Explore every episode of the podcast Stories With Traction
Dive into the complete episode list for Stories With Traction. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.
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Title
Pub. Date
Duration
#185: Use Great Hooks
10 Feb 2026
00:07:00
SHOW NOTES:
In this solo episode of Stories With Traction, host Matt Zaun breaks down one of the most common mistakes even great storytellers make: they don’t spend enough time on the hook.
But this isn’t about flashy intros or attention-grabbing openers.
Matt reframes the hook as the point of change in a story, the moment that connects the message directly to the audience and moves them toward action.
#184: Story Strategy Sessions
03 Feb 2026
00:11:53
SHOW NOTES:
In this solo episode of Stories With Traction, host Matt Zaun breaks down a simple, repeatable system for using storytelling to cut through noise, inspire action, and lead more effectively (without adding hours to your calendar).
Matt introduces the 20-Minute Story Strategy Session, a practical framework leaders can use to uncover powerful stories already hidden in their subconscious and apply them directly to business processes such as staff meetings, sales conversations, and internal communication.
#175: From Despair to Data: Rebuilding a Life One Metric at a Time
02 Dec 2025
00:43:45
SHOW NOTES:
In this powerful episode, Matt Zaun talks with Natalia Zacharin, founder of Zacharin Consulting—an “accounting firm on steroids.” They unpack how fractional CFOs turn messy books into strategic insight, why AI speeds analysis but never replaces human judgment, and how Natalia rebuilt her life (and business) from $7.10/hour to a multi-million-dollar firm.
In this episode, they cover:
✅ AI in finance (the truth) — great for speed and patterns; still needs humans to classify revenue vs. loans, deposits, and edge cases
✅ A trust case study — “400 calls a month” salesperson with zero sales; the numbers exposed fabricated activity
✅ Survival tactics when you feel stuck — slash to essentials, stack small wins, and re-engage your mind so you’re not trapped in a negative loop
✅ Why founders should sell more often — being in the sales process forces you to listen and shape services people actually want
...and much more!
BIOS:
Natalia Zacharin is the founder & CEO of Zacharin Consulting, a full-service accounting firm with controller-level oversight, dedicated payroll specialists, fractional CFO services, and tax strategy. She and her team help clients improve revenue, profit, and cash clarity to build sellable companies. Zacharin Consulting grew 525% in three years (Inc. 5000) and surpassed $2M in annual revenue with a team of 12+.
Matt Zaun is an award-winning speaker and strategic storytelling expert who helps leaders inspire action and drive results through the power of story. He’s the author of The StoryBank, a practical playbook for using strategic storytelling to build culture, boost sales, strengthen marketing, and become a dynamic public speaker.
The Storytelling System
11 Aug 2023
01:03:41
Wanna…
Boost your Sales? Enhance your Marketing? ...and create a vibrant company culture?
All of that is possible through the power of Strategic Storytelling!
Check out the Stories With Traction course, where you’ll learn how to set up a storybank and utilize it to achieve your goals!
PODCAST SUMMARY: In this episode, Claire Davis and Matt Zaun talk about how they created a storytelling system and positioned it to boost sales and enhance their marketing efforts.
CLAIRE DAVIS BIO: Claire is a branding consultant that helps people write their stories. The Stories With Traction podcast wouldn’t exist if it weren't for her. Claire has been one of the most influential individuals when it comes to marketing, crafting messages, and getting stories to connect with an audience.
MATT ZAUN BIO: Matt is an award-winning speaker and storyteller who empowers organizations to attract more clients through the art of strategic storytelling. Matt’s past engagements have catalyzed radical sales increases for over 300 organizations that range from financial institutions to the health and wellness industry.
Matt shares his expertise in persuasion with executives, sales professionals, and entrepreneurs, who he coaches on the art of influence and how to leverage this for profits and impact.
MATT ZAUN BIO: Matt is an award-winning speaker and storyteller who empowers organizations to attract more clients through the art of strategic storytelling. Matt’s past engagements have catalyzed radical sales increases for over 300 organizations that range from financial institutions to the health and wellness industry.
Matt shares his expertise in persuasion with executives, sales professionals, and entrepreneurs, who he coaches on the art of influence and how to leverage this for profits and impact.
PODCAST SUMMARY: In this episode, Lori Halverson and Matt Zaun talk about the motivational level of leaders and how this can impact their company culture. In addition, they dive into the importance of keeping everyone accountable regardless of generation.
LORI HALVERSON BIO: Lori is the President of The Halverson Group and a Vistage Chair, where she helps business leaders build and live their legacy.
MATT ZAUN BIO: Matt is an award-winning speaker and storyteller who empowers organizations to attract more clients through the art of strategic storytelling. Matt’s past engagements have catalyzed radical sales increases for over 300 organizations that range from financial institutions to the health and wellness industry.
Matt shares his expertise in persuasion with executives, sales professionals, and entrepreneurs, who he coaches on the art of influence and how to leverage this for profits and impact.
SUMMARY: In this episode, Terence Farrell and Matt Zaun discuss ways leaders can get more involved in their communities and why it’s important.
TERENCE FARRELL BIO: Terence served as a Chester County Commissioner for 12 years, and before that, he was the Recorder of Deeds for 8 years. Today, he is the President of For Real Solutions, a consulting firm that brings value to its clients through leveraging Terence’s knowledge, experience, network, and creativity. Two of the major focuses for his business are on reducing healthcare costs for various organizations and mitigating loss in pension funds that occur because of fraud or other illegal activities.
MATT ZAUN BIO: Matt is an award-winning speaker and storyteller who empowers organizations to attract more clients through the art of strategic storytelling. Matt’s past engagements have catalyzed radical sales increases for over 300 organizations that range from financial institutions to the health and wellness industry.
Matt shares his expertise in persuasion with executives, sales professionals, and entrepreneurs, who he coaches on the art of influence and how to leverage this for profits and impact.
SUMMARY: In this episode, Mike Kramer and Matt Zaun talk about how business leaders can implement simple strategies that will lead to significant growth.
MIKE KRAMER BIO: Mike is the founder of ManageHub, which provides mid-market and smaller organizations leadership and coaching services. He utilizes Baldrige-based management for results.
MATT ZAUN BIO: Matt is an award-winning speaker and storyteller who empowers organizations to attract more clients through the art of strategic storytelling. Matt’s past engagements have catalyzed radical sales increases for over 300 organizations that range from financial institutions to the health and wellness industry.
Matt shares his expertise in persuasion with executives, sales professionals, and entrepreneurs, who he coaches on the art of influence and how to leverage this for profits and impact.
SUMMARY: In this episode, Chanel Cook and Matt Zaun talk about how business leaders can give back through nonprofit work.
CHANEL COOK BIO: Chanel is the Public Affairs Officer at the Erie VA Medical Center. In addition, she is an Adjunct Instructor at Mercyhurst University, where she specializes in Organizational Leadership.
MATT ZAUN BIO: Matt is an award-winning speaker and storyteller who empowers organizations to attract more clients through the art of strategic storytelling. Matt’s past engagements have catalyzed radical sales increases for over 300 organizations that range from financial institutions to the health and wellness industry.
Matt shares his expertise in persuasion with executives, sales professionals, and entrepreneurs, who he coaches on the art of influence and how to leverage this for profits and impact.
PODCAST SUMMARY: In this episode, Erik Wolf and Matt Zaun talk about the disconnect between C-suite, sales, and marketing and what can be done to change that.
ERIK WOLF BIO: Erik is the founder and CEO of estound, which is an award-winning fractional marketing department for mid-size companies.
MATT ZAUN BIO: Matt is an award-winning speaker and storyteller who empowers organizations to attract more clients through the art of strategic storytelling. Matt’s past engagements have catalyzed radical sales increases for over 300 organizations that range from financial institutions to the health and wellness industry.
Matt shares his expertise in persuasion with executives, sales professionals, and entrepreneurs, who he coaches on the art of influence and how to leverage this for profits and impact.
SUMMARY: In this episode, Terence Farrell and Matt Zaun talk about how you can get involved politically.
TERENCE FARRELL BIO: Terence served as a Chester County Commissioner for 12 years, and before that, he was the Recorder of Deeds for 8 years. Today, he is the President of For Real Solutions, a consulting firm that brings value to its clients through leveraging Terence’s knowledge, experience, network, and creativity. Two of the major focuses for his business are on reducing healthcare costs for various organizations and mitigating loss in pension funds that occur because of fraud or other illegal activities.
MATT ZAUN BIO: Matt is an award-winning speaker and storyteller who empowers organizations to attract more clients through the art of strategic storytelling. Matt’s past engagements have catalyzed radical sales increases for over 300 organizations that range from financial institutions to the health and wellness industry.
Matt shares his expertise in persuasion with executives, sales professionals, and entrepreneurs, who he coaches on the art of influence and how to leverage this for profits and impact.
SUMMARY: In this episode, Linda Goldstein and Matt Zaun talk about Linda’s time as Mayor of Clayton, MO, and what she learned about getting things done through collaboration.
LINDA GOLDSTEIN BIO: Linda is the Founder and CEO of Linda Goldstein Consulting; she is the former Mayor of Clayton, Missouri, and she is a coach and trusted advisor to CEOs, business leaders, and key executives.
MATT ZAUN BIO: Matt is an award-winning speaker and storyteller who empowers organizations to attract more clients through the art of strategic storytelling. Matt’s past engagements have catalyzed radical sales increases for over 300 organizations that range from financial institutions to the health and wellness industry.
Matt shares his expertise in persuasion with executives, sales professionals, and entrepreneurs, who he coaches on the art of influence and how to leverage this for profits and impact.
PODCAST EPISODE SUMMARY: This solo episode focuses on Matt Zaun's Origin Story. Learn where it all started, and think about your origin story.
MATT ZAUN BIO: Matt is an award-winning speaker and storyteller who empowers organizations to attract more clients through the art of strategic storytelling. Matt’s past engagements have catalyzed radical sales increases for over 300 organizations that range from financial institutions to the health and wellness industry.
Matt shares his expertise in persuasion with executives, sales professionals, and entrepreneurs, who he coaches on the art of influence and how to leverage this for profits and impact.
If you have a question, please feel free to email: matt@mattzaun.com or connect on LinkedIn and send a message.
#174: Story > Stunts: Building Campaigns Audiences Choose to Follow
25 Nov 2025
00:39:34
SHOW NOTES:
In this episode, Matt Zaun sits down with Stewart Cohen, award-winning director/photographer and CEO of SC Pictures and Superstock, to unpack how brands can use video and imagery to stay on message in a chaotic, multi-channel world. From keeping large organizations aligned with the role of authenticity (and where it can backfire) to practical ways leaders can tell stories people actually want to binge, Stewart shares practical ways leaders can tell stories people actually want to binge.
In this episode, they cover:
✅ From TV spots to everywhere: how video evolved from 30-second ads to an always-on content engine across divisions
✅ Staying on brand at scale: why messages start focused, then get watered down, and how to keep guardrails in place
✅ Who owns the vision: the CMO’s real job (and why short tenures sabotage brand consistency)
✅ Authenticity that works: “strategic authenticity” vs. oversharing; telling the truth without losing professionalism
…and more.
BIOS:
Stewart Cohen is a director/photographer and founder of SC Pictures, creating brand films and campaigns for leading companies and agencies. He is also the owner of Superstock, a global licensing company with 29M+ photos, videos, illustrations, and fine art. Known for visually rich, human-centered storytelling, Stewart helps brands sustain message discipline while producing content audiences want to watch.
Matt Zaun is an award-winning speaker and strategic storytelling expert who helps leaders inspire action and drive results through the power of story. He’s the author of The StoryBank, a practical playbook for using narrative to build culture, boost sales, and strengthen marketing.
How Opinion Surveys Are Hurting Your Business
16 Jun 2023
00:47:19
Wanna…
Boost your Sales? Enhance your Marketing? ...and create a vibrant company culture?
All of that is possible through the power of Strategic Storytelling!
Check out the Stories With Traction course, where you’ll learn how to set up a storybank and utilize it to achieve your goals!
SUMMARY: In this episode, Craig Andrews and Matt Zaun talk about building trust through a First Time Offer (FTO), how to strategically position the buying process, and why opinion surveys are hurting your business.
CRAIG ANDREWS BIO: Craig is the Principle Ally and Founder of Allies4me, which is a marketing agency that helps companies find strangers and convert them into high-paying customers. In addition, Craig is a speaker, writer, and will always be a Marine.
MATT ZAUN BIO: Matt is an award-winning speaker and storyteller who empowers organizations to attract more clients through the art of strategic storytelling. Matt’s past engagements have catalyzed radical sales increases for over 300 organizations that range from financial institutions to the health and wellness industry.
Matt shares his expertise in persuasion with executives, sales professionals, and entrepreneurs, who he coaches on the art of influence and how to leverage this for profits and impact.
SUMMARY: In this episode, Kirsten Yurich and Matt Zaun talk about the importance of “learning tours” and how it enhances company culture.
KIRSTEN YURICH BIO: Kirsten went from clinical director at the Vista School to CEO. Due to her leadership, she increased revenue and led her team in innovative ways to serve more people. Today, she is a leader of leaders. As a consultant at the Performance Thinking Network and as a Vistage Chair, she shows CEOs and business owners how to maximize their impact.
MATT ZAUN BIO: Matt is an award-winning speaker and storyteller who empowers organizations to attract more clients through the art of strategic storytelling. Matt’s past engagements have catalyzed radical sales increases for over 300 organizations that range from financial institutions to the health and wellness industry.
Matt shares his expertise in persuasion with executives, sales professionals, and entrepreneurs, who he coaches on the art of influence and how to leverage this for profits and impact.
PODCAST EPISODE SUMMARY: In this episode Andrea Jones and Matt Zaun talk about the dynamics of change, and how companies can get more done.
ANDREA JONES BIO: Andrea runs Andrea Jones Consulting (AJC), which helps organizations efficiently accomplish impactful projects and change. The AJC team has experienced consultants who focus on Process Improvement, Project Management and Change Management.
MATT ZAUN BIO: Matt is an award-winning speaker and storyteller who empowers organizations to attract more clients through the art of strategic storytelling. Matt’s past engagements have catalyzed radical sales increases for over 300 organizations that range from financial institutions to the health and wellness industry.
Matt shares his expertise in persuasion with executives, sales professionals, and entrepreneurs, who he coaches on the art of influence and how to leverage this for profits and impact.
PODCAST EPISODE SUMMARY: In this episode, Rachel Simon and Matt Zaun talk about how you can refine your stories through posting on LinkedIn.
RACHEL SIMON BIO: Rachel is the Founder & CEO of Connect the Dots Digital, where she focuses on LinkedIn corporate strategy and how companies can utilize the platform with their employees for maximum results.
MATT ZAUN BIO: Matt is an award-winning speaker and storyteller who empowers organizations to attract more clients through the art of strategic storytelling. Matt’s past engagements have catalyzed radical sales increases for over 300 organizations that range from financial institutions to the health and wellness industry.
Matt shares his expertise in persuasion with executives, sales professionals, and entrepreneurs, who he coaches on the art of influence and how to leverage this for profits and impact.
PODCAST EPISODE SUMMARY: In this episode, Niraj Kapur and Matt Zaun talk about how you can separate yourself from the competition in sales.
NIRAJ KAPUR BIO: Niraj is the Managing Director of “Everybody Works in Sales.” He is a keynote speaker, TEDx speaker, and he’s been featured in the BBC, Forbes, and Fortune.
MATT ZAUN BIO: Matt is an award-winning speaker and storyteller who empowers organizations to attract more clients through the art of strategic storytelling. Matt’s past engagements have catalyzed radical sales increases for over 300 organizations that range from financial institutions to the health and wellness industry.
Matt shares his expertise in persuasion with executives, sales professionals, and entrepreneurs, who he coaches on the art of influence and how to leverage this for profits and impact.
MATT ZAUN BIO: Matt is an award-winning speaker and storyteller who empowers organizations to attract more clients through the art of strategic storytelling. Matt’s past engagements have catalyzed radical sales increases for over 300 organizations that range from financial institutions to the health and wellness industry.
Matt shares his expertise in persuasion with executives, sales professionals, and entrepreneurs, who he coaches on the art of influence and how to leverage this for profits and impact.
PODCAST EPISODE SUMMARY: In this episode, Drew Blumenthal and Matt Zaun talk about an SEO framework that companies can use to show up higher in search results.
DREW BLUMENTHAL BIO: Drew is the Founder & CEO of Digital Drew SEM, which is a full-service digital marketing and advertising agency focused on helping companies increase their leads and sales through search and social advertising.
MATT ZAUN BIO: Matt is an award-winning speaker and storyteller who empowers organizations to attract more clients through the art of strategic storytelling. Matt’s past engagements have catalyzed radical sales increases for over 300 organizations that range from financial institutions to the health and wellness industry.
Matt shares his expertise in persuasion with executives, sales professionals, and entrepreneurs, who he coaches on the art of influence and how to leverage this for profits and impact.
EPISODE MENTIONED: Stories on a Massive Stage with Rachel Simon can be listened to HERE.
SUMMARY: In this episode, Rachel Simon and Matt Zaun talk about how you can refine your stories through posting on LinkedIn.
RACHEL SIMON BIO: Rachel is the Founder & CEO of Connect the Dots Digital, where she focuses on LinkedIn corporate strategy and how companies can utilize the platform with their employees for maximum results.
MATT ZAUN BIO: Matt is an award-winning speaker and storyteller who empowers organizations to attract more clients through the art of strategic storytelling. Matt’s past engagements have catalyzed radical sales increases for over 300 organizations that range from financial institutions to the health and wellness industry.
Matt shares his expertise in persuasion with executives, sales professionals, and entrepreneurs, who he coaches on the art of influence and how to leverage this for profits and impact.
SUMMARY: In this episode, Will McGinnis and Matt Zaun talk about how companies can utilize technology to capture a prospect's data and then use that info to strategically connect with them.
WILL MCGINNIS BIO: Will is the Director of Sales at FullThrottle.AI, which is a company that helps businesses identify and measure data, so they can position themselves for future growth.
MATT ZAUN BIO: Matt is an award-winning speaker and storyteller who empowers organizations to attract more clients through the art of strategic storytelling. Matt’s past engagements have catalyzed radical sales increases for over 300 organizations that range from financial institutions to the health and wellness industry.
Matt shares his expertise in persuasion with executives, sales professionals, and entrepreneurs, who he coaches on the art of influence and how to leverage this for profits and impact.
SUMMARY: In this episode, Dan Koval and Matt Zaun talk about how to build a legacy through Corporate Social Responsibility.
DAN KOVAL BIO: Currently in his 14th year at Bentley Systems, Dan Koval oversees all global corporate giving and colleague community involvement. This includes Bentley’s massive STEM grant program, which provides funds on behalf of all full-time colleagues to designate monetary support for STEM programs in their communities. In addition, Dan has spent over a decade as a "Big Brother" in the Beyond School Walls Big Brother Big Sister program, he's mentored numerous students through the Future City Competition, and he spent some time in Rwanda building a bridge over a river in a rural village.
MATT ZAUN BIO: Matt is an award-winning speaker and storyteller who empowers organizations to attract more clients through the art of strategic storytelling. Matt’s past engagements have catalyzed radical sales increases for over 300 organizations that range from financial institutions to the health and wellness industry.
Matt shares his expertise in persuasion with executives, sales professionals, and entrepreneurs, who he coaches on the art of influence and how to leverage this for profits and impact.
#173: Cybersecurity Meets Comedy: How Humor Builds Trust
18 Nov 2025
00:31:04
SHOW NOTES:
In this episode, Matt Zaun sits down with Rob Black, Founder & CEO of Fractional CISO, to demystify cybersecurity for growing companies—without the fear-mongering. Rob explains how his team operates as a virtual CISO (security leader) to strengthen programs, enable enterprise sales, and translate “security-speak” into clear business outcomes.
Rob shares why security shouldn’t be priority #1 (sales and delivery come first), how to size up the risk when incidents are low-probability but high-impact, and why humor can drive far more adoption than dry policy memos.
In this episode, they cover:
✅ Prioritization reality: why cybersecurity should be priority 4–5—not 100
✅ Humor that converts: skits, wigs, and why fun content outperforms stoic lectures
✅ LinkedIn as referral fuel: staying top-of-mind vs. hard selling (and why neighbors all know what Rob does)
…and much more.
BIOS:
Rob Black is the founder of Fractional CISO, where he and his team serve as virtual CISOs for companies. A veteran security leader with an MBA from Kellogg, Rob blends operator pragmatism with clear business storytelling, often using humor to drive adoption of best practices.
Matt Zaun is an award-winning speaker and strategic storytelling expert who helps leaders inspire action and drive results through the power of story. He’s the author of The StoryBank, a practical playbook for using narrative to build culture, boost sales, strengthen marketing, and become a dynamic public speaker.
The Stories That Build Your Brand
07 Apr 2023
00:22:20
SHOW NOTES:
SUMMARY: In this episode, Michelle Griffin and Matt Zaun talk about how to build a foundational personal brand that’s fused with your company.
MICHELLE GRIFFIN BIO: Michelle is an author, speaker, and coach who shows professionals how to step out and be seen as leaders in their space with her authority-focused approach.
EPISODE MENTIONED: Stories on a Massive Stage with Rachel Simon
MATT ZAUN BIO: Matt is an award-winning speaker and storyteller who empowers organizations to attract more clients through the art of strategic storytelling. Matt’s past engagements have catalyzed radical sales increases for over 300 organizations that range from financial institutions to the health and wellness industry.
Matt shares his expertise in persuasion with executives, sales professionals, and entrepreneurs, who he coaches on the art of influence and how to leverage this for profits and impact.
SUMMARY: In this episode, Lyndsay Dowd and Matt Zaun discuss how leaders can create an irresistible sales culture.
LYNDSAY DOWD BIO: Lyndsay is a speaker, and coach to executive leadership teams, where she shows them how to build an irresistible sales culture that drives results.
MATT ZAUN BIO: Matt is an award-winning speaker and storyteller who empowers organizations to attract more clients through the art of strategic storytelling. Matt’s past engagements have catalyzed radical sales increases for over 300 organizations that range from financial institutions to the health and wellness industry.
Matt shares his expertise in persuasion with executives, sales professionals, and entrepreneurs, who he coaches on the art of influence and how to leverage this for profits and impact.
SUMMARY: In this episode, Rocco Matteo and Matt Zaun discuss retail and the danger in companies chasing the next trend at the expense of their existing customers.
ROCCO MATTEO BIO: Rocco is the managing partner of E3 Consulting, and he frequently speaks on strategic planning, “the art of retail,” and communication.
MATT ZAUN BIO: Matt is an award-winning speaker and storyteller who empowers organizations to attract more clients through the art of strategic storytelling. Matt’s past engagements have catalyzed radical sales increases for over 300 organizations that range from financial institutions to the health and wellness industry.
Matt shares his expertise in persuasion with executives, sales professionals, and entrepreneurs, who he coaches on the art of influence and how to leverage this for profits and impact.
SUMMARY: In this episode, Rachel Simon and Matt Zaun talk about how to view LinkedIn like a massive stage.
RACHEL SIMON BIO: Rachel is the Founder & CEO of Connect the Dots Digital, where she focuses on LinkedIn corporate strategy and how companies can utilize the platform with their employees for maximum results.
MATT ZAUN BIO: Matt is an award-winning speaker and storyteller who empowers organizations to attract more clients through the art of strategic storytelling. Matt’s past engagements have catalyzed radical sales increases for over 300 organizations that range from financial institutions to the health and wellness industry.
Matt shares his expertise in persuasion with executives, sales professionals, and entrepreneurs, who he coaches on the art of influence and how to leverage this for profits and impact.
SUMMARY: In this episode, Deven Gillen and Matt Zaun talk about how to position yourself as an expert on social media.
DEVEN GILLEN BIO: Deven is the Director of Business Development at Storyy, where they help business owners grow their personal brand and establish themselves as a trusted authority.
MATT ZAUN BIO: Matt is an award-winning speaker and storyteller who empowers organizations to attract more clients through the art of strategic storytelling. Matt’s past engagements have catalyzed radical sales increases for over 300 organizations that range from financial institutions to the health and wellness industry.
Matt shares his expertise in persuasion with executives, sales professionals, and entrepreneurs, who he coaches on the art of influence and how to leverage this for profits and impact.
SUMMARY: This is a solo episode focused on the frequency of our stories.
MATT ZAUN BIO: Matt is an award-winning speaker and storyteller who empowers organizations to attract more clients through the art of strategic storytelling. Matt’s past engagements have catalyzed radical sales increases for over 300 organizations that range from financial institutions to the health and wellness industry.
Matt shares his expertise in persuasion with executives, sales professionals, and entrepreneurs, who he coaches on the art of influence and how to leverage this for profits and impact.
If you have a question, please feel free to email: matt@mattzaun.com or connect on LinkedIn and send a message.
Stories of Leadership
24 Feb 2023
00:44:17
SHOW NOTES:
SUMMARY: In this episode, Terence Farrell and Matt Zaun discuss the importance of setting expectations, communication, and empathy in leadership.
TERENCE FARRELL BIO: Terence served as a Chester County, PA Commissioner for 12 years; before that, he was the Recorder of Deeds for eight years. Today, he is the President of For Real Solutions, a consulting firm that brings value to its clients through leveraging Terence’s knowledge, experience, network, and creativity. Two of the major focuses for his business are on reducing healthcare costs for various organizations and mitigating loss in pension funds that occur because of fraud or other illegal activities.
MATT ZAUN BIO: Matt is an award-winning speaker and storyteller who empowers organizations to attract more clients through the art of strategic storytelling. Matt’s past engagements have catalyzed radical sales increases for over 300 organizations that range from financial institutions to the health and wellness industry.
Matt shares his expertise in persuasion with executives, sales professionals, and entrepreneurs, who he coaches on the art of influence and how to leverage this for profits and impact.
SUMMARY: In this episode, Josh Rudegeair and Matt Zaun talk about the determination it took for him to get a podcast to #1 on the charts.
JOSH RUDEGEAIR BIO: Josh is a marketing expert and is currently the Senior Manager of Corporate Marketing at Ascension. He successfully launched two podcasts that hit #1 in the United States (all podcasts, all categories), designed multiple billboards in Times Square, created a lead generation machine (collecting hundreds of thousands of emails), and generated multi-million dollar year growth in top-line revenue.
MATT ZAUN BIO: Matt is an award-winning speaker and storyteller who empowers organizations to attract more clients through the art of strategic storytelling. Matt’s past engagements have catalyzed radical sales increases for over 300 organizations that range from financial institutions to the health and wellness industry.
Matt shares his expertise in persuasion with executives, sales professionals, and entrepreneurs, who he coaches on the art of influence and how to leverage this for profits and impact.
MATT ZAUN BIO: Matt is an award-winning speaker and storyteller who empowers organizations to attract more clients through the art of strategic storytelling. Matt’s past engagements have catalyzed radical sales increases for over 300 organizations that range from financial institutions to the health and wellness industry.
Matt shares his expertise in persuasion with executives, sales professionals, and entrepreneurs, who he coaches on the art of influence and how to leverage this for profits and impact.
SERIES: This podcast episode is a part of a company culture series with Ricardo Gonzalez on the Stories With Traction Podcast.
SUMMARY: In this episode, Ricardo Gonzalez and Matt Zaun discuss why leaders' trauma might negatively affect their company culture.
RICARDO GONZALEZ BIO: Ricardo is the Founder and CEO of Bilingual America and the author of numerous books that focus on multicultural leadership and cultural communications. He has consulted for many multinational and Fortune 500 companies. He aims to help organizations develop healthy cultural mindsets and skill sets since this drives human connection, creativity, and collaboration.
MATT ZAUN BIO: Matt is an award-winning speaker and storyteller who empowers organizations to attract more clients through the art of strategic storytelling. Matt’s past engagements have catalyzed radical sales increases for over 300 organizations that range from financial institutions to the health and wellness industry.
Matt shares his expertise in persuasion with executives, sales professionals, and entrepreneurs, who he coaches on the art of influence and how to leverage this for profits and impact.
Patricio explains why pickleball exploded (hint: everyone is the target market), how short games and easy onboarding supercharge engagement, and what separates thriving facilities from failing ones. Whether you’re a curious player, a gym owner exploring new revenue, or an investor eyeing a space, this episode breaks down the economics, operations, and community dynamics behind modern racquet sports.
In addition, they talk about:
✅ Why pickleball went mainstream: universal target market, near-zero learning curve, short game loops, and high social proximity
✅ Injury reality check: common risks (wrist/ankle/knee), why “deconditioned returners” get hurt, and how risk compares to other sports
✅ Coaching & performance: why even elite athletes hire tough coaches and how the right fit accelerates results
…and much more.
BIOS:
Patricio Misitrano is a racquet-sports consultant and club operator with 20+ years across tennis, pickleball, and padel. He advises entrepreneurs and investors on site selection, build-outs, programming, pricing, software, staffing, and launch strategy, and has been involved end-to-end in facility development and operations. Patricio is a former tennis pro, lifelong multi-sport athlete, and marathoner who brings a coach’s mindset and an operator’s rigor to growing this category.
Matt Zaun is an award-winning speaker and strategic storytelling expert who shows leaders how to inspire action and drive results through the power of story. He’s the author of The StoryBank, a practical playbook for using strategic storytelling to build culture, boost sales, strengthen marketing, and become a dynamic public speaker.
Part 1 | Company Culture: Definition, Benefits and Strategies
27 Jan 2023
00:34:31
SHOW NOTES:
SERIES: This podcast episode is a part of a company culture series with Ricardo Gonzalez on the Stories With Traction Podcast.
SUMMARY: In this episode, Ricardo Gonzalez and Matt Zaun talk about what company culture is and why most leaders get it wrong.
RICARDO GONZALEZ BIO: Ricardo is the Founder and CEO of Bilingual America and the author of numerous books that focus on multicultural leadership and cultural communications. He has consulted for many multinational and Fortune 500 companies. He aims to help organizations develop healthy cultural mindsets and skill sets since this drives human connection, creativity, and collaboration.
MATT ZAUN BIO: Matt is an award-winning speaker and storyteller who empowers organizations to attract more clients through the art of strategic storytelling. Matt’s past engagements have catalyzed radical sales increases for over 300 organizations that range from financial institutions to the health and wellness industry.
Matt shares his expertise in persuasion with executives, sales professionals, and entrepreneurs, who he coaches on the art of influence and how to leverage this for profits and impact.
SUMMARY: In this episode, Dan Koval and Matt Zaun talk about how to be intentional with your giving.
DAN KOVAL BIO: Currently in his 14th year at Bentley Systems, Dan Koval oversees all global corporate giving and colleague community involvement. This includes Bentley’s massive STEM grant program, which provides funds on behalf of all full-time colleagues to designate monetary support for STEM programs in their communities. In addition, Dan has spent over a decade as a "Big Brother" in the Beyond School Walls Big Brother Big Sister program, he's mentored numerous students through the Future City Competition, and he spent some time in Rwanda building a bridge over a river in a rural village.
MATT ZAUN BIO: Matt is an award-winning speaker and storyteller who empowers organizations to attract more clients through the art of strategic storytelling. Matt’s past engagements have catalyzed radical sales increases for over 300 organizations that range from financial institutions to the health and wellness industry.
Matt shares his expertise in persuasion with executives, sales professionals, and entrepreneurs, who he coaches on the art of influence and how to leverage this for profits and impact.
SERIES: This podcast episode is a part of a series with Author, Marcus Chan. In these 2 episodes, we will unpack numerous concepts in his book, Six Figure Sales Secrets.
SUMMARY: In this episode, Marcus Chan and Matt Zaun talk about the difference between being good at sales and crushing your sales goals.
MARCUS CHAN BIO: Marcus is the founder of Venli Consulting Group and Six Figure Sales Academy.
MATT ZAUN BIO: Matt is an award-winning speaker and storyteller who empowers organizations to attract more clients through the art of strategic storytelling. Matt’s past engagements have catalyzed radical sales increases for over 300 organizations that range from financial institutions to the health and wellness industry.
Matt shares his expertise in persuasion with executives, sales professionals, and entrepreneurs, who he coaches on the art of influence and how to leverage this for profits and impact.
SERIES: This podcast episode is a part of a series with Author, Marcus Chan. In the next 2 episodes, we will unpack numerous concepts in his book, Six Figure Sales Secrets.
SUMMARY: In this episode, Marcus Chan and Matt Zaun talk about the difference between being good at sales and crushing your sales goals.
MARCUS CHAN BIO: Marcus is the founder of Venli Consulting Group and Six Figure Sales Academy.
MATT ZAUN BIO: Matt is an award-winning speaker and storyteller who empowers organizations to attract more clients through the art of strategic storytelling. Matt’s past engagements have catalyzed radical sales increases for over 300 organizations that range from financial institutions to the health and wellness industry.
Matt shares his expertise in persuasion with executives, sales professionals, and entrepreneurs, who he coaches on the art of influence and how to leverage this for profits and impact.
SUMMARY: In this episode, Patrick Aylward and Matt Zaun talk about how to create a company culture that has collaborative conversations to reach the best optimal outcome.
PATRICK AYLWARD BIO: Patrick is a speaker, workshop leader, and the author of The Collaborative Path.
MATT ZAUN BIO: Matt is an award-winning speaker and storyteller who empowers organizations to attract more clients through the art of strategic storytelling. Matt’s past engagements have catalyzed radical sales increases for over 300 organizations that range from financial institutions to the health and wellness industry.
Matt shares his expertise in persuasion with executives, sales professionals, and entrepreneurs, who he coaches on the art of influence and how to leverage this for profits and impact.
SUMMARY: In this episode, Bill Morrow and Matt Zaun unapologetically talk about Sales.
BILL MORROW BIO: Bill is the Managing Partner at Empirical Consulting Solutions. Empirical is a management consulting firm focused on helping clients overcome hurdles that prevent them from growing. They take the time to understand their client’s issues, build a plan forward and then work shoulder-to-shoulder through implementation. Their experienced senior-level consultants know how to provide guidance across multiple functional areas including sales, marketing, HR, finance, leadership, supply chain, distribution, change management, and more.
MATT ZAUN BIO: Matt is an award-winning speaker and storyteller who empowers organizations to attract more clients through the art of strategic storytelling. Matt’s past engagements have catalyzed radical sales increases for over 300 organizations that range from financial institutions to the health and wellness industry.
Matt shares his expertise in persuasion with executives, sales professionals, and entrepreneurs, who he coaches on the art of influence and how to leverage this for profits and impact.
SUMMARY: In this episode, Ryan Sullivan and Matt Zaun talk about how you can utilize podcasting to grow your business and/or advance your career. They go over the work it takes to launch a podcast, how to strategically use the medium, and the importance of thoughtful guesting.
RYAN SULLIVAN BIO: Ryan is the founder of Podcast Principles, where he helps people launch top 1% podcasts with 0 paid promotion using a proven launch strategy tailored specifically to turn audience members into podcast fans.
MATT ZAUN BIO: Matt is an award-winning speaker and storyteller who empowers organizations to attract more clients through the art of strategic storytelling. Matt’s past engagements have catalyzed radical sales increases for over 300 organizations that range from financial institutions to the health and wellness industry.
Matt shares his expertise in persuasion with executives, sales professionals, and entrepreneurs, who he coaches on the art of influence and how to leverage this for profits and impact.
Part 2 | Company Culture of Storytelling on LinkedIn
09 Dec 2022
00:44:58
SHOW NOTES:
SERIES: This episode is a part of a two-part series regarding LinkedIn storytelling and strategy.
SUMMARY: In this episode, Rachel Simon and Matt Zaun talk about how business leaders can create a company culture of storytelling on LinkedIn.
RACHEL SIMON BIO: Rachel is the Founder & CEO of Connect the Dots Digital, where she focuses on LinkedIn corporate strategy and how companies can utilize the platform with their employees for maximum results.
MATT ZAUN BIO: Matt is an award-winning speaker and storyteller who empowers organizations to attract more clients through the art of strategic storytelling. Matt’s past engagements have catalyzed radical sales increases for over 300 organizations that range from financial institutions to the health and wellness industry.
Matt shares his expertise in persuasion with executives, sales professionals, and entrepreneurs, who he coaches on the art of influence and how to leverage this for profits and impact.
SERIES: This episode is a part of a two-part series regarding LinkedIn storytelling and strategy.
SUMMARY: In this episode, Rachel Simon and Matt Zaun talk about why it’s important for business leaders to share their stories on LinkedIn.
RACHEL SIMON BIO: Rachel is the Founder & CEO of Connect the Dots Digital, where she focuses on LinkedIn corporate strategy and how companies can utilize the platform with their employees for maximum results.
MATT ZAUN BIO: Matt is an award-winning speaker and storyteller who empowers organizations to attract more clients through the art of strategic storytelling. Matt’s past engagements have catalyzed radical sales increases for over 300 organizations that range from financial institutions to the health and wellness industry.
Matt shares his expertise in persuasion with executives, sales professionals, and entrepreneurs, who he coaches on the art of influence and how to leverage this for profits and impact.
SERIES: This podcast episode is a part of a series that unpacks the WHAT, the WHY, and the HOW behind copywriting. By utilizing the concepts shared, you can radically enhance your sales, marketing, and company culture.
SUMMARY: In this episode, Erin Geiger and Matt Zaun talk about how you can implement better copywriting in your day-to-day life.
*Before you listen to the HOW episode, make sure you check out…
The WHAT episode |
The WHY episode |
ERIN GEIGER BIO: Erin is the founder of Muscle Creative, where she helps business leaders make powerful connections with their community through copywriting. Over the past 20+ years, she's written for and managed the editorial, content, and launch teams for brands within Fortune 500 corporations like CBS and technology powerhouses like CNET, with clients ranging from the Coca-Colas of the world to all of the major record labels to your fave household CPG brands.
MATT ZAUN BIO: Matt is an award-winning speaker and storyteller who empowers organizations to attract more clients through the art of strategic storytelling. Matt’s past engagements have catalyzed radical sales increases for over 300 organizations that range from financial institutions to the health and wellness industry.
Matt shares his expertise in persuasion with executives, sales professionals, and entrepreneurs, who he coaches on the art of influence and how to leverage this for profits and impact.
#171: Sleep Is a Skillset: The Surprising Habits That Heal Insomnia
04 Nov 2025
00:47:04
SHOW NOTES:
In this insightful episode, Matt Zaun sits down with Morgan Adams, an insomnia and holistic sleep coach, to break down why so many high achievers are running on fumes and what to do about it.
Morgan shares practical tools, mindset shifts, and behavioral strategies for those struggling with sleep maintenance, middle-of-the-night wakeups, and chronic insomnia. Whether you’re a business leader burning the candle at both ends or someone simply trying to reclaim restful sleep, this episode unpacks the science and psychology behind sleep and how to improve it.
In addition, they talk about:
✅ The trifecta Morgan uses to help clients: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBTI), behavior shifts, and mindfulness
✅ How racing thoughts at 3 a.m. are biologically wired to feel catastrophic (and what to do about them)
✅ How “constructive worry” sessions help offload anxiety before bed
✅ The danger of social jet lag and how inconsistent wake-up times sabotage your circadian rhythm
…and much more.
BIOS
Morgan Adams is a holistic sleep coach and former insomniac who helps ambitious professionals overcome sleeplessness without the use of sleep aids. She is a Certified Sleep Science Coach, has completed Brief Behavior Therapy for Insomnia (BBTI) certification, and holds a Health Coach Certification. Morgan helps clients rewire their habits and mindset to get the restorative sleep they need.
Matt Zaun is an award-winning speaker and strategic storytelling expert who shows leaders how to inspire action and drive results through the power of story. He’s the author of The StoryBank, a book that teaches people how to leverage strategic storytelling to build a vibrant company culture, boost sales, strengthen marketing, and become dynamic public speakers.
Part 2 | Why Copywriting is Paramount to Your Success Online
18 Nov 2022
00:32:21
SHOW NOTES:
SERIES: This podcast episode is a part of a series that unpacks the WHAT, the WHY, and the HOW behind copywriting. By utilizing the concepts shared, you can radically enhance your sales, marketing, and company culture.
SUMMARY: In this episode, Erin Geiger and Matt Zaun talk about WHY copywriting is so important for organizations to standout.
*Before you listen to the WHY, make sure you check out the WHAT episode here |
ERIN GEIGER BIO: Erin is the founder of Muscle Creative, where she helps business leaders make powerful connections with their community through copywriting. Over the past 20+ years, she's written for and managed the editorial, content, and launch teams for brands within Fortune 500 corporations like CBS and technology powerhouses like CNET, with clients ranging from the Coca-Colas of the world to all of the major record labels to your fave household CPG brands.
MATT ZAUN BIO: Matt is an award-winning speaker and storyteller who empowers organizations to attract more clients through the art of strategic storytelling. Matt’s past engagements have catalyzed radical sales increases for over 300 organizations that range from financial institutions to the health and wellness industry.
Matt shares his expertise in persuasion with executives, sales professionals, and entrepreneurs, who he coaches on the art of influence and how to leverage this for profits and impact.
SERIES: This podcast episode is a part of a series that unpacks the WHAT, the WHY, and the HOW behind copywriting. By utilizing the concepts shared, you can radically enhance your sales, marketing, and company culture. Enjoy these episodes!
SUMMARY: In this episode, Erin Geiger and Matt Zaun talk about WHAT copywriting even is in the first place.
ERIN GEIGER BIO: Erin is the founder of Muscle Creative, where she helps business leaders make powerful connections with their community through copywriting. Over the past 20+ years, she's written for and managed the editorial, content, and launch teams for brands within Fortune 500 corporations like CBS and technology powerhouses like CNET, with clients ranging from the Coca-Colas of the world to all of the major record labels to your fave household CPG brands.
MATT ZAUN BIO: Matt is an award-winning speaker and storyteller who empowers organizations to attract more clients through the art of strategic storytelling. Matt’s past engagements have catalyzed radical sales increases for over 300 organizations that range from financial institutions to the health and wellness industry.
Matt shares his expertise in persuasion with executives, sales professionals, and entrepreneurs, who he coaches on the art of influence and how to leverage this for profits and impact.
SUMMARY: In this episode, Chris Bogue and Matt Zaun talk about the power of “Yes, and…” and how you can utilize improv comedy concepts to radically improve your sales and marketing.
CHRIS BOGUE BIO: Chris has written and directed for the famous improv comedy theater, The Second City, in Chicago. Today he is a video coach specializing in sales and sketch comedy to help people connect with their target audience on video. He teaches an improv-based approach to content creation and sales that is direct, supportive, and fun!
MATT ZAUN BIO: Matt is an award-winning speaker and storyteller who empowers organizations to attract more clients through the art of strategic storytelling. Matt’s past engagements have catalyzed radical sales increases for over 300 organizations that range from financial institutions to the health and wellness industry.
Matt shares his expertise in persuasion with executives, sales professionals, and entrepreneurs, who he coaches on the art of influence and how to leverage this for profits and impact.