See a photo of Elizabeth, her bio, Part 1 of this Q&A, Part 2, and Part 3.
Q&A with Elizabeth Gates, Questions 6, 7, 8, and 
9:
Q: The storytelling movement seems to be growing explosively. Why now? What is it about this moment in human history and culture that makes storytelling so resonant with so many people right now?
A: Storytelling is becoming popular now because, as people increasingly understand, “hardware” is not enough. They like human interaction — loving or loathing others. But, as people find opportunities to interact are programmed out of their lives, they will make efforts to re-introduce them. And story is a way to do this.
Q: What’s your favorite story about a transformation that came about through a story or storytelling act?
A: A young girl was raped. Years of therapy hadn’t helped her forget and live life as she wished. Then a wise counselor asked her to tell her story — as a story, as if it had happened to someone else. She did. She felt witnessed. She felt empowered. She has displayed such talent and passion for storytelling and writing, she is now a full-time novelist. Telling stories has changed more lives than medical interventions.
Q: If you could share just one piece of advice or wisdom about story/storytelling/ narrative with readers, what would it be?
A: Listen with attention, reflect in depth and share.
Q: What question do you wish I had asked you but didn’t?
A: What did Einstein mean when he advised parents if they want their children to be wise, encourage them to read fairy tales?