The Storytelling Lab

The One Thing Every Storyteller Misses About Their Audience with Jon Bregel

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 10:00:00 GMT

"When you live in alignment with your values, you cause yourself as little suffering as possible in the long term. And that one just always sticks with me because it's really challenging in the short term. But if you have faith in your values and who you are and how you want to show up in the world, then ultimately you're creating a path that's going to serve you for the long term." — Jon Bregel

What happens when the thing you love most… starts breaking you?

In this episode, Rain sits down with cinematographer, founder of Variable, and career/life coach for filmmakers, Jon Bregel, to unpack a reality most creatives don’t talk about enough: burnout.

After years of success in the film industry, Jon hit a breaking point that forced him to reevaluate everything—his career, his identity, and the story he was telling himself. That journey led him to create The Nourish Community, a space designed specifically to support the mental and emotional health of filmmakers.

This conversation goes beyond tactics. It’s about identity, purpose, and how to build a creative life that actually sustains you, instead of slowly draining you.

If you’re a filmmaker, creator, or entrepreneur feeling the pressure… this one hits close to home.

In this episode, you will learn to:

Recognize the early warning signs of creative burnout before it becomes a crisis
Use core values as a practical decision-making compass
Understand the difference between a life coach and a therapist and why creatives may need both for different reasons
Reframe career plateaus, pivots, and rest as seasons of inner growth rather than signs of failure
Build or seek out real community as a creative and understand why that distinction changes everything

Follow Jon Bregel:

Website → https://www.nourishcommunity.co

Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/jonbregel

Production Company → Variable (New York City)

Film Referenced: The Baltimorons — directed by J. Duplass, starring Michael Strassner (cinematography by Jon Bregel)

And, for more storytelling tips and strategies, visit:

Website → https://rainbennett.com

Podcast → https://thestorytellinglabpodcast.com

Or follow along at:

TikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@chiefstorytellingofficer

Twitter/X → https://twitter.com/rainbennett

Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/rainbennett

Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/thestorytellinglab

YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@RainBennett

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What a Father Daughter Podcast About Taylor Swift Taught Me About Story with Joseph Romm

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 10:00:00 GMT

"If you think the world could be better and you want to change it, you're going to have to come up with a better story and know how to tell it better." —Joseph Romm

What happens when a physicist with a PhD realizes that data, charts, and credentials can't change a single mind, but a story can?

Joseph Romm spent years working in climate science and clean energy before arriving at an uncomfortable truth: facts don't persuade people. Emotions do.

In this episode, Joseph breaks down the ancient storytelling tools—the figures of speech used by Homer, Shakespeare, Lincoln, and yes, Taylor Swift—that make stories stick, spread, and move people to action.

But this episode is about more than communication theory. Joseph and his daughter co-host the podcast Decoding Taylor Swift, where they analyze the storytelling craft embedded in her music. What started as a way to bond with his daughter over song lyrics became a masterclass in how great writers use foreshadow, irony, the hero's journey, and circular narrative structure to create stories that lodge in the brain and don't let go.

As a father of a daughter himself, Rain finds this project deeply personal, and the conversation that follows is one of the most layered and surprising in the show's history.

Whether you're trying to communicate complex ideas, reach an audience that doesn't share your worldview, or simply connect more deeply with the people you love, this episode gives you the framework to do it.

In this episode, you will learn to:

• Understand why storytelling is more effective than raw information in shaping beliefs

• Recognize how narrative framing influences what people accept as true

• Replace ineffective fact-based arguments with story-driven communication

• Identify why misinformation spreads faster than truth

• Apply narrative thinking to make your ideas more memorable and persuasive

Follow Joseph Romm: Podcast → Decoding Taylor Swift (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/decoding-taylor-swift/id1708550100)

Book → How to Go Viral and Reach Millions by Joseph Romm (https://www.amazon.com/How-Viral-Reach-Millions-Shakespeare/dp/1944733779)

Books & Talks Referenced:

Thinking Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman

Roger Federer's Dartmouth Commencement Speech

Steve Jobs' Stanford Commencement Speech

The Hero with a Thousand Faces by Joseph Campbell

And, for more storytelling tips and strategies, visit:

Website → https://rainbennett.com

Podcast → https://thestorytellinglabpodcast.com

Or follow along at:

TikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@chiefstorytellingofficer

Twitter/X → https://twitter.com/rainbennett

Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/rainbennett

Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/thestorytellinglab

YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@RainBennett

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Your Internal Story vs. Your Customer's Story | The Real Brand Difference

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 10:00:00 GMT

"Marketing might be how you get the first date. But to get the second and third date and hopefully form into a relationship, you have to have a brand." — Rain Bennett

Brand isn't your logo, your color palette, your fonts, or your tagline.

Brand is the story others tell about you. And in this solo episode, Rain breaks down exactly how to influence that story before it gets told without you. As part of the ongoing Narrative Operating System framework from his upcoming book The Chief Storytelling Officer, this episode is your practical guide to building a brand that goes deeper than decoration.

Rain walks you through two foundational tools: the Brand Pyramid and the Brand Bible. Using real-world examples from Patagonia, Liquid Death, Apple, Yeti, and even his own mother's real estate business in Eastern North Carolina, he unpacks how the most powerful brands in the world built identity, loyalty, and community.

Whether you're building something from scratch or realizing your current brand has drifted off course, this episode gives you the framework to get it back on track. From finding your one-word North Star to running a voice test on your content, Rain arms you with tools you can use this week, and a mindset that will serve your brand for the long run.

In this episode, you will learn to:

Distinguish between the three types of story every brand carries — the story you tell yourself, the story you tell others, and the story others tell about you
Build your Brand Pyramid from the ground up, starting with a single guiding word that informs every decision you make
Create a Brand Bible that keeps your voice, visual identity, and messaging consistent across your entire team and every platform
Use real brand case studies (Patagonia, Liquid Death, Yeti, Apple) to reverse-engineer what makes brand identity actually stick
Evolve your brand intentionally over time through a cycle of inspiration and reflection — without losing who you are

Episodes Referenced:

Book Mentioned: The Chief Storytelling Officer by Rain Bennett → Pre-order now! Release date: August 25th

Book Recommendation: If I Understood You, Would I Have This Look on My Face? by Alan Alda

For more storytelling tips and strategies, visit:

Website → https://rainbennett.com

Podcast → https://thestorytellinglabpodcast.com

Or follow along at:

TikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@chiefstorytellingofficer

Twitter/X → https://twitter.com/rainbennett

Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/rainbennett

Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/thestorytellinglab

YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@RainBennett

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What Live Storytelling Can Teach Every Brand with Corey Rosen

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 10:00:00 GMT

“When you start to look at things through the lens of story, it helps you appreciate and process what’s going on.” — Corey Rosen

What makes someone lean in when you tell a story instead of tune out?

In this episode, Rain sits down with Emmy-nominated TV writer, Moth champion, and brand storytelling expert Corey Rosen to break down the real tactics behind stories that actually land.

This is not a fluffy conversation about “storytelling matters.” It’s a practical deep dive into curiosity gaps, emotional stakes, visual detail, and the inner life that gives a story dimension.

Corey shares how his background in comedy, television, and live storytelling shaped the way he now teaches stories for every occasion—from keynotes and investor pitches to eulogies, wedding toasts, and brand messaging. They also get into improv, theme parks, AI, and why the future belongs to people who can create connection, not just content.

In this episode, you will learn to:

Build curiosity early so people care about where your story is going
Understand the three elements that make stories feel vivid, human, and memorable
Use storytelling to build trust before you try to persuade, pitch, or influence
Reframe everyday experiences as story material by noticing what changed and why it mattered
See how storytelling skills transfer across live performance, brand communication, and business

Follow Corey Rosen on:

Website → https://www.coreyrosen.com

Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/storycoachcorey

LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/coreyrosenstorycoach

For more storytelling tips and tricks:

Visit → https://rainbennett.com and https://thestorytellinglabpodcast.com

Or follow along at...

TikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@chiefstorytellingofficer

Twitter → https://twitter.com/rainbennett

Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/rainbennett

Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/thestorytellinglab

YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@RainBennett

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Real Work Behind a Great Content Strategy with Kristen Sweeney

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 11:00:00 GMT

“You can’t even begin to talk about results or impact until you actually put something out into the world.” — Kristen Sweeney

What if the real problem with your content isn’t execution, but alignment?

In this episode, Kristen Sweeney, founder of Every Little Word, breaks down the invisible work behind great communication: messaging frameworks, internal clarity, operational discipline, and the codified point of view that most companies skip.

We explore why B2B brands struggle to articulate what they actually believe, how regulated industries can differentiate without breaking compliance, and why thought leadership without a clear stance is just noise.

Kristen also shares how her background in theater shaped her confidence in high-level conversations and why content operations, not just creativity, determine results. If your content feels scattered, generic, or reactive, this episode is your blueprint for fixing it at the foundation.

In this episode, you will learn to:

Clarify and codify your point of view before producing a single piece of content
Extract real insight from subject matter experts instead of settling for surface-level answers
Build messaging foundations that reduce friction across teams and client communication
Differentiate in crowded B2B and regulated industries without sacrificing accuracy
Move from informational content to perspective-driven leadership

Follow Kristen Sweeney:

Website → https://www.everylittleword.com

LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristensweeney

For more storytelling tips and strategies, visit:

Website → https://rainbennett.com

Podcast → https://thestorytellinglabpodcast.com

Or follow along at:

TikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@chiefstorytellingofficer

Twitter/X → https://twitter.com/rainbennett

Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/rainbennett

Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/thestorytellinglab

YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@RainBennett

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Courage to Face What Your Story Is Really About with Spade Robinson

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 11:00:00 GMT

“There is no version of storytelling that does not become therapy.” — Spade Robinson

What if the difference between an average story and a great one has less to do with talent or skill and more to do with self-awareness?

In this episode, screenwriter and story consultant Spade Robinson breaks down why structure isn’t the enemy of creativity—it’s the foundation that allows it to thrive.

We explore how unforgiveness shows up on the page, why most writers avoid the emotional core of their work, and how discipline in story design eliminates writer’s block.

Spade also shares hard-earned insights from Sundance and the development world about the changing industry, why writers must think of themselves as studios, and how short-form storytelling and brand partnerships may shape the next era of film.

If you care about story craft, emotional truth, and building a sustainable creative career, this conversation will challenge you in all the right ways.

In this episode, you will learn to:

Strengthen your stories by confronting the internal human question driving them
Use structure as a creative advantage rather than a limitation
Eliminate writer’s block by building a strong outline before drafting
Understand art and commerce must work together in today’s industry
Position yourself as a creator-studio in an attention-driven economy

Follow Spade Robinson on:

Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/spaderobinson

LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/spade-robinson-5588a231/

Website → https://www.atlantafilmproject.com/

And for more storytelling tips and tricks:

Visit → https://rainbennett.com or https://thestorytellinglabpodcast.com

Or, follow along at...

TikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@chiefstorytellingofficer

Twitter → https://twitter.com/rainbennett

Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/rainbennett

Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/thestorytellinglab

YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@RainBennett

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Cinematography and Storytelling Beyond the Technique with Tal Lazar

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 11:00:00 GMT

“The real story is always in the subtext.” — Tal Lazar

Most people lose their audience the moment they start explaining.

In this episode, cinematographer, educator, and author Tal Lazar breaks down why the real story is always in the subtext, and why emotion beats information when you’re trying to persuade, pitch, teach, or lead.

We talk about why leaders default to “feature lists,” how filmmakers create coherence across dozens of departments, and why there’s no such thing as a formula for “coverage” if you’re actually telling a story. The throughline is simple: focus on the transformation your audience wants, not the impressive details you’re tempted to showcase.

If you’ve been chasing better tools, better tactics, or better talking points, this conversation will pull you back to the skill that makes everything else work.

In this episode, you will learn to:

Shift your messaging from “what it is” to the transformation it creates for your audience
Use subtext intentionally so your communication lands emotionally, not just intellectually
Spot the fear-driven habit of over-explaining and replace it with story-first clarity
Lead like a director by creating one coherent interpretation across many moving parts
Build cinematic impact with fewer resources by knowing what your audience is actually feeling

🔗 Follow Tal on:

Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/talazar

LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/talazar

Website → https://cinematicimpact.com

📚 For more storytelling tips and tricks:

Visit → https://rainbennett.com

Or → https://thestorytellinglabpodcast.com

TikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@chiefstorytellingofficer

Twitter → https://twitter.com/rainbennett

Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/rainbennett

Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/thestorytellinglab

YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@RainBennett

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Most Misunderstood Piece of Brand Missions

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 12:46:44 GMT

“Vision is what inspires your people. Mission is what activates and organizes them.” —Rain Bennett

What good is a bold vision if you don’t have a mission to back it up?

In this solo episode, Rain Bennett breaks down why mission is the most misunderstood and most essential piece of a brand’s storytelling system.

Using examples from WeWork’s collapse and Airbnb’s legendary collaboration with Pixar, Rain explains how to turn abstract ideas into real-world action through a story-driven mission.

If your company struggles to align teams, inspire customers, or scale with clarity, the problem may not be your vision. It may be the lack of a narrative-driven mission.

This episode will teach you how to build one that works, aligns, and lasts.

In this episode, you will learn to:

Find the gap between vision and mission that leads to brand drift
Craft a mission that functions like a plotline for your business
Align internal teams and stakeholders around a shared narrative
Use customer journey mapping as a story structure
Translate lofty goals into repeatable action through story

📚 For more storytelling tips and tricks:

Visit → https://rainbennett.com

Or → https://thestorytellinglabpodcast.com

Or following along on...

TikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@chiefstorytellingofficer

Twitter → https://twitter.com/rainbennett

Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/rainbennett

Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/thestorytellinglab

YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@RainBennett

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When Your Brand Design Tells the Right Story with Shane Lukas

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 11:00:00 GMT

“Your stories are building bricks of belief in your brand." — Shane Lukas

How do you sell something your customer can’t see, touch, or fully understand?

Shane Lukas has spent decades helping professional service providers do exactly that by using story as a tool to create trust, clarity, and emotional resonance.

In this episode, Rain and Shane explore how narrative makes “invisible” value tangible. From accountants and coaches to consultants and creatives, anyone who delivers a process or service will benefit from Shane’s simple but powerful storytelling framework.

Together, they discuss the importance of transformation-driven messaging, the psychology of pre-sale belief, and how to guide your prospects with authentic case studies that show, not just tell, what you really do. This is a masterclass in making your message matter.

In this episode, you will learn to:

Sell intangible services by framing the emotional outcome, not the technical details
Guide potential clients through stories that build trust before you pitch
Use transformation case studies to prove your value without overselling
Understand why people buy with emotion, not logic—even in B2B
Reframe your sales process as a storytelling journey

🔗 Follow Shane on:

Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/agreatidea

Website → https://www.agreatidea.com

LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/shane-lukas/

📚 And for more storytelling tips and tricks:

Visit → https://rainbennett.com or https://thestorytellinglabpodcast.com

Or follow...

TikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@chiefstorytellingofficer

Twitter → https://twitter.com/rainbennett

Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/rainbennett

Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/thestorytellinglab

YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@RainBennett

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Your Brand's Growth Problem Isn't What You Think It Is with Jensen Savage

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 11:00:00 GMT

“Everybody in your organization has to be aligned… or it all starts to break down.” — Jensen Savage

If you’ve been muscling your way through growth and wondering why it still feels so hard, this episode is for you.

Jensen Savage, founder of Savage Growth Partners, breaks down the true cause of stagnation in business: misalignment.

In this conversation, we explore why brute force can’t scale and how systematizing your customer journey can unlock powerful, sustainable growth. Jensen and Rain dig into the often-ignored “connective tissue” between marketing, sales, and operations and show how storytelling is more than messaging and communication—it’s infrastructure.

Whether you're a founder, marketer, or small business owner, this episode will help you rethink what’s actually holding you back.

In this episode, you will learn to:

Understand why growth stalls even when you’re doing everything “right”
Uncover the unseen gaps in your customer journey that silently kill momentum
Map your marketing to metrics that matter most for service-based businesses
Build systems that turn handoffs into high-performance links
Use story-driven alignment to unify your brand from sales to operations

🔗 Follow Jensen on:

Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/savagegrowthpartners

LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/jensensavage

Website → https://savagegrowthpartners.com

📚 For more storytelling tips and tricks:

Visit rainbennett.com or thestorytellinglabpodcast.com, or

Follow...

TikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@chiefstorytellingofficer

Twitter → https://twitter.com/rainbennett

Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/rainbennett

Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/thestorytellinglab

YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@RainBennett

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What Happens When YOU Become the Story with Elton Anderson, Jr.

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 15:24:48 GMT

“Every time you press upload, you’re telling the universe this is your part in the grand scheme.” — Elton Anderson, Jr.

What if your content wasn’t just a creative outlet, but a mirror for your transformation?

In this episode, Rain Bennett sits down with Elton Anderson—a photographer, storyteller, and founder of L10 Media—for a deep, vulnerable conversation on using storytelling to break free of the algorithm, let go of outdated identities, and build a media platform rooted in purpose.

Elton shares his own creative pivot, leaving behind a successful photography career and embracing a new chapter built around authenticity, micro media ownership, and spiritual self-alignment.

Together, they explore how to attract the right audience by showing up fully as yourself, why resistance is a sign you’re on the right path, and how to build a life and career that flow from the inside out. If you're multi-passionate, burned out by content trends, or questioning how to evolve in public, this episode will show you that your shadow isn’t something to fear—it’s where your story begins.

In this episode, you will learn to:

Embrace identity shifts as part of your creative evolution
Find your unique voice through consistent, imperfect action
Use storytelling as a tool to connect with others and yourself
Build a micro media company around your personal purpose
Reframe resistance as a signal that you're on the right path

Follow Elton on:

Instagram

TikTok

or visit his website, HERE!

And for more storytelling tips and tricks,

Visit rainbennett.com or thestorytellinglabpodcast.com

Follow on TikTok @chiefstorytellingofficer

Follow on Twitter @rainbennett

Follow on Instagram @rainbennett

Follow on Facebook @thestorytellinglab

Subscribe to the YouTube Channel

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Real Reason Your Brand Feels Disconnected with Rain Bennett

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 17:14:47 GMT

“If your company doesn’t know the story that it’s helping to tell, no marketing campaign is going to save you.” — Rain Bennett

Most businesses mistake their vision for a quarterly goal or a financial target, but that’s not a story anyone wants to join.

In this solo episode, Rain Bennett unpacks the critical difference between vision and mission, showing how your vision acts as the narrative North Star for your entire brand. Rain shares a clear, actionable framework based on Simon Sinek’s “Just Cause” model and explains how the best visions are resilient, inclusive, and service-oriented.

Through two powerful case studies—Patagonia and The People’s Game—Rain illustrates how a well-crafted vision can guide every part of your business, from branding to product development to internal culture.

If you’ve ever struggled to articulate why your company exists beyond just making money, this episode gives you the foundation to start telling a story that actually matters.

In this episode, you will learn to:

Define a brand vision that is resilient, inclusive, and service-oriented
Align your team and decisions around a single, powerful story
Avoid the common mistakes that make most vision statements meaningless
Use real-world case studies to guide your own storytelling strategy
Craft a vision that inspires belief, not just activity

For more storytelling tips and tricks,

Visit rainbennett.com or thestorytellinglabpodcast.com

Follow on TikTok @chiefstorytellingofficer

Follow on Twitter @rainbennett

Follow on Instagram @rainbennett

Follow on Facebook @thestorytellinglab

Subscribe to the YouTube Channel

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Billion-Person Mission That Started With Bankruptcy with David Meltzer

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 11:00:00 GMT

“I was made from mistakes. I was promoted, protected, loved, and perfected by them.” — David Meltzer

After losing $100 million and hitting rock bottom, David Meltzer rebuilt his life and his business around a mission to empower over 1 billion people to be happy.

In this episode, Rain Bennett sits down with David to explore how storytelling became the vehicle for that transformation.

David opens up about the bankruptcy he once hid from the world, the emotional healing that followed, and the new definition of success that changed everything. They talk about the myth of “give more, get more,” the strategic use of vulnerability, and how to build a brand rooted in service and joy.

If you’ve ever struggled to see the upside in your darkest moments, this conversation will show you how to flip the script and turn your pain into purpose.

In this episode, you will learn to:

Reframe failure as the foundation for your most powerful story
Create a happiness-driven business model that serves and scales
Embrace vulnerability to build real trust and connection
Shift from ego-based identity to a mission-based life
Teach your team to lead with empathy, clarity, and consistency

Follow David on:

or pre-order his new book, HERE!

And for more storytelling tips and tricks,

Visit rainbennett.com or thestorytellinglabpodcast.com

Follow on TikTok @chiefstorytellingofficer

Follow on Twitter @rainbennett

Follow on Instagram @rainbennett

Follow on Facebook @thestorytellinglab

Subscribe to the YouTube Channel

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How a Local Utility Company Became a Storytelling Powerhouse with Krystal Phillips

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 11:00:00 GMT

“It’s not just about keeping the lights on—it’s about building a relationship with the people at the end of the line.” — Krystal Phillips, JO-EMC

Storytelling isn’t just for trendy brands or startups.

In this episode, Rain sits down with Krystal Phillips, Communications and Community Relations Manager at Jones-Onslow EMC, to explore how a rural electric co-op built a storytelling culture that would rival any big tech brand.

Krystal reveals the behind-the-scenes thinking that led a utility company to invest in heartfelt video stories, internal leadership programs, and community-first content. Together, they unpack how to measure storytelling ROI when you can’t rely on sales, how buy-in from leadership transforms culture, and why authenticity matters more than production value.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone working in “unsexy” industries who wants to make storytelling their competitive advantage.

In this episode, you will learn to:

Harness storytelling as a strategic tool, even in “boring” or highly regulated industries
Build team buy-in by grounding your strategy in community and trust
Establish internal programs that create a pipeline of storytellers inside your organization
Humanize your brand with stories that foster empathy and emotional connection
Measure the real ROI of storytelling beyond dollars and metrics

Follow Krystal on:

LinkedIn

Instagram

or visit the JO-EMC website, HERE!

And for more storytelling tips and tricks,

Visit rainbennett.com or thestorytellinglabpodcast.com

Follow on TikTok @chiefstorytellingofficer

Follow on Twitter @rainbennett

Follow on Instagram @rainbennett

Follow on Facebook @thestorytellinglab

Subscribe to the YouTube Channel

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Storytelling That Builds Trust Across Any Organization with Salvatore Manzi

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 11:00:00 GMT

“A shared narrative means everyone in the organization is speaking about the story in the same way.” — Salvatore Manzi

If every person on your team is telling a different version of your brand story, you don’t have a marketing problem—you have a clarity crisis.

In this episode, communication strategist and author Salvatore Manzi joins Rain to break down how to build a shared narrative that aligns everyone in your organization.

From CEOs to customer service reps, consistency in storytelling builds trust, clarity, and emotional resonance. Salvatore shares actionable frameworks for clear and compelling communication, how to blend personal and brand narratives, and why metaphors are essential tools for influence.

Whether you're leading a nonprofit or a global brand, this episode will sharpen your storytelling and unify your message.

In this episode, you will learn to:

Align your entire team behind a unified narrative that eliminates confusion
Use storytelling frameworks to turn complex data into meaningful messages
Build trust with audiences by integrating vulnerability into your leadership voice
Avoid common communication pitfalls in both nonprofits and STEM-driven businesses
Apply the “problem, process, outcome” structure to make your stories more actionable

Follow Salvatore on:

LinkedIn

Instagram

or visit his website, HERE!

And for more storytelling tips and tricks,

Visit rainbennett.com or thestorytellinglabpodcast.com

Follow on TikTok @chiefstorytellingofficer

Follow on Twitter @rainbennett

Follow on Instagram @rainbennett

Follow on Facebook @thestorytellinglab

Subscribe to the YouTube Channel

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How to Use Storytelling to Fuel a Content Engine with David Ebner

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 11:00:00 GMT

“A message map is the most underutilized resource for marketers.” — David Ebner

What if the reason your marketing isn’t working has nothing to do with the content itself, but everything to do with the foundation it’s built on?

In this episode, Rain sits down with David Ebner, founder of Content Workshop and one of the clearest voices in content strategy, to unpack why most brand storytelling falls flat. They explore the concept of the message map, how to build a storytelling system that scales, and why trust is the most important marketing metric you’re probably not tracking.

David also opens up about how his background in creative writing fuels his approach to business storytelling, what metrics actually matter, and how emotion creates longevity in brand relationships.

Whether you're a solopreneur or scaling a team, this episode will challenge the way you think about content and give you a smarter path forward.

In this episode, you will learn to:

Apply the power of a message map to bring structure and purpose to your content
Use storytelling as a system, not just a one-off tactic
Rethink your marketing metrics and focus on what truly builds trust
Leverage long-form cornerstone content to fuel your daily output
Avoid burnout by shifting from production obsession to strategic clarity

Follow David on:

LinkedIn

or visit the Content Workshop website, HERE!

And for more storytelling tips and tricks,

Visit rainbennett.com or thestorytellinglabpodcast.com

Follow on TikTok @rainbennett.storyeller

Follow on Twitter @rainbennett

Follow on Instagram @rainbennett

Follow on Facebook @thestorytellinglab

Subscribe to the YouTube Channel

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How Personal Stories Build Public Trust in Just 7 Minutes with Aaron Calafato

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 11:00:00 GMT

“The shortest distance between two souls is a story.” — Aaron Calafato

Aaron Calafato doesn’t just teach storytelling—he lives it.

In this episode, we dive into what it really means to lead with story, both as an artist and a business strategist. Aaron shares how he built an audience (and a business) by showing up authentically and consistently, telling personal stories that are never just about him.

We discuss the fine line between self-expression and self-indulgence, how personal narratives can unlock professional growth, and why he refuses to monetize his podcast Seven Minute Stories.

This conversation is full of heart, humor, and hard-earned wisdom for anyone trying to build trust through story.

In this episode, you will learn to:

Identify the differences between storytelling as a gift and storytelling as a performance
Use personal stories to create trust, not just attention
Balance art and business while staying true to your values
Build long-term brand equity through consistent storytelling
Avoid the trap of trying to be “cool” when what people really want is connection

Follow Aaron on:

YouTube

Instagram

or listen to his show, Seven Minute Stories, HERE!

And for more storytelling tips and tricks,

Visit rainbennett.com or thestorytellinglabpodcast.com

Follow on TikTok @rainbennett.storyeller

Follow on Twitter @rainbennett

Follow on Instagram @rainbennett

Follow on Facebook @thestorytellinglab

Subscribe to the YouTube Channel

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Building a Narrative Operating System that Scales Your Business

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 11:00:00 GMT

“A story is a single arc of transformation. A narrative is the thread that connects them all.” — Rain Bennett

Most businesses think their biggest challenge is marketing. But what if the real issue is story misalignment?

In this solo episode, Rain Bennett introduces the Narrative Operating System—a strategic framework designed to bring your brand's stories into alignment across every department: from vision and mission to product, marketing, advertising, and sales.

This isn't just a branding tool. It’s a storytelling system that ensures your internal culture and external messaging work in harmony.

Rain breaks down each layer of the system and shows how companies can create a brand people don’t just buy from, but they believe in.

You’ll learn why most teams default to their own version of the story, how that causes confusion and erodes trust, and how the Chief Storytelling Officer role solves that. If you’ve ever felt like your message was scattered or your content inconsistent, this episode gives you a clear roadmap to fix it for good!

In this episode, you will learn to:

Align every department with one cohesive brand narrative
Build a storytelling system that fuels marketing, product, and sales
Understand the difference between story and narrative—and why it matters
Use narrative to drive consistency, connection, and long-term loyalty
Embrace the CSO role as the protector of your brand’s story DNA

For more storytelling tips and tricks,

Visit my website rainbennett.com or thestorytellinglabpodcast.com

Follow me on TikTok @rainbennett.storyeller

Follow me on Twitter @rainbennett

Follow me on Instagram @rainbennett

Follow me on Facebook @thestorytellinglab

Subscribe to my Youtube Channel

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How the Soundtracks of Our Lives Shape who We Become with Patrick Hicks

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 10:00:00 GMT

“If it makes me curious, then maybe it’ll make someone else curious, too.” — Patrick Hicks

What started as a 30-day content challenge became a storytelling movement powered by rock, raw honesty, and curiosity.

In this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain Bennett speaks with Patrick Hicks, creator of a viral TikTok account (@patrickhicksmusic), where he tells the stories behind the songs that shaped our lives. With over half a million followers and a growing book project, Patrick has built a creator career that feels authentic, soulful, and sustainable.

They discuss how Patrick’s background in marketing, music, and punk DIY culture gave him the tools to grow his audience without losing his voice. You’ll hear how he balances content creation with a full-time job, why he never polishes his videos, and how he structures stories to connect emotionally—without chasing algorithms.

This episode is a masterclass in following your curiosity, honoring your influences, and building something meaningful on your own terms.

In this episode, you will learn to:

Turn a simple idea into a large, loyal audience by following your own curiosity
Tell better stories by pairing emotional narratives with musical memory
Structure short-form content that resonates without being overproduced
Build trust and authenticity by leaning into your quirks and imperfections
Balance creative pursuits with real life while still growing your platform

Follow Patrick on:

TikTok

Instagram

or subscribe to his Substack here!

And for more storytelling tips and tricks,

Visit rainbennett.com or thestorytellinglabpodcast.com

Follow on TikTok @rainbennett.storyeller

Follow on Twitter @rainbennett

Follow on Instagram @rainbennett

Follow on Facebook @thestorytellinglab

Subscribe to the YouTube Channel

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Interviewing as a Tool for Trust, Healing, and Human Connection with Wil Weldon

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 10:00:00 GMT

"Interviewing is not about taking something—it's about helping them be more of who they are." — Wil Weldon

What if the key to more powerful storytelling lies not in your editing skills—but in your ability to deeply listen?

In this soul-stirring episode, Rain Bennett talks with Wil Weldon, a video journalist, former massage therapist, and Reiki practitioner who’s developed a holistic approach to interviewing called Heart-Forward Storytelling.

They dive into Wil’s new book INNERviewing: Heart-Forward Storytelling and Holistic Communication, which teaches storytellers, coaches, marketers, and everyday humans how to create space for transformational conversations. You’ll learn how principles of energy transfer, intention, and trust can improve your interviews—not just on camera, but in life.

From family storytelling to trauma-informed listening, this episode reminds us that storytelling is more than performance—it's connection at its deepest level.

In this episode, you will learn to:

Create deeper interviews by minimizing your ego and agenda
Apply Reiki-inspired principles to your communication process
Build trust and energy in storytelling relationships without manipulation
Preserve your family’s legacy through intentional, heart-centered conversations
Redefine interviewing as a collaborative, healing experience—not an extractive one

For more storytelling tips and tricks,

Visit rainbennett.com or thestorytellinglabpodcast.com

Follow on TikTok @rainbennett.storyeller

Follow on Twitter @rainbennett

Follow on Instagram @rainbennett

Follow on Facebook @thestorytellinglab

Subscribe to the YouTube Channel

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Ethics of Filming Real Love Triangles in Mistress Dispeller with Elizabeth Lo

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 10:00:00 GMT

"I wanted each character to be complex enough and sympathetic enough that there's some deep reason you could identify in yourself." — Elizabeth Lo

How do you tell a story that's intimate, ethically complicated, and rooted in real-life secrecy—without exploiting your subjects?

In this episode, Rain Bennett speaks with acclaimed documentary filmmaker Elizabeth Lo, director of Mistress Dispeller, one of the most talked-about films this year.

The film follows a professional “mistress dispeller” in China hired to break up extramarital affairs on behalf of betrayed spouses—yes, it’s exactly what it sounds like.

Elizabeth opens up about how she gained the trust of real people in real love triangles, how she balanced empathy with narrative clarity, and how she created emotional tension through stillness instead of sensationalism.

They discuss ethical gray areas, building documentaries without control, and letting stories unfold naturally while still crafting a cohesive arc. If you’re a nonfiction filmmaker or just someone interested in telling hard stories with humanity, this episode is a must-listen.

In this episode, you will learn to:

Earn the trust of documentary subjects by building long-term, authentic relationships
Let stories unfold naturally instead of forcing a narrative structure
Navigate ethical storytelling with sensitive, real-world material
Use stillness and silence to create emotional tension
Align your personal values with the stories you choose to tell

For more storytelling tips and tricks,

Visit rainbennett.com or thestorytellinglabpodcast.com

Follow on TikTok @rainbennett.storyeller

Follow on Twitter @rainbennett

Follow on Instagram @rainbennett

Follow on Facebook @thestorytellinglab

Subscribe to the Youtube Channel

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Brand Stories Grab Attention, But Brand Narratives Build Movements

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 10:00:00 GMT

“A story is a singular arc of transformation. A narrative is the thread that ties all your stories together.” — Rain Bennett

Is telling your brand story enough to build a loyal audience?

In this episode, Rain Bennett breaks down the essential but often misunderstood difference between brand story and brand narrative. While most marketers focus on crafting engaging stories, Rain explains why the real secret to lasting brand trust lies in building a clear, consistent narrative thread that connects everything you do, from vision to product to marketing and sales.

He uses powerful metaphors—from Hamilton to the Bible to Christmas lights—to help you see the structure of your storytelling system in a new way.

You’ll also learn how the Chief Storytelling Officer is the guardian of that narrative, ensuring every department speaks in harmony. If you’ve ever felt like your content is scattered or your message is missing the mark, this episode will show you how to realign your storytelling, as well as your business.

In this episode, you will learn to:

Distinguish between brand story and brand narrative—and why both are essential
Use narrative as a strategic compass for every department in your business
Build trust and loyalty by aligning all stories under one cohesive thread
Create a system (not just content) to sustain long-term brand impact
Step into the Chief Storytelling Officer role and protect your narrative across platforms

For more storytelling tips and tricks,

Visit my website rainbennett.com or thestorytellinglabpodcast.com

Follow me on TikTok @rainbennett.storyeller

Follow me on Twitter @rainbennett

Follow me on Instagram @rainbennett

Follow me on Facebook @thestorytellinglab

Subscribe to my Youtube Channel

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stories are Spells: Marketing Lessons from a Magician with Jimi Gibson

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 10:00:00 GMT

“If you're not leaning into your own abracadabra, you're leaving your competitive advantage on the table.” says magician and marketer, Jimi Gibson.

What if storytelling wasn’t just about clever hooks or flashy content—but instead about casting spells that transform how people feel and act?

In this episode, Rain sits down with Jimi Gibson, a marketing strategist, TEDx speaker, and lifelong magician, to explore the deep parallels between magic and storytelling. Jimi shares how the neuroscience behind awe, attention, and trust can be reverse-engineered into any brand message or business interaction.

He even performs a mind-blowing magic trick live on the show—proving firsthand how story structure mirrors a magic trick’s setup, curiosity, and climax.

Whether you’re a founder, marketer, or content creator, this episode reveals how to tap into your own “abracadabra” and use it to spark genuine human connection.

In this episode, you will learn to:

See storytelling as a biological sequence of connection, curiosity, and closure
Use the magician’s mindset to build anticipation and deliver transformation
Apply the three-part structure of a magic trick to your content and copywriting
Translate your personal quirks into brand authenticity and visibility
Reframe timing as a tool for trust—not just attention

For more storytelling tips and tricks,

Visit my website rainbennett.com or thestorytellinglabpodcast.com

Follow me on TikTok @rainbennett.storyeller

Follow me on Twitter @rainbennett

Follow me on Instagram @rainbennett

Follow me on Facebook @thestorytellinglab

Subscribe to my Youtube Channel

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why Ownable Originality Is the Only Differentiator Left with Rob Meyers

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 10:00:00 GMT

“Ownable originality is about creating something uniquely you—something no one else can do, even if they tried.” — Rob Meyers

What does it mean to create something that no one else can replicate?

In this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain sits down with Rob Meyers, Managing Director of the creative studio Versus, to explore the concept of “ownable originality.” Rob shares the philosophy behind Versus—one that prioritizes culture over style, curiosity over templates, and meaning over metrics.

The result? A studio that helps brands and creators make work that is not only beautiful, but deeply aligned with who they are.

They discuss the evolving landscape of branded content, how more companies are creating their own original documentaries and films, and why traditional marketing models are no longer enough. Rob also explains how a founder-led, culture-first organization can scale without losing its soul—and how his team’s creative autonomy fuels both client work and original IP like films, books, and games.

If you’re looking for a model that balances creativity, commerce, and community, this conversation will inspire you to reimagine your own storytelling strategy.

In this episode, you will learn to:

Define your brand through culture, not content volume or visual style
Build a studio or agency that empowers creativity across departments
Make the case for long-form storytelling and brand-backed originals
Balance client work with internal creative projects to retain passion
Lead with values and build trust as your most irreplaceable asset

For more storytelling tips and tricks,

Visit my website rainbennett.com, or

Follow me on TikTok @rainbennett.storyeller

Follow me on Twitter @rainbennett

Follow me on Instagram @rainbennett

Follow me on Facebook @thestorytellinglab

Subscribe to my Youtube Channel

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Turning Emotions Into Images on the Page with Gary Smith

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 10:00:00 GMT

“If you write well, readers see your story differently—but they see it. It’s a visual medium, even in text.” — Gary Smith

What happens when a fine art photographer becomes a novelist?

In this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain Bennett sits down with Gary Smith, a visual artist turned fiction author, who brings a unique perspective to the craft: writing as seeing.

Gary explains how his background in photography shapes the way he builds scenes, characters, and emotions on the page. His process begins with feeling, moves through visualization, and ends with carefully structured prose that reads like a cinematic experience.

The conversation dives deep into discipline, creativity, character development, and how the act of storytelling can help both writer and reader reflect on life’s deeper questions. Gary shares how years of long-distance running and construction work taught him the habits and resilience that now power his writing routine.

This episode is packed with wisdom for any writer who wants to create stories that resonate visually, emotionally, and philosophically.

In this episode, you will learn to:

Develop a storytelling mindset that starts with feeling and translates to visual scenes on the page
Build a daily writing practice grounded in discipline, not motivation
Use your life experience to create authentic, layered characters
See your scenes cinematically and structure your chapters like movie frames
Understand how self-publishing can be a fulfilling and strategic path for fiction writers

For more storytelling tips and tricks,

Visit my website rainbennett.com, or

Follow me on TikTok @rainbennett.storyeller

Follow me on Twitter @rainbennett

Follow me on Instagram @rainbennett

Follow me on Facebook @thestorytellinglab

Subscribe to my Youtube Channel

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why Connection Beats Consistency in Content Marketing with Renee Frojo

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMT

“Consistency is not about how often you post—it's about how consistently you show up in your message.” — Renee Frojo

What if the key to growing your brand wasn’t pumping out more content, but going deeper with your message?

In this episode of The Storytelling Lab, host Rain Bennett talks to Renee Frojo, a former journalist turned brand storyteller, about why clarity in your narrative beats consistency in your posting schedule.

Renee breaks down how founders, solopreneurs, and startups can stop chasing viral trends and start building powerful stories that connect, convert, and scale.

From her personal evolution in content marketing to the development of her storytelling retreats and workshops, Renee shares the systems she uses to help brands mine for meaningful stories and communicate with confidence. They discuss how storytelling enhances every part of your business—from sales calls to short-form social content—and why authenticity has its limits when it comes to brand building.

If you're burned out by content creation and looking for a smarter, more resonant approach, this episode will reshape the way you think about storytelling in business.

In this episode, you will learn to:

Reframe consistency by focusing on a cohesive brand narrative rather than daily content output
Identify emotionally resonant stories through Renee’s “story mining” framework
Apply short-form storytelling techniques that stand out in crowded digital spaces
Build trust and credibility with authentic vulnerability—without oversharing
Design storytelling-driven case studies that simplify your value and deepen engagement

For more storytelling tips and tricks,

Visit my website rainbennett.com, or

Follow me on TikTok @rainbennett.storyeller

Follow me on Twitter @rainbennett

Follow me on Instagram @rainbennett

Follow me on Facebook @thestorytellinglab

Subscribe to my Youtube Channel

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Unlocking Emotional Insights with Story-Driven Data and AI with James Warren

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 10:00:00 GMT

“The more narrow we get with our prompts, the deeper and more profound the insights become.” — James Warren

How do you uncover what your customers and employees really think—without another boring survey?

In this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain speaks with James Warren, the founder of Share More Stories and creator of SEEQ, a storytelling and insights platform that blends the emotional power of stories with the analytical depth of AI.

With a background in brand strategy and corporate leadership, James has pioneered a way to analyze written stories to reveal the underlying emotions, needs, and values of employees, customers, and communities.

James shares how emotional mapping, sensory prompts, and narrative-based strategy help organizations tap into deeper truths that conventional analytics miss. Whether you’re a team leader, marketer, or founder, this episode offers powerful insight into how empathy and data can combine to unlock connection and impact at scale.

In this episode, you will learn to:

Uncover hidden truths by using storytelling as a data collection method for organizational insight
Bridge the gap between emotional intelligence and analytics by using tech tools like AI and NLP without sacrificing humanity
Design better prompts that help employees and customers recall deeper, more meaningful stories
Strengthen both employee and customer experience (EX and CX) by listening to the emotions that drive behavior
Use stories to create authentic culture alignment across leadership, brand, and community

For more storytelling tips and tricks,

Visit my website rainbennett.com, or

Follow me on TikTok @rainbennett.storyeller

Follow me on Twitter @rainbennett

Follow me on Instagram @rainbennett

Follow me on Facebook @thestorytellinglab

Subscribe to my Youtube Channel

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Rise of the Chief Storytelling Officer Role

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 04:00:00 GMT

“The CSO needs a seat at every department’s table—product, marketing, sales—because story threads through all of it.” — Rain Bennett

Storytelling isn’t just about marketing anymore—it’s about leadership, alignment, and growth.

In this special 200th episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain kicks off Season 14 by exploring the rise of a new essential role in business: the Chief Storytelling Officer.

Whether you’re at a massive company like Nike or a scrappy startup, someone needs to take responsibility for narrative consistency across your entire organization.

Rain shares insights from his interviews with real CSOs, including Nike’s Nelson Farris, and breaks down what this role looks like—why it matters, what it includes, and how to fill it (even if it’s you). From establishing your brand’s core “why” to ensuring cohesion across departments like product, marketing, and sales, the CSO is the linchpin of a modern brand. And as Rain writes his next book on the topic, he’s bringing listeners along for the journey.

This episode sets the stage for a season focused on clarity, alignment, and the systems that make brand storytelling sustainable.

In this episode, you will learn to:

Understand the purpose and impact of the Chief Storytelling Officer as a leadership role, not just a creative one.
Translate your brand’s purpose and vision into aligned stories across product, marketing, sales, and internal culture.
Avoid misalignment and brand dilution by building a system of narrative cohesion from top to bottom.
Identify the right person to fill the CSO role—whether that’s you or someone already doing the work informally.
Create trust and connection with customers, teams, and investors through one clear, consistent story.

For more storytelling tips and tricks,

Visit my website rainbennett.com, or

Follow me on TikTok @rainbennett.storyeller

Follow me on Twitter @rainbennett

Follow me on Instagram @rainbennett

Follow me on Facebook @thestorytellinglab

Subscribe to my Youtube Channel

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Brandon Sanderson’s Simple Storytelling Model that Always Works

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 15:14:51 GMT

“Think about what your story promises and then ask yourself if you're actually moving toward it.” — Rain Bennett

Tired of overcomplicated storytelling formulas?

In this episode, Rain simplifies the process with a three-step model inspired by bestselling fantasy author Brandon Sanderson: Promise, Progress, Payoff. This framework is rooted in classical storytelling principles but designed for clarity and ease—whether you're telling a short story, a brand narrative, or a social media post.

Rain breaks down what each step means, how to apply it in your work, and why it's so effective at keeping your audience engaged and emotionally invested. You’ll hear examples from The Lion King, Star Wars, and even YouTube tutorials to show how Promise, Progress, and Payoff show up across formats.

If you're feeling overwhelmed by storytelling theory, this episode brings you back to what matters most: clear expectations, forward motion, and satisfying endings.

In this episode, you will learn to:

Use Promise, Progress, Payoff to guide any story you’re telling, no matter the format or length.
Establish clear expectations early to draw your audience in and build trust.
Keep your story on track by checking whether each moment is moving the narrative forward.
Deliver a satisfying resolution that rewards the time and attention of your audience.
Adapt this structure to content of any scale, from brand videos to epic novels.

For more storytelling tips and tricks,

Visit my website rainbennett.com, or

Follow me on TikTok @rainbennett.storyeller

Follow me on Twitter @rainbennett

Follow me on Instagram @rainbennett

Follow me on Facebook @thestorytellinglab

Subscribe to my Youtube Channel

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How to Make Indie Filmmaking Sustainable with Erika Arlee and Kristi Ray

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 13:10:41 GMT

“If you get your timeline pushed back, think of it as another year to make the story better.” — Erika Arlee

What does it really take to build a sustainable filmmaking career?

In this episode, Rain sits down with Erika Arlee and Kristi Ray, the powerhouse duo behind Honey Head Films, to explore how they’ve grown a production company that balances passion, purpose, and profit.

They share the story of their debut feature A Song for Imogene, and how they expanded it from a short film into a fully realized, distributed feature while staying true to their vision.

Erika and Kristi break down how they built their brand around authentic Southern stories, women filmmakers, and a collaborative, values-driven approach. You’ll learn how they crowdfunded, built community buy-in, and turned obstacles into creative opportunities.

If you’re dreaming of turning your passion for film into a business that lasts, this conversation is packed with hard-earned wisdom and inspiration.

In this episode, you will learn to:

Build an authentic film brand that aligns with your values and attracts the right collaborators.
Create momentum around your project by involving your community early and often.
Balance client work with creative projects so your passion stays alive while paying the bills.
Approach collaboration strategically to find the partners who can help you grow.
Treat your indie film like a startup by thinking about your audience and exit strategy from the start.

Follow Honey Head Films on:

Or visit their website HERE!

*** A Song for Imogene is now on Amazon Prime!

For more storytelling tips and tricks,

Visit my website rainbennett.com, or

Follow me on TikTok @rainbennett.storyeller

Follow me on Twitter @rainbennett

Follow me on Instagram @rainbennett

Follow me on Facebook @thestorytellinglab

Subscribe to my Youtube Channel

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Turn Your Content Into a Show They Can't Stop Watching with Shawn Walchef

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 10:00:00 GMT

“We make our media the same way we make our barbecue, and that’s low and slow.” — Shawn Walchef

How do you run a business and still find time to create content?

In this episode, Rain sits down with Shawn Walchef, owner of Cali BBQ and founder of Cali BBQ Media, to explore how storytelling and content creation aren’t distractions—they’re growth engines. Shawn shares how he went from struggling restaurateur to building a thriving media company on top of his barbecue brand, and why every business today needs to think like a media company.

They break down how to overcome the fear of looking foolish, why quantity and speed matter more than perfection, and how to turn your phone into your most valuable tool.

Shawn also gives practical tips on stacking content, building a team, and staying consistent without burning out. If you’ve ever wondered how to juggle business and content—or whether it’s worth the effort—this episode will change your mindset.

In this episode, you will learn to:

See content as a growth tool, not a chore and shift your mindset around its value.
Overcome the fear of looking foolish online so you can finally start creating.
Focus on quantity and consistency first because that’s what leads to real quality.
Use simple tools like your phone to build a media presence without expensive gear.
Stack and schedule your content so that your “show” runs even when you’re busy.

Follow Shawn on:

Or visit his website HERE!

For more storytelling tips and tricks,

Visit my website rainbennett.com, or

Follow me on TikTok @rainbennett.storyeller

Follow me on Twitter @rainbennett

Follow me on Instagram @rainbennett

Follow me on Facebook @thestorytellinglab

Subscribe to my Youtube Channel

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Save the Cat (and Your Story) with Blake Snyder’s Beat Sheet

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 10:00:00 GMT

“Your story comes from your heart, and then you structure it to deliver it in the best way.” — Rain Bennett

Ever hear the term "story beat" and wonder what it really means?

In this episode, Rain breaks down the mysterious middle ground between scenes and acts—the story beat. And he uses Blake Snyder’s popular (and sometimes polarizing) Save the Cat beat sheet to do it.

You’ll get a clear explanation of what a beat is, how the 15-beat structure works, and why it's helped thousands of storytellers—from screenwriters to brand strategists—craft more compelling narratives.

Rain walks you through the full beat sheet, explains how it maps to The Lion King, and shares tips on how to use this structure for your own business, brand, or film storytelling. If you’ve been overwhelmed by big frameworks, this episode will give you a clear, practical tool to work with.

In this episode, you will learn to:

Define what a story beat is and understand how it fits between scenes and acts.
Use Blake Snyder’s 15-beat sheet to outline or revise your story with more clarity.
Apply structural thinking without becoming rigid or formulaic.
Break down familiar films like The Lion King to see how classic stories follow this shape.
Build emotional momentum in your stories by anchoring each beat to character decisions.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Key to Building a Creative Career That Actually Lasts with Stewart Cohen

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 10:00:00 GMT

“People want to feel heard. If you don’t create a collaborative space, they won’t come back.” — Stewart Cohen

How do you build a long, successful creative career when you are the brand?

In this episode, Rain sits down with director and visual storyteller Stewart Cohen to explore the balance between artistry and entrepreneurship. With decades of experience in commercial production, photography, and branded storytelling, Stewart has mastered the dance of creating great work while sustaining strong client relationships—and still making time for passion projects.

They discuss how personal work often leads to professional opportunities, the importance of trust and collaboration, and how to get authentic performances from real people.

Stewart shares how his curiosity drives his creativity, why connection is the true metric for success, and why making stuff just for fun might be the smartest business decision you ever make.

If you're a storyteller trying to make it in a noisy world, this episode is packed with hard-earned wisdom.

In this episode, you will learn to:

Balance creative work and client relationships by focusing on trust, collaboration, and communication.
Use curiosity and personal projects to fuel professional growth and keep your creative spark alive.
Make non-actors feel comfortable on camera by creating a safe, relaxed environment that encourages vulnerability.
Understand how story-first branded content builds stronger emotional engagement than traditional marketing.
Recognize the long game of creative careers and why real relationships outperform short-term wins.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Joseph Campbell’s Legacy of Myth and Why It Still Matters with John Bucher

Mon, 26 May 2025 10:00:00 GMT

“The stories we take on as children are often the ones we spend the rest of our lives trying to rewrite.” — John Bucher

What if the story you’re living isn’t the one you were meant to live?

In this episode, Rain sits down with John Bucher, President of the Joseph Campbell Foundation, to explore how the ancient patterns of mythology still shape our modern lives. Together, they dive deep into Joseph Campbell’s enduring influence on storytelling—from Star Wars to brand narratives—and how we can harness those same mythic structures to better understand our own identities and destinies.

John shares his personal journey from a small Texas town to becoming a global thought leader in mythology, and how a series of “accidents” and calls to adventure helped him rewrite his life’s story. They also discuss how stories evolve, how to avoid getting stuck in the romanticized “Hollywood version” of your life, and why lived experience will always outshine AI-generated narratives.

This is a powerful, heartfelt conversation about the stories we inherit, the ones we believe, and the ones we choose to write next.

In this episode, you will learn to:

Recognize the power of personal mythology and how your childhood beliefs shape the stories you tell—and live—today.
Use the four story endings from Aristotle to understand your own journey and navigate expectations around success and fulfillment.
Reframe your career path and goals by identifying moments that call you into a new chapter, even if they start as mistakes.
Embrace storytelling as a tool for community and healing, especially in a world increasingly influenced by technology and isolation.
Keep storytelling human in the age of AI by leading with lived experience, emotional connection, and authentic curiosity.

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Nancy Duarte's Sparkline: The Secret Structure Behind Every Great Speech

Mon, 19 May 2025 10:00:00 GMT

“You don’t just present a pitch—you present a world your audience wants to live in.” — Rain Bennett

What do the Gettysburg Address, I Have a Dream, and your next sales pitch have in common?

They all follow a specific structure—one that Nancy Duarte calls the Sparkline.

In this solo episode, Rain breaks down how this framework works, why it resonates so deeply, and how you can use it to capture attention, build trust, and persuade your audience—whether you're on a stage, pitching a product, or crafting a social post.

Rain dives deep into the Sparkline’s rhythm of “what is” and “what could be,” how this pattern mirrors the Hero’s Journey, and why it triggers emotional investment and action. He also explores resistance in storytelling, the power of contrast, and the neuroscience behind narrative immersion. To drive it home, he analyzes Steve Jobs’s legendary 2007 iPhone keynote—step by step.

If you want to spark belief in your message, this episode is your blueprint.

In this episode, you will learn to:

Leverage contrast between the status quo and the dream state to build urgency and desire in your storytelling.
Use the Sparkline’s up-and-down rhythm to cut through resistance and guide your audience into emotional buy-in.
Avoid the two biggest presentation mistakes—the “report” and the “pitch”—by balancing tension and transformation.
Apply the Sparkline framework across formats including emails, speeches, pitches, social content, and videos.
Spot and replicate masterful storytelling techniques using Steve Jobs’s iPhone launch as a real-world example.

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How to Build Resilience and Rewrite Your Story with Nina Sossamon-Pogue

Mon, 12 May 2025 12:12:50 GMT

“It’s okay to not be okay. It’s just not okay to stay that way.” — Nina Sossamon-Pogue

What do you do when life knocks you flat?

Former U.S. gymnast turned Emmy-winning journalist, tech exec, and resilience coach Nina Sossamon-Pogue has fallen—and learned how to get back up more times than she can count. In this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain sits down with Nina to explore how we build personal resilience, reframe failure, and use storytelling to take control of our lives when everything feels out of control.

They dig into Nina’s practical “T.H.I.S.” framework, which helps people process failure, navigate identity loss, and shift the narrative they’re stuck in.

This conversation blends the science of mindset with the art of storytelling to help high achievers—and anyone in a “now what?” moment—redefine success and take back authorship of their lives. If you’ve ever felt lost in the messy middle of your story, this one’s for you.

In this episode, you will learn to:

Zoom out on your life story using Nina’s “lifetime timeline” exercise to shift from tunnel vision to long-term perspective.
Assess and strengthen your support system by identifying who’s helping and who’s hurting in your current chapter.
Isolate the moment to reduce anxiety and take meaningful action in the present, rather than spinning in regret or fear.
Reframe the stories you tell yourself to stop self-sabotaging with catastrophizing and overgeneralizing thoughts.
Move through “Now What?” moments with intention by defining your next chapter based on who you want to become—not just what’s happened to you.

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Fiction Storytelling as a Form of Self-Discovery with Nathan Baugh

Mon, 05 May 2025 10:00:00 GMT

"Most nonfiction books could’ve been blog posts—but fiction sticks with you for life." — Nathan Baugh

Is fiction just entertainment—or is it the best self-help you’re not reading? In this episode, Rain Bennett sits down with storyteller, writer, and World Builders creator Nathan Baugh to talk about the power of fiction in a world obsessed with productivity, optimization, and self-help checklists.

Together they explore the overlooked lessons hiding in classic novels, the creative trap of only producing for money, and the rising role of AI in the writing world.

Nathan opens up about how he left a traditional job to build a platform as a writer, how he balances client work with his fantasy novels, and why his mission is to simply write stories he’d want to read.

They also break down what makes a twist land, how storytelling frameworks translate across mediums, and the unexpected ways fiction can deepen human connection. If you're trying to create meaningful work in a noisy digital world, this conversation is a breath of fresh air.

In this episode, you will learn to:

Reframe fiction as a powerful personal development tool, not just an escape or guilty pleasure.
Balance monetized work with meaningful creative output, even if your art doesn’t pay off immediately.
Strengthen your audience connection by telling stories about your own struggles, not just giving advice.
Understand how fiction builds empathy, creativity, and resilience in ways nonfiction often can't.
Navigate the impact of AI on creative work by doubling down on voice, experience, and storytelling fundamentals.

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Psychedelics, Creativity, and the Future of Work in the Age of AI with Paul F. Austin

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 10:00:00 GMT

"The drugs we've accepted in society—alcohol, nicotine, caffeine—were chosen for productivity, not well-being." — Paul Austin

What if the stories we’ve been told about psychedelics were wrong? In this episode, Rain Bennett sits down with Paul Austin, founder of Third Wave and Psychedelic Coaching Institute, to explore how microdosing and intentional psychedelic use are helping people heal, focus, connect, and live more purposeful lives.

With a background in education and entrepreneurship, Paul has spent the last decade helping reframe the narrative around substances like psilocybin and LSD—not as dangerous drugs, but as ancient tools being rediscovered for modern growth.

They discuss the data behind microdosing, the role of psychedelics in mental health and creativity, and how narrative shifts in culture require patience, education, and empathy. You’ll also learn how this resurgence intersects with storytelling, business innovation, community building, and AI—and why those looking to find their voice, their path, or their tribe might want to look a little deeper.

Whether you’re skeptical or curious, this conversation will open your mind to the potential of storytelling on a molecular level.

In this episode, you will learn to:

Understand how to reshape public perception by aligning your message with your audience’s pain points and using stories that connect rather than confront.
Recognize psychedelics not as escapes, but as tools for transformation—especially in emotional, mental, and professional transitions.
Explore how microdosing supports clarity, creativity, and behavioral change without overwhelming your daily routine.
Challenge cultural narratives through storytelling by reframing long-held beliefs with nuance, data, and empathy.
Draw connections between community, consciousness, and creativity, and see how shared experiences (not solo journeys) are driving a new paradigm of wellness and leadership.

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Create Impact with Your Documentary through Characters, Culture, and Collaboration

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 10:00:00 GMT

"It's not just what you say—it's how you say it. And who you're saying it to." — Esther Oyetunji

What makes a story unforgettable? At this year’s Full Frame Documentary Film Festival in Durham, North Carolina, Rain Bennett spoke with three sets of storytellers, each using a different medium, subject, and method—but all working toward the same goal: to move their audience. In this special episode, Rain shares his conversations with Jennifer Tiexiera and Guy Mossman, the co-directors of SPEAK, the film’s star Esther Oyetunji, and Ned Phillips, co-director of The Last Partera.

From the deeply collaborative filmmaking process behind SPEAK, to the competitive, emotionally resonant stage presence of Esther, to Ned’s eight-year journey of capturing the fading legacy of Costa Rican midwifery—this episode is a masterclass in the versatility of documentary storytelling.

You’ll learn how each of these artists found their story, built relationships with their subjects, overcame technical hurdles, and ultimately created something deeply meaningful. Whether you're a filmmaker, writer, speaker, or content creator, this episode will inspire you to embrace your own unique storytelling path.

In this episode, you will:

Discover the diversity of effective storytelling structures by seeing how different films—with wildly different pacing and tones—can still move audiences equally.
Learn how collaboration strengthens creative vision, especially in co-directing, editing, and producing documentary projects.
Explore the emotional precision of live storytelling through Esther’s championship-winning approach to connecting with and transforming her audience.
Understand how curiosity can lead to powerful stories by following Ned’s journey from a single conversation in Costa Rica to an 8-year labor of love.
Gain insight into staying the course creatively—how to finish the thing, even when funding dries up, motivation dips, or the world moves on.

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How to Learn, Adapt, and Build a Lasting Business on Social Media with Keenya Kelly

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 10:00:00 GMT

"You have to give yourself permission to be terrible at being a business owner when you start." — Keenya Kelly

In a world where social media platforms change by the week, how do you stay visible, build a loyal audience, and run a profitable business?

Keenya Kelly has done just that—amassing over 500,000 TikTok followers and building a thriving brand across multiple platforms.

In this episode of The Storytelling Lab, she sits down with Rain to talk about the reality behind going viral, how to grow your email list through short-form content, and how to avoid the burnout so many creators face.

They discuss strategies for platform diversification, how creators can start thinking like entrepreneurs, and what it really takes to build long-term success online. Keenya also opens up about her journey from network marketing to becoming a top-tier content strategist—and why personal growth is essential to brand growth.

Whether you’re just starting out or ready to scale, this episode is packed with real talk and real tactics to help you thrive in the ever-changing digital world.

In this episode, you will learn to:

Master the art and science of platform diversification by building a brand across multiple channels and driving audiences to your owned assets like email and SMS.
Unlock the key to lasting success as a creator by adopting an entrepreneurial mindset and investing in your business skills.
Discover the simple strategy to turn viral content into conversions using Keenya’s “sandwich method” of strategic content stacking.
Build a team that supports your vision and reduces burnout so you can stay creative and consistent.
Create a content funnel that nurtures and converts by focusing on opt-ins, micro-offers, and community building.

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The Simple Story Framework That Built Pixar’s Greatest Hits

Mon, 24 Mar 2025 10:00:00 GMT

"It's not the frame of your house that makes it a beautiful home—but without it, the house falls apart. It's the same with your story." — Rain Bennett

What if we told you that some of the best stories of all time—from Toy Story to Finding Nemo—were all built on the same simple 8-step framework?

In this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain breaks down the Story Spine, a storytelling structure originally developed by improv teacher Kenn Adams and later adopted by the storytelling giants at Pixar.

Rain takes us through the full arc of this framework, from its humble beginnings in a California improv class to its now-iconic place in Pixar’s creative process. He shares how this deceptively simple structure helps storytellers stay grounded while crafting emotional, impactful narratives.

You’ll also hear real movie examples (like The Goonies and Rocky) broken down with this method, and learn how to apply it to your own work—whether that’s a film, blog post, or Instagram caption. If you want to tell better stories with more clarity and impact, start with the spine.

In this episode, you will learn to:

Master the art and science of story structure by using the Story Spine to frame compelling narratives with clarity.
Unlock the key to narrative flow by linking events with causation, not coincidence.
Discover the simple strategy to show transformation with two powerful moments of change: the inciting incident and the climax.
Learn how even top storytellers like Pixar use basic structure as a foundation before adding heart, character, and color.
Apply a timeless framework to your own content—from short videos to keynote speeches to brand storytelling.

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Beyond Followers: Creating a True Community Around Your Brand with Cyndi Zaweski

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 10:00:00 GMT

"Social media isn’t just a tool; it’s an opportunity to co-create stories with your audience. They don't need more information. They need insights, emotion, and most importantly, connection." - Cyndi Zaweski

Building a supportive community as a solopreneur, artist, or small business owner can feel overwhelming—especially if you’re an introvert.

In this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain Bennett sits down with storytelling expert Cindy Zaweski to explore how sharing your authentic journey online can create deeper connections and real relationships, not just followers.

Cindy shares her path from journalism to marketing, the lessons she learned from burnout, and how she rebuilt her business in a way that aligned with her true passions.

If you’re struggling to find your audience, or wondering how to create content that actually resonates, this episode is for you!

In this episode, you will learn to:

Master the art and science of community building by using storytelling to create real relationships, not just followers.
Unlock the key to authentic engagement by shifting your content from information-sharing to insight-driven storytelling.
Discover the simple strategy to avoid burnout by aligning your brand storytelling with your true passions and values.
Use social media as a storytelling tool to build trust, deepen connections, and strengthen your brand’s identity.
Find the courage to pivot and evolve when your business no longer aligns with your goals—and use storytelling to make the transition seamless.

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Two Simple Words from South Park's Creators to Improve Your Storytelling

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 12:59:19 GMT

"South Park’s creators cracked the code on storytelling, and their method will instantly improve your stories." - Rain Bennett

In this episode of the Storytelling Lab podcast, Rain discusses the common pitfalls that storytellers face, particularly the challenge of tying together various elements of a story to maintain audience engagement.

But there is a simple yet powerful storytelling principle to help avoid this, straight from the creators of South Park: the "But, Therefore" model. This method ensures that every event in your story is causally linked, keeping your audience engaged and eager to know what happens next.

Through examples from popular films and personal anecdotes, Rain illustrates how effective storytelling requires a clear cause-and-effect relationship between events, urging listeners to apply these techniques in their own storytelling endeavors.

Whether you’re crafting a film, writing a LinkedIn post, or creating short-form content, this approach will transform how you structure your stories. Tune in to learn how to ditch the "And then…" trap and create stories that truly captivate.

In this episode, you will learn:

What simple model made the South Park creators excellent storytellers
The "and then..." trap and how easy it is to fall into
How to structure stories for maximum engagement
How effective stories are made up of cause-and-effect chains
Why rearranging your story in creative ways doesn't sacrifice the connection of story events

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How to Turn Your Pain into Purpose By Sharing Your Story with J.R. Martinez

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 11:00:00 GMT

"You've got to get out of your own way. Put yourself out into the world, and just give it to the universe. Lean into the space shared with the world." — J. R. Martinez

In episode 184 of The Storytelling Lab podcast, J.R. Martinez, a best-selling author, keynote speaker, and actor, shares his inspiring journey of resilience and personal growth after being injured in the military.

As Martinez recounts his experience of turning pain into power, he delves into the transformative power of mindset, the significance of vulnerability, and the ongoing process of self-discovery.

Host Rain Bennett engages in a conversation that sheds light on the impact of challenging conversations, the importance of embracing vulnerability, and finding purpose through shared experiences.

Martinez's narrative serves as a powerful example of overcoming adversity and the potential for growth through the shared stories of personal transformation. This episode offers valuable insights for individuals seeking resilience and personal growth, emphasizing the transformative power of mindset and the significance of embracing vulnerability in navigating life's challenges.

In this episode, you will learn to:

Embrace personal challenges as opportunities for growth.
Discover the power of vulnerability in personal development.
Utilize storytelling for emotional healing and resilience.
Build a sense of community through the sharing of personal stories.
Uncover the impact of journaling on mental well-being.

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Kurt Vonnegut's Simple Theory of the Eight Shapes of Storytelling

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 11:00:00 GMT

"We so rarely stop and realize when we're in good fortune. We don't understand when we're in ill fortune that we won't be there forever. It's just part of the shape of our story." — Rain Bennett

In this episode of The Storytelling Lab podcast, Rain Bennett delves into Kurt Vonnegut's "Eight shapes of stories" theory, emphasizing its relevance in understanding the simplicity of storytelling, both in entertainment and real life.

Using examples from popular culture, Rain explores each story shape, offering valuable insights that can be applied to various aspects of life and storytelling.

This episode serves as a valuable resource for individuals seeking to better understand their own stories and navigate life's ups and downs with resilience and perspective.

Whether one is a writer looking to understand narrative patterns or simply wants to gain a deeper understanding of their own stories, this episode of The Storytelling Lab provides a compelling exploration of storytelling and its relevance to our everyday lives.

In this episode, you will learn to:

Explore Kurt Vonnegut's shapes of stories theory to unlock the secrets of timeless storytelling structures.
Uncover the powerful impact of storytelling on content marketing and how it can elevate your brand's message.
Discover how AI technology is revolutionizing the analysis of story shapes, offering new insights into narrative patterns.
Dive into the emotional arcs in storytelling and learn how to create compelling, resonant experiences for your audience.
Master storytelling techniques that forge deeper connections with your audience, leaving a lasting impression on their hearts and minds.

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The Art of Crafting Simple and Authentic Stories Using Limited Resources with Rodes Phire

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 11:00:00 GMT

"A great story will always win and find its home and its place in the world. So get better, do better, be better. And if you're in it to win it, then you stay with it and you evolve." — Rodes Phire

In this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rodes Phire, an independent filmmaker, dives deep into her directorial debut film, Farewelling, and shares her insights on the challenges and triumphs of independent filmmaking.

She emphasizes the significance of simplicity in storytelling, discussing her intentional approach to keeping the film uncomplicated and impactful, even within budget constraints.

Rodes sheds light on the emotional connections and personal experiences that influenced the narrative, making it resonate with audiences on a profound level.

Her candid discussion about managing multiple roles as a filmmaker, mindset coach, and entrepreneur provides valuable insights for aspiring creators grappling with similar challenges in the indie filmmaking space.

Rodes's genuine passion for authentic storytelling and her ability to infuse real-life struggles into her work make this episode a must-listen for aspiring filmmakers seeking to enhance their storytelling through simplicity and authentic creativity.

In this episode, you will learn to:

Find practical solutions to common challenges faced by visual storytellers
Discover how real-life encounters can elevate your storytelling to resonate with audiences.
Explore the future possibilities of integrating AI technology into the art of filmmaking and content creation
Uncover effective strategies to finance your storytelling projects and bring your vision to life.
Understand the pivotal role of storytelling in creating meaningful connections with your audience.

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The 6 Emotional Story Shapes that Science Found Resonate with Audiences Most

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 20:08:38 GMT

"It's okay for you to use inspiration from other stories that have been there. The point is for you to know how do you tell your story differently" — Rain Bennett

In this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain dives into the emotional arcs of stories, drawing from his experience as a filmmaker and author.

He discusses the six emotional story shapes artificial intelligence identified through Project Gutenberg and emphasizes the universal nature of these patterns in storytelling.

Through examples from iconic films and his own personal anecdotes, Bennett highlights the impact of emotional storytelling on audience engagement and suggests using these patterns as inspiration rather than rigid templates.

You'll gain a deeper understanding of emotional storytelling and learn how to leverage these patterns to create more impactful and resonant narratives, ultimately enhancing your ability to engage with your audience through compelling storytelling.

In this episode, you will:

Uncover the power of emotional story arcs to captivate your audience and keep them engaged from start to finish.
Learn how storytelling can drive business growth and create a lasting impact on your audience and customers.
Master storytelling techniques that forge deeper connections with your audience, leaving a lasting impression.
Explore the emotional arcs found in Project Gutenberg's stories and discover how they can elevate your own storytelling.
Gain valuable storytelling tips from top storytellers that will elevate your storytelling game and leave a lasting impact on your audience.

Mentioned in the show — Steven Pressfield's GoFundMe

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Top 3 Screenwriting Lessons Learned from My First 3 Screenplays

Mon, 23 Dec 2024 11:00:42 GMT

"You have to show up every day and produce because you need the reps. And that is because you need the data from those reps. You can't take one shot in the dark—one stab at it with your one idea—and it not work out, and learn anything valuable from that experience." - Rain Bennett

In this episode of the Storytelling Lab podcast, Rain Bennett shares his personal journey as a storyteller and screenwriter, discussing the importance of consistency, character understanding, and professionalism in the writing process.

He reflects on his experiences writing his first three screenplays, emphasizing the lessons learned from each project, including the challenges of adapting true stories and the necessity of daily practice to develop one's craft.

Bennett encourages listeners to embrace their storytelling ambitions and to show up for their creative work, regardless of the obstacles they face.

In this episode, you will learn to:

Boost Your Confidence and Crush Self-Doubt in Your Creative Writing Journey.
Transform Real-life Tales into Compelling Screenplays That Captivate Audiences.
Master Consistent Creative Writing Strategies to Fuel Your Productivity and Inspiration.
Deepen Your Characters and Elevate Your Screenplays with Advanced Character Development Techniques.

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Content Creation Secrets: How I Grew to One Million TikTok Followers with David Griffiths

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 11:00:12 GMT

"Once I found my way through the jungle of social media, I found that when I was authentic and spoke from my heart, it resonated with a tribe. That was my tribe." — David Griffiths

In this episode of The Storytelling Lab, host Rain Bennett sits down with David Griffiths, a successful content creator and musician, to delve into the power of authentic storytelling.

David's journey was profoundly influenced by his father's guidance and his own pivotal moments, leading him to pursue his passion for music and build a thriving community of over 1 MILLION followers on TikTok!

The episode explores David's insights on the significance of finding what resonates with the audience, adapting to the social media landscape, and the relevance of consistency in content creation.

The conversation also touches on the beauty of personal growth and the significance of building meaningful connections. David's inspirational journey and insights make this episode a must-listen for content creators seeking authentic storytelling strategies and genuine audience connection.

In this episode, you will learn more about:

Mastering authentic content creation strategies for genuine audience connection.
Cultivating a loyal tribe on social media for sustainable engagement and support.
Embracing the importance of mentorship for personal and professional growth.
Harnessing TikTok for organic growth and authentic storytelling.
Reaping the benefits of gratitude for enhanced business success and fulfillment.

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Banking Brand Confidence: Tactics to Build Trust, Add Value, and Make More Money with Pia Silva

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 11:00:59 GMT

"You're hiring me because you believe I know better, and you shouldn't hire me if you don't think that." - Pia Silva

In this episode of The Storytelling Lab, branding expert Pia Silva shares her expertise on building authentic brand identities for small service-based businesses.

Pia emphasizes the importance of crafting branding based on the genuine experiences of the client, rather than creating an artificial image.

She challenges the traditional notion of the customer as the hero, advocating for positioning the business owner as the hero who can effectively address clients' needs.

Pia also underscores the significance of clarity and specificity in branding, urging businesses to focus on niching and showcasing their unique strengths. Her transition from serving brands to training branding agencies reflects her commitment to empowering others with her successful branding process.

Pia's personal journey of overcoming debt and refining her pricing strategy offers practical wisdom for entrepreneurs. Overall, her expertise and unique approach to branding provide actionable insights for small service-based businesses, making this episode essential for those seeking to establish a strong brand that makes more money with fewer projects.

In this episode, you will be able to:

Discover the secrets to building an authentic brand identity that truly resonates with your audience.
Uncover the power of storytelling in branding and how it can elevate your business to new heights.
Master the art of setting profitable pricing strategies that work for your small service-based business.
Learn how to craft brand messaging that repels the wrong clients and attracts the perfect ones.
Embrace the future by adapting your thought leadership and expertise to the rise of AI in business.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Using Biometric Data to Create Visual Stories that Heal Trauma with Sarah Hill

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 11:00:20 GMT

"All companies need chief storytellers. If you don't know where to find them, hire a former journalist." - Sarah Hill

In this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Sarah Hill, the Chief Storyteller and CEO of Healium, shares her journey from journalism to entrepreneurship, highlighting the transformative power of immersive storytelling experiences.

Sarah Hill's journey into immersive storytelling began as a television journalist, where she uncovered the power of sharing individuals' stories. Her deep understanding of the profound impact of storytelling led her to explore ways to enhance the storytelling experience.

Through her work with Healium, Sarah was drawn to the potential of immersive meditation, fueled by the user's biometric data. This innovative approach offers a unique way for individuals to engage with and influence the stories they experience, creating a deeply personal and interactive journey that allows them to heal from trauma.

Sarah's passion for mental wellness and human connection is evident in her dedication to providing drugless and non-harmful coping mechanisms through media. Her mission to merge the power of technology with the healing properties of storytelling is not only inspiring but also essential in today's stress-filled world.

In this episode, you will be able to:

Discover the transformative benefits of an immersive storytelling platform for mental wellness.
Explore the potential of using biometric data for enhancing meditation practices.
Uncover effective mental fitness tools for stress relief and emotional well-being.
Harness the power of visual narratives to elevate mental health therapy experiences.
Learn about the crucial role of a chief storyteller in driving business success through compelling narratives.

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Captivate Your Audience By Shifting the Scene Polarity in Your Story

Mon, 25 Nov 2024 11:00:20 GMT

"Variation is the first key to keeping people engaged. Visual variation, tonal variation, variation in shots, variation in speed and pace and tempo, and all of that. When you become monotonous, you become boring. When your story becomes boring, people will tune out."

In episode 176 of The Storytelling Lab, Rain delves into the art of storytelling, highlighting the crucial role of tension in captivating audiences.

Drawing parallels to a roller coaster ride, Bennett emphasizes the necessity of changing the positive/negative "charges" of each scene with polarity shifts.

He explores the application of the "but/therefore" model and provides insightful analyses of real-life examples and the movie "Braveheart" to illustrate the ebb and flow of shifting energy in storytelling.

This episode serves as a resource for aspiring storytellers, content creators, and marketers looking for help understanding the rhythm of storytelling. Rain's practical guidance and emphasis on avoiding monotony offer valuable insights for creators seeking to enhance their storytelling skills.

In this episode, you will learn to:

Uncover the FOUR types of polarity shifts
Use Positive & Negative "charges" to increase tension in your story
Identify the "turning point" of each scene.
Discover the Value that is the top priority for your protagonist.
Break down your story into little pieces — "micro stories" — that present significants changes to the narrative.

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The 3 Things Your “Our Story” Section Must Have (and Most Don't!)

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 17:03:44 GMT

"Yes, it is about you, but it's always about you through the lens of your audience. So think about that as you're crafting the Our Story section."

In this episode of The Storytelling Lab, host Rain Bennett delves into the critical role of storytelling in branding and marketing.

Through a thorough analysis of various brand stories, including those of a bourbon company, coffee bean company, cooler company, cheese shop, farm, and waste management company, Rain highlights the significance of effectively communicating the brand's unique value proposition in the "Our Story" section of websites and product packaging.

He offers valuable insights into how businesses can leverage storytelling to connect with their audience, communicate essential information, and differentiate themselves in the market.

This episode is a valuable resource for small business owners looking to enhance their branding, packaging, or overall storytelling strategy.

In this episode, you will learn to:

Craft compelling product story sections to captivate your audience and drive sales.
Uncover other examples of effective brand storytelling that will inspire and guide your own storytelling efforts.
Elevate your marketing materials by leveraging the power of storytelling to create a deeper connection with your customers.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Just Go Make It: Lessons on Bringing Your Story to Life with Luke Barnett

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 11:00:44 GMT

"I refuse to listen to the 'I need $25,000 to go make something.' You might need $25,000 to make that thing that you're talking about, but go make something else, you know?" - Luke Barnett

In this episode of The Storytelling Lab, filmmaker Luke Barnett shares valuable insights on the art of storytelling and the practicalities of bringing creative visions to life. He challenges the misconception that a significant budget is necessary to produce a short film, emphasizing the value of taking action and creating with the resources at hand.

Barnett also highlights the importance of building relationships in the creative industry, discussing how supportive networks of collaborators are essential for bringing projects to life. His personal experiences, from the success of his film 'The Crossing Over Express' to his upcoming project 'Epilogue,' offer practical guidance and encouragement for aspiring storytellers and creatives.

Barnett's emphasis on authenticity, emotional depth, and relatability in storytelling provides valuable lessons for individuals navigating the creative industry.

If you're looking to gain insights into overcoming creative barriers, taking control of your career, and bringing meaningful stories to life, this episode is a must-listen!

In this episode, you will learn to:

Discover the secrets to creating impactful films on a shoestring budget.
Overcome creative blocks in filmmaking and unlock your artistic potential.
Build lasting relationships in the film industry and open doors to new opportunities.
Understand the profound impact of personal narratives on filmmaking and audience engagement.
Uncover effective strategies to promote indie films and reach niche audiences.

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Hero's Journey vs Heroine's Labyrinth: Understanding Two Powerful Story Structures with Douglas A. Burton

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 11:00:07 GMT

The labyrinth, while it may be a metaphor for sociocultural conflicts, the choices you have to make at home in your culture in order to succeed, which have consequences. While that works there, it also works as psychologically, because it's an inward journey." - Douglas Burton

Growing up in the 80s, Douglas Burton was immersed in a world of iconic films that ignited his imagination. From Star Wars to Raiders of the Lost Ark, these stories captured his attention and left an indelible mark on his storytelling journey.

However, it wasn't until the late 90s that Douglas stumbled upon the concept of the Hero's Journey, and it was like finding fire. Intrigued by the idea of a single narrative pattern that repeats in some of his favorite stories, he delved into an obsessive study of the Hero's Journey, taking meticulous notes and watching movies with a newfound purpose.

But as he began to write his own historical fiction novel with a female lead, Byzantine Empress Theodora, he faced a daunting realization – the Hero's Journey didn't fit the structure of his story.

This unexpected twist in his writing journey led him to explore alternative narrative frameworks, ultimately shaping his unique perspective on storytelling and the nuances of diverse narratives.

In this episode, you will be able to:

Navigate through the intricate paths of the Heroine's Labyrinth, discovering the unique storytelling elements it offers.
Distinguish the distinct nuances between Hero's and Heroine's narratives, unlocking a deeper understanding of character arcs.
Explore the powerful impact of archetypes in storytelling, tapping into universal themes that resonate with audiences.
Harness the transformative power of storytelling for personal growth, unlocking new perspectives and insights.

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The Secret to Building Tension in MrBallen's Suspenseful Stories

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 10:00:04 GMT

"Tension is the driving force behind any good story. You need to do is understand that it is a constant ebb and flow of tension. You're increasing the tension and you're releasing the tension. That is the rhythm of storytelling. That's all storytelling is, is cause and effect." - Rain Bennett

In this episode of The Storytelling Lab podcast, Rain Bennett dives into the captivating storytelling techniques of YouTuber and storyteller John Allen, also known as "MrBallen" on YouTube and TikTok.

Rain shares his personal experience attending Mr. Ballen's first-ever live storytelling tour and highlights the importance of pacing in building tension within a narrative. The conversation emphasizes the importance of pacing in building tension within a narrative, emphasizing the impact of vivid descriptions and sensory details in storytelling.

If you're looking to enhance your storytelling abilities and captivate your audience, this episode offers a compelling discussion on the art of storytelling and the techniques employed by successful storytellers, making it a must-listen for anyone passionate about crafting compelling narratives.

In this episode, you will be able to:

Skillfully build tension in your storytelling narratives for maximum impact.
Discover the secrets to building a captivating storytelling YouTube channel.
Master the techniques for effective storytelling that will keep your audience hooked.
Engage your audience with live storytelling tours that leave a lasting impact.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Edenton Seven: Telling the True Story of a Daycare Witch Hunt with Betsy Hester

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 10:00:40 GMT

"It was my moment in the universe to make this wrong a right, and I knew I had the skills to do it." - Betsy Hester

Betsy Hester's journey into the world of true crime storytelling began during her 25-year teaching career, where she instilled in her students the importance of critical thinking and fact-based research.

It was the haunting tale of the Little Rascals daycare scandal that deeply affected her and her husband, a criminal defense attorney, as they were young parents when the story first unfolded. The hysteria and paranoia surrounding the case, along with its connection to the broader phenomenon of satanic sexual abuse cases, sparked a sense of disbelief and intrigue in Betsy.

As the story went silent, her husband's persistent words, "Somebody needs to write this book," resonated with her. It was a chance encounter with a central figure of the scandal, Robin, that ignited the spark to tell the compelling and disturbing narrative of a miscarriage of justice. This chance meeting, combined with Betsy's passion for research and storytelling, set her on a path to weave together a story of resilience, faith, and the relentless pursuit of truth in her book 21 Boxes.

In this episode, you will be able to:

Discover how to craft a compelling narrative that captivates readers.
Learn effective strategies for self-publishing your true story and reaching a wider audience.
Overcome the challenges of book marketing and learn how to effectively promote to captivated readers.
Explore the inspiring journey of exoneration after false accusations and understand the power of resilience in storytelling.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Domino Framework: A Simple Structure for Impactful Business Stories with Jyoti Guptara

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 10:00:16 GMT

"The next revolution in information won't be about knowledge. It will be about implementation, because we all know so much more than we're able to put into practice." - Jyoti Guptara

Curious about how a novelist and business storyteller found their way to a cutting-edge technology summit?

Discover how this unexpected journey led to a groundbreaking intersection of creativity and AI.

Jyoti Guptara, a published novelist known for fantasy thrillers, discovered the power of storytelling in business during a residency in Geneva. While conducting research for a novel in the UN environment, Jyoti observed that even accomplished executives and experts struggled to engage their audience.

It was during casual conversations over dinner or coffee that Jyoti noticed these individuals come alive through storytelling, which sparked a realization. Drawing from a decade of writing experience, Jyoti saw an opportunity to help business professionals communicate effectively by integrating fiction writing skills. This unique perspective, combining the art of storytelling with business communication, offers a fresh approach to engaging and influencing others.

In this episode, you will learn how to:

Master the art of captivating business storytelling that engages and influences executives.
Unlock the power of integrating fiction writing skills into your business communication for impactful storytelling.
Discover the pivotal role of AI in modern storytelling and how it can revolutionize your business narratives.
Cultivate a culture of storytelling within your organization to foster connection, understanding, and engagement.
Explore the immersive potential of virtual reality and gamification in corporate training for enhanced learning experiences.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Embracing LinkedIn to Find Your Voice as a Brand Storyteller with Zainab Olanrewaju

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 12:00:29 GMT

"I just felt like we didn't have enough storytellers for brands on LinkedIn. Storytelling is the new deal and brands are lacking when it comes to writing stories. So I decided to just focus more on writing stories for brands, just to let them know that we are not doing that boring content anymore." - Zainan Olanrewaju

If you're feeling overwhelmed and struggling to find your unique storytelling style, then you are not alone!

Are you constantly comparing yourself to others and feeling like you're not making any progress? Let's change that today.

Today my guest is Zainab Olanrewaju, a passionate brand storyteller, dedicated to helping businesses thrive through the power of words. Hailing from Nigeria, Zainab's approach to storytelling is influenced by the rich cultural history of West Africa, allowing her to craft narratives that deeply resonate with her audience.

Zainab's journey as a storyteller began with skepticism from others who doubted the financial viability of storytelling. Despite the initial resistance, she remained determined to pursue her passion for writing.

Zainab's conviction in the power of storytelling was further reinforced as she realized the untapped potential for brands to connect with their audiences through compelling narratives. Despite encountering skepticism regarding the relevance of storytelling in the digital age, Zainab remained steadfast in her belief.

Zainab's journey serves as a testament to the profound impact of storytelling in forging connections and enhancing brand engagement.

In this episode, you will learn how to:

Uncover the impact of storytelling on brand success and how it can elevate your business to new heights.
Explore the journey of transitioning to a storytelling career and the opportunities it presents for personal and professional growth.
Discover the pivotal role of the chief storyteller in businesses.
Understand the importance of weaving personal experiences into storytelling.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From Self-Talk to Self-Communication: Realigning Your Inner Narrative

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 10:00:46 GMT

"Understanding and controlling the story that you tell yourself is the absolute most important story that you will tell. However, it is often the most overlooked and the most neglected story in your arsenal." - Rain Bennett

If you're overwhelmed by the negative self-talk in your head, constantly comparing yourself to others and struggling to execute your goals, you are not alone!

The battle with self-doubt and imposter syndrome can be exhausting, and it's time to find a better way to navigate these challenges.

Let's explore the difference between self-talk and self-communication and how it can transform your approach to personal and professional growth.

In this episode, you will learn how to:

Discover how effective self-communication can transform your mindset and boost confidence.
Learn the art of setting short-term goals for long-term success and personal fulfillment.
Explore the crucial role of listening in enhancing self-communication skills for greater impact.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How Trust, Innovation, and Collaboration Shaped Nike's Storytelling Strategy with Nelson Farris

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 10:00:36 GMT

"Storytelling is about a lot of honesty and being aware that your audience, depending upon who they are and where they're from, when you say a word or a phrase, they may interpret that differently than what you think you heard." —Nelson Farris

In this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Nelson Farris, the Chief Storyteller at Nike, shares his 50 years of experience and insights on effective storytelling, collaboration, and embracing change.

With a background as an athlete and a liberal arts major, Farris emphasizes the power of personal experience and the abundance of stories in sports, offering valuable lessons for marketers and content creators.

His deep understanding of storytelling and communication, coupled with his role in Nike's internal culture, highlights the timeless importance of storytelling in shaping brand narratives.

His journey from a runner in Southern California to becoming Nike's first chief storyteller showcases his unique perspective and the transformative power of collaboration, making this episode a must-listen for storytellers, content creators, and marketers seeking to foster trust and drive innovation through effective storytelling.

In this episode, you will learn to:

Uncover the powerful impact of storytelling in sports marketing and learn how it can elevate your brand's message.
Explore the evolution of Nike's marketing strategy and gain inspiration for refining your own marketing approach.
Embrace the pivotal role of trust and innovation in driving career growth and success.
Learn effective strategies for adapting to technological change in business and staying ahead in a competitive market.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Silver Bullet: Boiling Your Core Idea Down to One Sentence with Neil Gordon

Mon, 16 Sep 2024 10:00:36 GMT

"Persuasion is ultimately about convincing others that change is possible." —Neil Gordon

Want to captivate your audience with compelling storytelling and persuasive communication?

You're about to discover a game-changing solution that will elevate your ability to engage and persuade.

Are you ready to transform your communication game and leave a lasting impact? Let's dive in and unlock the power of persuasive storytelling.

This episode's guest is Neil Gordon, a public speaking expert, author, and content creator.

Neil brings a wealth of experience in cultivating persuasive communication, formerly working with best-selling authors at Penguin Random House.

He now focuses on helping speakers find their "silver bullet" that elevates them among the other thought leaders and experts in their space.

In this episode, you will learn how to:

Captivate an audience with effective public speaking techniques.
Unlock the secrets to crafting content strategies that persuade
Develop a compelling elevator pitch that leaves a lasting impression and opens doors to new opportunities.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rewriting the Stories from Our Past to Liberate Our Future with Jay Aedo

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 10:00:26 GMT

"If you can't sell your story to somebody else, you're not buying it yourself. You're trying to create stories that are valuable, and if they're not valuable to anybody else, they're not really that valuable." —Jay Aedo

Have you found yourself questioning the impact of historical stories on your beliefs and spiritual growth, but unsure of where to start?

If you're feeling hesitant to challenge the stories you've been told and rewrite your own narrative, then you are not alone!

This episode's guest is Jay Aedo, the author of Conscious Bible Stories.

Rooted in a Christian upbringing, Jay embarked on a journey to dissect and reconstruct traditional stories, seeking to empower individuals through a reevaluation of their beliefs. Through his work on Conscious Bible Stories, Jay aims to provide a fresh perspective on historical tales, guiding listeners towards increased self-awareness and personal reflection.

His candid approach and transformative experiences offer valuable insights into the evolution of personal narratives and the profound influence of historical stories on our lives.

In this episode, you will learn how to:

Explore the path to spiritual growth by questioning and reevaluating religious stories and teachings.

Unlock the transformative role of storytelling in achieving spiritual enlightenment and self-discovery.

Learn the art of creating children's books with conscious and empowering messages that inspire young minds.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How I Increased My Speaking Fee 400% by Creating a Win-Win-Win Story

Thu, 05 Sep 2024 13:28:06 GMT

"Negotiating is easy when everybody wins. So if you can create a win-win-win story in the minds of your clients or your potential clients, it is going to help you convert sales every time."

Do you ever feel like you're stuck in a negotiation, trying to get the best deal for your sales but ending up feeling frustrated?

You may have been told to stick to your price, but deep down, you know it's not working. And you also don't want to miss out on a good gig.

So you go back and forth with offers and counteroffers and ultimately someone feels like they've "lost." But what if I told you there's a better way to negotiate?

It's all about changing perspectives and crafting compelling narratives in the minds of your potential clients.

Let's dive into the power of storytelling to create win-win-win situations in negotiations and elevate your success in securing better deals and partnerships.

In this episode, you will learn how to:

Master the art of creating win-win situations in negotiations and elevate your deal-making game.

Harness the power of storytelling to captivate your audience and boost your sales success.

Uncover effective strategies for increasing your speaking fees and maximizing your earning potential.

Strengthen client relationships through collaborative approaches, leading to long-term partnerships and increased sales opportunities.

Learn the secrets of converting potential clients through the persuasive force of storytelling, unlocking new business prospects.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How an Entertainment Experience is Bridging Divides and Connecting Strangers with Riaz Patel

Mon, 26 Aug 2024 10:00:38 GMT

"The most important part of a conversation happens when you're not talking. You know what you believe. If you're talking to someone and you're constantly repeating what you already know, you're doing it wrong." — Riaz Patel

Have you ever been told to just put yourself out there in order to overcome judgment and vulnerability, only to end up feeling more alone and disconnected?

Today, we dive into the transformative power of authentic storytelling and entertainment to cultivate genuine connections and embrace vulnerability. It's time to rewrite the narrative and find hope in true human connection.

This episode's guest is Riaz Patel, the creator of ConnectEffect.

Riaz Patel is an entertainment and television producer who has created an interactive live experience designed to address loneliness and polarization.

Patel's initiative caters to diverse audiences, including colleges, conferences, and community health programs, aiming to combat the prevailing mental health crisis and foster intergenerational connections. With a strategic focus on leveraging entertainment as a catalyst for emotional shifts and enhancing human connections, Patel has created something truly unique that shrinks the gap between the "screen world" and the "real world."

In this episode, you will learn how to:

Master the art of connecting through entertaining interactions.

Discover the antidote to isolation and loneliness through live experiences.

Unlock the untold advantages of intergenerational connections.

Conquer judgment and vulnerability in social interactions.

Harness the power of storytelling for personal and societal transformation.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Thinking vs Doing: Finding the Creative Sweet Spot in Your Storytelling Journey

Mon, 19 Aug 2024 10:00:56 GMT

"You don't learn by thinking and reading. You learn by doing."

If you're feeling overwhelmed by the endless debate between learning and doing in creative storytelling, then you are not alone!

The struggle to balance theory and action can leave you feeling stuck, constantly questioning where to begin and how to make progress.

It's time to break free from this cycle and find a more effective approach to enhance your storytelling skills.

In this episode, you will learn how to:

Conquer analysis paralysis and unleash your creativity to produce compelling stories and content.

Ignite your creative journey by learning why taking action is crucial for your growth as a storyteller.

Strike the perfect balance between structure and creativity to craft impactful and engaging stories.

Discover how to find your unique voice and captivate your audience through the art of storytelling.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Using Storytelling to Teach, Learn, and Change with Way People Think with Sun Yi

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 10:00:21 GMT

"When you tell a story and there's no old you versus new you, you don't have a story." — Sun Yi

Want to captivate your audience with compelling storytelling that leaves them hanging on your every word? Learn the powerful secret to crafting engaging stories that will have your listeners hooked from start to finish. Get ready to transform your storytelling abilities and deepen your human connection like never before.

This episode's guest is Sun Yi, founder of the brand agency Night Owls and the storytelling community Night Owl Nation.

With over 20 years of experience in web design, Sun Yi has honed a diverse skill set encompassing coding, design, film, photography, and copywriting.

Despite not initially identifying as a storyteller, Sun's innate talent led her to develop a successful course on storytelling for freelance creators and freelancers, attracting over 28,000 students. His dedication to ongoing learning and enthusiasm for teaching make him a valuable asset for personal brands looking to elevate their storytelling capabilities, particularly within the marketing domain.

In this episode, you will learn how to:

Discover the power of vulnerability in storytelling to create deeper human connections and resonate with your audience on a new level.

Explore effective techniques for teaching in online communities, unlocking the potential to engage and inspire your learners in a virtual setting.

Uncover the distinctions between personal and corporate storytelling, revealing how each approach can uniquely impact your audience and message.

Learn how to capture and leverage personal moments for storytelling, and use the "Myth/Truth Sandwich" to change with way people think.

Avoid common beginner mistakes in storytelling, gaining insight into pitfalls to sidestep and setting yourself on the path to impactful and authentic storytelling.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Find Your Voice and Write Your Story, But Not Necessarily in That Order with Ally Fallon

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 10:00:12 GMT

"Your voice is the thing about you that's so unique, that's going to make people crave the things that you're making. It's like a fingerprint. Nobody can replicate it."

If you're feeling overwhelmed and stuck in a never-ending cycle of overthinking your first draft, and you're struggling to make progress on your book, then you are not alone!

It's time to break free and find a writing routine that works for your real life. Let's get you on track to finish that first draft and move closer to your goal of becoming a successful author.

Ally Fallon is a prolific author and writing coach, with a passion for helping aspiring writers bring their stories to life.

As a self-starter who's navigated the challenges of the publishing world 14 times herself, Ally offers practical insights and actionable tips for first-time authors. Her journey from being an introverted journal writer to a published author is both inspiring and relatable, making her the perfect guest to share valuable strategies for developing a clear controlling idea and establishing a consistent writing routine.

In this episode, you will learn how to:

Unleash your unique writing style with effective voice-finding techniques.
Discover the powerful mental health benefits of writing and how it can transform your well-being.
Learn how to balance a full-time job while writing your book and make progress towards your dream.
Master practical strategies tailored for first-time book authors to overcome common hurdles and achieve success.
Create a nurturing and inspiring environment to fuel your creativity as an artist and bring out your best work.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why Great Stories Are NOT Always Great for Your Marketing

Mon, 24 Jun 2024 11:49:43 GMT

Are you tired of being told that you have to be a master storyteller to succeed in business?

You've probably been feeling the pressure to craft the perfect story, follow the hero's journey, and do everything the gurus say, only to end up with lackluster results.

Guess what? Your business communication can thrive without being a storytelling genius.

Let's flip the script and what you thought you knew about storytelling for marketing!

In this episode, you will learn how to:

Uncover simple yet effective storytelling techniques that will elevate your business's communication strategy.
Learn how to use storytelling to create a loyal community around your brand and foster meaningful connections.
Master a long-term content strategy that will fuel sustainable growth for your business or brand.
Find and embrace your authentic voice in storytelling to stand out and resonate with your audience.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Make Your Words POP Off the Page Like Pictures

Mon, 10 Jun 2024 10:00:56 GMT

Want to immerse your audience into your story, making them feel like they're living it rather than just reading about it?

If you're a writer looking to enhance your storytelling skills, I've got the solution for you.

Listen to this episode to steal shot styles from cinematographers to improve the imagery of your writing.

Let's make your stories come to life!

In this episode, you will learn how to:

Master visual storytelling techniques to captivate your audience and bring your stories to life.
Harness the power of cinematography in your writing to create vivid and immersive narratives that resonate with readers.
Unlock the secrets of crafting impactful establishing shots to set the stage for compelling storytelling.
Elevate your content creation skills to engage and enthrall your audience with every word.
Seamlessly transition between scenes in your storytelling to keep readers hooked and eager for more.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How Surviving an MLM Scheme Made Me a Better Story SELLER with Mackenzie Heflin

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 10:00:26 GMT

"I'm a business owner, not an influencer. So I'm not trying to just have random stories out there for no reason. I need to market myself in a way that grows my business in a way that my business is what I want it to be."

Do you wish you understood how to create simple content that actually SELLS? Then you need to listen to this social media storytelling creator.

Mackenzie Heflin is a content creator specializing in building online communities through strategic storytelling. With a background in network marketing, she gained valuable experience in community development and the impact of authentic storytelling. Mackenzie's transition across different social media platforms, from Facebook to TikTok, exemplifies her versatility in effectively applying storytelling methods to written and video content.

In this episode, you will learn how to:

Understand how to create content like a business owner should, instead of an influencer
Use psychological hacks in your stories to keep your followers engaged
Learn how to actually sell to the community that you've cultivated

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Most Important Sentence in Your Story

Mon, 20 May 2024 10:00:27 GMT

The hardest part of creating a powerful story is knowing what to keep and what to cut?

If you lose your audience's attention for just a second, most likely they are gone. But you also have to fight against a daily decreasing budget, and creative teams disagreeing, and all the other things that a business owner has to deal with when it comes to marketing.

So what if I told you that I have an easy little technique you can use that I stole from a Pixar storyboard artist? Would you listen?

And guess what... you can just as easily apply it to your written stories as your visual ones!

In this episode, you will learn how to:

Determine the most important scene, shot, or sentence of your story.
Understand how to choose secondary and tertiary information to complement the most important content
Sequence your story in a way that maximizes contrast and conflict, and therefore maximizes engagement of your audience

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How to Find an Agent and Turn Your Big Idea into a Book Deal with Lucinda Halpern

Mon, 06 May 2024 10:00:24 GMT

"Your book is your movie. Your query is your movie trailer. Both of those things have to be super engrossing, hook you in, keep you moving, have a point, leave you somewhere. Beginning, middle, end."

Do you want to know how to turn your big idea into a compelling book that sells and get signed by an agent? I've got the solution to help you achieve that. Let's dive into the process and make your writing dreams a reality. It's like having a friend guide you through the exciting world of book publishing and agent signing.

Lucinda Halpern is a literary agent with over 15 years experience in book publishing, and the founder of Lucinda Literary, based in New York.

In this episode, you will learn how to:

Understand the benefits of traditional and self-publishing to make an informed decision about your book's future.
Learn how to navigate the process of finding the right literary agent to represent your work effectively.
Master the art of crafting a compelling query letter that captures the attention of literary agents and publishers.
Explore strategies for building a strong author platform to effectively market your book and connect with readers.
Discover techniques for writing memoirs with universal appeal that resonate with a wide audience.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Turning Your Case Studies into Compelling Stories That Convert

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 10:00:21 GMT

What if I told you that turning case studies into compelling case stories could be the key to converting leads into enthusiastic clients?

And what if I also shared a simple, four-step process to help you do just that? But here's the thing, it's not just about storytelling; it's about strategically guiding your audience through a journey that leaves them eager to take the next step with you.

Join me as I reveal the secrets to transforming mundane case studies into captivating case stories that drive conversions.

In this episode, you will learn how to:

Master the art of transforming case studies into captivating case stories that drive engagement.
Identify which case studies in your client base will produce the best results and understand how to target a specific marketing persona.
Learn how to skillfully integrate data into your storytelling, transforming it into a persuasive force that resonates with your audience and drives action.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why Tiny Moments Matter in Telling Stories that Create Massive Change with Zach Green

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 13:14:14 GMT

Have you been told to take big, overwhelming actions to make a difference, only to feel like nothing's really changing? If you're a filmmaker or content creator wanting to make an impact, you know how crucial those tiny actions by large groups are. Let's talk about how you can use those moments to not only tell inspiring stories but also drive real action. It's time to turn those tiny moments into big change.

Zach Green is an environmental storyteller with a strong focus on rivers and their impact on the natural world. Through his work at Rivers Are Life, Zach seeks to raise awareness about the critical role of rivers in sustaining life on our planet. By crafting character-driven narratives, he aims to educate, inspire, and entertain audiences, shedding light on the work of individuals and organizations dedicated to the protection of our freshwater ecosystems.

In this episode, you will learn how to:

Master the art of impactful storytelling to create positive change.
Unlock the potential of corporate sponsorship in funding creative projects to create impact.
Discover how to use media to influence the powerful resource of community to support your purpose-driven mission.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Possess the Power of a Master Storyteller and Create Genuine Connections with Neal Foard

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 13:41:35 GMT

Ever wonder how a laid-back, casual chat with a friend could skyrocket your storytelling game and transform your customer connections? Listen to this podcast to uncover the unexpected secret to possessing the power of a master storyteller and creating genuine connections with your audience.

Neal Foard, a 30-yr advertising industry veteran, shares a touching journey of personal discovery and connection through the power of storytelling. His foray into TikTok was not a calculated business move, but a heartfelt endeavor to ensure his children knew their grandfather through captivating narratives. Neal's viral success on TikTok, with millions of views and subsequent shares, speaks volumes about the universal appeal of genuine, nostalgic stories.

In this episode, you will learn how to:

Unleash effective storytelling strategies to elevate your communication and influence.
Conquer stage fright and deliver compelling presentations that leave a lasting impact.
Forge deeper connections through storytelling and enrich your personal and professional relationships.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How to Dominate Your Industry Through Strategic Storytelling with Bill Harper

Mon, 01 Apr 2024 10:00:20 GMT

If you're feeling frustrated because your branding efforts aren't getting the results you want, and you're stuck in a cycle of imitating big brands without success, then you are not alone! And this episode is going to help you.

Bill Harper, an experienced branding strategist, emphasizes the emotive aspect of marketing and the importance of prioritizing the audience. His valuable insights on understanding customer needs and delivering genuine value without self-promotion provide a unique perspective on strategic storytelling. As a prominent figure in the industry, his expertise in empowering brands to craft authentic and engaging narratives makes him an influential voice in the entrepreneurial and business sphere.

In this episode, you will learn how to:

Craft a powerful brand strategy to elevate your business.
Develop compelling and unique value propositions for your products.
Ignite emotional connections with your audience through strategic storytelling.
Implement strategies for sustainable, long-term business growth.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Craft a Magnetic Brand Essence in 5 Simple Steps

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 10:00:49 GMT

Did you know that the key to creating a strong and authentic brand essence is like finding your soulmate?

Yes, just like finding that perfect match, your brand essence is what will make your audience fall head over heels for your business.

Let's dive in and uncover the magic behind building a brand that leaves a lasting impression. Get ready to unlock the power of your brand essence and create a loyal community that will sing your praises for the long-term.

In this episode, you will learn how to:

Uncover the secrets to creating a captivating personal brand essence.
Demystify the difference between branding and marketing for your business's success.
Define your brand's core values and watch your business thrive.
Discover the power of emotional and functional benefits in building a lasting brand.
Learn effective strategies for differentiating your brand in competitive markets.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The 4 Characters You'll Meet on Your Hero's Journey

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 10:00:01 GMT

Want to unlock the key to overcoming your internal creative resistance and achieving your desired success?

Discover the surprising connection between the four characters that appear in every story and how to use them to navigate your own journey.

Once you do, you'll operate and move forward with an enhanced self-awareness to overcome internal obstacles and achieve creative success.

In this episode, you will learn how to:

Discover the impact of character roles in narratives.
Conquer internal resistance to unleash your creativity.
Uncover the transformative power of storytelling in your life.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Using the ABT Framework to Stand Out as a Thought Leader with Park Howell

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 11:00:17 GMT

What if I told you there's a secret to captivating your audience and making your brand truly stand out? It's a game-changing strategy that will help you overcome the villain of boredom and enliven your communication. If you're curious to unlock this powerful tool and make your stories unforgettable, visit businessofstory.com/abt.

With nearly 40 years of experience in advertising, branding, and marketing, Park Howell is a seasoned expert in the storytelling arena. As the founder of an ad agency for two decades, Park has mastered the art of intuitive storytelling, recognizing its pivotal role in audience connection. Park's practical insights into storytelling structures and his development of the ABT (And, But, Therefore) agile narrative framework provide valuable tools for business professionals and marketers aiming to elevate their communication strategies.

In this episode, you will learn how to:

Master the Evolution of Storytelling in Marketing to stay ahead of the game.
Implement the ABT Framework for Effective Communication and see your message resonate.
Achieve Differentiation through Clarity and Authenticity to stand out in a crowded market.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Best Way to Start Your Story So They Stay Engaged

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 11:00:27 GMT

Are you ready to learn how a single opening line can captivate your audience and keep them engaged until the very end?

You've been told to start your stories with an attention-grabbing hook time and time again, but that feels gimmicky and your audience is on to it. They don't buy it.

I've got a solution to help you achieve heightened audience engagement through impactful storytelling techniques.

This isn't your typical storytelling lesson; it's a game-changer.

In this episode, you will learn how to:

Craft opening lines that intrigue and draw your audience into your story from the very beginning.
Learn how to create emotional connections with your audience through impactful storytelling techniques.
Leverage pace, theme, and "open loops" to drive constant engagement within your audience by spiking their dopamine.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Leveraging Personal Origin Stories to Build Professional Connections with Robert Tighe

Mon, 19 Feb 2024 11:00:35 GMT

Have you been told to share your business stories but feel like you're not getting the attention and connection you want? The pain of putting yourself out there and not getting the results you hoped for can be frustrating. Let's change that.

Robert Tighe is a seasoned storyteller with a background in journalism and a passion for leveraging personal experiences to enhance professional communication. His background in sports and journalism provides a unique perspective, offering valuable insights and strategies for entrepreneurs and professionals seeking to elevate their personal and professional brand through authentic storytelling techniques.

In this episode, you will learn how to:

Stand out from the competition through compelling personal storytelling.
Leverage your experiences and passions to build a strong and authentic brand.
Harness the power of origin stories to create meaningful connections and resonate with audiences.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Knowing Your Internal Story So You Can Effectively Share Your External Stories

Mon, 12 Feb 2024 11:00:19 GMT

Hey there, content creators and marketers! Do you ever feel like you're following all the storytelling best practices, using proven formulas, and still not getting the results you want?

It can be frustrating, right? You put in all this effort, but it seems like something's missing.

What if I told you that the key to building a strong brand lies in understanding the power of storytelling in TWO very distinct and different ways?

Let's dive into how storytelling can make or break your brand's success.

In this episode, you will learn how to:

Uncover the impact of storytelling on content creation and how it can elevate your brand's message.
Discover the art of "capturing the moment" in photography and videography to create compelling visual narratives.
Harness the power of storytelling to build a brand that resonates with your audience on a deeper level.

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How a Strong Brand and Culture Makes Your Brand Story Better with Mark Miller and Ted Vaughn

Fri, 29 Dec 2023 15:58:38 GMT

In a world where organizations struggle to share their stories, Mark Miller and Ted Vaughn revealed an unexpected twist. Their journey started with internal barriers hindering effective communication, but what they discovered was truly eye-opening. Tune into this conversation to uncover the transformative power of storytelling and culture on organizational success.

Mark Miller and Ted Vaughn, co-authors of the enlightening book "Culture Built My Brand," bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the table. Their deep understanding of the crucial link between culture and brand success is invaluable for nonprofit leaders and staff members looking to enhance their organizational dynamics and brand resonance. With a passion for helping organizations communicate their stories effectively, Mark and Ted offer practical insights and actionable strategies that resonate with both beginners and seasoned professionals.

In this episode, you will learn how to:

Embrace culture and brand integration for nonprofit success.
Establish a strong culture and brand early on.
Discover the value proposition for engaging employees.
Gain insights from corporate world strategies to use in your business.
Unlock the power of storytelling in nonprofit communications.

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Self-Reflection, Personal Growth, and Finding the North Star of Your Story with Deevo Tindall

Mon, 11 Dec 2023 21:24:53 GMT

Does the feeling of being stuck and unfulfilled sound familiar to you? You may have been told to simply follow the traditional path of education and career, only to find that it hasn't brought you the personal growth and self-reflection you desire. The pain of feeling lost and disconnected from your true purpose can be overwhelming when you've followed the conventional wisdom without seeing the results you hoped for. But there is a better way.

Deevo Tindall, a creative force with a passion for visual storytelling and personal growth, brings a unique perspective to the realm of self-reflection. Hailing from San Diego and now a resident of North Carolina, his journey from the West to the East Coast shaped his understanding of identity and life's narratives. With a background in photography and a deep curiosity about human design, Deevo's insights into the power of personal storytelling and its impact on decision-making and self-awareness offer a refreshing take on the complexities of business, branding, and life.

In this episode, you will learn how to:

Embrace personal growth and self-reflection to unlock your true potential.
Surround yourself with a community of like-minded individuals to support your journey of growth.
Pursue your goals and navigate career transitions with confidence and determination.
Build and maintain meaningful connections while cultivating your brand.
Discover the perfect timing and effective resolutions for enhancing your brand.

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Fighting Resistance Daily & Doing the Work to Become Your Authentic Self with Steven Pressfield

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 15:25:54 GMT

Does this sound familiar? You pour your heart and soul into your art, but self-doubt and fear hold you back from fully expressing yourself. You've been told to just push through and ignore the doubts, but deep down, you know that's not working. It's time to break free from these ineffective actions and discover the transformative insights that will empower you to overcome creative blocks and unlock your true potential as an artist.

Steven Pressfield has become an influential figure in the creative world, inspiring artists and creators worldwide. Known for his books like The War of Art and Do the Work, Pressfield shares his insights and philosophy on overcoming challenges faced by artists and creators. Despite his success, Pressfield remains humble and relatable, acknowledging that the struggles and resistance in the creative process never truly go away. Through his own experiences as a writer, he offers valuable lessons and guidance to aspiring artists and creators, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and dedication. Get ready to gain inspiration and insight as Pressfield shares his wisdom on the creative journey in a 365-day step-by-step guide to creating your passion project called THE DAILY PRESSFIELD.

In this episode, you will learn how to:

Discover the insights from "The War of Art" that will help you overcome creative barriers and unlock your true potential as an artist.
Explore the writing process and daily practices that will fuel your creativity and help you establish a consistent and productive routine.
Embark on a journey of self-discovery and learn how to transition from ego-driven creativity to authentic self-expression, creating art that truly resonates with others.

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Connecting, Understanding, and Bridging Divides Through Family Stories with Jill Riley

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 16:49:31 GMT

Discover the untold story that led Jill Riley on an extraordinary journey, transforming her family's history and inspiring generations to come. As she delves into the depths of her cattle ranching lineage, a surprising twist unravels, unveiling a truth that will forever change the way we see our own familial roots.

Jill Riley is a passionate musician who has embarked on a unique endeavor to strengthen family connections and preserve ancestral stories. With a deep love for her wild and wonderful cattle ranching family, Jill has written a twelve-song story album that spans four generations. Through her album, Common Ground, Jill not only shares the incredible stories of her family but also explores the importance of bridging family division and returning to love. By delving into the stories of our own families, Jill believes we can find common ground and ultimately strengthen the bonds that unite us all.

In this episode, you will learn how to:

Discover the power of storytelling to strengthen family connections and create lasting bonds.
Learn how returning to love and empathy can transform relationships and foster understanding within your family.
Unlock the secrets to capturing and preserving the unique life stories of your loved ones, ensuring their legacy lives on.
Understand the importance of family stories and how they can provide a sense of identity, belonging, and connection across generations.
Explore the universal nature of human experiences through the rich tapestry of your family's stories, finding common ground and shared understanding.

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Elevate Your Personal Brand Using Powerful Visual Storytelling Techniques with Alana Sparrow

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 11:00:54 GMT

If you're feeling frustrated and invisible amidst the sea of content creators, tirelessly producing content, but struggling to capture the attention of your target audience, then you are not alone! Instead of creating meaningful connections, your audience may be scrolling past your posts, unaware of the authentic stories and value you have to offer. Well, this is the episode for you.

Alana Sparrow is a creative director and brand expert who knows how to captivate audiences and make a lasting impression. With a background in design, Alana has mastered the art of using visuals to convey emotions, messages, and stories. She firmly believes that every image has the potential to tell a compelling story—and to create authentic and engaging personal brands, individuals and businesses must leverage that potential.

In this episode, you will learn how to:

Use visual storytelling to captivate your audience and create a deeper connection with your brand.
Discover the powerful intersection between personal and business branding and how it can elevate your online presence.
Explore the evolution of personal brands and gain insights on how to adapt and stay relevant in a rapidly changing digital landscape.
Find out how to strike the perfect balance between speed, affordability, and quality in your content creation process.
Uncover the exciting possibilities of integrating AI in your creative process to enhance efficiency and unleash your creative potential.

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Why Structure Will Never Make Your Stories Stand Out from the Crowd with Paul Guyot

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 15:22:34 GMT

Do you want to unlock your potential as a writer and create stories that captivate and resonate with readers and viewers? Wondering how you can develop your unique voice in storytelling? Well then this is the episode for you.

Paul Guyot is a veteran screenwriter (30 years in the biz!) who helps aspiring writers discard all the advice from the so-called "gurus" and instead focus on finding their unique voice. Paul believes that discipline is the key to success, but it's not about forcing oneself to write a specific number of words or pages each day. Instead, it's about showing up consistently and being open to the muse when it arrives. Drawing inspiration from sports legends like Kobe Bryant and Tiger Woods, Paul highlights the value of hard work and dedication in honing one's craft. He challenges the notion that storytelling can be reduced to a formula, emphasizing the importance of originality and quality in creating compelling narratives.

In this episode, you will learn how to:

Discover the power of your unique voice and unlock your storytelling potential.
Overcome the challenges and misconceptions surrounding story structure to unleash your creativity.
Harness the value of discipline and a consistent routine to fuel your writing journey.
Gain insights from the parallels between creative and non-creative professions for greater self-awareness and growth.
Embrace the evolving cultural understanding that talent alone is not enough, and learn the keys to success in creative endeavors.

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Shape a Successful Company Culture By Telling The Perfect Story with Karen Eber

Mon, 18 Sep 2023 12:27:13 GMT

Do you want to create a thriving company culture that leads to maximum productivity and efficiency? Are you seeking a solution to shape a positive work environment that drives success? Look no further!

Karen Eber is an author, consultant, keynote speaker, and thought leader on organizational culture. Having honed her skills in psychology, Karen took her insight to the business world, accelerating learning and performance in formidable companies such as HP and Deloitte. Deeply passionate about creating dialogues and connections at the workplace, her love for storytelling has become a compass guiding her career in leadership development. With wisdom culled from her personal life experiences and professional journey, her perspectives on work culture remain profound, inspiring, and full of humanity.

In this episode, you will learn how to:

Understand the transformative power of narratives in molding the essence of an organization and its efficiency.
Lean on the pivotal role of open dialogue and psychological assurance in creating a highly effective workforce.
Recognize the importance of laying a positivity-centric cultural foundation right from the outset.
Explore how personal stories engulfing professional experiences can instill authenticity and add dimension to official interactions.
Leverage the intriguing relationship between brain science and storytelling, and how to refine your narrative techniques for maximum impact.

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Find Your Voice, Become More Creative, and Change the World with Heather Parady

Mon, 21 Aug 2023 18:25:25 GMT

Does this sound familiar to you? You've been told to dream big and set goals, but somehow, taking action toward those goals feels like an uphill battle. You find yourself stuck in a cycle of frustration and unfulfilled potential. The pain of watching your dreams slip away while waiting for something to happen can be excruciating. It's time to break free from this ineffective approach and embrace the journey toward your goals by taking decisive action.

Heather Parady is a tenacious trailblazer who helps dreamers actualize their bold ideas. Formerly a mental health therapist, Heather possesses a unique blend of empathy and an astute understanding of human behavior. Her natural inclination for big-picture thinking spurred her to transition into leadership consulting, where she excels in synergizing visionary ideas with actionable steps.

In this episode, you will learn how to:

Discover the transformative power of cultivating sincere connections
Unveil the crucial role of authenticity, intentionality, and sustaining relationships
Learn about the priceless value of discovering and claiming your unique creative footprint
Realize the profound influence that masterful storytelling has on both individuals and societies.
Understand the essence of being proactive and embracing the path to achieving your aspirations.

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Raise Capital Successfully Using Stories with Robbie Crabtree

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 15:50:24 GMT

Are you tired of pitching to investors and stakeholders but never quite making the impact you want? Have you been told to simply craft authentic stories to build trust, only to be left feeling frustrated and unheard? It's time to ditch ineffective advice and discover the power of competitive storytelling, human psychology, and impromptu speaking.

Former trial lawyer turned startup coach Robbie Crabtree uses his storytelling skills to inspire action toward solving major global issues, but the irony is that his own journey from aspiring athlete to lawyer was shaped by his obsession with narrative design and control.

In this episode, you will learn how to:

Seamlessly incorporate competitive storytelling to inspire and drive action.
Dive into the intricacies of human psychology and wield its power to craft compelling narratives.
Master the art of on-the-spot eloquence through practical approaches to impromptu speaking and preparation.
Win the trust of investors and stakeholders by seamlessly weaving storytelling into your communication strategy.
Empower future entrepreneurs with diverse success stories that foster inspiration and fuel ambition.

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Stealing Celebrity Secrets for Earned Media Exposure with Kayley Hamilton

Mon, 29 May 2023 12:00:32 GMT

Are you tired of struggling to generate earned media attention? Have you fallen victim to these common myths about crafting a personal and professional PR story? Myth #1: You need celebrity status to get noticed. Myth #2: A press release is all it takes for successful media exposure. Myth #3: PR is too expensive for small businesses.

Kayley Hamilton, the founder of KAYLEY Media, is a PR expert with a keen eye for crafting compelling stories that generate media exposure. Her background in entertainment news has given her valuable experience in understanding what makes a story resonate with audiences and journalists alike. Kayley is passionate about helping entrepreneurs craft their own stories to generate earned media attention and grow their businesses. With a track record of helping clients land features in major outlets, Kayley knows what it takes to make a splash in the PR world. Prepare to learn from someone who's mastered the art of storytelling for maximum media impact.

In this episode, you will learn how to:

Grasp the nuances of the earned digital media landscape and capitalize on its benefits.
Tackle apprehensions and modify viewpoints for a triumphant presence in the media arena.
Harness the art of storytelling to uplift your brand and engage with the desired audience effectively.
Cultivate self-assurance and vanquish fear through Kayley's "FPL" method.
Create and share a captivating personal and professional PR story to achieve media exposure success.

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Collaborative Storytelling Secrets to Drive Change with Elena Rue

Tue, 16 May 2023 14:56:21 GMT

Are you a non-profit looking for an authentic storytelling collaboration? Have you heard the myths that it's too expensive, too complicated, or impossible to find the right partner? Well, Elena Rue is here to show you the truth about collaborative storytelling and how to create content that is powerful, impactful, and authentic.

Elena Rue is an accomplished storyteller and co-founder of StoryMine, a digital storytelling agency specializing in collaborating with non-profit organizations to create powerful documentaries. With a background in anthropology, photography, and journalism, Elena has honed her skills to create authentic and engaging content that speaks to the hearts of her clients' audiences. Her unique approach to storytelling involves deep immersion into the subject matter and working closely with the people involved, ensuring that their voices and experiences are accurately represented.

In this episode, you will learn how to:

Develop engaging narratives with a collaborative storytelling approach.
Focus on key story aspects when producing videos for comprehensive messaging.
Maximize budget efficiency while maintaining authenticity in your creative projects.
Nurture client understanding of storytelling techniques and video production procedures.
Harness storytelling power as an instrument for positive transformation and individual upliftment.

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Building an Empire in the Creator Economy with Nick Witters

Mon, 01 May 2023 14:01:32 GMT

After being a combat veteran and dedicating himself to a successful law career, Nick Witters is faced with the difficult decision of taking a new job managing Mr. Beast, a YouTuber. As he risks it all, his journey to success is filled with pressure, loss, and hard work. Will he make it? Will he be able to pull the trigger and take the risk?

Nick Witters is the CEO of Ballen Studios, most known for managing the MrBallen YouTube channel. Hailing from a small town in Washington, Nick's journey took him from the Air Force to law school, and eventually to the heart of Hollywood as an entertainment lawyer. With a keen understanding of the importance of adaptability and perseverance, Nick has built a thriving career in the creator economy. Alongside his partner John Allen, a former Navy Seal, Nick continues to push the boundaries of success, sharing his wisdom and passion-driven approach with aspiring creators.

In this episode of The Storytelling Lab, you will learn how to:

Discover the hidden advantages of military training when tackling business challenges and sharpening decision-making skills.
Appreciate the role of intellectual curiosity in seizing growth opportunities and fostering innovation.
Recognize the significance of embracing failure and adaptability in achieving your career and business goals.
Cultivate trust and authentic passion in talent representation relationships for long-term success.
Sustain momentum and enthusiasm in the ever-changing creator economy to drive continuous personal and professional growth.

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Brutally Honest About Storytelling Myths with Francisco Mahfuz

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 23:20:25 GMT

As Francisco Mahfuz embarked on his journey to master the art of storytelling, he made a shocking discovery — that the most captivating stories weren't the grand, epic tales that everyone believed they were, but rather the simple, relatable moments between people. What other secrets will this master storyteller uncover as he continues to defy our expectations and debunk popular storytelling myths?

In this episode of The Storytelling Lab, you will learn how to:

Uncover the truth about storytelling and its impact on everyday life.
Recognize the significance of accuracy and relatability for powerful narratives.
Discover the art of keeping things simple to captivate and enlighten audiences.
Adapt your storytelling approach to suit varying objectives and demographics.
Create a genuine origin story that enhances and defines your personal brand.

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Discovering Life-Changing Books with Nicholas Hutchison

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 16:53:08 GMT

Experience life-changing power in your life and business for less than $20!

Nick Hutchison is an entrepreneur with a passion for personal growth through books. After experiencing the transformative power of personal development books firsthand, Nick founded Book Thinkers, a platform designed to help readers retain and apply the life-changing wisdom found in these books.

In this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Nick discusses how to:

1. Discover the impact of personal development through non-fiction books and podcasts on your life and business.

2. Harness the power of social media to successfully market your book and boost your author presence.

3. Master the art of integrating book knowledge into daily life for a more prosperous entrepreneurial journey.

4. Recognize the significance of gratitude, happiness, and purpose in making beneficial personal finance decisions.

5. Cultivate a mindset of mental toughness and resilience for sustained success in lifelong learning.

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Manifesting Success in Your Personal Brand with Olivia Mancuso

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 16:41:44 GMT

Experience the journey of transformation - and discover the power of manifestation!

Olivia Mancuso is a successful marketing consultant, video spokesperson, and influencer. She is passionate about helping entrepreneurs and multi-passionates create their personal brands and manifest their dreams.

In this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Olivia discusses:

1. The skills that she learned from being a professional journalist in broadcast television.

2. Her journey of discovering her passions and turning them into profitable endeavors, as well as her advice on how to find the through line between your passions.

3. Her experience and growth through manifestation and how she teaches others to manifest their greatest desires.

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The Emotional Power of a Personal Documentary with Troy Bedenbaugh

Mon, 13 Mar 2023 16:07:23 GMT

Share your story and discover how it can inspire and move others - "Your Story Matters".

Troy Bedenbaugh is an award-winning documentary filmmaker and creator of the emotional documentary film "One Lost Many Found", which tells the story of his journey to discover who his father was 20 years after his passing.

Here's what I cover with Troy Bedenbaugh in this episode of The Storytelling Lab:

1. The power of telling and sharing personal life stories, and why it matters to others.

2. The importance of expressing pain through art and the need to redefine what art is.

3. The life-changing power of mentors, and how relationships and mentors are key in any project.

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The Key to Writing a Successful Screenplay with Julia Yorks

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 18:22:56 GMT

Julia Yorks is a screenwriter for television and film, having worked on the staffs of DreamWorks/Netflix's "The Adventures of Puss in Boots" and "Trolls: The Beat Goes On," and recently sold an original screenplay to Freeform. In this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Julia breaks down exactly what you should focus on as a first-time screenwriter, how to follow the right structure to sell, and how the business of screenwriting works.

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The Substances That Control Your Story (and Your Brain) with David JP Phillips

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 18:35:28 GMT

David JP Phillips holds the world's most-viewed TEDx Talks on storytelling with almost 10 million views among his three talks. His popularity comes from his unique scientific but still entertaining perspective on all his subjects within communication, self-leadership, and "Death by Powerpoint." In this episode of The Storytelling Lab, David discusses the parts of the brain that are impacted most by stories, how to use them to make yourself a better communicator, and why the most important story you must focus on is the story inside your head.

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Your Story is Your Unfair Advantage with Patrice Poltzer

Mon, 13 Feb 2023 20:00:38 GMT

Patrice Poltzer is a Gracie-award-winning journalist and former TODAY Show producer who parlayed her media and storytelling expertise into forming Patrice Poltzer Creative in 2016, a New-York based video storytelling agency. In this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Patrice shows how big brands try to emulate small businesses and why small businesses should realize that and focus on the long game instead of viral hits.

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Master the Story of Your Mind with Robbie Cornelius

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 14:42:16 GMT

Robbie Cornelius is an entrepreneur who focuses on the acquisition, building, management & sales of digital assets, the owner of Web Asset Group, LLC, and the host of the Master Yourself Podcast. In this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Robbie tells the story of how he changed his mindset to take control of his life and career and the systems he uses daily to execute the tasks that allow him to continue to master his mind and make money online.

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The Life-Changing Power of Mentors with Steven Pressfield

Sat, 28 Jan 2023 19:39:43 GMT

Steven Pressfield is an American author of historical fiction, non-fiction, and screenplays. He's documented his 27-year journey to becoming a published author in his latest book Gov't Cheese as a way to inspire young authors, artists, and entrepreneurs to keep pursuing their dreams and overcoming the Resistance. In this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Steve discusses the power of mentors along one's road to success and how each one of his (even those that were unaware of their mentorship to him) helped him finally achieve his goal.

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Stories That Sell in Three Minutes with Dan Manning

Thu, 15 Dec 2022 21:58:09 GMT

Dan Manning is a 25-yr veteran of the United States Air Force who first sharpened his storytelling skills as a fighter pilot, working at the US headquarters in Qatar, and running the air operations against Isis. Even though the problems he was helping solve were global political conflicts, the approach to solving them were the same as with your brand storytelling... communication. In this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Dan explains the marketing problems startup founders, coaches, and consultants face, and how to use storytelling to solve them in less than three minutes.

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The Plight of a Multipotentialite with Jake McNeill

Fri, 02 Dec 2022 03:11:37 GMT

Jake McNeill is a personal brand strategy consultant for multipotentialites, which is to say he helps introverted rebels grow their audiences and have an impact without all the BS. For 25+ years, he used strategic plays to gain a competitive advantage for Popstars, Rockstars, Superstars DJs and now Founders and CEOs. In this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Jake explains the problems that multipotentialites face, how to break the patterns they're stuck in, and eventually use their multipotentiality as a superpower.

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Making Today the Day with Matthew Dicks

Fri, 21 Oct 2022 13:26:39 GMT

Matthew Dicks is an internationally bestselling author, podcaster, co-founder of Speak Up, and a 53-time Moth StorySLAM champion and 7-time Moth GrandSLAM champion. Many might think he's just an over-achiever, but as he proves in his new book, Someday is Today, it really just comes down to time management. And we all have the same amount of time each day. In this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Matthew gives you all his tips and tricks to making the most out of each minute and moving the needle closer to his goal.

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Creating the Content You Dream About with Alana Marie

Thu, 29 Sep 2022 13:13:16 GMT

Alana Marie is a documentary filmmaker, digital content creator and digital content coach. She helps content creators get out of their own way and move from ideation to execution. She is passionate about various creative pursuits and has found a way to pursue them all, while simultaneously growing her personal brand. In this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Alana shares how she continues to find non-traditional paths to make her creative passions transform into revenue generators.

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Master Storytelling for Your Business with Mark Carpenter

Thu, 15 Sep 2022 15:52:00 GMT

Your personal life is full of stories that can and will impact your business. Mark Carpenter is a trainer, consultant, speaker, and the co-author of the bestselling book, Master Storytelling. With a background in corporate marketing and PR, he helps businesses turn boring meetings into inspiring, memorable, motivating experiences. In this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Mark helps us understand how to find those meaningful experiences within your own life and use them to teach, lead, and inspire.

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Rewriting Your Brain Stories with Jocelyn Brady

Fri, 26 Aug 2022 13:21:15 GMT

Your brain has a magical power to influence everything you think, do, feel, experience, and create. Jocelyn Brady is a certified Brain Coach (NeuroLeadership Institute), Tiny Habits® Coach, trainer, speaker, and the owner of Scribe Story Studios and she helps you master that magical power inside your brain. In this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Jocelyn shows you how to recognize those bad habits and rewrite your brain stories so you can "create better sh*t."

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Life Lessons Learned from the Farm with Brian Sheppard

Thu, 11 Aug 2022 12:00:39 GMT

Brian ("B.A.") Sheppard is a TikTok creator, motivational speaker, and a "coach with a natural approach." He lives and works on a farm, where he uses his horses and other animals, as well as tasks and chores around the property for metaphors on how people can strengthen their relationships—with themselves and with those they care about. He is passionate about helping the youth find their "area of influence" by connecting their inner hopes and dreams to his lived and learned experiences. In this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Brian shares how being vulnerable and telling his story on TikTok connected with hundreds of thousands of people, all seeking the lessons he had learned the hard way.

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Making Your Stories Magnetic with Gabrielle Dolan

Thu, 21 Jul 2022 12:47:52 GMT

Gabrielle Dolan is a highly sought-after keynote speaker, educator, and author. While working in a senior leadership role at National Australia Bank, she realized the power of storytelling in effective business communication. Now she is a best-selling author and leads storytelling workshops for some of the biggest global brands. In this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Gabrielle breaks down the dos and don'ts of business storytelling and communication.

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Finding Your Brand Voice in Your Story with Chris Ward, Jr.

Thu, 14 Jul 2022 11:37:32 GMT

Christopher Ward, Jr., is a heart-centered storyteller and brand strategist. He works with personal brands and businesses to help them understand what makes them stand out in their respective fields, industries, and positions, and then communicate that to their audiences through stories. In this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Chris explains how to find your brand voice and use storytelling to eliminate all competition in your business.

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Being More Human in Your Business Podcast with Graham D. Brown

Thu, 30 Jun 2022 11:54:17 GMT

Graham D. Brown helps corporate leaders find their authentic voice through creating their own podcasts and speaking on other people's podcasts. He is an entrepreneur, podcast host, and the founder of Pikkal and Co., an agency that produces corporate podcasts. Graham has hosted, guested on, and produced over 2,000 podcast episodes since 2014. In this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Graham explains how to

find your unique brand voice and make your podcast exciting and engaging for your ideal audience, even when your industry is boring!

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Making Your Social Media Easier with Stephen G. Pope

Thu, 23 Jun 2022 12:44:47 GMT

After Stephen sold the tech company he grew to 2.6 million/year, he looked back and knew it could have been done even faster. He got clear on the simple actions that generated revenue and learned everything he could about marketing, video, and social. Now, Stephen G. Pope is the founder and CEO of SGP Labs, a marketing strategy and media company that helps entrepreneurs grow fast by avoiding all the trial and error. On this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Stephen explains how to keep your social media strategy simple and sustainable so you can efficiently grow your reach, even as a one-person team!

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The Secret Power of Great Stories with Nancy Duarte

Thu, 09 Jun 2022 12:28:06 GMT

On this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain sits down with Nancy Duarte, a communication expert whose firm, Duarte, Inc., is the global leader behind some of the most influential visual messages in business and culture. As a persuasion expert, she cracked the code for effectively incorporating story patterns into business communications. She’s written six best-selling books, five of which have won awards. Nancy and Rain do an emotional deep dive into the secret power that all great stories yield, how to access it, and then how to use it to successfully achieve your mission.

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A Simple Brand Storytelling Formula

Thu, 02 Jun 2022 15:58:01 GMT

The Storytelling Lab is BACK! After a six-month hiatus, the show returns with Season 8 which includes the best storytelling voices on the internet and on the planet for that matter! This first episode will start simple with a foolproof formula that you can follow to create any successful story.

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Relationship Selling by Storytelling with Kyle Draper

Thu, 02 Dec 2021 05:01:06 GMT

Announcement, storytellers! This episode featuring social media coach and speaker, Kyle Draper, will conclude the whirlwind that has been season 7. On this season finale episode, Kyle takes us through his many lives from working in ministry, to being a roofer, to now being a successful coach and speaker. Kyle teaches us why focusing on creating genuine connections with your existing audience fosters career longevity. Tune in for this jam-packed episode and... GO COWBOYS!

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Six Second Stories the Book is Now Available!

Fri, 19 Nov 2021 14:00:20 GMT

Welcome back, storytellers! We know it's been a hot minute since we've uploaded an episode, and that's because we've been hard at work creating a very special project for all of you. On November 23rd, Rain's book Six Second Stories: Maximize Your Impact in Minimal Time with Video Storytelling will be available to order! However, it is available TODAY to pre-order for only 99 cents! We are thrilled to finally be able to share this project with you and look forward to getting back to our regularly scheduled programming!

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Engaging Your Employees Through Story with Joy Spencer

Thu, 28 Oct 2021 04:01:12 GMT

On this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain sits down with Joy Spencer, Organizational Development Consultant at Navy Federal Credit Union, professional leadership coach, and the host of the Reframe to Create. Joy shares with Rain the remarkable ways she's brought storytelling to her corporate world and how it's made a significant positive impact in the workplace.

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Sharing Your Story on Live Video

Thu, 21 Oct 2021 04:01:56 GMT

As you may have heard, we took a couple weeks off from The Storytelling Lab to deal with some personal matters, but we're back this week with a very important episode. On this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain dives into the importance of sharing your story on live video and his top 5 tips for keeping it authentic and interesting. Tune in for some key pointers on how live video can amplify your reach!

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Cultivating Leadership Skills Through Story with Gerry Sandusky

Thu, 30 Sep 2021 04:01:38 GMT

On this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain sits down with Gerry Sandusky (yes, that's Gerry with a 'G'), voice of the Baltimore Ravens and business coach. Gerry is an expert at teaching business leaders how to communicate with their audience in an effective and emotionally impactful way. Tune in for some fantastic tips about how to take control of your narrative and become an excellent communicator.

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Sharing Your Story with Video

Thu, 23 Sep 2021 04:01:42 GMT

On this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain gives us a sneak peek into his upcoming Six Second Stories: Maximize Your Impact in Minimal Time with Video Storytelling. He tells us about the various options for video storytelling and provides guidelines depending on the type of video and the platform you use. This episode is perfect for anyone who's looking to expand their marketing strategy and wants to learn how using video can transform your business!

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Marketing and Selling Yourself as a Speaker with Larry Long Jr.

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 04:01:55 GMT

On this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain catches up with his pal Larry Long Jr., an exuberant speaker, sales coach, and self-made business man. Larry is guaranteed to make your ears perk up as he gives us some invaluable pieces of advice from his career transition journey to a full-time speaker. Tune in for an episode that will leave you smiling.

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Sharing Your Story on Stage

Thu, 09 Sep 2021 04:01:55 GMT

On this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain dives into his journey of becoming a professional speaker. He goes into how to start your speaking career, tips for finding and getting in front of your audience, and concrete financial goals you should have for yourself. If you've ever thought about starting a public speaking career, this episode is for you!

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Livestreaming Your Podcast with Christoph Trappe

Thu, 02 Sep 2021 04:01:40 GMT

Welcome back to our first guest episode of Season 7 of The Storytelling Lab! Our first guest is Christoph Trappe, Director of Content Strategy at Voxpopme, author, speaker, and host of The Business of Storytelling. Rain and Christophe talk all about the benefits of livestreaming your show and other creative content. Show hosts and content creators -- tune in!

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Sharing Your Story in a Book

Thu, 19 Aug 2021 04:01:26 GMT

Welcome back, storytellers! We're coming in hot with season 7 of The Storytelling Lab with an incredible episode line-up and can't wait for you to start listening. On this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain talks all things taking your story to the pages... that's right, writing a book! Rain is currently in the final stages of the self-publishing process and wants to give you all the tips and tricks he's learned along the way.

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Top Storytelling Tips of Season 6

Thu, 22 Jul 2021 04:01:00 GMT

At last we've arrived at episode 100 of The Storytelling Lab -- and what a journey it has been! This episode features 9 of our amazing guests from this season including Jimmy Hays Nelson, Heather H. Bennett, Neil Bearden, Annette Simmons, Kerri Twigg, Jaya Rose, Robert Kennedy II, Mike Ganino, and Mothyna James-Brightful. Tune in soon for the drop of Season 7!

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The Mind, Body, and Soul of Storytelling

Thu, 01 Jul 2021 04:01:08 GMT

This is it, storytellers. We've (almost) come to the end of season 6 with a final solo episode from Rain. He talks about how to engage the mind, body, and soul of your audience when telling your story and why storytelling isn't a marketing strategy. And stay tuned for that 100th episode coming in couple weeks where we'll recap the best moments of season 6!

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The Moments That Make Your Story Special with Mike Ganino

Thu, 24 Jun 2021 04:01:25 GMT

Storytellers... this is the LAST GUEST of Season 6! This episode of The Storytelling Lab features jack of all trades, Mike Ganino. Mike is first and foremost a storyteller, and he exercises that in his speaking, coaching, event planning, and hosting. He's an inspiration and a joy to listen to, and we hope you get as much out of it as Rain did!

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Keep Your Stories Simple

Thu, 17 Jun 2021 04:01:58 GMT

Storytellers... we're nearing the end of season 6 and that means we're one episode closer to 100! On this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain talks about why it's so important to keep your stories SIMPLE, or "KISS" as he calls it (Keep It Simple, Stupid). Tune in for some of Rain's most valuable tips and tricks!

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The Story of Who We Are as a Country

Thu, 10 Jun 2021 04:01:55 GMT

On this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain reconnects with documentary filmmaker, Nancy Buirski. Nancy is most famously known for directing "The Loving Story," and is the Founder and Director of the Full Frame Film Festival . For all you passionate filmmakers out there, this is the episode for you!

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How Many Stories is Too Many?

Thu, 03 Jun 2021 04:01:54 GMT

We're getting close to the end of season 6, storytellers! Just five more episodes til we reach the milestone of 100 episodes of The Storytelling Lab and we are EXCITED.. can you tell?! On this episode, Rain answers a recent question he got during a workshop, "How many stories is too many?" He discusses why story structure is so vital and ways to re-package your story.

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Determining Your Divine Spot with Your Story with Mothyna James-Brightful

Thu, 27 May 2021 04:01:19 GMT

On this week's episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain has on Mothyna James-Brightful (or Sister Mothyna as some call her), and what an inspiring conversation it was! Mothyna radiates positivity and hope and it's clear why so many storytellers seek her guidance. She talks about how to heal trauma with group storytelling and how to find your "divine spot" to do your greatest work. Don't miss this episode!

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The Narrative Drumbeat Behind Your Story

Thu, 20 May 2021 04:01:55 GMT

On this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain addresses the elephant in your mind... "Will people get tired of hearing my story?" No, absolutely not! And in this episode, Rain explains exactly why that is and how repetition is key to garnering your audience and obtaining sales leads. Tune in for this packed episode!

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Mastering the Medium for Your Message with Robert Kennedy III

Thu, 13 May 2021 04:01:48 GMT

On this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain chats with Robert Kennedy II -- author, speaker, coach, corporate trainer, and expert storyteller. Robert brings a wealth of knowledge and actionable tips to us this week! He talks on the importance of prioritization and execution, how to stay "interesting," capitalizing on all the content mediums at your disposal, and so much more. Tune in for a jam-packed episode!

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Finding the Unique Intersections of Your Story

Thu, 06 May 2021 04:01:45 GMT

On this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain talks specifically about one of his course lesson topics (p.s. - if you haven't checked out the course yet, we will leave the link below!) Rain utilizes experiences from his life to detail exactly how you can start mapping where your unique intersections are. Tune in for all the storytelling tips and tricks!

Link to course: https://rainbennettstorytellingschool.thinkific.com/courses/uncover-the-story-to-launch-your-personal-brand

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Selling to Your Soul Fans with Jaya Rose

Thu, 29 Apr 2021 04:01:43 GMT

On this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain connects with Jaya Rose -- and as it turns out, they have A LOT in common! Jaya is a master storyteller, show host, speaker, and coach. Jaya speaks on the importance accountability, authenticity, and never dimming your light for anyone. Tune in for all the savvy business strategies she has to offer AND a special announcement from Rain!

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The Best Platforms for Your Story

Thu, 22 Apr 2021 04:01:37 GMT

Heya, storytellers! Have you ever wondered what the best platform is for your story? With so many new and trending platforms out there, it can be difficult to determine which one is best suited for you. On this episode of The Storytelling Lab, wonder no more! Rain goes over all the newest (and oldest) platforms and shares his experience with each of them.

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Using Storytelling to Find Your Dream Job with Kerri Twigg

Thu, 15 Apr 2021 04:01:32 GMT

Storytellers, you're going to LOVE this episode! This episode of The Storytelling Lab features Kerri Twigg, author, speaker, teacher, and expert career coach that isn't your typical "coachy coach," as she puts it. Kerri talks on how to successfully combine happiness + financial stability and why mindfulness and self-love are bigger players than you might think.

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Turn Your Story Into a Business

Thu, 08 Apr 2021 04:01:17 GMT

Storytellers, are you ready for some very exciting news?! On this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain announces that his online course "Uncover the Story to Launch Your Personal Brand" is officially available for pre-order! If you're ready for some invaluable tips and tricks about how to turn your story into a profitable business, then this is the episode (and the course) for you.

For more information about the course, check out this link: https://rainbennettstorytellingschool.thinkific.com/courses/uncover-the-story-to-launch-your-personal-brand

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How Storytelling Builds, Grows, & Strengthens Group Behavior with Annette Simmons

Thu, 01 Apr 2021 04:01:51 GMT

On this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain sits down with Annette Simmons, author, speaker, community activist, and behavioral storytelling expert who just so happens to live right in his neck of the woods! Annette discusses the importance of authentic connection and diversity in storytelling as well as how to how to recognize if your story has resonated with your audience based on their behavior. This episode is perfect for anybody who wants to better their communication skills.

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You Don't Need Expertise, You Just Need a Story

Thu, 25 Mar 2021 04:01:57 GMT

We're here with another solo episode from your show host, Rain Bennett. On this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain breaks the 'expert' stigma. He talks about the importance of harnessing what you DO have and utilizing where you're at in your journey today. This episode is perfect for anyone who needs a little confidence boost to know that you're completely capable to help someone with your story right now, and without being an expert.

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The Psychology Behind Successful Storytelling with Neil Bearden

Thu, 18 Mar 2021 04:01:21 GMT

On this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain unites with his new pal, Neil Bearden. Neil and Rain instantly connected as they have similar upbringings and backgrounds. Together, they talk about their best storytelling strategies for motivating people to make change and the importance of not only accepting, but embracing your past.

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You Are Not Special, How You Tell Your Story Is

Thu, 11 Mar 2021 05:01:56 GMT

On this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain gives us the hard truth: you are not special. That's right, you're not! But the way you tell your story IS. Rain gives us all the tips and tricks for telling your story in the most unique way and how to maximize its impact on your audience.

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Building a Business Around Your Personal Story with Jimmy Hays Nelson

Thu, 04 Mar 2021 05:01:42 GMT

This episode of The Storytelling Lab is a lively one! Rain features Jimmy Hays Nelson, a high-performance business coach whose focus is to help clients craft their personal brand through storytelling. Jimmy speaks on the importance of accountability, self-respect, and vulnerability as some of the keys to unlocking your potential. This episode is perfect for anyone who needs help getting clarity on their goals.

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Telling the Story that Scares You

Thu, 25 Feb 2021 05:01:04 GMT

On this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain gets real with us about our common fears and apprehensions of telling our stories. Rain talks about why telling "the story that scares you" is so crucial to your development as a storyteller AND a person, and how it can benefit others, too!

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How to Build a Speaking Career Being Unapologetically You

Thu, 18 Feb 2021 05:01:01 GMT

On this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain gets in touch with Cam F. Awesome (yes, that's his legal name), a passionate speaker and champion amateur boxer who travels all over the country speaking to young people and adults alike. Cam is an expert on culture, diversity, and inclusion and Rain gets to hear firsthand where and how he got his start. This episode is perfect for anybody in the beginning stages of building their speaking career.

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Why I Won My First Storytelling Competition

Thu, 11 Feb 2021 05:01:54 GMT

Happy first solo podcast day of the year, storytellers! As promised, we are going to continue to do these shorter, solo episodes and this one is definitely a hard hitter. Rain retells the story that won him his first storytelling competition and gives us line by line pointers for making your story a success, too. This is a perfect episode for anyone who wants to really get technical with their storytelling strategy and hone their potential.

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Growing Your Authentic Personal Brand with Heather H. Bennett

Thu, 04 Feb 2021 05:01:18 GMT

Welcome back, storytellers! We made it to season 6 of The Storytelling Lab and what a ride it's been. On this episode, we're back with another storytelling expert, Heather H. Bennett. Heather is a personal brand coach who is chocked full of applicable tips to propel your business forward. Tune in for a fantastic episode about the importance of growing your personal brand!

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The Top Storytelling Tips from Season 5

Thu, 14 Jan 2021 05:01:28 GMT

Happy New Year, storytellers! Before we plunge into Season 6 of The Storytelling Lab in February, we wanted to take one last look back at our best season yet. In this recap episode, Rain features the most inspiring moments from Julia Campbell, Troy Sandidge, Amanda, Cazzola, Ashley Bernardi, Nick Jaworski, Kevin Allison, Kenn Adams, Ray Christian, Andy Henriquez, and Miri Rodriguez. Tune in for all the top storytelling tips!

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The 2 Keys to Unlocking Your Storytelling Potential

Thu, 24 Dec 2020 05:01:00 GMT

Well storytellers, we've finally reached the end of season 5 of The Storytelling Lab and what a phenomenal season it was! This season has been our most successful one yet thanks to our incredibly inspiring guests and YOU for consistently tuning in! On this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain tells us the story of his journey to becoming the storyteller he is today and how you can unlock your innate storytelling potential.

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How to Overcome Shame by Sharing Stories with Nick Jaworski

Thu, 17 Dec 2020 05:01:03 GMT

This is it, storytellers - we're down to the second to last episode of season 5 of The Storytelling Lab! On this episode, Rain sits down with newcomer, Nick Jaworski - a show host, teacher, and audio producer behind the production company "Podcast Monster." Rain talks with Nick about how shame influences so much of our lives and how we can use storytelling to overcome it.

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The Three Stories About You

Thu, 10 Dec 2020 05:01:25 GMT

This is Rain's second to last solo episode of season 5, storytellers! On this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain breaks down the 3 types of self stories: the story we tell ourselves, the story we tell others, and the story people tell about us. Rain gives us some valuable introspective advice and motivation to help us get out of heads and start living our truest story.

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The Five Storyteller Styles with Andy Henriquez

Thu, 03 Dec 2020 05:01:13 GMT

We're getting down to the wire of season 5, storytellers! On this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain talks with Andy Henriquez, a strategic storyteller expert, coach, and keynote speaker with a tangible passion for his work. Andy recaps his journey of how he entered the storytelling space, explains how his widely successful Master Storyteller Academy operates, and gives us some great advice on how to channel our individual challenges into our "signature stories."

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Overcoming Your Fears of Authentic Storytelling

Thu, 26 Nov 2020 05:01:08 GMT

Happy Thanksgiving, compelling storytellers! On this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain answers questions from YOU about your storytelling fears. Rain shares some very relatable stories of his own while easing our fears and apprehensions by offering some down-to-earth advice and motivation when it comes to telling your story. This episode is perfect for anyone struggling to tell authentic stories.

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Using Storytelling to Run a Successful Crowdfunding Campaign with Amanda Cazzolla

Thu, 19 Nov 2020 05:01:12 GMT

This episode of The Storytelling Lab features Amanda Cazzolla, Director of Marketing at Reinvestment Partners. Amanda enrolled in my storytelling coaching sessions awhile back, and later created an incredibly successful crowdfunding campaign from the ground up! This episode is perfect for beginners who want to hear about the evolution of a great storytelling journey from beginning end.

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The Four Parts of Every Brand Story

Thu, 12 Nov 2020 15:27:12 GMT

On this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain gives us the scoop on his latest projects, including "A Storytelling Workbook for Beginners," coming out just in time to add it to your Christmas shopping cart! The workbook is centered around the four P's: People, Problem, Purpose, and Platform, and Rain gives us a breakdown of how and why each of those P's are crucial to telling your perfect brand story.

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Sharing Your Lived Experiences Through Stories with Ray Christian

Thu, 05 Nov 2020 05:01:59 GMT

This episode of The Storytelling Lab features Ray Christian, a professor, author, show host, speaker, and scholar in all things African American history and storytelling. Ray gives us a glimpse into how his passion for storytelling came to be and provides us with some invaluable advice on how to connect with your audience on a deeper level and sustain a lasting impact through shared experiences.

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Crafting Your Unique Narrative Voice

Thu, 29 Oct 2020 04:01:14 GMT

On this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain gives us the inside scoop about one of his most successful coaching methods and how he helps clients discover their true narrative voice. He gives a very recent example of what NOT to do and why, and shares a piece of his personal journey about how he discovered his own narrative voice.

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RISKing It All in Your Story with Kevin Allison

Thu, 22 Oct 2020 04:01:11 GMT

On this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain features none other than Kevin Allison - storyteller, comedian, teacher, author, and host of the widely popular show, RISK! Rain and Kevin break the norm with their conversation about Kevin's life experiences and his advice on how to connect with all types of people, offering you something truly raw, risky, and real this week. This episode is perfect for anyone thinking about taking a more daring approach to their storytelling style and seeking inspiration on how to navigate that path.

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The Top Five Brand Storytelling Mistakes to Avoid

Thu, 15 Oct 2020 00:27:14 GMT

This episode of The Storytelling Lab is an exciting one! Not only does Rain divulge the top five brand storytelling mistakes that marketing teams make, but he drops a special surprise announcement. This episode is perfect anybody fresh on the brand storytelling scene needing some upfront guidance about what not to do in your marketing strategy. Tune in to hear all the details.

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Cultivating Empathy in the Digital Age with Miri Rodriguez

Thu, 08 Oct 2020 04:01:01 GMT

On this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain talks with the Head of Global Internships at Microsoft, Miri Rodriguez. And if you think her title is impressive, wait til you hear the conversation! Miri is an expert at brand design thinking AND empathy and it truly shines through. This episode is perfect for anyone who is struggling with their brand storytelling strategy.

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The Sequencing of Your Stories

Thu, 01 Oct 2020 04:01:34 GMT

On this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain addresses a very important aspect of effective storytelling: sequencing. Rain highlights why the order of your story's events are crucial to executing your brand storytelling strategy and even tells us a tale of his own! This episode is perfect for anyone wanting to dive deeper into WHY stories are sequenced the way that they are and how proper sequencing can heighten the connection with your prospective audience or customers.

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How to Share Your Story on Broadcast Media with Ashley Bernardi

Thu, 24 Sep 2020 04:01:23 GMT

On this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain sits down with Ashley Bernardi, a media relations expert and publicist whom he previously reached out to in regard to his own book, Six Second Stories: Maximize Your Impact in Minimal Time that comes out in early 2021. Ashley has an impressive background in journalism and gives us the inside scoop on how to best position yourself to the media and step-by-step advice on how to attain success.

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Under the Influence of The Storytelling Cocktail

Thu, 17 Sep 2020 04:01:19 GMT

On this week's episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain dives into a concept of his own creation called, "The Storytelling Cocktail." You may have heard Rain speak live about this particular concoction before, but on this episode, he spends time thoroughly explaining how each individual ingredient makes a recipe for success when it comes to your brand storytelling and marketing strategy.

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Telling Your Authentic Story on Social Media with Troy Sandidge

Thu, 10 Sep 2020 04:01:57 GMT

This episode of The Storytelling Lab is chocked full of gold nuggets from the one and only, Troy Sandidge, or he's better known as on social media, #findtroy. Troy has been in the marketing space for over a decade and on this episode, he goes in-depth on how to navigate the marketing space within our current culture. Whether you're beginning your entrepreneurship or you're a seasoned marketing professional, this episode will have something to offer you.

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The Undeniable Storytelling Formula that Works

Thu, 03 Sep 2020 04:01:34 GMT

On this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain enters the realm of story structure and implements the "Story Spine" method from our most recent episode. Rain hones into the "spines" of a couple of our most beloved films and how to achieve their same compelling effect in your own work! This episode is perfect for anyone looking to understand why certain brand storytelling methods are more effective than others and how to use the storytelling formula to better engage and connect with your audience.

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The Eight Steps of the Story Spine with Kenn Adams

Thu, 27 Aug 2020 04:01:50 GMT

This episode of The Storytelling Lab features none other than Kenn Adams, a.k.a the inventor of the "Story Spine." Don't know what the Story Spine is? If you've seen any Pixar film, then you unconsciously know what it is. On this episode, Rain takes Kenn back in time to when and how the Story Spine was born, the art and structure of improv, and the importance of rules and balance within storytelling.

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How to Create Compelling Characters in Your Stories

Thu, 20 Aug 2020 04:01:12 GMT

On this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain dives into the art and science of character and story development and explains the critical role they play in telling YOUR brand story. Rain discusses a variety of topics such as the 3 act structure, character archetypes, and draws on some of the most classic, "hero-driven" movies to explain how you can make the same impact on your audience. This episode is perfect for storytellers and marketers alike who are looking to deepen their connection with their audience.

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Social Media Storytelling for Nonprofits with Julia Campbell

Thu, 13 Aug 2020 04:01:44 GMT

We're back this week on The Storytelling Lab with another incredible guest who decided very early on that her mission in life was to help others. Julia Campbell is a social media marketing expert, speaker, author, and online teacher whose passion is helping nonprofits tell the best version of their brand story. Tune in to hear Julia discuss why connecting through stories is a vital part of successful marketing.

Visit Julia's website https://jcsocialmarketing.com/

And follow her on Instagram juliacampbell77

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The Five Brand Stories You Need to Tell

Thu, 06 Aug 2020 04:01:24 GMT

We’re changing things up this season! This episode of The Storytelling Lab features none other than your host, Rain Bennett. Rain has a rich background in storytelling and speaks directly to his audience, diving into the five brand stories that he uses to help his clients. This episode is perfect for anyone looking to flesh out their brand marketing strategy.

As always, follow Rain on Instagram @rainbennett

And check out his storytelling services https://linktr.ee/rainbennett

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The Lost Colony with Scott Dawson

Thu, 30 Jul 2020 04:00:00 GMT

We’re back with Season 5 of the Storytelling Lab and kicking it off with Scott Dawson, a local historian, author, amateur archaeologist, and expert on the mysterious Lost Colony. Scott is a native of Hatteras Island whose family roots on the island trace back to the 1600s and his mission is to tell the true story of 'America's oldest mystery.' In this episode, Scott takes us back in time to discuss the famous “CROATOAN” carving, his archeological findings, and the importance of inclusivity and keeping our ancestral stories alive.

Check out Scott’s newest book at: https://www.amazon.com/Lost-Colony-Hatteras-Island/dp/1467144339 OR https://www.arcadiapublishing.com/Products/9781467144339

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The Top Storytelling Tips from Season 4

Thu, 16 Jul 2020 04:00:13 GMT

The Season 4 recap is here! Rain discusses our favorite and most actionable storytelling tips and tricks from our Season 4 guests. We focus on storytelling fundamentals, basics of content marketing, interacting with your audience, and making a plan! Listen now to catch up on anything you may have missed or guests you just couldn’t get enough of. Guests include Paul J Zak, Brant Pinvidic, John Livesay, Grant Baldwin, Jay Acunzo, Rob Simmelkjaer, Shirlette Ammons, Melanie Deizel, Denise Withers, and Kathy Klotz-Guest.

Follow Rain on Twitter @rainbennett

Follow The Storytelling Lab on Twitter @storylabpodcast

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Capturing Truth with Burk Uzzle and Jethro Waters

Thu, 25 Jun 2020 04:00:49 GMT

We’re rounding out our 4th season with a very special interview from one of America’s most highly regarded photographers, Burk Uzzle, and filmmaker, Jethro Waters. We discuss truthfully portraying a subject, leading with your heart, and learning from people with whom you disagree. This interview was recorded after the screening of F/11 and Be There, Jethro Water’s documentary on photographer Burk Uzzle, at the 2019 Full Frame Film Festival.

Learn more about Burk Uzzle at his website: www.burkuzzle.com

Learn more about Jethro Waters at his website: www.jethrowaters.com

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Better is Possible: Growing a Healthy Community with Joshua Gunn

Thu, 18 Jun 2020 04:00:22 GMT

This week’s Health & Happiness story is from Joshua Gunn, aka J. Gunn, a Durham native, North Carolina rapper, and community leader. Joshua tells his story of growing up in Durham and what led him to run for city council. With experience in and love for both the “old” and “new” Durham, Joshua strives to create economic and racial equity within our growing community.

Follow Joshua Gunn on Twitter @JGunnisbetter

Or on Facebook as Joshua Gunn

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The Successful Speaker Guide with Grant Baldwin

Thu, 11 Jun 2020 04:00:47 GMT

This week’s guest is Grant Baldwin, entrepreneur, speaker, and author of The Successful Speaker: Five Steps for Booking Gigs, Getting Paid, and Building Your Platform. This episode is all about demystifying the world of speaking! We discuss the Speaker Success Roadmap, using storytelling in your speaking gigs, and finding the courage to share personal stories.

Follow Grant on Twitter @grantbaldwin

And learn more about his work at freespeakerworkshop.com

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Stories of the South with Shirlette Ammons

Thu, 28 May 2020 04:00:31 GMT

It’s our 50th episode and we’re bringing you a truly special guest! This week we’re joined with Shirlette Ammons, Poet, Musician, Producer, and native Eastern North Carolinian, to discuss something near and dear to our heart: Stories of the South. We dive into the multifaceted world of Southern food, culture, and music & discuss how to tell authentic stories of the people and places we love.

Follow Shirlette on Twitter @shirletteammons

And learn more about her work at shirletteammons.com

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Holistic Living with Naya Powell

Thu, 21 May 2020 04:00:42 GMT

This week’s Health & Happiness story comes from Naya Powell, Holistic Lifestyle Strategist and Founder & CEO of Spa Utopia. Naya discusses her experience growing up in a household of entrepreneurs and how her parent’s success and lifestyle inspired her to quit her corporate job and start a spa company. Naya has personally experienced the stress and burnout many entrepreneurs face and is committed to helping others let go of stress and put their physical well-being first.

Follow Naya’s Spa Utopia on Instagram @myspautopia

And Learn more about Spa Utopia at myspautopia.com

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The Art of the Interview with Rob Simmelkjaer

Thu, 14 May 2020 04:00:43 GMT

This week is all about perfecting the art of the interview with Rob Simmelkjaer, journalist and CEO & Co-Founder of Persona. Everyone has a story to tell, but it can be difficult to know how to share your story or how to extract stories from others. Rob has created the solution: Persona App makes interviewing easy for anyone. Listen in to hear Robs top interviewing tips and get a sneak peek into how you can use the Persona App to make connections and share stories.

Follow Rob on Twitter @RobSimmelkjaer

Learn more about Persona App at personatalks.com

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Being an Only: Inclusion in Banking & Finance with Dee McDougal

Thu, 07 May 2020 04:00:41 GMT

This week’s Health & Happiness story is from Dee McDougal, SVP of Inclusion and Diversity at Pacific Western Bank. Dee shares her experience growing up as an “Only” and of how she learned to lean into her true identity as she paved her career in the financial industry. Dee shares her story to spread awareness and to increase diversity in stereotypically white, male dominated business.

Follow Dee on on LinkedIn: Dee McDougal

And learn more about her work at westernbankers.com

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How to Use Comedy in Your Storytelling with Kathy Klotz-Guest

Thu, 30 Apr 2020 04:00:31 GMT

This week’s guest is Kathy Klotz-Guest, Keynote Speaker, Story Strategist, Author, and Improv Comedian. You may not think about it but comedians are some of the best storytellers on earth! Kathy and Rain discuss how to raise the stakes in your storytelling, yes-and-ing your clients, and incorporating comedy and improv into your marketing strategies.

Follow Kathy on Twitter @kathyklotzguest

And learn more about her work at keepingithuman.com

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Family Financial Planning with Lauren Erickson, CFP

Thu, 23 Apr 2020 04:00:21 GMT

This week’s Health & Happiness story comes from Lauren Erickson, CFP, Financial IMPACT Advisor, and managing partner at Erickson Advisors. Lauren loves to see people build and sustain a financial confidence that will resonant throughout their lives. Lauren tells a deeply personal story of how family can dramatically affect your financial health (for better or for worse), if you wait too long to have tough financial conversations.

Follow Lauren on Instagram at @lauren_erickson_bennett

Find out more about Erickson Advisors at ericksonadvisors.com

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Discovering YOUR Best Practices with Jay Acunzo

Thu, 16 Apr 2020 04:00:48 GMT

This week’s guest is Jay Acunzo, Speaker, Author, Podcaster, and Founder of Marketing Showrunners, a media company committed to helping brands grow their audiences. Rain and Jay discuss discovering your best practices, creating a series for your business, and turning your audience into a community. This episode is perfect for anyone wanting to go deeper in their marketing strategy.

Follow Jay on Twitter @jayacunzo

Learn more about Marketing Showrunners at marketingshowrunners.com

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Closing the Racial Wealth Gap with Keith Beverly, CFA, CFP

Thu, 09 Apr 2020 04:00:12 GMT

We’re moving into Financial Health with this week’s Health & Happiness story from Keith Beverly, Chief Investment Officer and Founder of Grid 202 partners. Keith is passionate about closing the racial wealth gap & promoting financial education in low-income communities. In this story, Keith discusses his experience growing up amidst financial hardship and how it inspired him to go into his current work.

Follow Keith on Twitter @KeithBevCFA

And learn more about Grid 202 Partners at grid202partners.com

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Story Design: A Tool For Change with Denise Withers

Thu, 02 Apr 2020 04:00:08 GMT

This week’s guest is Denise Withers, a filmmaker, story strategist, and author of Story Design: The Creative Way to Innovate. Denise seeks to create world change through her stories & strategies. In this episode, we discuss Story Design, the combination of storytelling and design thinking; how to use story as a sense-making tool; and how to continue serving our communities in the midst of the COVID 19 pandemic.

Follow Denise on Twitter @denisewithers

And visit her website: www.denisewithers.com/

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Bouncing Back From Rock Bottom with Shelda Askew

Thu, 26 Mar 2020 04:00:23 GMT

This week’s Health & Happiness story comes from Shelda Askew, a recovered addict and spokesperson for the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Shelda shares her recovery story, her experience of finding hope in prison, and her decision to start helping others once she helped herself. The world seems upside-down right now -- it’s such an important time to practice empathy and connect through storytelling!

Follow the National Alliance on Mental Illness on Instagram at @namicommunicate

And learn more about NAMI at nami.org

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The Ultimate Guide to Content Creation with Melanie Deziel

Thu, 19 Mar 2020 04:00:17 GMT

This week’s guest is Melanie Deziel, keynote speaker, author, and founder of Storyfuel. Rain and Melanie discuss keeping up with communications & marketing in the midst of a crisis, Melanie’s content creation framework, and unique & creative ideas to use in your marketing today. With all the craziness going on, we are committed to bringing you quality storytelling content & will continue with our weekly release schedule.

Follow Melanie on Twitter @mdeziel

And check out her book: The Content Fuel Framework: How to Generate Unlimited Story Ideas (For Marketers and Creators)

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Recovery From Burnout with Dr. Nicole Cranley

Thu, 12 Mar 2020 04:00:28 GMT

It’s another Health & Happiness week! This story comes from Dr. Nicole Cranley, AKA the Doctorette, a behavioral scientist and lifestyle blogger. Nicole shares her personal story of burnout, an abusive relationship, losing herself, and making the choice to find herself again. This talk is from Health & Happiness: A Storytelling Series on Living Your Best Potential, hosted in Durham, North Carolina.

Follow Nicole on Instagram @thedoctorette

And visit her website thedoctorette.com/

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Say Less, Get More with Brant Pinvidic

Thu, 05 Mar 2020 05:00:27 GMT

This week’s guest is Brant Pinvidic, documentary filmmaker, producer, speaker, and author of The 3-Minute Rule. Brant is an expert at using short form storytelling to capture attention. Rain and Brant discuss the 3-step decision making process, how to use storytelling to feed information to your audience, and how to say less & get more!

Follow Brant on Instagram @brantpinvidic

And visit his website brantpinvidic.com/

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The Superwoman Complex with Dr. Nicole Swiner

Thu, 27 Feb 2020 05:00:25 GMT

This week’s Health & Happiness story is from Dr. Nicole Swiner, aka “Doc Swiner.” Doc Swiner is a family medicine doctor, author, and speaker who focuses on a wide range of physical and mental health & wellness issues. In this talk Doc Swiner discusses her mother’s struggle with alcoholism, the stress of being a superwoman, and taking the time to sit down. This talk is from Health & Happiness: A Storytelling Series on Living Your Best Potential, hosted in Durham, North Carolina.

Follow Dr. Swiner on Instagram @docswiner

And visit her website www.docswiner.com/

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Better Selling Through Storytelling with John Livesay

Thu, 20 Feb 2020 05:00:13 GMT

This week’s guest is John Livesay, keynote speaker, pitch whisperer, and storytelling expert! Rain and John discuss how to use storytelling to boost sales, make yourself irresistible to clients, and turn case studies into “case stories.” This is a great episode for all you entrepreneurs wanting to learn the best way to pitch your idea or sell your product!

Follow John on Twitter @John_Livesay

And check out his book: Better Selling Through Storytelling

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How Birding Saved My Life with Tom Ferguson

Thu, 13 Feb 2020 05:00:28 GMT

We’re kicking off our Health & Happiness storytelling episodes with a story from Tom Ferguson, Founder & CEO of Rise Biscuits & Donuts and self-identified Birdman. Tom shares his experience with mental health and how birding saved his life. Keep an eye out for more Health & Happiness storytelling episodes in the future! From now on, we'll be sharing stories of people navigating their Health & Happiness every other week. Enjoy!

Visit Tom’s website: Hypermanicbirdman.com

And check out his podcast: Tools for Tools with Ninja & the Birdman

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The Science of Storytelling with Paul J. Zak

Thu, 06 Feb 2020 05:00:24 GMT

We’re kicking off Season 4 with an all-star guest, Paul J. Zak, neuroeconomist and storytelling expert. Zak studies the neuroscience behind storytelling and is full of knowledge about how narrative form affects our brains and informs our actions. Listen in to hear more about neuroeconomics (the study of how people make decisions), the science behind storytelling, and why narrative arcs are almost necessary to incite action. Cheers to Season 4 & thank you to all you wonderful listeners!

Follow Paul on Twitter @PaulJZak

And check out his website pauljzak.com

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The Top Storytelling Tips from Season 3

Thu, 16 Jan 2020 07:00:01 GMT

The Season 3 recap is here! Rain talks us through our favorite storytelling tips and tricks from our Season 3 guests. We focus on storytelling fundamentals, telling the stories of the people you help, being vulnerable, and believing in yourself! Listen in to catch up on anything you may have missed or guests you just couldn’t get enough of.

Follow Rain on Twitter @rainbennett

Stay up to date on all Story Lab activity at @storylabpodcast

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Believing In Yourself with Evan Carmichael

Thu, 02 Jan 2020 05:00:32 GMT

This week we’re bringing you a special bonus episode with the one and only Evan Carmichael, entrepreneurial expert and YouTube star! Evan is working to solve the world’s biggest problem: people don’t #BELIEVE in themselves enough. Evan and Rain discuss belief & what it means to Evan, learning from your role model’s success stories, and turning your dreams into action. Enjoy!

Follow Evan on Instagram @evancarmichael

Follow Evan on Twitter @EvanCarmichael

For more visit https://believe.evancarmichael.com/homepage

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Empowering Women Through Motivational Storytelling with Alexa Carlin

Thu, 19 Dec 2019 05:00:49 GMT

This week’s guest is Alexa Carlin, motivational speaker and Founder & CEO of Women Empower X, a speaker convention dedicated to connecting diverse female leaders, executives, and entrepreneurs. Rain and Alexa discuss setting realistic and measurable goals for 2020, finding the courage to share the stories you are currently living, and harnessing the power of storytelling to build a community. This episode is perfect for all you entrepreneurs and goal setters!

Follow Alexa on Instagram @alexarosecarlin

Check out her website at www.alexacarlin.com

Follow Women Empower X (WEX) on Instagram @womenempowerx

Want to visit a WEX event? Check it out here: womenempowerx.com

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Sustainable Business Stories with Eric Henry

Thu, 05 Dec 2019 05:00:43 GMT

This week’s guest is Eric Henry, President & CEO of TS Designs, a sustainable T-shirt manufacturing company in Burlington, NC. TS Designs is dedicated to creating locally made and environmentally responsible products that have a positive social impact! We discuss sustainable business practices, telling creative and interactive stories of products, and how to make a positive impact (personally and professionally).

Follow Eric on Instagram @ericmhenry

Follow TS Designs on Instagram @tsdesignsnc

And check out their website at www.tsdesigns.com

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Environmental Storytelling with Brian Powell

Thu, 21 Nov 2019 05:00:16 GMT

This week we welcome Brian Powell, Communications Director for the NC Conservation Network. Brian works every day to bring light to stories of environmental injustice affecting the people of North Carolina. We discuss how the NC Conservation Network uses communication to contribute to policy change, why the environmental movement is moving towards human-centric messaging, and how to tell big picture stories through micro-stories.

Follow Brian on Instagram @FocusBrian

Follow NC Conservation Network on Instagram @ncconservationnetwork

Follow NC Conservation Network on Twitter @NCConservation

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Social Media Storytelling for REALTORS with Britni Clark

Thu, 07 Nov 2019 05:00:30 GMT

This week’s guest is Britni Clark, social media and marketing manager for the Virginia Realtors Association. We discuss how realtors (and ALL other businesses) can benefit from digital storytelling, how to convince your company to devote more time to social, and how to make social media content management more manageable. This episode it perfect for anyone that wants to learn more about social media storytelling!

Follow Britni on Instagram @_itsbclark

Follow Virginia Realtors Association on Instagram @virginiarealtors

Check out their website https://www.virginiarealtors.org/

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Storytelling For Change with Sabine Harnau

Thu, 24 Oct 2019 04:00:57 GMT

This week’s guest storyteller is Sabine Harnau, founder of From Scratch Communications, a company committed to helping businesses change the world through sustainable and responsible copywriting! In this episode, we discuss Sabine’s take on the 5 act story structure, why it pays off to be vulnerable in your business communications, and how the biggest factor holding you back can often be yourself.

Follow From Scratch on Instagram @scratch_posts

Follow From Scratch on Twitter @scratch_posts

Check out their website: from-scratch.net/

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Moving Your Audience To Action with Jaz O'Hara

Thu, 10 Oct 2019 04:00:00 GMT

We’re heading back into the nonprofit world with today’s guest, Jaz O’Hara, founder of The Worldwide Tribe, a nonprofit dedicated to sharing stories and raising awareness of the global refugee crisis. We discuss how to share the stories of the people you help, combat negative narratives in the news media, and use video to move your audience to action. This is a great episode for anyone looking to learn how to raise awareness through storytelling!

Follow Jaz on Instagram @jaz.ohara

Follow The Worldwide Tribe on Instagram @theworldwidetribe

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The Top 5 Screenwriting Tips with Jimmy "The Script Butcher" George

Thu, 26 Sep 2019 04:00:59 GMT

This week’s guest is Jimmy George (aka The Script Butcher), a horror film producer and scriptwriting consultant. Jimmy has been writing and creating micro budget horror films for over 15 years and joins us to share his actionable tips and tricks! We discuss creating low budget films, common pain points for new scriptwriters, and the top 5 things every script needs to be successful.

Jimmy is currently in post production on his seventh feature horror film: What Happens Next Will Scare You. It will be released next year!

Check out his website: https://scriptbutcher.com/services/

And follow him on Twitter @JimmyRGeorge

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Video Games: The New Storytelling Frontier with Susan O'Connor

Thu, 12 Sep 2019 04:00:38 GMT

This week we dive into a new and exciting form of storytelling: video games! Our guest is Susan O’Connor, a writer, speaker, and teacher, who has worked on scriptwriting for video games including Far Cry 2, and Tomb Raider. We discuss how storytelling is used in video games, why people love games so much, and how both stories and games are used to make sense of the world.

Follow Susan on Twitter @bluepuma

And check out her website http://www.susanoconnorwriter.com/

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Storyboard Art with Nick Sung

Thu, 29 Aug 2019 04:00:52 GMT

This week we welcome Nick Sung, a storyboard artist who has worked with companies such as Pixar, Airbnb, and Nike to incorporate storytelling into their brands! Nick discusses the art of visual storytelling, using pictures to complement words, and using stories to create a social impact. We circle back to empathy with this episode -- no matter what medium you use in your storytelling, it all comes back to communicating human experience!

Check out Nick’s website http://www.nicksung.com/

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Nonprofit Communication Tips with Maria Bryan

Thu, 15 Aug 2019 04:00:28 GMT

For the first episode of season 3, we dive into nonprofit communication with Maria Bryan, a communications strategist specializing in writing and content marketing. Maria wants to make the world a better place by sharing inspiring stories! She shares the best way to take advantage of social media management tools, keep track of analytics, communicate with clients and much, much more! If you’re in need of quick social media marketing hacks, this is the episode for you.

Follow Maria on Twitter @Maria__Bryan

And check out her website https://www.mariabryan.com/

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The Top Storytelling Tips from Season 2

Thu, 20 Jun 2019 04:00:37 GMT

As we look back on an exciting second season full of expert storytellers, the same themes keep coming up.

(Hint: THESE are your key takeaways!)

So we compiled them all into one jam-packed bonus episode full of highlights!

Rain talks us through some of our favorite tidbits and lessons from our Season 2 guests. We focus in on the importance of storytelling, doubling down on your unique qualities, and (as always) being authentic! Listen in to catch up on storytelling tips you may have missed or guests you just couldn’t get enough of.

Follow Rain on Twitter @rainbennett

Stay up to date on all Storytelling Lab activity at www.rainbennett.com/

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Multi-passion-itis with Melissa Cassera

Thu, 16 May 2019 04:00:39 GMT

Join us for our final episode of Season 2 with guest Melissa Cassera, scriptwriter, business owner, and PR & marketing consultant. Melissa takes on the challenging question: How do I combine my artistic passions with my business goals to create something truly unique? She has done it in her own life, being both a business professional and a scriptwriter and she is on the show to share her tips and tricks with us. Rain and Melissa discuss infusing your passion into everything you do and taking creative leaps.

Follow Melissa on Instagram @melissa.cassera

Check out her website: https://melissacassera.com/

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Nonprofit Media Relations with Antionette Kerr

Thu, 02 May 2019 04:00:06 GMT

We’re moving back into the nonprofit world this week with Antionette Kerr, a local nonprofit leader, media correspondent, author, and owner of Bold & Bright publishing company. Rain and Antionette discuss the intricacies of non profit media relations and publishing, how to conduct a successful interview, and tips to make your audience care. We circle back to one of our more popular themes: listening with empathy & allowing others opportunity to share!

Follow Antionette on twitter @thewritefolks

Read her book Modern Media Relations for Nonprofits: Creating an Effective PR Strategy for Today’s World

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Myths & Monsters with William Simpson

Thu, 18 Apr 2019 04:00:31 GMT

This week we join screenwriter and storytelling enthusiast William Simpson. Simpson is known for his work on Myths & Monsters, now available on Netflix, and Murder Maps, a British true crime series in its 4th season. Rain and William nerd out over stories and history, diving into questions including: What makes a good character? What common themes do we use in storytelling? What parts are needed in each and every story? And how do stories interact with society?

Follow William on twitter @will__simpson

Watch Myths & Monsters on Netflix

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Creative Branding with Jake Fehling

Thu, 04 Apr 2019 04:00:06 GMT

This week’s guest is Jake Fehling, a speaker, writer, and fellow podcaster. Jake works as the Vice President & Communications Executive for Movement Mortgage, a company based in Charlotte, NC. He joins Rain to discuss genuinely caring about customers, creating and keeping up with content calendars, and implementing creative branding. If you are a marketing professional, or interested in the world of social media for business, this episode is for you!

Follow Jake on Twitter @jakefehling

Check out his website http://jakeandpage.com/

Or listen to his podcast Mortgage Impact Podcast

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Personal Narratives with Elaine Bloom

Thu, 21 Mar 2019 04:00:00 GMT

Our guest this week is Elaine Bloom, a motivational speaker, career counselor & business owner living in Norway. Rain and Elaine discuss personal and societal narratives, being better listeners, learning to be honest with ourselves and others, and knowing when it’s time to say “no” or walk away. As a career counselor, Elaine has learned that sharing stories and personal experiences is the best way to connect with others. Listen in for a truly motivational episode!

Follow Elaine on Instagram @elaine_bloom

Find her on Facebook as Elaine Bloom

Or check out her website at elainebloom.no

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Business Writing with Annie Beth Donahue

Thu, 07 Mar 2019 05:00:35 GMT

Ever wonder how long your online blog post should be? How to write for health care professionals? Or, how to turn academic journals into plain language for a larger (and more general) audience? Well, this episode is perfect for you! Rain discusses actionable writing tips with Annie Beth Brown Donahue, a long-time friend and freelance healthcare writer and children’s novelist. Annie Beth recently finished writing a mystery novel for middle schoolers, titled No Clues, You Lose.

Follow Annie Beth on Twitter @anniebdonahue

Or check out her website (and short stories) at anniebethdonahue.com

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Minding the Gap with Bing Liu

Thu, 21 Feb 2019 05:00:00 GMT

We take a break from our normal interviews to share a conversational interview, recorded last year at the Full Frame Film Festival, between Rain and Bing Liu, director of Oscar nominated documentary Minding the Gap! Rain talks with Bing about shooting beautiful skateboarding footage, the decision to make Minding the Gap a personal narrative, and the hardships surrounding familial cycles of abuse. And, of course, we wish Bing the best of luck at the Academy Awards this weekend!

Follow Bing on Twitter @BingLiu89

And watch Minding the Gap on Hulu

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Independent Filmmaking with Evan Kidd

Thu, 07 Feb 2019 08:00:46 GMT

This week we dive into the world of independent filmmaking with North Carolina filmmaker, Evan Kidd. Evan finished his first feature film, Son of Clowns, in 2016 (just two years after graduating college!), and is now focusing his energy on a short documentary. Rain and Evan discuss taking creative leaps, knowing when to ask for favors, being authentic, and speaking to your audience.

Follow Evan on twitter @MrEvanKidd

Or check out his website: https://rocksetproductions.com/

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Place Science with Dr. Katherine Loflin

Thu, 24 Jan 2019 05:00:50 GMT

This week our guest is Dr Katherine Loflin, a globally-recognized expert in the field of Placemaking. Katherine runs a global consulting agency, where she helps communities better understand the dynamic relationship we have with our places, focusing on the importance of thriving in the cities and towns where we feel most at home. When she’s not busy being the City Doctor, Katherine produces historical fiction stage performances that tell the stories of a place. Listen in to learn more about Place science, branding, and telling stories that can’t be found in history books.

Follow Katherine on twitter @KatherineLoflin

Or check out her website: http://loflinconsultingsolutions.com/

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Nonprofit Storytelling with Brittany Jennings

Thu, 10 Jan 2019 17:28:58 GMT

This week we welcome Brittany Jennings, Eastern North Carolina’s regional communication manager for the American Red Cross, to discuss nonprofit communication and recent hurricane Florence relief efforts. We talk storytelling in the midst of crisis, packaging stories for news outlets, and owning up to mistakes when they happen (because they always do).

Follow Brittany on twitter @BritJennings

Follow Eastern NC Red Cross @RedCrossENC

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Ep 10: It's the Man, Not the Machine

Thu, 27 Dec 2018 05:00:00 GMT

Cheers to the last episode of Season 1! To finish it off, Rain brings us back to the heart of storytelling. We’ve talked through many important storytelling tips and tricks, but remember the most important tip is to follow your heart (as cheesy as it sounds). Join us next season as we dive deeper into the practice of storytelling and invite trailblazing guests to share more storytelling techniques.

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Ep 9: Tools of the Trade

Thu, 27 Dec 2018 05:00:00 GMT

Today we get practical! Rain talks us through the tools needed in each step of the filmmaking process. We break it up into bare bones, middle range, and high budget tools so that you can decide what works best for your storytelling style. Listen in to learn more about the roles needed on a film set, camera models, stabilizers, light sets, microphones, and editing softwares.

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Ep 6: Video

Thu, 13 Dec 2018 05:00:00 GMT

Welcome to the Storytelling Lab! Today we’re talking all things video. Rain takes us through the basics of showing, instead of telling, and stresses the importance of variety in visual storytelling. We’ll teach you how to successfully use A-roll, B-roll, and archival footage, and explain the different types of shots used to create tone and variety.

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Ep 7: Audio

Thu, 13 Dec 2018 05:00:00 GMT

Welcome back! This episode’s all about audio. You might not think about it, but audio can be even more important than video, and bad audio can make or break a story! Rain talks the yeses and nos of audio equipment, how to make sound effects your friend, and the importance of music choice and personable narration. We also talk podcasts, audio books, and other new, audio-heavy storytelling methods.

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Ep 8: Graphics

Thu, 13 Dec 2018 05:00:00 GMT

Welcome to another episode of the Storytelling Lab! Today, Rain explains the best ways to use graphics in your storytelling. We’ll explore the importance of text graphics, animation, infographics, and subtitles (which are SO effective for social media storytelling). Listen in to learn simple ways to use graphics to bump your visual storytelling to the next level!

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Ep 5: ABCs of Storytelling

Thu, 29 Nov 2018 15:28:17 GMT

Welcome back! It’s time to dive into the nuts and bolts of storytelling: the beginning, middle, and end. In this episode, Rain will share some techniques that will help you plot out a story. We’ll discuss ways to create relatable characters and see how themes begin to emerge when the basics are already planned out.

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Ep 4: Storytelling Tools

Thu, 29 Nov 2018 15:27:26 GMT

What’s up and welcome! On this episode of the Storytelling lab, we explore storytelling tools. With everything available at the touch of a screen, we have so many different ways to receive and to tell stories. Listen in to see how you can use social media, podcasts, graphics, gifs, and memes as a tools for storytelling!

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Ep 1: Intro

Mon, 26 Nov 2018 05:00:00 GMT

Welcome to the first episode of the Storytelling Lab with Rain Bennett, professional documentarian and competitive storyteller! In this series, Rain will break down the art and science of storytelling, and together we will learn how to start seeing our “flaws” as super powers.

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Ep 2: Why Storytelling

Mon, 26 Nov 2018 05:00:00 GMT

Today we’ll be talking about the ‘why’ of storytelling. Why do we love stories? And, why does storytelling work? Join Rain, our storytelling expert, as he talks branded content and storytelling as a method to build trust. Thanks for listening!

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Ep 3: Why Short Form

Mon, 26 Nov 2018 05:00:00 GMT

Welcome to another episode of the Storytelling Lab. Today, Rain will talk about the advantage of short form storytelling, starting with the Ernest Hemingway legend of the original six word story. Learn the how to cut fat out of your stories and grab your audience in the first 5 seconds! And remember, if it’s not helping move your story forward, it’s an injustice to the piece.

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