

The Story Engine Podcast
Kyle Gray
The Story Engine Podcast where we teach you how to make marketing easier, more powerful and fun through storytelling. Each week we learn from top entrepreneurs, influencers and world-changers on how to share your story through content, copywriting, speaking and how to make your story your most powerful marketing tool.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Dec 24, 2024 • 26min
How I Trained AI To Help You Tell Stories Like A Pro
On this episode, we discusses my innovative approach to leveraging AI in the creative processes, particularly in writing a book and developing a storytelling tool. I emphasize the importance of maintaining authenticity while using AI as a collaborative partner to refine ideas and enhance audience engagement. The conversation also covers the creation of the Authority Story Creator, a tool designed to help users craft compelling narratives that resonate with their audience. Create your story at: https://www.thestoryengine.co/create On This Episode Kyle emphasizes a balance between authenticity and AI's capabilities. He discusses the iterative process of refining his book with AI. The importance of audience focus in content creation is highlighted. AI serves as a collaborator, not just a tool, in his creative process. Kyle's approach involves defining clear goals for his projects. He shares insights on creating concise and impactful content. The Authority Story Creator was developed to aid storytelling. Empathy-driven storytelling fosters deeper connections with audiences. Kyle's tools aim to simplify the storytelling process for users. He expresses optimism about the future of AI in content creation. We Discuss 00:00 Harnessing AI for Creative Processes 06:48 Creating The Book 10:10 Building The Authority Story Creator 19:23 Future Prospects and AI Integration

Dec 17, 2024 • 32min
The Cost Of Getting Through The Day
On this episode of the Story Engine Podcast, I'll discuss the concept of 'The Cost of Getting Through The Day' and how it relates to personal growth and creativity. I share personal experiences with anxiety and the feeling of just getting through the day, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and reframing fear as a tool for growth. I encourage listeners to create a vision for their future that excites them and to actively work towards it, rather than succumbing to survival mode. In This Episode The cost of doing nothing can lead to regret and shame. Anxiety-driven choices often result in unproductive patterns. Naming fears can help in addressing them effectively. Reframing fear as a tool can empower personal growth. Creating a vision for the future is crucial for motivation. Daily practices like journaling can help focus intentions. Recognizing small progress is important for self-acknowledgment. Understanding the roots of fear can lead to healing. Survival mode can hinder creativity and fulfillment. Embracing creativity is essential for a meaningful life. We Discuss 10:24 Understanding Fear and Anxiety 18:19 Creating a Vision for the Future 31:10 Re-enrolling in Your Vision

Dec 10, 2024 • 22min
How To Have A Sales Call With Yourself
On this episode, We discusses the transformative process of having a sales call with oneself. We emphasizes the importance of self-reflection, commitment to personal vision, and the need to address limiting beliefs. Through personal anecdotes, we illustrate how taking time for introspection can lead to profound reinvention and alignment with one's true self. The conversation culminates in practical steps for listeners to engage in their own self-enrollment and daily practices that nurture growth and clarity. In This Episode The sales call with yourself is an intimate process. Self-reflection is crucial for personal growth. Many focus outwardly instead of inwardly. Reinventing oneself requires commitment and clarity. Daily practices help maintain alignment with vision. Identifying obstacles is the first step to overcoming them. Past successes can inspire future actions. Setting goals should excite and energize you. Overwhelm and procrastination are common pitfalls. Self-compassion is essential in the growth process. We Discuss 00:00 The Importance of Self-Reflection 07:32 Reinventing Yourself 20:34 Daily Practices for Alignment

Dec 3, 2024 • 45min
A Reliable Process For Change With Rich Walker
On this episode of the Story Engine podcast, Rich Walker shares his journey as a serial entrepreneur and author, discussing his four-step methodology for personal change. He emphasizes the importance of wanting to change, believing in one's ability to change, and understanding the core beliefs that drive behaviors. Rich reflects on his childhood experiences and how they shaped his perspective on change, as well as the challenges he faced in his business. The conversation highlights the power of beliefs in shaping reality and the significance of storytelling in personal narratives. In This Episode You have to want to change to initiate the process. Belief in your ability to change is crucial. Childhood experiences can significantly impact your perspective on change. Navigating challenges requires a choice between stress and productivity. Identifying core beliefs is essential for meaningful change. Work on one change at a time for better focus. Your beliefs shape your reality and experiences. Storytelling can enhance the impact of personal narratives. Choosing empowering beliefs leads to personal growth. Embrace change as a constant in life. We Discuss 05:56 Understanding the Desire to Change 11:59 Navigating Business Challenges and Personal Growth 17:50 The Power of Beliefs in Shaping Reality 24:08 Closing Thoughts and Resources for Change

Nov 26, 2024 • 20min
4 Mental Roadblocks Keeping You From Converting When Speaking
On this episode of the Story Engine Podcast, We discuss four mental roadblocks that hinder effective speaking and conversions. We'll emphasize the importance of shifting from courtroom truth to personal truth, using descriptive language instead of prescriptive, and focusing on customer-oriented communication rather than self-oriented. By addressing these roadblocks, speakers can enhance their engagement and effectiveness, ultimately leading to better conversions and audience connection. On This Episode Many speakers are unaware of the mental roadblocks affecting their conversions. Courtroom truth can dilute ideas and confuse listeners. Personal truth focuses on values and emotional connection. Descriptive language helps listeners envision possibilities. Single decision-oriented talks can overwhelm the audience. Progression in talks allows for a more engaging experience. Self-oriented communication leads to imposter syndrome. Customer-oriented communication fosters connection and trust. Effective storytelling anticipates audience limiting beliefs. Shifting focus from self to audience enhances purpose and impact. We Discuss 01:14 Understanding Courtroom Truth vs. Personal Truth 06:16 The Shift from Prescriptive to Descriptive Language 12:16 Single Decision vs. Progression in Presentations 17:03 Self-Oriented vs. Customer-Oriented Communication

Nov 19, 2024 • 44min
The Creation Of Stoic Simple With Phil Van Treuren
On this episode of the Story Engine podcast, Phil Van Treuren shares his journey as an entrepreneur and author, discussing his experiences in publishing, the influence of Stoic philosophy on his life, and the creation of his publishing company, Stoic Simple. He reflects on the importance of virtue and excellence, the challenges of navigating change, and the fulfillment he finds in his current life. Phil also emphasizes the value of learning from mistakes and the significance of storytelling in connecting with others. On This Episode Phil has reinvented himself multiple times throughout his career. Stoic philosophy has greatly influenced Phil's personal development. The Feather is a story about the impact of small virtues. Virtue in Stoicism can be understood as excellence. Acceptance of things we cannot change is crucial for personal growth. There are always opportunities to practice excellence in any situation. Mistakes are part of the learning process and should not hinder progress. Phil finds happiness in the present without needing more material possessions. Storytelling is a powerful tool for connecting with audiences. Phil's journey reflects the importance of self-belief and perseverance. We Discuss 06:01 The Birth of Stoic Simple 11:56 Understanding Virtue in Stoic Philosophy 18:00 Navigating Change and Acceptance 24:03 Learning from Mistakes and Opportunities 29:53 Reflections on Past Struggles

Nov 12, 2024 • 51min
Virtual Event Advantage With Caleb Fowler
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

Nov 5, 2024 • 21min
The Villain's Journey And Why You Need To Go On One
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

Oct 29, 2024 • 47min
The Secrets of Successful Speakers with Danella Burnett
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

Oct 22, 2024 • 45min
How To Go Global and Local In Your Mastermind with Eric Berman
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