Clearer Thinking with Spencer Greenberg A story can change the world (with Elizabeth Cox)
22 snips
Apr 2, 2025 
Elizabeth Cox, founder of Should We Studio and former TED-Ed producer, delves into the power of storytelling for societal change. She discusses how narratives can shape public awareness, particularly in complex issues like climate change and mental health. The conversation highlights the fine line between compelling storytelling and misleading narratives, emphasizing the impact of relatable stories on engagement. Cox also explores the multifaceted nature of depression and critiques conventional treatments, advocating for a more nuanced understanding of mental health.
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Storytelling's Power and Responsibility
- Storytelling is crucial for raising public awareness and driving progress on important issues.
- However, like any tool, stories can have both positive and negative impacts, so responsible storytelling is essential.
Defining a Story
- A broad definition of storytelling includes any message with a beginning, middle, and end.
- Compelling stories often contain a universally relatable truth that resonates with a broad audience.
The Hero's Journey and Character Development
- The hero's journey is a valuable framework, especially for structured storytelling like screenplays.
- More important than the rigid structure is understanding character motivations, desires, and transformations.
