How Stories Happen

Laura Gassner Otting, a powerhouse storyteller and keynote speaker, shares her insights on crafting relatable narratives. She discusses the concept of a 'super-story' and how personal experiences can build connections. Through anecdotes about decorating a Christmas tree, she emphasizes finding meaning in imperfections. The conversation also covers tailoring stories for different audiences, the importance of specific details, and the art of using callbacks to engage listeners. Laura's unique blend of political experience and storytelling serves as inspiration for aspiring speakers and authors.

Simone Stolzoff, an accomplished author and journalist whose work has appeared in major outlets, shares insights while preparing a new TED Talk. He explores the delicate balance between personal identity and professional roles, advocating for redefining how we perceive our passions. The conversation delves into the iterative process of crafting engaging presentations and the role of visual aids in storytelling. Simone's willingness to embrace vulnerability sparks a lively exchange of ideas, highlighting the journey of turning raw concepts into compelling narratives.

Nat Eliason, an author and essayist, dives into the art of storytelling, particularly in personal narratives. He shares his thrilling journey from handling hundreds to millions in investments during a major hack. Eliason discusses the importance of authenticity, balancing drama with relatability, and how to effectively tell stories about complex subjects like cryptocurrency. He also provides insights on soliciting valuable feedback and navigating the transition from writing to promoting a book, making storytelling a universally engaging craft.

Susan Boles, a CFO and business strategist, dives into the art of crafting impactful stories. She emphasizes the concept of 'calm as the new KPI' and how it reshapes business narratives. The conversation highlights the importance of clear communication and emotional understanding in storytelling. Susan discusses the challenges entrepreneurs face when aligning growth metrics with core values, advocating for narratives that resonate deeply with audiences. Tune in for insights on making your story not just informative, but transformative.

Ryan Hawk and Brook Cupps, coauthors of 'The Score That Matters', emphasize the need for self-awareness in effective storytelling. Hawk, a podcast host, and Cupps, a high school basketball coach, share how personal growth shapes leadership and communication. Cupps recounts a pivotal moment with his daughter that transformed his coaching philosophy, while Hawk highlights values and inner growth. They discuss the power of authentic narratives in inspiring change and fostering deeper connections, showcasing storytelling as a vital tool for leaders.

Author and friendship expert Danielle Bayard Jackson shares tips on crafting personal stories for public appearances, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and engagement. She discusses the evolution into a friendship expert, highlighting women's conflict and connections. The episode explores effective storytelling strategies, infusing emotion to combat stereotypes and deepen connections, and embracing vulnerability in sharing personal narratives.

Join Scott Monty, Exec. Coach and Speaker, as he shares how timeless storytelling helped him win over a skeptical CFO at Ford. Discover the power of storytelling in leadership, the importance of historical insights, and the art of creating resonance through personal storytelling. Explore the enduring nature of stories and the lessons of authentic leadership.

Keynote speaker and poet Tucker Bryant shares his journey of integrating poetry into business innovation. He discusses the power of words in inspiring action and delivering powerful messages. The podcast explores the impact of authentic storytelling, engaging audiences, and balancing content with engagement. Tucker's signature story about a young poet named Robert highlights the importance of reinvention and maintaining excellence in a competitive landscape.

In this episode, Rand Fishkin, CEO of SparkToro, shares personal stories of failure and struggles in entrepreneurship, emphasizing the power of emotional narratives in connecting with audiences. The discussion touches on the importance of embracing controversy, having a compelling 'enemy,' and sharing authentic experiences to forge stronger connections and teach valuable lessons.

Best-selling author and content marketing pioneer, Ann Handley, shares her process of becoming a world-class storyteller by noticing everyday moments. She discusses dissecting a signature story, connecting with the audience on a personal level, and the impact of infusing personal touch in storytelling. The podcast emphasizes the value of quality over quantity in content creation and the importance of becoming a notice to create powerful work.