The StoryBrand Podcast

Many billboards waste money by being clever instead of clear. A hilarious review of real ads reveals that confusion doesn't convert. Duct tape ads work for known brands, while cute cleverness often backfires. Effective messaging is simple and direct, like succinct legal ads or straightforward event promotions. Humor can engage if it clarifies the message, but abstraction leads to failure. Ultimately, prioritizing clarity over wit is key to successful advertising.

Scott Harrison, founder of Charity: Water and a pioneer in transparent giving, shares insights on engaging donors in a crowded market. He discusses the importance of a clear message to inspire action and how he raised over $1 billion by turning birthdays into fundraisers. Scott emphasizes the need for trust through a 100% donations model and detailed donor tracking. He also explores innovative storytelling techniques, including sensory experiences and creative formats, ultimately advocating for simplicity and clarity in nonprofit messaging.

Laura Higgins, a business coach dedicated to helping creatives scale their businesses while maintaining authenticity, shares her insights on turning talent into consistent income. She introduces her two-engine method for attracting clients, discusses the importance of relatable content in marketing, and provides practical tips for effective DM conversations. Laura emphasizes the value of email and YouTube as revenue channels, all while promoting a mindset of growth without losing soul. Her passion for community engagement through speaking and events shines through!

In a heartwarming holiday special, brothers Pete and Joe Manley grapple with saving their late mother's board game company. Pete, the thoughtful younger brother, champions storytelling and the StoryBrand framework, emphasizing customer focus over tech gimmicks. Joe, the confident eldest brother, initially pursues a flashy digital strategy but learns the hard way about the importance of clear messaging. Together, they navigate family ties and business challenges, ultimately discovering that connection is key to their success.

Join John O'Leary, a speaker and author whose inspiring journey from a childhood burn survivor to the real-life subject of the film Soul On Fire, as he shares his powerful insights. He discusses how embracing vulnerability can elevate others and the importance of telling honest stories. O'Leary emphasizes living intentionally and prioritizing relationships over achievements. Learn practical steps to reclaim self-worth and use personal narratives to connect and serve your audience in impactful ways.

Kenny Jahng, a StoryBrand Certified Guide, helps nonprofits clarify their messaging and align their teams. In this engaging conversation, he discusses the critical role of a clear mission in business alignment. Kenny introduces his 'Separate the Prisoners' exercise to determine if leadership shares a unified vision. He shares success stories where clarity in messaging significantly shortened sales cycles and reignited passion among team members. The importance of defining what you truly sell and why your organization matters is emphasized throughout.

Kris Jones, founder of Red Door Stories and a seasoned StoryBrand Certified Guide, teams up with Luke Pastina, Director of Certification, to dive into the nuances of growing a consulting business amidst economic uncertainty. They discuss the importance of uncovering clients' real problems through active listening and collaborative processes. Kris shares strategies for refining messaging, raising prices confidently, and building trust with potential clients through testimonials. Discover how storytelling can elevate your marketing approach in challenging times.

In this conversation, leadership advisor Les Corba, a former White House speechwriter and author of 'Aware: The Power of Seeing Yourself Clearly,' delves into the critical role of self-awareness in leadership. He distinguishes between productive and destructive narcissism, explaining how grandiosity can attract followers while blind spots can lead to catastrophic failures, as seen in Enron and Lehman Brothers. Les emphasizes the importance of trust, feedback cultures, and leading with vulnerability to foster authentic leadership amidst a landscape rife with ego-driven behaviors.

In this conversation, online marketing entrepreneur Amy Porterfield shares her journey from generating over $120 million in course sales to pivoting into high-touch coaching. She dives into the art of shifting messaging without alienating your audience. Discover how Amy tests new strategies through newsletters and social media while emphasizing the importance of earned authority. She also discusses balancing founder visibility with effective delegation and gives empowering advice for women aiming to lead and succeed in business.

Businesses often struggle to communicate effectively, leading to lost sales. This conversation reveals the crucial five soundbites to captivate audiences: outline the Problem, show Empathy, present the Answer, convey Change, and depict the End result. The hosts emphasize crafting memorable messaging that positions the brand as a guide. They share strategies for integrating these soundbites into marketing and daily practices, driving clarity and growth. Discover how strong messaging fosters stronger connections and energizes teams!