Spit It Out is a storytelling and public speaking training series begun in 2024 through the generosity of a CFF Impact Grant. Each training is geared toward people with cystic fibrosis or their caregivers
Often we are called upon to share our personal stories, whether it is to promote research, fundraise, or help others with cystic fibrosis. People with CF have varied experiences with this; some of us grow up casually talking about our illness, some experience it is at the center of their identity, and others are mortified about sharing information about it. Spit It Out is an effort to build community around our lived experiences, explore each person's boundaries around sharing our medical trauma, and teach skills in how to craft a compelling story that stays with an audience long after they've left the room.
Fall 2025 Cohort:
Our fall cohort has been completed.
2026 Sessions
Winter 1-day
February 7, 1pm - 4pm ET (12pm CT / 11am MT / 10am PT)
The Winter 1-day is geared toward people who already have a speech drafted and want feedback. This is a masterclass-style workshop that will allow you to present your story (must be less than 10 minutes long) and receive feedback to strengthen delivery, form, and content.
3-Part Intensive
April 4 (Saturday, 1pm - 4pm ET)
April 8 (Wednesday, 6pm - 8pm ET)
April 11 (Saturday, 1pm - 4pm ET)
The 3-part series is designed for people who are not sure what story they want to tell or how. By the end of this workshop, you will have drafted and received feedback for a 5-7 minute "base" speech that you can pitch for speaking opportunities. This particular series focuses on self-exploration, understanding your CF journey, how to relate your personal story to a broader cause, and learning the fundamentals of strong storytelling and speechwriting.
Alumni Meetup Night
May 7, 7pm - 8pm ET (6pm CT / 5pm MT / 4pm PT)
Let's gather, connect, and share our successes from the past two years of Spit It Out! We want to hear your life updates, check in, and talk about other ways you can engage with your story.
Whether you're a parent, sibling, or patient with CF, you have a story to tell. Spit It Out is about creating a supportive space together that allows you to workshop your personal stories and learn best practices for strong, impactful storytelling. You'll have the opportunity to apply what you learn and receive feedback on your speech from the group.
Filling out the form at the link below does not guarantee you a spot in the training, but we will be in touch either way.
Our fall cohort has been completed.
2026 Sessions
Winter 1-day
February 7, 1pm - 4pm ET (12pm CT / 11am MT / 10am PT)
The Winter 1-day is geared toward people who already have a speech drafted and want feedback. This is a masterclass-style workshop that will allow you to present your story (must be less than 10 minutes long) and receive feedback to strengthen delivery, form, and content.
3-Part Intensive
April 4 (Saturday, 1pm - 4pm ET)
April 8 (Wednesday, 6pm - 8pm ET)
April 11 (Saturday, 1pm - 4pm ET)
The 3-part series is designed for people who are not sure what story they want to tell or how. By the end of this workshop, you will have drafted and received feedback for a 5-7 minute "base" speech that you can pitch for speaking opportunities. This particular series focuses on self-exploration, understanding your CF journey, how to relate your personal story to a broader cause, and learning the fundamentals of strong storytelling and speechwriting.
Alumni Meetup Night
May 7, 7pm - 8pm ET (6pm CT / 5pm MT / 4pm PT)
Let's gather, connect, and share our successes from the past two years of Spit It Out! We want to hear your life updates, check in, and talk about other ways you can engage with your story.
Whether you're a parent, sibling, or patient with CF, you have a story to tell. Spit It Out is about creating a supportive space together that allows you to workshop your personal stories and learn best practices for strong, impactful storytelling. You'll have the opportunity to apply what you learn and receive feedback on your speech from the group.
Filling out the form at the link below does not guarantee you a spot in the training, but we will be in touch either way.
Katherine has opened up doors for me I never imagined possible. I took her Spit It Out Workshop back in the Spring, and in just a few months was able to get onstage in front of 400 people and deliver a successful Moth talk - and it’s all thanks to her! Before Katherine’s workshop, I didn’t know the first thing about public speaking. After working with her, I was empowered with ample tools and a holistic view of the entire public speaking process which allowed me to give my first talk onstage.
Katherine’s not only a great teacher, but she also deeply cares about her clients. She’s fiercely in your corner every step of the way– championing your goals and helping you believe in yourself.
-Colleen Black
Katherine's Talk: Joy in the Age of Modulators
Katherine shares her thoughts on pursuing a full life post-transplant and in the age of modulators
Past Trainings... |
BreatheCon 2024; February 10 - Katherine spoke on "Finding Your Why and Dispelling Myths in Our Stories"
Spring 2024, Winter 2024, Fall 2024, Summer 2025 |