellers

“Catherine is a wonderfully charismatic storyteller

who brings the myths of all civilizations to life. Some meanings come to mind fairly easily but Catherine leads you to animated interpretations and theories about the deeper mysteries. If you’re looking for an informative AND/or a simply, thoroughly enjoyable experience, I highly recommend you treat yourself to a really great story at the hands of this master storyteller.”
Jena Loomis
Artist & High Desert Myth Roundtable regular, Wonder Valley