Suzi "Mama" Whaples as Teller-in-Residence at Storytelling Live!

Suzi Whaples’s tales are as authentically Appalachian as she is. With a totally unaffected dialect, lightning quick wit and a gentle demeanor, she blends Appalachian myth, legend and culture together with stories of her life, her family’s lives, and some even larger than life. Each intertwines the poignant, the encouraging, and the flat-out hilarious, whether she’s taking you to the ‘holler’ or the county fair.

With over 35 years of experience, Whaples has toured America as a teller, conference speaker, humorist, and teacher.

“Whaples brought a mixed bag of stories. Some were rib tickling, slice of life stories, while others were straight from the heart of her Appalachian culture. Her performance was as magical and unpredictable as the flight of a June bug.” – Troy Messenger