Book excerpt: In 2012, a group of visionary women in Tucson, Arizona had a simple yet brilliant idea: let's make a space for local women to share their stories. And not only did women show up, with lots of stories to tell, but a good number of our friends, loved ones, and even strangers showed up to hear what we have to say! Thus FST! Female StoryTellers was born. Five years later, we're still going strong! To honor FST!'s fifth anniversary, we have compiled this anthology, featuring some of the funniest, most memorable, and thought-provoking stories that FST!ers have brought to our stage so far. We're thrilled to share their unique, fierce, and personal brilliance with the world beyond Tucson. We hope you find your inspiration and your voice within. Welcome to the FST!erhood!