The Story Engine Podcast

When I first crafted a talk about my own health journey—something I thought I’d never share publicly—it didn’t just grow my business… it transformed me. In this deeply personal solo episode, I share the story of how an illness I picked up in the Amazon turned into years of health struggles, shame, and self-doubt—and how stepping onto a stage to tell that story became the start of healing. But more than that, this episode is about why crafting a signature talk is more than a business asset. It’s a crucible for clarity, courage, and deep connection—with your audience and yourself. If you’re a coach, expert, or entrepreneur who wants to create a message that truly moves people—this episode is for you! In This Episode [00:02:35] — The rope swing moment that led to one of the most difficult seasons of my life [00:06:40] — Living with chronic illness and the shame of falling apart in silence [00:10:30] — The surprising event that helped me reclaim my health and my voice [00:15:18] — From health crisis to business clarity: how I turned my “curse” into my calling [00:18:45] — Why writing a great talk changes how you see yourself—not just how you speak [00:22:00] — The 3 crucibles every great speaker must face: Compression, Clarity, Courage [00:31:55] — The real reason most experts avoid doing this deep work—and why that’s a mistake [00:35:40] — How owning your truth creates magnetic content, clients, and clarity [00:41:12] — You’re not just a speaker—you’re a transformer of beliefs [00:44:33] — How to turn your hardest stories into your most defining messages

In this episode of The Story Engine Podcast, I’m joined by Claire Angelle, a powerhouse in the world of international PR and advocacy. Claire’s mission is simple yet bold: helping world changers get their messages onto more stages, in more countries, and into the hearts of more people. We dive into Claire’s unique journey—from her roots in international advocacy to her innovative approach to helping thought leaders and changemakers craft stories that resonate across borders. If you’ve ever dreamed of taking your message worldwide, Claire’s insights will inspire and equip you to make it happen. On This Episode: [00:02:35] — Claire’s journey from international advocacy to global PR [00:07:15] — Why traditional PR strategies fall short for changemakers [00:12:42] — How Claire helps speakers craft stories that resonate internationally [00:17:05] — The #1 mindset shift needed to land speaking opportunities around the world [00:22:11] — Common mistakes even brilliant speakers make when pitching themselves [00:28:30] — How to position yourself as a go-to expert without feeling self-promotional [00:34:02] — Claire’s personal philosophy on storytelling, service, and global impact

In this episode, I share the story I’ve kept quiet for years. It’s about the moment I disconnected from my emotional self and how that single, unconscious choice shaped my business, my leadership, and my voice for over a decade. I talk about the pain of building something successful that feels hollow—and how reconnecting with my story and truth became the path back to fulfillment, creativity, and power. If you’ve ever felt like your success cost you a part of yourself, this one’s for you. On This Episode [00:04:42] — Two losses that cracked open my faith—and shut down my emotions [00:10:33] — Building a “successful” business while feeling completely disconnected [00:15:58] — The moment I realized I had become the operator of a machine [00:19:41] — Why strategy couldn’t fix what was ultimately a survival pattern [00:23:07] — The difference between performance and presence—and why it matters [00:30:49] — What truly makes your message magnetic (hint: it’s not just your credentials) [00:35:24] — How I rebuilt my business by returning to my voice, creativity, and truth [00:40:50] — Reconnection is the key to magnetism—and the beginning of healing

On this episode of The Story Engine Podcast, I sat down with Josh Elledge, founder of Up My Influence, to unpack how he helps podcasters attract high-quality clients—without resorting to pressure, awkward pitches, or sleazy tactics. Josh shares how he uses podcasting as a powerful, generous tool to connect with ideal clients and create meaningful business relationships. We talk about the systems he’s built, how he filters for fit, and how showing up with generosity and intention can lead to consistent, aligned growth. If you're a podcast host or service-based business owner, this one is packed with gold. In This Episode [00:03:22] — The surprising philosophy behind Up My Influence: connection before conversion [00:07:08] — How Josh fills his pipeline with the right prospects—by inviting them as guests [00:12:45] — Why the “go-giver” model works (and how to do it without being manipulative) [00:19:30] — Filtering with integrity: how Josh qualifies ideal clients during the podcasting process [00:26:12] — What most podcasters miss when trying to monetize (and how to fix it) [00:33:01] — The real ROI of a podcast—and it’s not downloads [00:39:15] — Josh’s behind-the-scenes process for client attraction without burnout

If you’ve ever hesitated before posting on LinkedIn or wondered if it’s really worth your time, this episode is for you. I sat down with Scott Aaron—a master of consistency, confidence, and connection on LinkedIn—to unpack the story behind his hard-won presence on the platform. We explored not just his tactical strategies (which are powerful), but also the deeper personal evolution that helped him show up authentically online, day after day. Whether you're brand new to LinkedIn or want to use it more strategically to grow your business, Scott’s story is a clear reminder that confidence is built, not born—and visibility pays compounding interest when you stay in the game. In This Episode [00:03:12] The LinkedIn mistake most people make (and how to fix it fast) [00:06:49] Scott’s first post: what he learned by hitting “publish” despite fear [00:12:33] Why showing up consistently creates “compound interest” in your business [00:18:07] How Scott rebuilt his confidence from scratch after hitting rock bottom [00:23:54] Kyle reflects Scott’s growth in a powerful, emotional story mirror moment [00:28:21] The exact daily strategy Scott uses to create content and real connections on LinkedIn [00:34:15] What it really means to lead with value—and why it always works

Unlock the secret to attracting "power buyers"—the kind of high-value clients who are eager to invest in your expertise. In this episode of The Story Engine Podcast, I’m diving deep into the secret of attracting those high-value clients who are ready and eager to invest in your expertise. I sit down with brand strategist and messaging expert Fabi Paolini to explore her unique methodology for crafting a magnetic brand message. We’ll uncover how to position yourself as an authority, showcase your "angle of mastery," and create messaging that speaks directly to premium clients. In This Episode [02:15] What makes "power buyers" different from the average client? [07:40] How to uncover your unique angle of mastery [14:20] The biggest messaging mistakes that drive away high-value clients [21:35] How to position yourself as the go-to expert in your industry [30:10] Actionable steps to start attracting power buyers today If you're ready to take your messaging to the next level and bring in the right clients, tune in now! 🎧

I just wrapped up the first-ever Story Pro Mastermind Live Retreat, and in this episode, I’m taking you behind the scenes. This wasn’t just another mastermind—it was a transformational experience designed to help speakers, coaches, and experts refine their messages, connect deeply, and elevate their impact. I’ll share why I created this mastermind, what made it different from other events, and the powerful breakthroughs that happened in the room. If you’re a speaker looking for real feedback, true collaboration, and a space to grow alongside other experts, this episode is for you. 🔹 Want to take your speaking game to the next level? Applications for the next mastermind are open—email me at Kyle@thestoryengine.co to join. ⏳ [00:00] Welcome & Behind-the-Scenes Look I take you inside the Story Pro Mastermind Live Retreat and what made it such a unique experience. ⏳ [03:25] Why I Created This Mastermind Past group programs didn’t create the transformation I knew was possible—so I built something that would. ⏳ [07:45] Connection Over Content Most events overload attendees with speakers but fail to facilitate real relationships. Here’s how I structured the retreat differently. ⏳ [12:30] Gift Sharing: Setting the Stage for Value Exchange Members kicked things off by offering their unique skills, from business coaching to breathwork sessions, creating a culture of generosity from day one. ⏳ [18:20] The Referral Party Strategy I designed small group networking pods that unlocked immediate joint venture opportunities among attendees. ⏳ [24:50] Transformational Hot Seats Members brought their biggest personal and business challenges to the table—leading to some of the most powerful breakthroughs of the weekend. ⏳ [30:10] Leading from the Front Even as the mastermind host, I stepped into the hot seat to refine my own talk in real time with the group’s feedback. ⏳ [37:15] The Stage is the Ultimate Activation Point This retreat wasn’t just about learning—it was about action. Attendees will return in July to deliver their talks live, ensuring they turn insights into impact. ⏳ [42:30] Want to Join the Next One? I share details on how to apply for the next mastermind and why this could be the game-changer for your speaking career. 🎙 Listen now & be part of the journey!

Have you ever felt like you had to over-deliver to prove your worth? Whether in masterminds, on stage, or in content creation, many leaders make the mistake of trying to provide all the value themselves—only to leave their audience overwhelmed instead of transformed. In this episode of The Story Engine Podcast, I'll share a hard-earned lesson: True leadership and influence come from creating space for others to rise. I unpack how this realization transformed my mastermind—and how the same principle can elevate your speaking, coaching, and leadership. Episode Highlights: ⏳ [00:04:12] – The biggest mistake I made in my mastermind—and how it applies to speaking. ⏳ [00:10:25] – Why over-delivering can hold back your audience’s transformation. ⏳ [00:18:47] – The key shift that makes speakers truly impactful on stage. ⏳ [00:26:55] – How structure, community, and deadlines drive real progress in masterminds. ⏳ [00:35:20] – Where in your own work are you trying to prove yourself instead of creating space? If you're a speaker, coach, or leader who wants to make a real impact, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in now!

What does it take to lead at the highest levels? CEOs, founders, and executives face immense pressure, and the difference between thriving or burning out often comes down to leadership mastery. In this episode of The Story Engine Podcast, Andreas Pettersson shares his journey across multiple continents and industries, revealing the key strategies elite leaders use to stay resilient, make tough decisions, and build high-performing teams. Episode Highlights: ⏳ [00:03:15] – Andreas’ journey: From global business leader to executive coach. ⏳ [00:09:42] – The biggest leadership challenges facing CEOs today (and how to overcome them). ⏳ [00:17:30] – Why high performers struggle with burnout—and the secret to lasting resilience. ⏳ [00:25:10] – The CEO mindset shift that separates great leaders from the rest. ⏳ [00:34:45] – How Andreas helps top executives unlock their full leadership potential. Whether you’re leading a company or striving for next-level leadership, this episode is packed with valuable insights.

What separates a podcast that fades away from one that scales, grows, and profits? In this episode of The Story Engine Podcast, I sit down with Billy Samoa Salibi to uncover the strategies behind building a highly successful podcast or YouTube channel in today’s digital world. Billy breaks down what most podcasters get wrong, how to structure a show for growth, and why now is the best time to start your own podcast. Episode Highlights: ⏳ [00:01:11] – Billy’s journey from Hollywood filmmaker to podcasting expert. ⏳ [00:04:34] – Kyle reflects on podcasting for 350+ episodes ⏳ [00:07:35] – The biggest shift in podcasting: Why success today is about niche, community-driven content rather than mass appeal. ⏳ [00:13:01] – The #1 mistake new podcasters make ⏳ [00:20:40] – The 3 pillars of podcast success: ⏳ [00:28:53] – Billy’s turning point ⏳ [00:34:12] – Billy’s breakthrough moment on Clubhouse ⏳ [00:43:58] – Billy’s final advice: Don’t wait—start now. Take action, build your platform, and make an impact. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to take your podcast to the next level, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Listen now on The Story Engine Podcast.