The Storytelling Lab

“A shared narrative means everyone in the organization is speaking about the story in the same way.” — Salvatore ManziIf 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 confusionUse storytelling frameworks to turn complex data into meaningful messagesBuild trust with audiences by integrating vulnerability into your leadership voiceAvoid common communication pitfalls in both nonprofits and STEM-driven businessesApply the “problem, process, outcome” structure to make your stories more actionableFollow Salvatore on:LinkedInInstagramor visit his website, HERE!And for more storytelling tips and tricks,Visit rainbennett.com or thestorytellinglabpodcast.comFollow on TikTok @chiefstorytellingofficerFollow on Twitter @rainbennettFollow on Instagram @rainbennettFollow on Facebook @thestorytellinglab Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“A message map is the most underutilized resource for marketers.” — David EbnerWhat 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 contentUse storytelling as a system, not just a one-off tacticRethink your marketing metrics and focus on what truly builds trustLeverage long-form cornerstone content to fuel your daily outputAvoid burnout by shifting from production obsession to strategic clarityFollow David on:LinkedInor visit the Content Workshop website, HERE!And for more storytelling tips and tricks,Visit rainbennett.com or thestorytellinglabpodcast.comFollow on TikTok @rainbennett.storyellerFollow on Twitter @rainbennettFollow on Instagram @rainbennettFollow on Facebook @thestorytellinglab Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“The shortest distance between two souls is a story.” — Aaron CalafatoAaron 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 performanceUse personal stories to create trust, not just attentionBalance art and business while staying true to your valuesBuild long-term brand equity through consistent storytellingAvoid the trap of trying to be “cool” when what people really want is connectionFollow Aaron on:YouTubeInstagramor listen to his show, Seven Minute Stories, HERE!And for more storytelling tips and tricks,Visit rainbennett.com or thestorytellinglabpodcast.comFollow on TikTok @rainbennett.storyellerFollow on Twitter @rainbennettFollow on Instagram @rainbennettFollow on Facebook @thestorytellinglab Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“A story is a single arc of transformation. A narrative is the thread that connects them all.” — Rain BennettMost 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 narrativeBuild a storytelling system that fuels marketing, product, and salesUnderstand the difference between story and narrative—and why it mattersUse narrative to drive consistency, connection, and long-term loyaltyEmbrace the CSO role as the protector of your brand’s story DNAFor more storytelling tips and tricks,Visit my website rainbennett.com or thestorytellinglabpodcast.comFollow me on TikTok @rainbennett.storyellerFollow me on Twitter @rainbennettFollow me on Instagram @rainbennettFollow me on Facebook @thestorytellinglab Subscribe to my Youtube Channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“If it makes me curious, then maybe it’ll make someone else curious, too.” — Patrick HicksWhat 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 curiosityTell better stories by pairing emotional narratives with musical memoryStructure short-form content that resonates without being overproducedBuild trust and authenticity by leaning into your quirks and imperfectionsBalance creative pursuits with real life while still growing your platformFollow Patrick on:TikTokInstagramor subscribe to his Substack here!And for more storytelling tips and tricks,Visit rainbennett.com or thestorytellinglabpodcast.comFollow on TikTok @rainbennett.storyellerFollow on Twitter @rainbennettFollow on Instagram @rainbennettFollow on Facebook @thestorytellinglab Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

"Interviewing is not about taking something—it's about helping them be more of who they are." — Wil WeldonWhat 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 agendaApply Reiki-inspired principles to your communication processBuild trust and energy in storytelling relationships without manipulationPreserve your family’s legacy through intentional, heart-centered conversationsRedefine interviewing as a collaborative, healing experience—not an extractive oneFor more storytelling tips and tricks,Visit rainbennett.com or thestorytellinglabpodcast.comFollow on TikTok @rainbennett.storyellerFollow on Twitter @rainbennettFollow on Instagram @rainbennettFollow on Facebook @thestorytellinglab Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

"I wanted each character to be complex enough and sympathetic enough that there's some deep reason you could identify in yourself." — Elizabeth LoHow 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 relationshipsLet stories unfold naturally instead of forcing a narrative structureNavigate ethical storytelling with sensitive, real-world materialUse stillness and silence to create emotional tensionAlign your personal values with the stories you choose to tellFor more storytelling tips and tricks,Visit rainbennett.com or thestorytellinglabpodcast.comFollow on TikTok @rainbennett.storyellerFollow on Twitter @rainbennettFollow on Instagram @rainbennettFollow on Facebook @thestorytellinglab Subscribe to the Youtube Channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“A story is a singular arc of transformation. A narrative is the thread that ties all your stories together.” — Rain BennettIs 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 essentialUse narrative as a strategic compass for every department in your businessBuild trust and loyalty by aligning all stories under one cohesive threadCreate a system (not just content) to sustain long-term brand impactStep into the Chief Storytelling Officer role and protect your narrative across platformsFor more storytelling tips and tricks,Visit my website rainbennett.com or thestorytellinglabpodcast.comFollow me on TikTok @rainbennett.storyellerFollow me on Twitter @rainbennettFollow me on Instagram @rainbennettFollow me on Facebook @thestorytellinglab Subscribe to my Youtube Channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“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 closureUse the magician’s mindset to build anticipation and deliver transformationApply the three-part structure of a magic trick to your content and copywritingTranslate your personal quirks into brand authenticity and visibilityReframe timing as a tool for trust—not just attentionFor more storytelling tips and tricks,Visit my website rainbennett.com or thestorytellinglabpodcast.comFollow me on TikTok @rainbennett.storyellerFollow me on Twitter @rainbennettFollow me on Instagram @rainbennettFollow me on Facebook @thestorytellinglab Subscribe to my Youtube Channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“Ownable originality is about creating something uniquely you—something no one else can do, even if they tried.” — Rob MeyersWhat 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 styleBuild a studio or agency that empowers creativity across departmentsMake the case for long-form storytelling and brand-backed originalsBalance client work with internal creative projects to retain passionLead with values and build trust as your most irreplaceable assetFor more storytelling tips and tricks,Visit my website rainbennett.com, orFollow me on TikTok @rainbennett.storyellerFollow me on Twitter @rainbennettFollow me on Instagram @rainbennettFollow me on Facebook @thestorytellinglab Subscribe to my Youtube Channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“If you write well, readers see your story differently—but they see it. It’s a visual medium, even in text.” — Gary SmithWhat 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 pageBuild a daily writing practice grounded in discipline, not motivationUse your life experience to create authentic, layered charactersSee your scenes cinematically and structure your chapters like movie framesUnderstand how self-publishing can be a fulfilling and strategic path for fiction writersFor more storytelling tips and tricks,Visit my website rainbennett.com, orFollow me on TikTok @rainbennett.storyellerFollow me on Twitter @rainbennettFollow me on Instagram @rainbennettFollow me on Facebook @thestorytellinglab Subscribe to my Youtube Channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“Consistency is not about how often you post—it's about how consistently you show up in your message.” — Renee FrojoWhat 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 outputIdentify emotionally resonant stories through Renee’s “story mining” frameworkApply short-form storytelling techniques that stand out in crowded digital spacesBuild trust and credibility with authentic vulnerability—without oversharingDesign storytelling-driven case studies that simplify your value and deepen engagementFor more storytelling tips and tricks,Visit my website rainbennett.com, orFollow me on TikTok @rainbennett.storyellerFollow me on Twitter @rainbennettFollow me on Instagram @rainbennettFollow me on Facebook @thestorytellinglab Subscribe to my Youtube Channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“The more narrow we get with our prompts, the deeper and more profound the insights become.” — James WarrenHow 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 insightBridge the gap between emotional intelligence and analytics by using tech tools like AI and NLP without sacrificing humanityDesign better prompts that help employees and customers recall deeper, more meaningful storiesStrengthen both employee and customer experience (EX and CX) by listening to the emotions that drive behaviorUse stories to create authentic culture alignment across leadership, brand, and communityFor more storytelling tips and tricks,Visit my website rainbennett.com, orFollow me on TikTok @rainbennett.storyellerFollow me on Twitter @rainbennettFollow me on Instagram @rainbennettFollow me on Facebook @thestorytellinglab Subscribe to my Youtube Channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“The CSO needs a seat at every department’s table—product, marketing, sales—because story threads through all of it.” — Rain BennettStorytelling 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, orFollow me on TikTok @rainbennett.storyellerFollow me on Twitter @rainbennettFollow me on Instagram @rainbennettFollow me on Facebook @thestorytellinglab Subscribe to my Youtube Channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“Think about what your story promises and then ask yourself if you're actually moving toward it.” — Rain BennettTired 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, orFollow me on TikTok @rainbennett.storyellerFollow me on Twitter @rainbennettFollow me on Instagram @rainbennettFollow me on Facebook @thestorytellinglab Subscribe to my Youtube Channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“If you get your timeline pushed back, think of it as another year to make the story better.” — Erika ArleeWhat 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:InstagramFacebookOr visit their website HERE!*** A Song for Imogene is now on Amazon Prime!For more storytelling tips and tricks,Visit my website rainbennett.com, orFollow me on TikTok @rainbennett.storyellerFollow me on Twitter @rainbennettFollow me on Instagram @rainbennettFollow me on Facebook @thestorytellinglab Subscribe to my Youtube Channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“We make our media the same way we make our barbecue, and that’s low and slow.” — Shawn WalchefHow 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:LinkedInInstagramOr visit his website HERE!For more storytelling tips and tricks,Visit my website rainbennett.com, orFollow me on TikTok @rainbennett.storyellerFollow me on Twitter @rainbennettFollow me on Instagram @rainbennettFollow me on Facebook @thestorytellinglab Subscribe to my Youtube Channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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

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

“The stories we take on as children are often the ones we spend the rest of our lives trying to rewrite.” — John BucherWhat 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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.