Papa Joe Gaudet

Papa Joe Gaudet once traveled all over the USA telling stories. He had a team of people working for him. Then one day he vanished from the scene.

When I began storytelling professionally in New Hampshire, I was often greeted with a comment - Do you know Papa Joe? I did not. Nor could I find him. Then looking for a fun Halloween story for younger people, my friend and colleague Karen Chace told me a story Papa Joe had created. I could not find him to ask permission, but Karen ensured that Papa Joe loved his stories being shared, and I should tell it. So I did. Then, ten years after his 'disappearance' he reappeared. I reached out to him and we became fast friends. He has mentored me, we have worked and often played together. He is a family friend, not just to me, but to many people in the North East.

Papa Joe is the modern embodiment of what a storyteller used to be. He travels around New England telling stories to anyone who will listen, from schools and cafes, to bars and busking. He lives in his mobile home, drinking from fresh water springs and eating the fruits of the forest, and bread I have made! His laugh is as infectious as his smile, and I am very happy to call him my good friend.

Enjoy this history of an amazing man and his thoughts about story.

Running time approx:1 hour 9 minutes

Papa Joe's website: http://papajoestorytelling.com/biz/index.htm
There are many stories here which he loves people to tell and share.