

Anecdotally Speaking
Shawn Callahan & Mark Schenk
Welcome to our podcast, Anecdotally Speaking. Each week we tell a business story, talk about why it works and discuss where you might tell it at work. Our aim is to help you build your story repertoire.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 20, 2023 • 21min
181 – It’s never too late – Judith Curphey
It’s never too late; if you believe something should be different, try to change it. Listen to hear how Judith Curphey went from retirement to founding and training one of Australia’s most renowned choirs.
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Mar 14, 2023 • 18min
180 – Focus on your work – Christine Ha
Don’t compare your work to that of others; focus on yourself. Listen to hear how Christine Ha’s vision impairment helped her win the third American season of Masterchef.
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Mar 8, 2023 • 25min
Replay 164 – You don’t need to be an expert – Lisa Blair
You don’t need to be an expert to develop expertise. On International Women’s Day, listen to hear how Lisa Blair beat the odds and went from sailing novice to record breaker.
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Mar 1, 2023 • 26min
179 – There is no average
Exploring the flaws in designing for the 'average pilot,' the discussion reveals how outdated assumptions led to safety issues in aircraft cockpit design. A pivotal 1950s case highlighted the need for inclusive ergonomics, recognizing unique pilot profiles. The conversation also dives into the importance of effective storytelling, emphasizing clarity and engagement. Additionally, it warns against groupthink and advocates for fresh perspectives in both design and narrative crafting to foster innovation and critical thinking.

Feb 20, 2023 • 25min
178 – Don’t lose sight of the collective impact of your decisions
Don’t get lax; keep up your level of focus. Listen to hear how a series of isolated decisions led to the crash of Alaska Airlines Flight 261.
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Feb 13, 2023 • 19min
177 – Create a space where ideas are shared – Ron Howard
Create a space where ideas are shared but know that having an idea doesn’t make it a good one. Listen to hear what Ron Howard took away from the set of the Andy Griffith Show.
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Feb 7, 2023 • 16min
176 – Connect your change to something known and familiar – Run-DMC and Aerosmith
Run-DMC, the groundbreaking hip-hop pioneers, and Aerosmith, the iconic rock legends, join to discuss their revolutionary collaboration on 'Walk This Way.' They dive into how this fusion of hip-hop and rock music in 1986 transformed cultural boundaries. The conversation reflects on the challenges of introducing new ideas while evoking nostalgia for 1980s hip-hop culture. They also share insights on change management, emphasizing the power of connecting new concepts to familiar ones to drive innovation. A rich tapestry of music history and personal storytelling awaits!

Feb 1, 2023 • 19min
175 – Don’t miss the big picture
Exploring the pitfalls of losing perspective, the discussion kicks off with a hilarious tale of a detail-obsessed lawyer and his paint disaster. Then, it dives into the art of storytelling, showing how everyday experiences can teach valuable lessons. The importance of balancing normalcy with unexpected twists in stories is examined, alongside the power of concise storytelling. Finally, a critical look at personal anecdotes reveals how biases shape their effectiveness, prompting a commitment to further explore this topic.

Jan 25, 2023 • 24min
174 – We have enough – Kurt Vonnegut and Joseph Heller
Don’t strive for excess; be content with ‘enough’. Listen to hear the Joseph Heller quote that inspired his friend Kurt Vonnegut’s tribute poem.
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Jan 16, 2023 • 29min
173 – Knowledge can come from any source with Maria Marenco
Maria Marenco, a mother who played a key role in the Apollo 11 mission, shares her inspiring journey. She reflects on how a young girl’s curiosity and a mother's determination contributed to one of humanity’s greatest achievements. The conversation highlights the critical importance of storytelling in science and how diverse perspectives can shape success. Marenco emphasizes the complex balance between genius and motherhood, as well as the essential lessons in safety and risk management from high-stakes environments, both in space and business.