We are a passionate team of visionaries who believe that storytelling changes lives, connects communities, and builds a foundation for effective learning. Founders Megan Kaplan and Mekea Duffy work with a collaborative team of contractors—from strategists to story coaches from across the Twin Cities—to keep our mission alive and growing.
Interested in joining our team? Contact us
Megan Kaplan
Founder,
magazine journalist, editor, creative writer
Mekea Duffy
Founder,
literacy specialist, adjunct professor at the U of M
Joe Aherns
actor, musician, owner of Darlin’ Jesse Music
Sumer Powell
SPCPA graduate, Normandale student, vocalist, model, youth mentor
Equity and Inclusion
It is essential to our work that we establish an inclusive space and listen to people from all backgrounds. We believe in the value of bringing together a mix of Wildlings who are racially, ethnically, and socioeconomically diverse. Diversity makes us better, stronger, and smarter.
Learning Approach
The Wildling is not like school. It is not a writing workshop, a public speaking workshop, or a performance workshop. Wildlings do not need to love being on stage, putting thoughts down on paper, or standing at a microphone. To be a Wildling, all you need is a willingness to learn about yourself and others.
We celebrate all learners. We know that real expression, change, and growth occurs when participants are motivated and engaged with relevant content and exercises. Our curriculum is equally intentional and fluid.
Coaches guide Wildlings on their journey in whole group, small group, and one-on-one settings. Every Wildling walks away a better communicator with the world and themselves.
Values and Vision
Values: We believe that speaking your truth at a young age cultivates identity, empowerment, and self-love. We believe all voices matter, and that we are all better for truly hearing our own, and each other’s, truest stories. We believe that providing safe, supportive spaces for sharing and hearing each other - in person - is a rare gift for our adolescents in our current culture mediated by social media and constant access to global information.
Vision: The Wildling is dedicated to developing young voices and listeners throughout the Twin Cities, creating community and connection by sharing our true stories, learning from each other, and feeling the power of being heard. We see a future where our youth can safely and authentically share their truths, in person, with each other.