Josh Campbell, Spillit Memphis
Josh Campbell’s journey into storytelling began with a deep love for sharing personal narratives and helping others find their voices. After competing across the Southeast and honing his craft, Josh became a central figure in Spillit Memphis, a live storytelling platform he’s helped grow since 2010. Over the years, Spillit has become a vital part of the city’s cultural fabric, bringing Memphians together to share stories that reflect the diversity, resilience, and heart of their community.
On Episode #19 of Just Bluffin’, we talked to Josh about his work with Spillit Memphis, the power of storytelling, and the incredible ways it’s connecting people across Memphis.
“I’m a professional storyteller—I’ve competed all over the Southeast—but my true passion is helping others find their voice,” Josh says with enthusiasm. Spillit Memphis, at its core, is all about creating a space for live, true personal storytelling. The platform hosts monthly and bi-monthly slams and curated “Center Stage” events where anyone can share their narrative. “We’ve done hundreds of shows since we started, mostly at Black Lodge Video, though we’ve taken our shows all over Memphis,” Josh adds.
The journey began with Leah Keys, Spillit’s founder. While on bed rest during a difficult pregnancy, Leah found solace in listening to storytelling podcasts like The Moth. Inspired by the idea, she wanted to create something similar for Memphis, and thus, Spillit Memphis was born. From humble beginnings in a basement in Crosstown Arts—back when Cleveland Street was still quiet—the movement has grown into a thriving force, showing how storytelling can bridge divides in an increasingly disconnected world.
“We felt that gap even back in 2010. And in 2025, it’s even more critical,” Josh says. “Listening to one another can truly transform a city.” For Josh, the mission is deeply personal. “Leah worked with my wife and me at Maria Montessori School. When she launched Spillit, we jumped on board, partnering with Crosstown Arts to activate a space that needed it. It worked—if you build it, they will come.”
Though Josh started as a storyteller, his role evolved into a coach. After telling a 42-minute story in the first year, Leah turned to him and asked, “Can you work with everybody?” Josh now thrives on helping people—especially those who feel like they have nothing to share—craft and deliver their own stories. One such person is Darlene Reed, who, just after brain surgery, told a hilarious tale at a cold, intimate show with just 15 attendees. She went on to win the Grand Slam and now books corporate gigs. “She had no idea she had a voice,” Josh says. “Helping people realize that? That’s why I do this.”
Memphis, according to Josh, is full of incredible storytellers, and Spillit provides a platform for everyone to be heard. Their slams allow anyone to throw their name into the hat, while Center Stage events collaborate with organizations like Just City and UT Health Science Center to highlight community voices. “We’ve held events in Binghampton, Orange Mound, Claiborne Temple—neighborhoods that need activation. It’s about showing people that these places are alive.”
Josh’s enthusiasm for storytelling is contagious. He recalls a memorable performance by Mike Working (aka Rattlebone Jones), a lawyer who shared a powerful story about purple hull peas and a death penalty case. “The room was silent. Not a dry eye in the place.” Then there’s Kay Baker, an 83-year-old Oxford native who’s won two Grand Slams with her unforgettable Kroger parking lot tale. “She’s tiny, chic, and unbeatable. Memphis needs that trophy back!”
Josh’s favorite Memphis memory revolves around two unforgettable Grizzlies game experiences. First, after submitting photos for a contest, Josh and his son won courtside seats, where they got to meet Tony Allen before the game. The second moment was even more special—Josh arranged for his cancer-surviving best friend to be honored at a Grizzlies game, where the entire arena stood and cheered for him. For Josh, these moments reflect the deep sense of community and support that makes Memphis so unique.
To listen to our full conversation with Josh, click here. To listen to all of our conversations with Memphis leaders, subscribe to Just Bluffin’ wherever you get your podcasts. You can learn more about the team behind the mic on our podcast page.
