Making Waves Story Slam — A Special Meet the Author Evening

Some stories inspire. Some surprise. Some make you laugh out loud — or catch your breath.

All of them move you.

On Wednesday, July 29th, join us at Philadelphia's iconic Pyramid Club for a special edition of Meet the Author — reimagined as an electric Story Slam evening of true stories, unexpected connections, and the kind of energy that reminds you why stories matter.

The Theme: Making Waves
Moving forward. Making things happen. Overcoming obstacles. We want the stories that changed everything.

YOU HAVE TWO WAYS TO JOIN US:

★ Come to enjoy.
Settle in and let great storytellers take you somewhere real. Light refreshments included.

★ Come to share.
Got a Making Waves story? Register as a storyteller, and you could take the stage. Stories are 3–5 minutes, scored by our panel of Master Storytellers on content, delivery, and timing — in the most supportive room you've ever stood in.

How it works: When you register, simply indicate whether you'd like to be considered as a storyteller. If more than 8 guests sign up to share, we'll hold a drawing at the event to select our storytellers. Everyone has a shot.

Doors open at 6:00 pm for networking, wine, beer, and light refreshments.
Stories begin at 6:30 pm. Evening wraps at 8:30 pm.

Prizes awarded. Memories guaranteed.

Hosted by Theresa Hummel-Krallinger and Julia Taus

AGENDA:

6:00–6:30 | Networking, wine, beer, light refreshments
6:30–6:35 | Welcome — Theresa & Julia
6:35–7:10 | Showcase: Three Master Storytellers set the tone. Pure inspiration — no scoring for this segment.
7:10–7:20 | Intermission
7:20–8:00 | Open Floor: Up to 8 storytellers, 3–5 minutes each, scored by our Master Storytellers
8:00–8:05 | Fourth Master Storyteller performs while scores are tallied
8:05–8:15 | Results, prizes, celebration
8:15–8:30 | Closing + open networking

MEET OUR MASTER STORYTELLERS:

Julia Taus | JT's Ideation Center
Julia is the founder of JT's Ideation Center, where her mission is simple and powerful: Own Your Story. Maximize Your Stage. She helps entrepreneurs, authors, and speakers shape unforgettable personal brand stories — and she's the visionary co-host who brought this evening to life.
Learn more: https://jtideationcenter.com/

Craig Smith | Craig Smith Speaks
Craig is a keynote speaker, live TV host, and communication expert who helps brands and individuals build trust through powerful storytelling and authentic connection. He knows what it takes to command a room — and he'll show us.
Learn more: https://www.craigsmithspeaks.com/

Erica Chen | Unicorn Dynasty
Erica is a second-generation mother, community builder, and identity coach who helps women break free from societal and generational expectations to discover their true selves. Her work is about stepping into your main character energy — and her story will prove it.
Learn more: https://unicorndynasty.org/

(Fourth Master Storyteller — to be announced)

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PARKING GARAGES

The Pyramid Club offers discounted parking at both Sonesta Hotel and Standard Parking Garage "1700" across the street.

Sonesta Hotel offers Valet Service while Standard Parking Garage is Self Park.

Discounted tickets are provided at the Pyramid Club Reception desk.
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ARRIVAL INSTRUCTIONS

The Pyramid Club is located in the BNY Mellon Bank Center at 1735 Market Street. Before arriving please make sure you bring a form of Photo ID. Upon entering please show your Photo ID to the Security booth in the lobby and sign in. Take the elevators up to the 51st floor. There you will see the Entrance to the club. You may either walk up the Spiral Staircase or there is another elevator to the 52nd floor. Our Receptionist will then direct your Private Event Room. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

CLUB ATTIRE

Business casual is recommended in all areas of the Club. Please no sneakers or flip flops.