

How Stories Happen
Jay Acunzo
Inside the process of exceptional business storytellers and how they craft their work to resonate, plus practical frameworks and techniques you can use everywhere you communicate. Hosted by Jay Acunzo, speaking and storytelling advisor to some of the business world’s biggest thinkers and strongest storytellers.
Episodes
Mentioned books

10 snips
Dec 23, 2024 • 42min
"Specific moments make it feel real" | Natalie Taylor, B2B marketing leader
In this conversation, Natalie Taylor, head of marketing at Capsule, shares insights on the art of storytelling in B2B marketing. She emphasizes how specific details make narratives relatable and engaging. Highlighting a humorous pizza restaurant story, she illustrates the power of slowing down to let stories breathe. By crafting moments that resonate, marketers can cultivate genuine connections with their audience. Tune in to explore how personal anecdotes can transform communication strategies and foster authenticity.

7 snips
Dec 16, 2024 • 40min
"The personal is more universal than we think it is" | Sarah Stockdale, CEO of Growclass
Sarah Stockdale, CEO of Growclass, empowers mid-career marketers, especially from underrepresented backgrounds. In a heartfelt conversation, she shares how personal challenges shape storytelling. They explore the balance of public personas and private vulnerabilities, emphasizing that authenticity resonates universally. Parenthood shifts creativity, making room for unfinished ideas. Stockdale also critiques the myth of self-made success, highlighting the vital role of community support and collaboration in achieving true excellence.

8 snips
Dec 9, 2024 • 38min
“Now is the time to double down on your story” I Shez Mehra, creative entrepreneur and DJ
Shez Mehra, a creative entrepreneur and DJ known for leading The 194 Group and partnering with Raina Music, dives into the transformative power of sound in storytelling. He shares his journey from DJing to crafting emotional connections through brand narratives. Explorations include how music affects crowd dynamics, personal anecdotes showcasing sound's impact, and his belief that authentic storytelling is crucial for B2B success. Shez emphasizes the need for emotional depth in narratives, making a strong case for how sound can elevate brand experiences.

18 snips
Dec 2, 2024 • 18min
The 2 questions (and a quote) that helped me most in 2024
Reflecting on personal growth post-pandemic, the speaker shares two transformative questions that can shift your perspective for the better. Embracing public speaking is highlighted as a pathway to connect deeply with others and foster professional development. The power of unique storytelling is emphasized, encouraging listeners to celebrate their individual narratives. A thought-provoking quote from a master serves as a reminder of the importance of clarity and self-belief in both communication and personal journeys.

29 snips
Nov 25, 2024 • 42min
"Your brain is a straight line machine" I Melanie Deziel, author and speaker
In this engaging conversation, Melanie Deziel, a former branded content editor at The New York Times and co-founder of Creator Kitchen, discusses the essence of signature stories—narratives you’d claim ownership of. She shares her journey of emotional story evolution and the internal battle against imposter syndrome. The discussion also touches on navigating the intersection of storytelling and journalistic integrity, the value of personal narratives, and how marketers can thrive under pressure through compelling storytelling.

28 snips
Nov 4, 2024 • 24min
A repeatable system for stronger ideas and stories
Explore the art of storytelling as a mastered skill rather than a gifted trait. Discover a unique technique that involves openly sharing your thoughts to refine your ideas. Delve into the challenges faced by online creators in engaging their audiences. Learn how curiosity and insightful questioning can unlock creativity, leading to more original storytelling. This episode encourages a practical approach to enhance communication and storytelling for anyone eager to connect more meaningfully.

26 snips
Oct 28, 2024 • 44min
Designing a New Signature Talk Beat by Beat with Justin Moore (Founder of Creator Wizard, Author of Sponsor Magnet)
Justin Moore, founder of Creator Wizard and author of the upcoming book Sponsor Magnet, crafts a signature talk aimed at engaging wider audiences. He delves into the contrast between keynotes and breakout sessions, emphasizing the need for a 'higher-order idea' to drive action. The conversation highlights the art of creating impactful speeches and the importance of collaboration in monetizing creative work. Also discussed are strategies for engaging pitches and the role of storytelling in boosting credibility. A fascinating glimpse into the process of persuasive communication!

43 snips
Oct 21, 2024 • 43min
Seth Godin Dissects a Signature Story
Seth Godin, a renowned storyteller and bestselling author, dives deep into the art of storytelling and its power in business. He shares a captivating 'super-story' about recumbent bikes, discussing its evolution and how it shapes perceptions in communities. Seth highlights the importance of pedagogy and posture for storytellers, emphasizing how authenticity and strategic thinking enhance narratives. With a lively exchange of tales, Seth and his host reveal how personal connections and status affect storytelling in the digital age.

23 snips
Oct 14, 2024 • 48min
“Is this ANNything?” Ann Handley and Jay Acunzo Work Out New Drafts
Ann Handley, a WSJ bestselling author and dynamic speaker in marketing, joins Jay Acunzo to explore the creative process. They discuss their collaborative storytelling on social media, emphasizing the joy of spontaneity in writing. The duo shares insights into crafting relatable narratives and the challenges of modern marketing tactics. They also highlight the significance of immersive storytelling and documenting everyday moments to enhance creativity. Their dialogue is a refreshing peek into the iterative nature of writing and engagement.

21 snips
Oct 7, 2024 • 38min
“We’re both the heroes and the villains in our own stories” | Chase Jarvis, Photographer + Entrepreneur + Author of Never Play It Safe
Chase Jarvis, an award-winning photographer, entrepreneur, and author of "Never Play It Safe," shares his journey of self-discovery. He delves into the duality of being both hero and villain in our stories, stressing the importance of honesty in storytelling. Chase discusses overcoming psychological barriers to creativity, likening struggles to a 'saber tooth tiger.' He emphasizes the value of self-trust and authenticity in crafting impactful narratives, urging listeners to embrace their unique paths and connect with their true selves.