In the latest episode of The Anna Jinja Show, storytelling magic takes center stage as we delve into the journey of Sue Ellen Moran, a photographer from the Athens Photo Project. Sue Ellen joined a unique workshop to explore her life’s narrative, pairing her love for music and photography with masterful storytelling. Guided by skilled facilitators, she shared personal memories and dreams, hoping to gain new public speaking skills.  

Sue Ellen Moran hails from the beautiful state of Ohio. She has been to many places in her life but always returns to Ohio. After her mother passed away in 2006 from pancreatic cancer, Sue Ellen had a breakdown and it was discovered she had Bipolar Disorder. This discovery was a breakthrough for her and led her to work on who she really is– a person living with mental illness. Sue Ellen found photography through the Athens Photo Project and her eyes have been opened to the beauty of the world through the lens of a camera. She enjoys spreading peace.  Sue Ellen Moran has been quoted as saying, "Photography has given me an outlet to spread love, light and magic. It is crucial to my mental health to create art. The camera has become a tool to express the creativity that is within me."  

In a heartwarming twist, Sue Ellen was paired with poet and musician Scott Minar, Professor Emeritus of English at Ohio University. Drawing from her treasured photo album, filled with images from her musical “adopted family” and wedding memories, Scott crafted a song that brings her story to life, inspired by folk and country legends like Jonathan Edwards.  

Also joining the conversation is Colin Cameron, the show’s audio producer and a musician himself, who shares insights on music’s role in storytelling and creative expression. Tune in to discover the song that beautifully captures Sue Ellen’s journey and celebrates the connections between storytelling, music, and family.  

Song written and performed by Dr. Scott Minar

She's been drifting on that Athens pipeline 
She's been hammering nails in the Carolina sun
She’s been dreaming all of her lifetime 
Of a house where all of us can live as one 

We’re waiting for light. We’re waiting for justice, 
Calling out like a songbird on a wire.
While we are here, let’s make some kindness. 
All the world can look to find us when we’re gone.
She brings me a song…

Ch: She brings me a song, brings me a song, 
And I’ll never know what I was waiting for. 
She brings me a song, brings me a song… 
That I never know till I walk through that door.

SueEllen has wings, she has a kind heart.
She remembers all the wild days of her life.
We never know which way our wind blows.
But we know a child’s laughter is always right.
Ch: She brings me a song…

Take it from me -- once you are given 
All the wonders of a perfect harmony
There’s still one thing right there inside you.
It’s the one you hand the world in a loving key!
Ch: She brings me a song…

Support the show