The Storytelling Lab

"The drugs we've accepted in society—alcohol, nicotine, caffeine—were chosen for productivity, not well-being." — Paul AustinWhat if the stories we’ve been told about psychedelics were wrong? In this episode, Rain Bennett sits down with Paul Austin, founder of Third Wave and Psychedelic Coaching Institute, to explore how microdosing and intentional psychedelic use are helping people heal, focus, connect, and live more purposeful lives. With a background in education and entrepreneurship, Paul has spent the last decade helping reframe the narrative around substances like psilocybin and LSD—not as dangerous drugs, but as ancient tools being rediscovered for modern growth.They discuss the data behind microdosing, the role of psychedelics in mental health and creativity, and how narrative shifts in culture require patience, education, and empathy. You’ll also learn how this resurgence intersects with storytelling, business innovation, community building, and AI—and why those looking to find their voice, their path, or their tribe might want to look a little deeper. Whether you’re skeptical or curious, this conversation will open your mind to the potential of storytelling on a molecular level.In this episode, you will learn to:Understand how to reshape public perception by aligning your message with your audience’s pain points and using stories that connect rather than confront.Recognize psychedelics not as escapes, but as tools for transformation—especially in emotional, mental, and professional transitions.Explore how microdosing supports clarity, creativity, and behavioral change without overwhelming your daily routine.Challenge cultural narratives through storytelling by reframing long-held beliefs with nuance, data, and empathy.Draw connections between community, consciousness, and creativity, and see how shared experiences (not solo journeys) are driving a new paradigm of wellness and leadership. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jennifer Tiexiera, co-director of 'Speak', and her fellow filmmakers explore the art of storytelling. They delve into the collaborative process behind their documentary, showing how teamwork can enhance creative vision. Esther Oyetunji shares her journey as a speaker, emphasizing techniques to inspire audience connection. Ned Phillips discusses capturing cultural narratives in 'The Last Partera', spotlighting the challenges faced over eight years. Together, they highlight the transformative power of storytelling and the importance of nurturing young voices in the industry.

In this engaging discussion, Keenya Kelly, a content strategist and social media expert with over 500,000 TikTok followers, shares her journey from network marketing to becoming a top-tier brand builder. She emphasizes the importance of platform diversification and transforming viral content into real conversions. Keenya also addresses the risks of burnout in content creation and offers practical strategies for overcoming it, while advocating for an entrepreneurial mindset. Her insights are valuable for anyone looking to thrive in the ever-evolving digital landscape.

Discover the simple yet powerful 8-step Story Spine that has shaped classics like Toy Story and Finding Nemo. Explore how this structure, created in an improv class, helps storytellers craft emotionally impactful narratives. Uncover the importance of the inciting incident and climax in engaging audiences, and learn how to apply these principles to your own writing. Delve into iconic films to see how basic frameworks underpin their success, turning storytelling into an art form accessible to everyone.

Cyndi Zaweski, a storytelling expert and journalist turned marketing guru, shares her insights on building an authentic community around your brand. She emphasizes the need for deep connections over mere follower counts, highlighting storytelling as a powerful tool for engagement. Cyndi discusses her journey from burnout to aligning her brand with her passions, offering strategies to create content that resonates emotionally. She also explores effective storytelling techniques on social media, providing practical tips for solopreneurs and artists.

Discover the storytelling secrets of South Park's creators! Uncover the 'But, Therefore' model that ensures your story events are tightly linked for maximum engagement. Learn to avoid the common 'And then...' trap and create compelling narratives with clear cause-and-effect connections. With examples from popular films and personal stories, you’ll be inspired to reshape your storytelling craft. Dive into techniques that captivate your audience and keep them on the edge of their seats!

J.R. Martinez, a best-selling author, keynote speaker, and actor, shares his powerful journey of resilience after a military injury. He emphasizes the importance of embracing vulnerability and the profound impact of storytelling for emotional healing. Martinez highlights how personal challenges can become opportunities for growth, drawing on experiences from his life. With insights on mindfulness and the significance of human connection, he inspires listeners to turn their pain into purpose through shared narratives.

Kurt Vonnegut, a legendary author known for his innovative storytelling, shares his famous "Eight Shapes of Stories" theory, revealing how narrative structures mirror real-life experiences. He discusses the emotional arcs that resonate with audiences, emphasizing the balance of fortune and misfortune in storytelling. Listeners learn how these shapes can help navigate personal challenges and appreciate their own life stories. The conversation dives into the impact of storytelling on various fields, including marketing and the evolving role of AI in analyzing narratives.

Rodes Phire, an independent filmmaker and wellness coach known for her acclaimed film Farewelling, shares her insights on crafting impactful stories with limited resources. She discusses the power of simplicity and authenticity in filmmaking, emphasizing the emotional connections that elevate narratives. Rodes also reflects on the unique challenges of balancing multiple roles, how real-life experiences shape creative storytelling, and the evolving landscape of indie filmmaking in the age of technology. Her passion for genuine storytelling inspires aspiring creators everywhere.

Dive into the magic of emotional storytelling as the host examines six resonant arcs discovered through AI research. Explore how classic narratives like 'Cinderella' and 'Great Expectations' captivate audiences with their rise-fall dynamics. Learn to leverage these emotional shapes to enhance your own storytelling, making it more impactful and relatable. With personal anecdotes and examples from iconic films, discover how to forge deeper connections with your audience while crafting unforgettable narratives.