Bill Bennett, former Franklin Covey executive and author of 'Jacob T. Marley,' shares his journey from leadership to storytelling. He discusses the creative process behind crafting compelling narratives, emphasizing the importance of relatable experiences. Bill offers advice for aspiring writers, highlighting the value of finding one’s voice and stepping outside comfort zones. He also delves into storytelling's impact on leadership and the challenges of adapting books into films, blending practical insights with personal anecdotes.
Bill Bennett highlights the importance of interpersonal communication skills for success, emphasizing storytelling as a way to enhance these abilities.
Bennett encourages aspiring writers to explore their passions and practice writing regularly, comparing it to a muscle that requires consistent exercise to develop.
Deep dives
The Journey to Authorship
Bill Bennett's journey to becoming a successful writer began as a childhood aspiration fueled by a love for storytelling. His experiences ranged from a pre-law education that ultimately led him away from law to various leadership roles in technology companies. After moving to the West and raising a family, he finally took the step to pursue writing, which he had longed to do for years. This transition marked the start of a new chapter in his life, highlighting the importance of following one's passion and committing to personal growth.
The Importance of Communication Skills
In conversations with CEOs, Bennett emphasizes that essential skills for thriving in today's world are rooted in interpersonal communication rather than technical proficiencies like coding or AI. Effective communication involves the ability to express thoughts clearly and condense them into writing, a skill that remains invaluable even with advancements in technology. As a proficient writer, Bennett illustrates how storytelling enhances one's communication skills, allowing for richer connections in both professional and personal contexts. This insight reinforces the notion that the ability to communicate effectively is foundational to successful leadership.
Creating Compelling Fiction
Bennett's writing process involves storytelling as a core element, allowing him to develop compelling narratives that resonate with readers. His latest work, 'Jacob T. Marley,' explores the backstory of a character from 'A Christmas Carol,' using creative freedom to flesh out details that Dickens left open. By focusing on character motivations and experiences, Bennett constructs a narrative that enriches the original story while remaining relatable and engaging. This approach demonstrates the art of weaving narratives that elevate storytelling beyond mere entertainment into profound reflections on the human experience.
Advice for Aspiring Writers
Bennett encourages aspiring writers to recognize that writing is a skill that must be cultivated through practice and dedication. He advocates for writing about topics that ignite passion, as genuine interest will connect with readers on a deeper level. Describing writing as a 'muscle' that needs regular exercise, he suggests maintaining a reflective journal to enhance one's writing ability. Furthermore, he emphasizes seeking constructive feedback from trusted individuals to refine both the story and writing style, fostering growth and improvement in the craft of writing.
In this episode, host Scott Miller interviews author and former business executive Bill Bennett about his impressive work in fiction writing and the creative process behind his latest book, Jacob T. Marley. Bill shares how he discovered his passion for storytelling, the strategies he uses to develop engaging backstories and characters, and the discipline and rituals he follows as a writer. Throughout the discussion, Bill provides advice and encouragement for aspiring writers, emphasizing the importance of finding your creative voice and being willing to experiment outside your comfort zone.
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