LifeStories - how does it work?
We get to know one another in a non-binding introductory conversation. This takes place via Skype, Zoom a WhatsApp video call. This first contact is also possible on the phone and costs nothing.
When you decide you would like a LifeStrories interview-conversation we set a date and time. We take about an hour for it and it is recorded. This first interview produces a document between 6,000 - 8,000 words. Costs
What can I expect during the interview?
I adopt an empathetic, respectful, non-judgemental attitude during this interview. My aim is to make you feel comfortable and relaxed to create an atmosphere that encourages sharing of your lived experience. We take our time. You have the opportunity to broaden short recollections into a fuller, deeper story at any point of your narrative during our conversation. We let the meaning of your experiences come to the fore. If you need to take a break during the exchange, that's fine.
You can start relating at any point but potential warm-up questions might be:
What is your first memory? Tell me about your most interesting childhood recollections. What's your special story? What were your biggest moments? Were there difficult phases you want to look at? What special relationships have you had in your life?
I'll sometimes gently probe to understand you better: Could you tell me more about xyz? How did xyz make you feel? What did xyz mean to you?
I transcribe our conversation. This will take about a week to 10 days. I send you (or a relative) the transcript via email. The document can be printed out, corrections and additions made. If needed, the amended document is scanned and sent back to me. When I have worked in the amendments, I will print out our conversation and send the final document by post. It is yours and I delete my recording.
If you would like to continue, we make another date and we talk again. The above process is repeated. You can do as much or as little relating as you wish at times that best suit you.