The Story Engine Podcast

On this episode we are talking with Caleb Fowler. Caleb discusses the current landscape of virtual events, emphasizing the importance of building trust in a market where skepticism is high. He shares insights on how to effectively engage clients through virtual events, the significance of understanding one's ideal client, and strategies for scaling a business using these events. The discussion also touches on the evolution of virtual events post-pandemic, the challenges of attracting high-quality leads, and practical tips for creating engaging experiences that reduce Zoom fatigue. We'll discuss the challenges of customer acquisition, the importance of having a proven process for conversion, and the competitive advantages that events can provide for businesses. They share insights on the breakthrough method that has helped them scale their business and the significance of trust and certainty in the current market. The discussion also touches on the early struggles of E3 Events and how they pivoted to teach others about successful event execution. We Discuss 06:00 Building Trust in a Distrustful Market 12:03 Creating Engaging Virtual Event Experiences 17:48 Choosing the Right Format for Your Event 23:56 Understanding Your Ideal Client's Needs 29:50 The Breakthrough Method: A Proven Process 38:11 The Birth of E3: A Turning Point 45:05 Starting Where You Are: The Path Forward

In this episode of the Story Engine Podcast, we explore the concept of the villain's journey, emphasizing its importance in storytelling and personal transformation. We'll discusses how villains, often seen as antagonists, play a crucial role in challenging the status quo and driving change. The conversation outlines the stages of the villain's journey, drawing parallels to the entrepreneurial experience and highlighting the necessity of embracing both the hero and villain within ourselves to create meaningful impact.     In This Episode The villain's journey is about transformation. Villains often challenge the norms and become agents of change. Change is uncomfortable but necessary for growth. Betrayal can serve as a catalyst for transformation. Gathering allies is essential for challenging the status quo. Challenging norms can lead to significant personal and societal change. Conflict between hero and villain leads to new perspectives. Embracing the villain within can unlock creativity and impact. Both heroes and villains are necessary for a better world. Understanding both roles can enhance personal growth and storytelling. We Discuss 04:51 Stage 1: The Status Quo 06:44 Stage 2: Betrayal and Breaking Point 08:38 Stage 3: Gathering Allies 10:32 New Chapter 11:35 Stage 4: Challenging the Status Quo

On this episode of the Story Engine Podcast, Danella Burnett shares her journey from a reluctant entrepreneur to a successful event producer and speaker strategist. She discusses the importance of understanding the needs of event hosts, finding speaking opportunities, and the lessons learned from her experiences on stage. Danella emphasizes the significance of collaboration, knowing your audience, and the value of being flexible in the speaking industry. Her insights aim to empower speakers to get visible and make a positive impact in the world. In This Episode Danella Burnett has over 40 years of experience in event production. Her entrepreneurial journey began unexpectedly in a church kitchen. Understanding the needs of event hosts is crucial for speakers. Collaboration can lead to greater opportunities in speaking. Finding speaking opportunities requires leveraging past experiences and networks. Getting paid to speak is a pathway, but understanding value is key. Flexibility and adaptability are important in the speaking industry. Speakers should know their audience and the event's goals. Building relationships is essential for long-term speaking success. Danella's legacy is about lifting others onto the stage to make an impact. We Discuss 07:50 The Reluctant Entrepreneur's Journey 16:08 Understanding the Needs of Event Hosts 23:58 Finding Speaking Opportunities 32:02 Lessons from the Stage

Today on the show, we are talking with Eric Berman. Eric is the founder of the speak easy mastermind, a unique mastermind that combines small local groups and big global events to make sure that the whole community gets everything they need from powerful tactical practical advice, real honest feedback and support and being surrounded by people who really understand you and what you're going through. Today we're going to learn his story of how he started out working hard for sweat equity and became the leader of this incredible community.  On This Episode Entrepreneurship is a personal development journey. SpeakEasy combines local and global connections. The ideal avatar for SpeakEasy is marketing-centric entrepreneurs. Tactical problem-solving is essential in masterminds. Creating a safe space fosters vulnerability and honesty. Self-leadership is crucial for guiding others. Balancing work and personal life reduces stress. Community provides support and connection. Loneliness is a common challenge for entrepreneurs. Stories are powerful tools for connection and engagement. We Discuss 04:06 The Concept of Masterminds and SpeakEasy's Unique Approach 07:02 Identifying the Right Audience for SpeakEasy 10:15 Building Trust and Vulnerability in Mastermind Groups 13:17 Transitioning from Entrepreneur to Community Leader 16:18 Self-Leadership and Personal Development 19:12 The Rewards of Community and Connection 21:55 Reflections on Loneliness and the Need for Community 25:45 The Journey of Entrepreneurship 29:06 Misunderstood by Friends and Family 31:43 Finding Community and Support 35:42 The Birth of Speak Easy Mastermind 40:29 Closing Thoughts and Future Directions

On this episode of The Story Engine Podcast, we are talking with Kyle Leavitt, CEO & Co-Founder of Customer HUB. Kyle discusses the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship, particularly focusing on the importance of creating systems that allow for time freedom and the liberation of entrepreneurs from traditional service-based business models. He shares insights on the misalignment often experienced in the pursuit of success, the significance of leadership and vision, and the role of storytelling in connecting with clients. Personal anecdotes about family life and the struggles of software development further illustrate the journey towards achieving a balanced and fulfilling entrepreneurial life. In This Episide Entrepreneurs often seek financial and time freedom. Misalignment occurs when success doesn't match expectations. Scaling a business can lead to more responsibilities and burnout. Doing fewer things better is key to success. Leadership is about setting a clear vision for the team. Storytelling can create empathy and connection with clients. Personal experiences shape our business journeys. Software development requires focus on core problems. Creating systems can alleviate confusion and support growth. Family time is essential for a balanced life. We Discuss 02:54 The Misalignment in Entrepreneurial Success 05:56 The Journey to Time Freedom 09:05 Scaling and the Importance of Systems 11:54 Leadership and Vision in Business 14:56 The Role of Storytelling in Business 17:58 Personal Experiences and Family Life 21:02 Navigating Challenges in Software Development 24:07 Reflections on Growth and Learning 27:02 Creating Freedom Through Customer Hub

On this episode of the Story Engine Podcast, we're talking with Hamish Knox. Hamish is a sales expert from The Sandler Group. He discusses the unique Sandler approach to sales, which focuses on gathering information rather than giving it, and how this can transform client relationships. Hamish shares transformative client stories that highlight the shift from metrics-oriented sales to relationship-focused interactions. The conversation also covers common sales myths, the role of accountability, and the significance of supporting clients as whole human beings.  In This Episode Creating clarity through storytelling is essential in sales. Sandler's approach emphasizes buyer safety and effective communication. Salespeople should focus on gathering information, not just giving it. Building relationships is more important than metrics in sales. Time management can improve significantly with accountability practices. Supporting clients as whole human beings enhances relationships. Effective communication requires clarity and ownership of messages. Sales is a non-linear process that requires adaptability. Transforming a metrics-oriented mindset can lead to better outcomes. Creating clarity in communication is a leader's primary responsibility. We Discuss 03:59 Understanding Sandler's Approach to Sales 06:39 The Importance of Human Connection in Sales 09:44 Transformative Client Stories 12:52 Gathering vs. Giving Information in Sales 15:49 Overcoming Common Sales Myths 18:42 The Role of Accountability in Sales 21:32 Supporting Clients as Whole Human Beings 24:38 Creating Clarity in Communication

In this episode of the Story Engine Podcast, Kyle interviews Barton Scott, a mineral expert and founder of Upgraded Formulas. Barton shares his journey in the health and wellness industry, focusing on the importance of mineral absorption and the impact of nutrition on overall health. He discusses the connection between physical health and emotional regulation, emphasizing how energy levels influence achievement and personal performance. Barton also highlights the target audience for his upcoming book, which aims to help high achievers regain control over their health. The conversation delves into Barton's personal struggles with health, his childhood experiences, and the moments that led him to find clarity and control in his life. The episode concludes with insights on the importance of sharing knowledge about health and wellness with others. In This Episode Barton Scott is passionate about mineral absorption and health. Many people struggle with nutrient absorption due to poor digestion. Understanding one's body and health is crucial for achieving goals. Nutrition and psychology are deeply interconnected. Energy levels significantly impact personal and professional success. The upcoming book targets high achievers seeking to improve their health. Childhood health struggles can shape one's future pursuits. Moments of clarity in health can lead to significant life changes. Sharing health knowledge is essential for community well-being. Health is a foundational aspect of personal development and achievement. We Discuss   03:11 The Importance of Mineral Absorption 06:03 Understanding Sensitivity and Health 08:51 The Connection Between Nutrition and Psychology 11:58 The Role of Energy in Achieving Goals 14:48 Target Audience for the Upcoming Book 17:59 Personal Health Journey and Insights 21:07 Childhood Struggles and Their Impact 23:59 Moments of Clarity and Control in Health 27:06 Crafting a Personal Story

Today on the show we have Dane Palarino with Dad Bod Sculptors. Dane shares his journey of prioritizing health and fitness as a high-performing entrepreneur and family man. He emphasizes the importance of taking care of oneself first in order to effectively serve others. Dane discusses the challenges faced by men over the age of 35 in balancing their health, work, and family responsibilities. He highlights the negative impact of neglecting one's health on self-confidence, relationships, and overall well-being. Dane offers a solution by providing a playbook and support system through his company, Dad Bod Sculptors, to help men prioritize their fitness and nutrition.  In This Episode Prioritizing health and fitness is essential for high-performing entrepreneurs to effectively serve others. Neglecting one's health can lead to negative consequences in various areas of life, including relationships and self-confidence. Men over the age of 35 need a playbook and support system to prioritize their fitness and nutrition. Building a sustainable system for health and fitness allows individuals to show up as their best selves in all areas of life. Prioritizing self-care is essential for personal growth and well-being. Replacing old habits with healthier ones is key to achieving lasting transformation. Building confidence and self-esteem requires consistent effort and self-reflection. Creating a legacy of meaning involves being present for loved ones and leading by example. Taking control of one's health and fitness can have a positive impact on all areas of life. We Discuss 02:40 The Importance of Prioritizing Health 06:51 Finding a Playbook for Health and Fitness 09:39 The Consequences of Neglecting Health 17:50 The Impact of Health on Relationships and Self-Confidence 20:43 Creating a Sustainable System for Health and Fitness 26:00 Seeking Inspiration and Taking Action 28:08 The Opposite Frequency Moment: Achieving Transformation 31:43 The Power of Self-Reflection and Personal Growth

Today on the show we are talking with Dena Patton. Dena is the co-founder of a business coaching and consulting company and the founder of the Girls Rule Foundation, a nonprofit that empowers and advances girls through leadership and empowerment programs. She shares her journey of becoming a go-getter and a go-giver, and how philanthropy became a natural progression for her. Dena emphasizes the importance of teaching girls core skills such as financial literacy and leadership principles at a young age, so they can make informed decisions and have the confidence to pursue their dreams. She introduces the 100 School Initiative, a program that aims to teach these skills to girls and empower them to create a better future. On This Episode Philanthropy is a natural progression for many entrepreneurs who have achieved success and want to give back. Teaching girls core skills such as financial literacy and leadership principles at a young age is crucial for their personal and professional development. The 100 School Initiative aims to empower girls by teaching them these skills and providing them with the tools to create a better future. Courage is essential in telling our stories and making a positive impact in the world. We Discuss 08:42The Journey to Philanthropy 18:26The Importance of Teaching Girls Core Skills 21:38The 100 School Initiative 28:18Dena Patton's Personal Struggles and Success 32:15The Impact of Teaching Girls Essential Skills 35:23Closing Thoughts and Gratitude

On this episode we are talking with Jon Marino about the process of preparing a talk that transformed his business. We discuss our personal connection through a retreat in Hawaii and the importance of storytelling in our work. Jon shares how working with Kyle has helped him improve his communication and teaching skills. We also talk about the power of focusing on the audience and the value of deepening the understanding of customers. Jon introduces his new offering, a deep dive into customer personas, and shares his excitement about helping entrepreneurs find direction and make a bigger impact. In This Episode Preparing a well-crafted talk can have a transformative impact on a business. Focusing on the audience and their needs is key to effective communication and teaching. Deepening the understanding of customers through personas can help businesses better connect with their target audience. The process of preparing a talk can lead to personal growth and a clearer sense of direction. Working with a skilled mentor or coach can help improve communication and teaching skills. We Discuss 02:32 The Power of Storytelling and Connection 04:24 Enhancing Copywriting and Marketing Skills 09:36 Deep Diving into Customer Personas and Branding Guides