Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast storyOS

In this illuminating conversation, host Harris III sits down with Jason Locy, founder of Five Stone agency and author of "Culture Bending Narratives," to explore the crucial distinction between storytelling and narrative in business and culture. Together, they unpack how organizations can move beyond simple storytelling to harness the transformative power of narrative to create meaningful change in the world. You'll learn:

• The fundamental difference between stories and narratives, and why focusing solely on storytelling might be limiting your organization's impact
• What makes an organization "culture-bending" through the three key characteristics: imaginative, interconnected, and generative
• How to identify and challenge the dominant narratives that shape business decisions and organizational behavior
• Why transcendence matters in business and marketing, and how to create narratives that inspire positive cultural change

Whether you're leading a large organization or building your own brand, this episode offers valuable insights into how deeper narrative work can transform not just how you communicate, but how you think about and structure your entire organization.

LINKS:

• Jason Locy
• Istoria Collective

Join host Harris and Sarah Selecky, founder of Sarah Selecky Writing School, as they explore how embracing childlike curiosity and creative influences can transform your writing practice. In this final installment of their four-part series, Sarah shares profound insights about reconnecting with wonder and discovering inspiration in unexpected places. You'll learn:

• How observing a child's genuine curiosity can lead to a breakthrough in your creative process
• The concept of "writing under the influence" and how to intentionally learn from other writers
• Practical tips for maintaining an influence journal to track your creative inspiration
• Alternative storytelling structures beyond the traditional three-act format

Whether you're a writer or simply someone interested in living more creatively, this episode offers valuable perspectives on approaching your work with renewed wonder and openness to influence.

LINKS: 

• Sarah Selecky
• Sarah Selecky Writing School
• Pre Order Story Is A State Of Mind
• Istoria Collective

Writer and teacher Sarah Selecky explores the vital role of white space in creativity and life in this illuminating episode. Drawing from her experience as a Gen X creator straddling pre and post-social media worlds, she shares how intentional spaces away from digital noise can transform both our creative process and daily living. Sarah shares her personal experiment of taking a year-long social media hiatus while running an online business, demonstrating how reducing digital noise doesn't necessarily impact business growth. You'll learn:

• How white space isn't just absence of activity - it's where processing, growth, and authentic creation happen
• That most people encounter 4,000-10,000 messages daily, making intentional white space more crucial than ever
• Small changes can create significant shifts in attention and creativity
• Social media and digital platforms are designed to hijack attention through endless scrolling and engagement tactics

This episode offers particular value for writers, creators, and anyone seeking to cultivate more meaningful engagement with their work and life, showing how white space can be the key to unlocking both creativity and personal growth in our hyper-connected world. Join us for a conversation that delves into practical strategies for reclaiming attention and creating space for deeper wisdom to emerge.

LINKS:

• Sarah Selecky
• STORY 2025

In this illuminating conversation with Sarah Selecky, dive into the transformative power of embracing both childlike wonder and conscious influence in your creative work. Through a heartwarming story about a two-year-old's visit to her home, Sarah reveals how returning to a state of pure curiosity can revolutionize your creative process. In this episode, you'll learn:

• How to recapture the genuine curiosity and wonder of childhood in your creative work
• The power of keeping an "influence journal" and why tracking your influences matters
• Why acknowledging inspiration from others strengthens rather than diminishes your work
• Practical ways to integrate both childlike wonder and conscious influence into your creative practice

Tune in to learn why the harmonization of elements can be as powerful as conflict resolution in storytelling. You'll discover why acknowledging your influences strengthens rather than weakens your work, and learn about a fascinating alternative to Western storytelling structure that could transform how you approach narrative creation.

LINKS:

• Sarah Selecky
• Preorder Story is a State of Mind

Tune in to hear an intimate conversation with Sarah Selecky about the transformative power of writing and storytelling as host Harris III sits down with Selecky to explore why some stories feel transactional while others touch our souls. In this episode, you'll learn:

• How to recognize when a story needs to be written versus when you're forcing it
• Why personal development and creative expression are inherently linked
• How to approach writing as a sacred practice rather than just a business tool
• The importance of listening to your unconscious mind in the creative process

You'll also learn about the difference between writing for the market versus writing from inner necessity, discover how stories can actually write us, and understand why the creative process is as much about personal growth as it is about the final product. Whether you're an aspiring writer or simply someone who appreciates the craft of storytelling, this episode offers fresh insights into the magical relationship between creator and creation.

LINKS

1. Sarah Selecky
2. Istoria Collective

In this final episode with the Istoria team, you'll explore the evolution of storytelling in our digital age, focusing on its role in social media and brand communication. There is a shift from wanting curated, polished content to authenticity in social media - but this brings the challenge of balancing genuine storytelling with the pressures of social media influence. You'll learn:

• How social media has contributed to storytelling becoming a buzzword
• Why stories are vessels for meaning, not just tools for growth or manipulation
• How to approach storytelling with integrity in both personal and professional contexts
• The importance of having a clear point of view and using stories to convey meaningful messages

Whether you're a content creator, marketer, or simply interested in the power of storytelling, this episode offers valuable insights on navigating the complex landscape of digital narratives and maintaining authenticity in an era of influencers and buzzwords.

LINKS:

1. Istoria Collective
2. Story 2025

Join Harris and two members from the Istoria team, Angie Kline and Ben Stewart, as they continue to unpack the reasons behind storytelling's buzzword status and its enduring application in our digital age. In this engaging discussion, you'll explore:

• The unexpected ways storytelling manifests in our daily lives, from personal relationships to parenting
• How narrative techniques can transform complex business concepts into accessible ideas
• The evolution of emotional intelligence across generations and its impact on storytelling
• The paradox of increased connectivity and rising loneliness in the digital era
• Practical strategies for leveraging storytelling to foster genuine human connections

This episode challenges conventional thinking about storytelling, revealing its broad applicability beyond marketing and business. Whether you're a seasoned storyteller or new to the concept, you'll gain fresh perspectives on how narrative shapes our world and influences our interactions. Discover why storytelling isn't just a trend, but a fundamental aspect of human experience that's more crucial than ever in our technology-driven society.

In this episode, join Harris III and Istoria team members Ben Stewart and Angie Kline as they dive deep into the world of storytelling in business, and how the team applies it to the work they do on a daily basis. The team talks about why storytelling has become a buzzword and whether it's still relevant, as well as the difference between superficial storytelling and authentic brand narratives. You'll hear:

• How Disney uses storytelling to create magical experiences for guests
• Why every interaction, from marketing emails to customer service, tells a story
• How nonprofits can use storytelling effectively without exploiting their causes
• The importance of connecting through stories before focusing on conversions

If you're a marketing professional, business owner, or simply curious about the power of storytelling, this episode offers valuable insights into how stories shape our perceptions, influence behavior, and build lasting connections. Discover why storytelling isn't just a trend, but an essential skill for anyone looking to make an impact in today's business world.

In this inspiring episode, you'll get a unique glimpse into the world of creative leadership through the eyes of siblings Samantha and Aaron Edwards, co-founders of the Charles Group. You'll learn:

• The challenges and benefits of combining family dynamics with professional leadership
• Strategies for bridging the gap between creative and business mindsets
• How to create space for creativity in leadership and vice versa
• The importance of transparency and caring leadership in building a strong team culture
• Insights on their innovative "Family First" initiative and its impact on their company

This episode offers valuable lessons on fostering collaboration, communication, and mutual respect in creative enterprises, whether you're a creative professional, a business leader, or an entrepreneur wearing both hats. Discover how the Edwards siblings have turned potential conflicts into strengths, creating a thriving agency that values both creativity and effective leadership.

In this final interview, Shane McKenzie dives deep into the often misunderstood concept of accountability in leadership. Both seasoned leaders or those simply interested in personal development will benefit from this episode. Listen as Harris III and Shane bring fresh perspective on leadership that can transform your approach to work and life. You'll learn:

• How accountability isn't about punishing mistakes, but a powerful tool for personal and organizational growth
• The importance of setting and modeling standards as a leader
• The crucial difference between being accountable to others versus being accountable for them
• Practical strategies for creating a culture of respect and influence, rather than manipulation

Join Harris III and Shane McKenzie as they close out this conversation, and share honest reflections on common leadership struggles and offer valuable insights to overcome them.

LINKS:

1. Leadership Cohort with Shane McKenzie
2. Istoria Collective

In this episode, Harris III and executive coach Shane McKenzie dive deeper into the critical role of communication in leadership. 70% of conversations are characterized by misunderstanding and misconception; Shane talks about practical strategies for providing clear expectations and direction. You'll also learn:

• The five most important questions every team member is silently asking
• How to shift from judgment to curiosity in your leadership approach
• The importance of tapping into individual motivation when setting expectations
• How to use curiosity to elevate your team's thinking and problem-solving skills

Whether you're an experienced leader or a new manager, this episode offers practical tools to enhance your communication skills and leadership effectiveness. Shane's insights on curiosity-driven leadership can help you create a more motivated, innovative, and productive work environment. By applying these principles, you'll be better equipped to navigate the complex landscape of team dynamics and drive meaningful results in your organization.

In this insightful episode, join Harris III and executive coach Shane McKenzie as they dive deep into the challenges of leadership and team development. Shane drives home the point of why people are the solution, not the problem, in any organization. You'll learn more about:

• The crucial difference between equipping and developing team members
• How to overcome the fear of becoming "unnecessary" as your team grows
• Strategies for elevating your team's decision-making and problem-solving skills
• Practical techniques for empowering your team without losing control

Expanding your vision is key to embracing true leadership; whether you're a seasoned leader or an aspiring entrepreneur, this episode offers valuable insights on moving beyond micromanagement to create a thriving, self-sufficient team. Shane's framework provides a fresh perspective on leadership that can help you unlock your team's potential and drive your organization forward.

LINKS:

• Leadership Cohort with Shane McKenzie
• Istoria Collective

In this candid and insightful episode, you'll hear from executive coach Shane McKenzie as he shares his personal journey and hard-earned wisdom about leadership. You'll learn:

• Why leadership is often misunderstood and how to reframe your perspective on it
• The sacrifices required for effective leadership and why many shy away from them
• How personal narratives and past experiences shape our views on leadership
• The importance of empathy and self-awareness in leadership roles
• How to start changing organizational culture by focusing on your own growth first

Shane offers practical advice for navigating leadership challenges at any level of an organization. Whether you're an aspiring leader, a seasoned executive, or someone who's skeptical about leadership, this episode offers a refreshingly honest look at what it really means to lead. Shane's personal anecdotes and lessons learned provide valuable insights that can help you become a more effective influencer and change-maker in your sphere of influence.

In this thought-provoking episode, you'll hear from executive coach Shane McKenzie as he challenges common perceptions about leadership and accountability. Shane presents a fresh perspective on handling team dynamics, particularly when people fail to meet expectations. Shane helps us reframe accountability as a conversation rather than a punishment, and provides practical steps for having effective accountability conversations. You'll also learn:

• Why people are not the problem, but the solution
• The importance of leaders modeling accountability themselves
• Insights into the current leadership crisis and how to address it
• Ways to maintain healthy relationships while being candid about performance issues

Whether you're a seasoned leader or an aspiring one, this episode offers valuable insights on fostering a culture of accountability and growth within your team or organization. Shane's approach encourages curiosity, empathy, and proactive leadership, providing you with tools to navigate challenging situations and drive better outcomes.

Ken Black is the former VP of Design Future at Nike and a creative powerhouse in the world of sports and design. In this inspiring episode, Ken shares his wealth of experience and insights on leadership, creativity, and standing out in a crowded field. You'll learn the importance of having a clear vision, not getting bogged down in the "how" too early, and why authenticity is crucial in leadership. 

Additionally, Ken will challenge you on:

• How to lead from the center of who you are
• The value of "building in public" and articulating your vision to attract help and support
• How to balance organizational goals with your unique leadership style
• Lessons from the Chicago Bulls on teamwork and individual authenticity
• The concept of "don't bring sand to the beach" and how to be distinctive in your field

Whether you're a leader in a large organization, an entrepreneur, or a creative professional, this episode offers valuable perspectives on making your mark and leading with authenticity.

LINKS:

1. Story Salons
2. Istoria Collective

In this powerful second part of our series with Michelle Hord, you'll dive deeper into her extraordinary journey of resilience and leadership. Listen as Michelle shares intimate details about overcoming personal tragedy and transforming her pain into purpose. This conversation brings insight on:

• The meaning behind "The Other Side of Yet" and choosing hope over fear
• How storytelling and journaling can be powerful tools for healing and growth
• Bridging the gap between creative and corporate worlds in professional settings
• Strategies for finding common ground and fostering collaboration in diverse teams
• Practical advice for navigating creative challenges and budget constraints
• The importance of resilience and adaptability in leadership

This episode offers a unique blend of personal story and professional wisdom, providing inspiration and practical takeaways for anyone looking to enhance their leadership skills, overcome adversity, or bridge divides in their workplace.

Links:

1. Gabrielle's Wings
2. Michelle Hord
3. Story Salons

In this inspiring episode, we hear from Michelle Hord, a former NBC Universal executive and bestselling author, as she shares her powerful insights on creativity, leadership, and resilience. Listen as Michelle recounts her journey from television producer to corporate leader, and learn how she discovered the importance of bridging the gap between creative and corporate worlds. You'll gain valuable perspective on:

• The power of storytelling in all aspects of business
• How to foster a growth mindset and encourage creativity in leadership
• The connection between creativity and resilience in facing life's challenges
• The importance of embracing possibility and vulnerability in leadership

Michelle also touches on her personal story of tragedy and resilience, offering a glimpse into how she used creativity to rebuild her life. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to enhance their leadership skills, foster resilience, and embrace creativity in their personal and professional lives.

Links:

1. Story Salons
2. Michelle Hord

Countless myths, books, movies, and even leadership principles have been built using the hero's journey model. But what if today's complex problems demand a new approach? Listen in as John Bucher introduces the concept of the collective hero's journey, offering a fresh perspective on leadership and storytelling for our interconnected world.

You'll learn:

• Why the traditional individual hero's journey model may be limiting in today's world
• How to shift your mindset from solo heroism to collective leadership
• Ways to identify your unique role within a larger team or movement
• Strategies for navigating group dynamics and avoiding blame in collective efforts
• How to balance personal growth with collective achievement

John Bucher is a renowned mythologist and story expert who has been featured on the BBC, the History Channel, the LA Times, and on numerous other international outlets. He serves as Executive Director for the Joseph Campbell Foundation and is a writer, podcaster, storyteller, and speaker. Holding a PhD in Mythology & Depth Psychology, he integrates scholarly insights with practical storytelling techniques, exploring the profound connections between myth, culture, and personal identity.
 
Whether you're a leader, creative professional, or someone passionate about making a difference, this episode will equip you with a fresh perspective on leadership and storytelling. By embracing the collective hero's journey, you'll be better prepared to tackle the complex challenges of our time and inspire others to join you in creating meaningful change.

Resources and links:

• Telling a Better Story Website
• Story Salons

Increasing your narrative intelligence gives you the power to reshape your personal story, improve your relationships, and become a more effective leader and communicator. In this final episode of our four-part series with Michael McRay, we're digging into practical ways you can apply narrative intelligence in your daily life.

Throughout the conversation, we'll explore practical exercises to enhance your narrative intelligence, how you can use story structures as tools for self-awareness, and the connection between vulnerability, authenticity, and effective storytelling. We'll also share how to identify and reframe limiting personal narratives, along with resources and tools to continue developing your narrative intelligence.

By applying these insights, you'll be better equipped to navigate challenges, inspire others, and create meaningful change in your life and work. Whether you're a leader looking to motivate your team, a creative professional aiming to produce more impactful work, or someone seeking personal growth, this episode offers concrete strategies to help you harness the transformative power of story in all aspects of your life.

Links and Resources:

1. Becoming Restoried
2. Leadership Story Deck
3. The Storytelling Leader Online
4. John Bucher Books
5. Wisdom of Wow
6. Story Salons

Join Harris III and Michael McRay as they delve deeper into the power of narrative intelligence and its connection to wonder, curiosity, and imagination. You'll discover how these elements work together to shape our perception of reality and influence our ability to rewrite the stories that guide our lives.

Throughout the conversation, you'll learn:

• How wonder and curiosity act as catalysts for expanding our narrative intelligence
• The role of imagination in problem-solving and personal growth
• Practical strategies for cultivating a more open and flexible mindset
• How to leverage narrative intelligence in leadership, parenting, and conflict resolution
• The impact of awe-inducing experiences on our ability to embrace new narratives

Whether you're a leader looking to inspire change, a parent seeking to nurture your child's imagination, or simply someone interested in personal growth, this episode offers valuable insights on how to harness the power of story to transform your life and the world around you.

Links:

1. STORY Website
2. The Storytelling Leader Online

Explore how a greater understanding of narrative intelligence can help you approach challenges in your personal life, your relationships, and even on a global scale.

In this second part of our discussion with Michael McRay, we dive deeper into the idea that every problem is fundamentally a story problem. Discover the power of acknowledging the existing narratives that shape our beliefs and drive our behavior, and how this awareness is crucial for effective communication, leadership, and problem-solving. 

Learn how to identify the story problems in your own life and work, and how to begin the process of rewriting your limiting narratives while honoring the impact of past experiences. You'll also be introduced to a simple framework for understanding the narrative structure of problems.

Whether you're a leader looking to inspire change, a creative seeking to tell more impactful stories, or simply someone who wants to develop a greater understanding of the role narrative plays in shaping our world, this episode will provide you with valuable insights and practical strategies for leveraging narrative intelligence to create positive transformation.

Are you aware of the narratives that shape your everyday life? Special guest Michael McRay joins Harris III to dive deep into the concept of narrative intelligence and the fundamental role that storytelling plays in the human experience. 

Explore why story is best understood as the operating system (OS) of the human brain, and how the stories we tell ourselves shape our beliefs, drive our behavior, and ultimately influence every aspect of our lives. Learn about the difference between narrative and story, and discover how storytelling has been leveraged in marketing, politics, and religion to influence and connect with people on a profound level.

Learn to increase your narrative intelligence, and you'll gain more agency over your stories, rewrite your limiting beliefs, and become a better leader and communicator in your personal and professional life.

Whether you're a creative looking to tell more impactful stories, a leader seeking to inspire and influence others, or simply someone who wants to better understand the power of narrative in your own life, this episode is a must-listen. Get ready to awaken to the power of story and embark on a journey towards greater narrative intelligence.

In a time when information is abundant yet comprehension is scarce, it's more important than ever to understand how our brains work and why. That's why we're so excited to introduce you to the next evolution of the STORY podcast: storyOS.

This season, we'll be diving deeper than ever into narrative intelligence and the framework our brains use to understand stories. You'll learn how to leverage the power of story to craft compelling narratives, build community, and create lasting change.

As we close out this season of the STORY Podcast, we are also closing out this chapter of STORY Conference. Over the last seven years, this conference has touched thousands of lives and changed the landscape of storytelling. On this episode, we sit down with members of the STORY team to discuss favorite memories from STORY Conferences past. Listen in and come trip down memory lane with us!

If you have a favorite STORY memory, we’d love to hear it! Send us a note at harris@storygaterings.com

With our thriving community of writers of all types, we wanted to highlight this breakout from STORY 2022 with our friends, David Goetz and Melissa Parks from Journey Sixty6. Journey Sixty6 helps coach and guide their community through things such as manuscript review, writing coaching, and what to do with your manuscript as you edit and get it prepped for publishing or review. Writing can be an isolating experience, and Journey Sixty6 has positioned themselves to be the community for those in that gap between wanting to write and publishing. 

 

Even if you’re thinking, “I’m not writing a book, or even a writer at all”, still listen in because you never know what the future holds as you continue on your creative journey! To learn more about David and Melissa and what they’re doing through Journey Sixty6, check them out at JourneySixty6.com 

On this episode, we feature two incredible conversations — the first from the STORY stage with Chris Wall and Andrew Peterson of the Wingfeather Saga series, and the second is a post-STORY sit-down with Angel Studios. These two have created not just an incredible series for families, but they went about it in a unique way that can be an inspiration to get you to start thinking about and implementing the way you approach the work you do in brand new ways. Listen in!

 

Learn more about The Wingfeather Saga’s upcoming release at WingfeatherSaga.com. If you’re curious to learn more about the innovative stuff that Angel Studios is up to, check them out at and Angel.com.

On this episode, we hear from the incredible folks from The Random Acts of Kindness Foundation. Many of you heard about the heart and soul behind why and how they do what they do from the mainstage at STORY, but in this episode, we also share ways YOU can be part of impacting the world around you by helping to make kindness the norm. Listen in!

 

To apply for the Random Acts of Kindness Foundation Creative Grant mentioned in this episode, click here! Deadline for submission is November 18, 2022.

In this episode, we take one more trip to Neverland via a virtual STORY Town Hall to debrief the STORY 2022 conference and allow our STORY community to ask all their post-STORY 2022 questions. Think of this as an expanded version of the Behind-the-Scenes Breakout Experience at the event. We put a massive amount of focus and energy on creating an intentional experience every year at STORY from the ground up, and in this episode, we talk about how STORY is not just a theme slapped on posters and websites. We share about our process and how we think long and hard about how we want everything to flow, feel, and communicate, taking you on a journey that hopefully leaves you feeling inspired and able to ask bigger questions about what’s possible. And if that means putting a mermaid in the fountain in downtown Nashville, that means we get that mermaid. Listen in!

In case you missed the news, we’ve been listening to the heartbeat of culture all around us, having deep conversations with leaders within our community, and staying curious about the future. For all these reasons, we’ve decided as a team to move away from large events filled with hundreds or thousands of people, for at least a season, to enable us to focus on other new and exciting ways of serving storytellers and the work you do. Listen to this announcement to learn more about the future of STORY.

We continue to explore the Revolutionary Storytelling Type. Revolutionaries are a powerful group of individuals that are on the cusp of almost all change and are constantly rewriting and shifting narratives through their work. The work that Revolutionaries do is the reason that many of us tell stories. We desire change. Disruption. Something better. 

 

In this episode, we pick up for part 2 of our Round Table discussion with John Bucher and Jason Jaggard. One thing John said on this Round Table that is worth highlighting is, “I refuse to live in a world where this does NOT exist, and I will move heaven and earth until it exists.” It is that passion that makes the Revolutionary so powerful. Listen in to hear more about what he can’t live in a world without. 

John Bucher and Jason Jaggard are incredible Revolutionaries, a type of storyteller who is drawn to leverage the power of story to positively change the future. They press into the world around them to be everything they were meant to be, whether that’s through publishing, deep critical thinking, guiding others to their max potential through coaching, and so much more. Listen in on part one of a conversation about how revolutionaries begin with the stories they tell themselves, and how you can do the same.

As we dive into part 2 of our Round Table conversation with Kevin Carroll and Louis Richardson around the connector, if you haven’t listened to part 1 yet, go back and listen to episode 13 so that you have context around the continuation of this incredibly deep and rich conversation around what it means to be a Connector. On this episode, Kevin and Louis both share great insights into their purpose and focus as Connectors and the power of seeking connection not titles. It is these simple vantage points that can really help give you a picture of what it means at the heart of Connection.

On this episode we continue to dive into the Connector Storytelling Type with two of our favorite Connectors, Lewis Richardson and Kevin Carroll. This interview, pulled from one of our STORY Round Table events, dives into how to leverage our stories as a tool for connection. Those we come into contact with are more receptive to our presence and we can learn so much from everyone if we’re more curious. When we engage with people where they’re at, asking what we can do for them or how we can better serve them, connection is organic. Listen in to learn more about how story and connection go hand in hand. 

As we continue to unpack the Connector Storytelling Type, we would be remiss to not include one of our favorite Connectors…Mr. Brad Montague. If you’ve been around the STORY community for a while, you are very familiar with his genus. Brad is an incredible creator and storyteller who approaches all of his work with a vision for making the world a better place. Whether it’s through his book, Being Better Grown-ups, his wildly successful Kid President video series, or his critically acclaimed children’s book, The Circles All Around Us, Brad’s passion for guiding people together is deep and compelling. We dug back into the archives, and found this talk from STORY 2018 because as timely as this talk about the future was back in 2018, it's still applicable - possibly even more so - in 2022. There are so many unknowns, uncertainties, disconnections, and fears swirling around these days, but  despite the crushing weight of all these uncertainties, there is still hope because we choose to remember it exists. Listen in.

Over the past couple of months, you’ve heard us talking about the 5 Storyteller Types: Amplifier, Artisan, Investigator, Connector and Revolutionary.  If you’re not familiar with these types, or yours for that matter, head over to storygathering.com and take our quick assessment. These “types” help you identify the core motivations behind how and why you tell stories and create the way you do. 

 

On today’s episode, we are kicking off a new focus to the Connector type. It’s likely that when you hear the word Connector, a specific type of person comes to mind because Connectors are experts at just that: Connecting. Skilled at speaking to others, Connectors are compelling and live compassionate and leadership-driven lives. With a clear balance between their head and their heart, they are magnets for people who want to feel seen and known. To start off this new focus, we’re listening to one of the best, most enthusiastic Connectors we know, Mr. Kevin Carroll. Formerly from Nike, Kevin has an incredible ability to cultivate and curate a positive awe state so that you, and those around you, can get back to wonder in order to create tangible impact. Incredible things take place when this happens. So how do you do it? Listen as Kevin shares inside this episode. 

Last week, we were listening in on the Round Table conversation that I had with David Paull and Kristina Henkai about the Investigator. David talked about behavioral storytelling, breaking it down into the practical RESPCT framework. On this episode, we pick back up with the second half of the conversation and dive into the necessary practice of continually asking yourself  “but why” within your business. 

In my own business practices, this question is something we’re constantly asking and digging deeper on so that as we push out content, write copy, create events, or help clients, we’re operating from a deep understanding of what’s needed and why it matters. 

Listen in on how you can implement this right away to see results and gain clarity and traction in your own business.

As we continue to unpack the Investigator Storytelling Type, we pull from our latest STORY Round Table conversation with David Paull and Kristina Henkai. In this episode, we hear David share the way he approaches his work utilizing a framework he dubs Behavioral Storytelling. What he shares on this episode is so practical and applicable to every storytelling type and has been an important litmus test for everything we do at STORY. This episode is for more than just the Investigators, and for this reason we always encourage you to listen in on each of the types because it’s a great way to figure out where the holes or gaps exist in what you’re doing.

In this episode, we officially kick off our next type, the Investigator. Investigators are an integral part of the storytelling process because they provide the data, research, and facts that help give stories the depth and roots necessary for momentum to be achieved. Though they are anchored in analytics and statistics, which is how they find the truths to their work, they are also logical, innovative, adaptable, calculated, and always in pursuit of truth. One such Investigator that I have learned so much from over the years is David Paull. Combining storytelling and behavioral science, David is the co-founder and CEO of Lillian Labs, a messaging and research consultancy that helps craft, test, and refine stories and content. A few years back, I sat down with David to break down just what his job entails, and why it matters in the context of storytelling, and let me just say, it was such a brilliant and thoughtful way of understanding not just stories as we know them, but why they have the impact they have on a waiting world.

In this episode, we pulled a clip from our recent Artisan STORY Round Table conversation with none other than our friend, Morgan Harper Nichols. Morgan is a well known artist, poet, and musician and you’ve probably seen her work pinned somewhere on Pinterest, re-posted all over Instagram, or maybe in Target, Anthropologie, Crate and Barrel. This episode is powerful because Morgan shares how she world through her art and reminds us how “trends will comakes sense of her me and go, but people will always be human.” We can chase the latest and greatest fads in our industries, but the stories that we tell are meant to hit deeper than that, because the aptly called, “human condition” doesn’t change. This episode just might be the gut-check you need for yourself.

As we continue our conversation around the Storytelling type, the Artisan, this episode features our friend, wildly talented Nashville fine artist, Ed Nash, alongside our mutual friend, acclaimed photographer, Allen Clark. You’ll hear Ed as he discusses not only HIS connection to the world around him, but to what he’s creating and the story he hopes it tells, but how it’s interpreted by those that experience it. If you haven’t already taken our Storyteller Type Assessment, please do it, it’s quick, and it will help you follow along on these conversations regardless of which type you are, because learning about different types will help you leverage and understand the skills that they bring to the table like you never expected. 

We are moving on to the next Storyteller Type in our 5 part series, and this one is the Artisan. Many in the STORY community will identify as Artisans because they are deeply passionate about their art and the story it tells those who view or interact with it. From paint on canvas, to carefully crafted lines in poetry, to movement of bodies through dance, to notes that seem to float off of sheet music, Artisans use a variety of mediums to intertwine their heart and message. 

This is exactly why we wanted to kick off the Artisan series with Academy Award Winning costume designer, Ruth Carter. She has dreamt up the way her costumes and designs guide and deepen the stories of those that wear them. Her work has been featured in movies such as Selma, Malcolm X, and Black Panther to name a few, and she is not only brilliant, but deeply connected to the way that costumes tell stories of their own. Don’t miss this conversation, and all the wisdom shared that you can apply to the stories you tell, regardless of the way you create.

Are you thinking big enough when it comes to your power? At the heart of being an Amplifier and storyteller, is a desire to chase and hope for impact. Something that moves the needle and creates solutions for the future. As we wrap up the Amplifier portion of this storytelling series, listen as Ben Von Wong explains how he uses a focus on solutions to create change vs. a sole focus on the problem that will make you want to get up and DO for all the right reasons.

Story's greatest power is not in its ability to simply convert, but its ability to connect. If you want to play the long game you must lead with connection first. But for a change-maker who wants to make a bigger difference faster, that can be a little bit complicated. It can be difficult to be patient with the long-term value journey when the cause that you are trying to amplify needs attention now. In this episode, we dip into the archives of a recent Round Table conversation with Ben Stewart, co-founder of Louder Agency, Brand Messaging Strategist and Copywriter, Janelle Traister, as well as Artist and Activist and longtime friend of the STORY Community, Benjamin Von Wong. Listen in as they discuss the tension that often comes from honoring your values in the process of amplifying stories worth telling.

As we continue to dive into the storytelling type we call, "The Amplifier,” in this episode we dip into our archives to learn from AJ Hassan. If you aren’t familiar with AJ, you probably are familiar with her work. She is the Emmy Award-winning Executive Creative Director behind the widely recognized #LikeAGirl campaign that challenged gender bias and captured over 150 million views worldwide. A perfect example of an Amplifier, AJ has built an award-winning career on tackling and bringing to light tough topics without fear. A believer that everyone’s story deserves, and must, be told, AJ leverages her role as an advertiser to push the ball of change down the hill, all while compelling people around the world to join. Don’t miss her wisdom in this episode of the STORY Podcast.

What happens if your story doesn't get heard? What if your message doesn't resonate, and falls flat or you don't get the sale?    In this episode, jump into the storytelling type we call, "The Amplifier." We do so by dipping into the STORY archives and listening in on some wisdom from a talk from Ben Stewart, co-founder of Louder Agency. You'll be reminded of story's greatest power, and how to amplify your stories so they connect with others, change hearts and minds and help you achieve your storytelling goals.

After a little break from the podcast, the STORY team is back with an incredible new series of episodes focused on helping you better understand who you are as a storyteller and how to equip yourself to better tell stories that matter. Over the next 6 months, we're going equip you to level up your storytelling skillset and inspire you along the way. Welcome to season 6!

You may have heard the story about how the Chinese word for “crisis” can be represented as “opportunity.” As it turns out, that’s not quite accurate. The word is more like “a crucial point” — the moment right before a big change.

There’s still a lesson there for us, but it’s a pretty nuanced one, and that’s something John Bucher understands well. John is the Creative Director for the Joseph Campbell Foundation in Hollywood, who understand the ideas of story and myth about as well as anyone.

Take a listen to John’s talk from the STORY 2020 stage as he explores the concept of embracing these crucial points in the midst of dark moments.

One cause of writer’s block isn’t that we run out of ideas, it’s a fear that the ideas we do have are bad ones. We don’t want to keep writing, keep painting, keep creating — whatever it is — because we’ve got a feeling that the next steps just aren’t very good and we’d rather not create at all than create something that sucks. 

Seth Worley knows that fear. He’s a writer and director who’s done videos for Bad Robot Sandwich Video and Red Giant, where he’s the senior content creator. He’s also helped create some really great tools for writers like the Storyclock Workbook. He says that the key to getting around making bad art is just to go ahead and make bad art and explains why the secret to making good art is making bad art. Take a listen.

We don’t like to talk about disappointment in the creative field is. Creativity is a risk and risks, by their very nature, have a pretty high rate of failure. Those stories don’t get told very much, for obvious reasons. But by not telling those stories, we reinforce this idea that unless you’re hitting success after success, you’re a total failure and should give up.

Take a listen to Cress Williams from the 2020 STORY Stage. Cress is an actor, known for his roles on Black Lightning, Hart of Dixie, and Prison Break.

Something you hear our last year described as a lot is a “dark time” or a “dark season.” Getting to the end of all that was described as a “new day” or a “new morning” for us. And there’s a lot of truth to that, since so many of us lost so much in 2020. But it’s worth asking if our immediate impulses to avoid, ignore or rush through those dark times and get right to the morning is the healthiest way to deal with pain and hardship.

Last year at STORY, we asked that question, and one of our most talked about speakers, Brooke Shaden, had some really great thoughts to share. Brooke is a wonderful artist who uses her work to explore things like darkness, pain, death and decay. She wants to find beauty in those things, and hopefully help us have a better understanding of the dark and hard times in our own life. It’s an experience she’s walked through, and now she wants to help others do it too.