Reframe to Create

Some things end because they've done exactly what they were meant to do. This episode is that kind of ending. After five years and 125 episodes, this marks the completion of one chapter of Reframe to Create and the beginning of a new season. In this final episode, I share five lessons this work has revealed: • Creation begins with identity, not strategy • Reframing is the engine of transformation • Ownership is non-negotiable • Creation is relational • Story is sense-making, not performance What began as a podcast about creating with your gifts became something deeper---a practice of choosing the story you live inside. Now the work is expanding: From individual transformation → to collective narrative From meaning-making → to world-making From me → to we If your team or organization is ready to shift its narrative identity and get unstuck, email joy@reframetocreate.com with "Narrative Identity" in the subject line. This isn't goodbye. It's the end of one story. And the quiet beginning of another. It's time to reframe to create.    About: The Reframe to Create podcast is hosted by Joy Spencer, an Executive Leadership and Storytelling Coach, Speaker, and Organizational Development Consultant working with professionals and leaders at all levels within organizations.  Joy leverages over 17 years of experience she gained while working to champion change in social justice movements, including those related to global access to essential medicines and consumer advocacy for online privacy.  This work required a dogged commitment to not merely challenging the status quo, but to reimagining and working towards creating an ideal future.  It is this commitment to creating that has shaped Joy's coaching philosophy and approach today. Using her signature C.R.E.A.T.E. framework, Joy guides her clients through a process to become incomparable in work so they can get paid to be themselves.   Follow Joy on LinkedIn  - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joy-spencer/

You can only go as far as who you are today. That might feel limiting… unless you remember this: You're not stuck with who you are today. In this final episode of the 3-part Narrative Identity series, I walk you through Step 3: Reframe — the intentional rebuilding of your narrative identity so you can expand what's possible for you and your team. Because you don't create from strategy alone. You create from identity. This episode builds on: Reframe to Create Episode 123 – Reveal Reframe to Create Episode 124 – Reclaim And earlier identity foundations in Reframe to Create Episode 122 and Reframe to Create Episode 31 In this episode, I share: • Why you cannot skip the process and jump straight to slogans • The difference between identity work and strategy work • The powerful rallying phrase your team must define: We are… We believe… We belong to… • The bonus clarity statement: We do… so that… the people we serve can… When your narrative identity is clear, alignment increases, shadow narratives lose power, and innovation gains momentum. You are not limited by who you are today. You can build a new you. And your team can too. Ready to reveal, reclaim, and reframe your narrative identity? Email me at joy@reframetocreate.com with the subject line: Narrative Identity It's time to reframe to create.   Referenced Episodes   Reframe to Create Episode 124 -  If You Won't Choose, The Choice Will Be Made For You (Part 2 of 3): Reclaim  Reframe to Create Episode 123 - What You Won't Look at Will Kill You (Part 1 of 3): Reveal  Reframe to Create Episode 122 - It All Starts With and Goes Back to Who You Are  Reframe to Create Episode 31 - You Can Only Go As Far As You Are   About: The Reframe to Create podcast is hosted by Joy Spencer, an Executive Leadership and Storytelling Coach, Speaker, and Organizational Development Consultant working with professionals and leaders at all levels within organizations.  Joy leverages over 17 years of experience she gained while working to champion change in social justice movements, including those related to global access to essential medicines and consumer advocacy for online privacy.  This work required a dogged commitment to not merely challenging the status quo, but to reimagining and working towards creating an ideal future.  It is this commitment to creating that has shaped Joy's coaching philosophy and approach today. Using her signature C.R.E.A.T.E. framework, Joy guides her clients through a process to become incomparable in work so they can get paid to be themselves.   Follow Joy on LinkedIn  - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joy-spencer/

  In Episode 123, we talked about Reveal—the courage it takes to finally look at what's already shaping your behavior, your decisions, and your results. Today, we move into Part 2: Reclaim. Because once you can see your narrative identity, you don't get to stay neutral anymore.   Not choosing… is still choosing. And that choice always comes with consequences. In this episode, I explore why reclaiming your narrative identity is fundamentally about making intentional choices—especially as teams and organizations that want to create something new, meaningful, and lasting. In this episode, we explore: Why avoiding a decision doesn't protect you from consequences—it guarantees them How passive choices quietly shape team culture and outcomes What it really means to reclaim your narrative identity (hint: it's not about keeping everything) Why teams that don't choose their narrative identity end up being driven by shadow identities How unspoken assumptions sabotage alignment, strategy, and innovation Why narrative identity work must be done together and out loud In Episode 125, which is the final episode of this 3-part series, I'll walk you through Reframe—the step where you intentionally reconstruct a new narrative identity that sets you up to create and innovate in power. Reveal shows you what's there. Reclaim helps you choose what stays. Reframe is where the future gets built. Are you ready to do this work now?  If you're ready to reclaim your creating power and help your team reveal, reclaim, and reframe its narrative identity, email me at: 📩 joy@reframetocreate.com Subject: Narrative Identity Let's build the narrative identity that can actually support the impact you're here to create.   Referenced Episodes Reframe to Create Episode 123 - What You Won't Look at Will Kill You (Part 1 of 3): Reveal  Reframe to Create Episode 122 - It All Starts With and Goes Back to Who You Are  Reframe to Create Episode 31 - You Can Only Go As Far As You Are About: The Reframe to Create podcast is hosted by Joy Spencer, an Executive Leadership and Storytelling Coach, Speaker, and Organizational Development Consultant working with professionals and leaders at all levels within organizations.  Joy leverages over 17 years of experience she gained while working to champion change in social justice movements, including those related to global access to essential medicines and consumer advocacy for online privacy.  This work required a dogged commitment to not merely challenging the status quo, but to reimagining and working towards creating an ideal future.  It is this commitment to creating that has shaped Joy's coaching philosophy and approach today. Using her signature C.R.E.A.T.E. framework, Joy guides her clients through a process to become incomparable in work so they can get paid to be themselves.   Follow Joy on LinkedIn  - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joy-spencer/

It's time for us to leave our ostrich ways behind. In Part 1 of this three-part series, I'm calling us in to stop avoiding the things we don't want to see. Because what we refuse to look at doesn't disappear. It quietly works against us—undermining our creativity, momentum, strategy, and our ability to create real impact together. This episode is about revealing your narrative identity: making the invisible visible, giving voice to what's been assumed, and naming what's already shaping (and sabotaging) what you're trying to build. In this episode, I explore: Why "not looking" is one of the most common and costly patterns for individuals and teams How narrative identity silently determines how far we can create, build, and innovate The critical difference between thinking something and saying it out loud or writing it down Why making the implicit explicit is a lost art and essential leadership work How avoidance shows up as "spinsville" in teams, strategy, and planning Why clarity requires contrast (and why that discomfort is necessary) The Reveal Work: 6 Questions I Invite You (and Your Team) to Ask This first step—Reveal—is grounded in six foundational questions. I especially want you to do this work with your team, organization, or movement: Who are we? Who do we belong to? Why do we exist? What are our values—lived, not laminated? What do those values mean for what we will and won't do? What do we believe—and invite others to believe with us? These questions don't create a mess. They reveal the mess that's already there so we can finally do something about it. Why this work matters I've learned (sometimes the hard way) that: We can't fix what we won't see. We can't create beyond who we believe we are. Teams divided on identity will always pull apart, not together. Strategy, vision, and goals fail when identity work is skipped. Asking these questions doesn't cause misalignment. It exposes what's already working at cross-purposes. A note on support If you're thinking, "This feels too messy to do on our own," you're probably right. I share why facilitated space, patience, and structure matter when teams do this work and how I support groups through Revealing, Reclaiming, and Reframing their narrative identity so they can move forward with real momentum. Coming next in the series Part 2: Reclaim — Choosing the parts of your narrative identity that are lost that you want to keep, and which ones you want to get rid of  Part 3: Reframe — Rebuilding a narrative identity from the parts that work and which will let you create what you're here to create 🎧 Related listening: Episode 122: "It All Starts With and Goes Back to Who You Are" sets the stage for this series. If you're tired of what's quietly killing your creativity, focus, and forward motion—this is where the work begins. About: The Reframe to Create podcast is hosted by Joy Spencer, an Executive Leadership and Storytelling Coach, Speaker, and Organizational Development Consultant working with professionals and leaders at all levels within organizations.  Joy leverages over 17 years of experience she gained while working to champion change in social justice movements, including those related to global access to essential medicines and consumer advocacy for online privacy.  This work required a dogged commitment to not merely challenging the status quo, but to reimagining and working towards creating an ideal future.  It is this commitment to creating that has shaped Joy's coaching philosophy and approach today. Using her signature C.R.E.A.T.E. framework, Joy guides her clients through a process to become incomparable in work so they can get paid to be themselves.   Follow Joy on LinkedIn  - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joy-spencer/

It all starts with and goes back to who you are. Not just who you are as an individual, but who you are together. Your team. Your organization. Your movement. If you're stuck. If progress feels slow or painfully circular. If you're working hard but not moving forward sustainably… Chances are, it's not a strategy problem. It's not a talent problem. It's not a goal-setting or execution problem. It's an identity problem. In this episode, I unpack why so many teams end up in what I call Spinsville—endless conversations, competing perspectives, and lots of motion with very little momentum—and why the root cause is almost always a foggy, fractured, or misaligned narrative identity. Because who you believe you are determines what you can create. In this episode, I explore: Why teams spin in circles even when the data, strategy, and intentions are good How misalignment around "who we are" quietly drains energy, trust, and momentum Why identity—not strategy—is the true source of organizational function or dysfunction A simple story that reveals how narrative identity shapes behavior (even when no one's watching) Why you can't skip straight to creating a new narrative without understanding the one already operating The three essential steps for narrative identity transformation: Reveal what's hidden and invisible Reclaim shared meaning from your stories Reframe a narrative identity that fuels forward momentum I also connect this work to conversations I've had with David Hutchens and Hans Hansen, and share why sense-making—not just storytelling—is where real alignment is forged. When a team shares a clear, connected narrative identity, everything else gets easier: strategy, decisions, priorities, execution, innovation. When that identity is fractured, no amount of planning will save you. If your team has been spinning its wheels, this episode will help you understand why—and show you where to start if you're ready to get your creating power back. Want to go deeper? To continue exploring narrative identity and transformation, check out: Episode 31 - You Can Only Go As Far As You Are Episode 60 - A New Approach to Your Transformation | Hans Hansen Part 2  Episode 59 - The Missing Key to Your Transformation | Hans Hansen Part 1  Episode 120 - From Storytelling to Sense-Making: How Teams Build Meaning Together | David Hutchens  And if you're ready to do this work now, email me at joy@reframetocreate.com with the subject line Narrative Identity. It's time to reveal, reclaim, and reframe—so you can create the legacy you'll be proud of.  

I'm done, y'all. It's time to drop the idea that you have imposter syndrome for good. In this episode, I'm not helping you "fix" imposter syndrome. I'm helping you challenge and discard the entire idea. You'll learn where this concept came from, why it doesn't serve you, and how to understand your feelings without pathologizing your humanity. We explore: The real definition of "imposter" (and why it's NOT you) How your environment might actually be the culprit The history behind the "imposter syndrome" label Inner Blocks (GAILs) and how to reframe your emotional experience Five powerful reframes to replace this limiting narrative You're not an imposter. You don't have a syndrome. You're a human with gifts meant for service and this episode will show you how to come back to that truth. About: The Reframe to Create podcast is hosted by Joy Spencer, an Executive Leadership and Storytelling Coach, Speaker, and Organizational Development Consultant working with professionals and leaders at all levels within organizations.  Joy leverages over 17 years of experience she gained while working to champion change in social justice movements, including those related to global access to essential medicines and consumer advocacy for online privacy.  This work required a dogged commitment to not merely challenging the status quo, but to reimagining and working towards creating an ideal future.  It is this commitment to creating that has shaped Joy's coaching philosophy and approach today. Using her signature C.R.E.A.T.E. framework, Joy guides her clients through a process to become incomparable in work so they can get paid to be themselves.   Follow Joy on LinkedIn  - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joy-spencer/

If you've ever walked into a team meeting or strategy session and felt like the stories being shared weren't shifting anything…this episode is your reframe. Today I'm talking with David Hutchens, storyteller, author, organizational consultant, and creator of some of my absolute favorite tools for leaders who want to use narrative to build alignment in their teams.  David has worked with global organizations to help them move from merely telling stories to making meaning together, and that's exactly what we dive into today. David breaks down why: Storytelling is humanity's oldest sense-making technology The story itself is not the end, but the beginning of a deeper team conversation Alignment doesn't happen when one person tells a great story… it happens when the team talks about what that story means Groups who make meaning together actually become a community Story circles can transform a team's connection, coherence, and creativity "Emotional data" is just as real as any spreadsheet—and storytelling can reveal it He also introduces his beautiful "geography of meaning" framework, which helps teams explore a story from three different orientations: Behind the text – What did we notice about the storyteller, ourselves, or the room? Within the text – What images, moments, or messages stood out inside the story? In front of the text – What wisdom can we pull forward into our team's future? And the three listener roles that bring this alive: Witness. Harvester. Connector. This episode is the perfect companion to my earlier conversation with Brett Davidson, where we explored the shift from storytelling to storylistening, and how individual stories can accidentally silo us unless we build a collective narrative. If David gives you the "how" of sense-making, Brett gives you the "why" of collective storytelling for strategy. Together, these episodes are your starter kit for Reframe to Create 2.0, moving from "me" to "we," from solo creating to community sense-making, and from personal story to shared story. Because if we want to create together, we must reframe together.   About my guest:  David Hutchens has been exploring the intersection of narrative, leadership, and complex systems change for more than 20 years. A bestselling author, business writer and learning designer, he creates solutions for Accenture, Harvard Business Review, The Coca-Cola Company, Wal-Mart, IBM, The US Olympic Committee, and many others. His partnerships include a recurring instructor position with the globally renowned INSEAD School of Business in Fontainebleau, France. He speaks to organizations and leadership teams all around the world on the topic of storytelling as an organizational capacity. His new book is "Story Dash", was published August, 2021. It is his ninth book.  He is the author of "Circle of the 9 Muses: A Storytelling Field Guide for Innovators and Meaning Makers," (Wiley & Sons 2015). He created the innovative Leadership Story Deck — an innovative, card-based resource for developing narrative driven communications. The popular resource is now available on Amazon.com.  A nationally recognized developer of innovative learning products, David's work has been recognized with distinctions such as Training & Development's "Training Product of the Year" award; ASTD's prestigious "Excellence in Practice" award; Brandon Hall Gold award, and more.   Contact David:  Email: David@DavidHutchens.com Resources: www.StorytellingLeader.com/resources  Website: www.DavidHutchens.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidhutchens/ About: The Reframe to Create podcast is hosted by Joy Spencer, an Executive Leadership and Storytelling Coach, Speaker, and Organizational Development Consultant working with professionals and leaders at all levels within organizations.  Joy leverages over 17 years of experience she gained while working to champion change in social justice movements, including those related to global access to essential medicines and consumer advocacy for online privacy.  This work required a dogged commitment to not merely challenging the status quo, but to reimagining and working towards creating an ideal future.  It is this commitment to creating that has shaped Joy's coaching philosophy and approach today. Using her signature C.R.E.A.T.E. framework, Joy guides her clients through a process to become incomparable in work so they can get paid to be themselves.   Follow Joy on LinkedIn  - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joy-spencer/ Geography of Story Download

Are you ready to unlock the secret of storytelling and data? If you are, I'm ready to share it with you so you can finally learn how to use data to tell a powerful story and how to tell a story that leverages the right data. In this episode, I'm sharing with you the two reframes that have absolutely transformed the way I think about data and storytelling.  These are reframes I now share with leaders because they change everything about how you show up in front of a room. You'll hear why you are the storyteller (yes, you, not your slides, not your deck, not your one-pager), and why your real job isn't dumping numbers but bringing insights. I'm also sharing a powerful analogy that will help you rethink data completely, and you'll learn the simple storytelling with data pattern I call One. Many. Stat. I'm also sharing a personal example from my childhood of how to use One. Many. Stat.  This is the way I've seen data used most effectively, and once you learn it, you'll start seeing it everywhere. In this episode, you'll learn: How to transform raw data into meaningful insights How to avoid "data dumping" and step into your role as the insight-bringer Why PowerPoint is not a story (and never will be!) How journalists and great communicators weave story and data together How to choose the right data by uncovering the human story behind the statistic How to use the One. Many. Stat. framework to bring your audience into the meaning behind your numbers If you're tired of watching people glaze over when you present your data, then this episode is for you. See you inside, Creating Maven.   About: The Reframe to Create podcast is hosted by Joy Spencer, an Executive Leadership and Storytelling Coach, Speaker, and Organizational Development Consultant working with professionals and leaders at all levels within organizations.  Joy leverages over 17 years of experience she gained while working to champion change in social justice movements, including those related to global access to essential medicines and consumer advocacy for online privacy.  This work required a dogged commitment to not merely challenging the status quo, but to reimagining and working towards creating an ideal future.  It is this commitment to creating that has shaped Joy's coaching philosophy and approach today. Using her signature C.R.E.A.T.E. framework, Joy guides her clients through a process to become incomparable in work so they can get paid to be themselves.   Follow Joy on LinkedIn  - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joy-spencer/

Picture it. You're about to dive into yet another strategy planning session with your team. You've got the flip charts, the markers, the frameworks, the best intentions… and a sinking feeling that this is going to end up just like last time—disconnected, circular, and unclear. Somewhere along the way, you've probably heard that storytelling can help. But not so fast. My guest today, Brett Davidson, is here to turn that idea on its head. He's the founder and principal of Wingseed, where he helps foundations and nonprofits around the world use narrative, storytelling, listening, and creativity for social justice. He also serves as the Narrative Lead at IRIS (International Resource for Impact and Storytelling), a donor collaborative advancing narrative strategies for impact. Brett brings a powerful reframe for how we think about storytelling in organizations—and it's one that will completely reshape how you approach strategy, identity, and meaning-making on your team. Before my conversation with Brett, I was an enthusiastic promoter of individual storytelling in organizations. But Brett helped me see the limits of that approach and the need to move from me stories to we stories—from storytelling to storylistening. 💡 In This Episode, You'll Learn: Why individual storytelling might be keeping your team stuck in silos How to shift from isolated hero stories to a shared collective identity Why storylistening—not just storytelling—is the real key to strategic clarity How to embed collective listening into your organization's infrastructure Why story can (and should) replace your static mission statements as strategy ✨ Reframe to Create 2.0 Connection: This conversation officially kicks off our expanded focus—from me to we. Because as Brett shows us, storytelling alone isn't enough. To create anything meaningful together, we need storylistening. We need shared story. We need collective reframe.   🔗 Connect with Brett: Wingseed.org LinkedIn Substack Book a Call About my guest: Brett Davidson is founder and principal at Wingseed, where he works with foundations and nonprofits around the world interested in using the power of narrative, storytelling, listening and creativity for social justice. He is also the Narrative Lead at the International Resource for Impact and Storytelling (IRIS), a donor collaborative for philanthropy focused on strengthening civil society through narrative strategies and creative moving image storytelling for impact. Previously Brett was Director of Media and Narratives at the Open Society Public Health Program where he also co-led an OSF-wide community of practice on narrative change. He was a journalist, producer and anchor in radio news and current affairs at the national public broadcaster, the SABC during South Africa's transition to democracy and later worked with community radio stations across the country, as part of the democracy institute, IDASA. Brett has an MA in Journalism and Media Studies from Rhodes University and an MA in interdisciplinary study from NYU's Gallatin School. He writes about listening, narrative and social change.    About: The Reframe to Create podcast is hosted by Joy Spencer, an Executive Leadership and Storytelling Coach, Speaker, and Organizational Development Consultant working with professionals and leaders at all levels within organizations.  Joy leverages over 17 years of experience she gained while working to champion change in social justice movements, including those related to global access to essential medicines and consumer advocacy for online privacy.  This work required a dogged commitment to not merely challenging the status quo, but to reimagining and working towards creating an ideal future.  It is this commitment to creating that has shaped Joy's coaching philosophy and approach today. Using her signature C.R.E.A.T.E. framework, Joy guides her clients through a process to become incomparable in work so they can get paid to be themselves.   Follow Joy on LinkedIn  - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joy-spencer/

Have you ever been part of creating something beautiful with others? Maybe it was a class project, a community event, or a team effort at work where everyone came together to bring one vision to life. When that happens, when everyone is aligned and moving toward a shared purpose, something extraordinary is created. But when that shared story breaks down, so does the ability to create together. Misaligned stories create competing identities and chaos, even among the most talented people. That's why it's time for a new conversation. For over four years, Reframe to Create has been about helping you—the individual—see your work differently: to create with your gifts, own what you create, and tell powerful stories that help you get paid to be you. But we don't create in isolation. We're embedded in teams, organizations, movements, and communities. And the stories we share (or don't share) shape what we're able to create together. So today marks a shift.  This episode is the beginning of Reframe to Create 2.0 an expansion from me to we. Because now, the question isn't just about "What will I create?" It's also about "What will we create?" I'll still be talking to you as an individual and addressing your individual needs, but I'll be expanding that lens to see you as an embedded individual.   An individual embedded in a broader community.   Join me as we explore how reframing together allows us to create together—and how, in a world that often fractures, reclaiming "we" might just be our most creative act yet. 💭 Your Turn: When was the last time you created something beautiful with others? What did you bring to the table—and how did it feel to create together?   About: The Reframe to Create podcast is hosted by Joy Spencer, an Executive Leadership and Storytelling Coach, Speaker, and Organizational Development Consultant working with professionals and leaders at all levels within organizations.  Joy leverages over 17 years of experience she gained while working to champion change in social justice movements, including those related to global access to essential medicines and consumer advocacy for online privacy.  This work required a dogged commitment to not merely challenging the status quo, but to reimagining and working towards creating an ideal future.  It is this commitment to creating that has shaped Joy's coaching philosophy and approach today. Using her signature C.R.E.A.T.E. framework, Joy guides her clients through a process to become incomparable in work so they can get paid to be themselves.   Follow Joy on LinkedIn  - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joy-spencer/

I bet I know one of the biggest mistakes you're making right now. And I'm not even trying to shame you. You mean well. But it's a mistake nonetheless. You're creating — on your job, in your side hustle, or in your collaborations — but not even thinking about owning what you create. Most people don't.   We've been trained to think that being a "team player" means being invisible. That being helpful means erasing ourselves. That collaboration means disappearing. But that's not teamwork. That's self-erasure. In this episode, I'm reframing ownership — not as arrogance, not as ego, but as responsible stewardship of your gifts. You'll hear: 🎧 Why not owning your work leads to resentment, burnout, and exploitation 🎧 The personal story that woke me up to how costly this mistake really is 🎧 What Prince, Paul McCartney, and Taylor Swift can teach us about ownership 🎧 Two simple steps to start owning what you create — wherever you work You don't have to vanish in the name of collaboration.                      You can be generous and visible. You can be collaborative and responsible for your gift. It's time to stop flinging your creativity around without stewardship. Own what you create. Because ownership isn't about ego. It's about care. It's about stewardship.                                                                            It's about responsibility. Your gifts deserve that kind of care. And so do you.   Reference Episodes Reframe to Create Episode 73 - This is Why Ownership is Non-Negotiable    Reframe to Create Episode 102 - This is Why Your Personal Brand is Non-Negotiable    About: The Reframe to Create podcast is hosted by Joy Spencer, an Executive Leadership and Storytelling Coach, Speaker, and Organizational Development Consultant working with professionals and leaders at all levels within organizations.  Joy leverages over 17 years of experience she gained while working to champion change in social justice movements, including those related to global access to essential medicines and consumer advocacy for online privacy.  This work required a dogged commitment to not merely challenging the status quo, but to reimagining and working towards creating an ideal future.  It is this commitment to creating that has shaped Joy's coaching philosophy and approach today. Using her signature C.R.E.A.T.E. framework, Joy guides her clients through a process to become incomparable in work so they can get paid to be themselves.   Follow Joy on LinkedIn  - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joy-spencer/

What if your business, team, or even your personal work rhythm could actually grow because of friction — not in spite of it? That's the question we dig into with today's guest, Travis Lee Howard, as he shares his powerful framework called the Mindful Business Paradigm (MVP).  This isn't just another business model — it's a way to diagnose where things are off, whether you're a leader, creator, or changemaker trying to do mission-minded work that actually matters. Travis breaks down the four-part paradigm — Self → Customer → Machine → Team — and helps us understand how misalignment between any of these areas can derail your impact.  But with the right questions and reframes, you can find your way back to clarity, connection, and creativity. 🔑 In this episode, you'll learn: How to use friction as your best diagnostic tool The real reason your systems or team might be struggling (hint: it's probably not the tools) How non-founders and employees can use this to find their place and amplify their impact Why your most powerful leadership move is to speak your inarguable truths 🧠 One Big Reframe "When things break down, don't panic — diagnose. Are you out of sync with yourself, your customer, the machine, or the team?" 💡 Whether you're a: Business leader growing your company Employee searching for purpose and alignment Consultant designing better systems Or creative finding your path back to meaningful work... This episode is your invitation to pause, realign, and reimagine how your work flows from gift to impact. 🔗 Resources & Links Connect with Travis Lee Howard on LinkedIn Explore more tools to create, own, and storytell your real work at reframetocreate.com   About my guest:    Travis Lee Howard's career is a remarkable blend of entrepreneurship, leadership, and mindful management. From his early days in technology and law to his pioneering work in the cannabis industry and his current role as a coach and consultant, Travis's journey is marked by continuous growth and impactful contributions. His dedication to fostering innovation, compassion, and strategic excellence makes him a standout figure in the modern business landscape. With over 20 years of entrepreneurial leadership experience, Travis coaches potential founders and entrepreneurs to reach their full potential through a simple paradigm. In teaching the mindful management pillars he works with his clients to tackle self, customer, machine, and team in a manner that aligns and inspires.     Contact Travis: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travisleehoward/   Reference Episodes   Reframe to Create Episode 97 - Are you the Gift or the Gift-Giver | Travis Lee Howard    About: The Reframe to Create podcast is hosted by Joy Spencer, an Executive Leadership and Storytelling Coach, Speaker, and Organizational Development Consultant working with professionals and leaders at all levels within organizations.  Joy leverages over 17 years of experience she gained while working to champion change in social justice movements, including those related to global access to essential medicines and consumer advocacy for online privacy.  This work required a dogged commitment to not merely challenging the status quo, but to reimagining and working towards creating an ideal future.  It is this commitment to creating that has shaped Joy's coaching philosophy and approach today. Using her signature C.R.E.A.T.E. framework, Joy guides her clients through a process to become incomparable in work so they can get paid to be themselves.   Follow Joy on LinkedIn  - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joy-spencer/  

  You already know story matters. However, a few subtle hang-ups may still be holding you back.  In this episode, I reframe four common storytelling mistakes so you can get comfortable, get practicing, and get your stories working for you. Practice over theory: Storytelling is a verb. Shift the ratio from "one more book/framework" to actual reps. You don't have one story: You have many. Build a Story Bank and match moments to context and audience. Personal ≠ private: Tell human, lived stories (with appropriate vulnerability) without oversharing. Process > product: Storytelling changes the storyteller too. Transformation happens while you craft and share, not only when you deliver. If after listening to this episode you feel ready to get restoried or prep a stage-ready story, then I want to hear from you!  Explore packages: https://reframetocreate.com/restoried • Email: joy@reframetocreate.com   Mentioned in this Episode:  Reframe to Create Episode 64 - The Why and How of Building a Powerful Personal Brand | Diane Diaz   Reframe to Create Episode 88 - How to Build Your Story Bank   Reframe to Create Episode 108 - The Real Reason Your Story Falls Flat (And How to Fix It)   LinkedIn Video Series: Your Guide to Storytelling Frameworks      About: The Reframe to Create podcast is hosted by Joy Spencer, an Executive Leadership and Storytelling Coach, Speaker, and Organizational Development Consultant working with professionals and leaders at all levels within organizations.  Joy leverages over 17 years of experience she gained while working to champion change in social justice movements, including those related to global access to essential medicines and consumer advocacy for online privacy.  This work required a dogged commitment to not merely challenging the status quo, but to reimagining and working towards creating an ideal future.  It is this commitment to creating that has shaped Joy's coaching philosophy and approach today. Using her signature C.R.E.A.T.E. framework, Joy guides her clients through a process to become incomparable in work so they can get paid to be themselves.   Follow Joy on LinkedIn  - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joy-spencer  

"They get to change their mind, and you get to change yours too." When Sawida's mom dropped this nugget of wisdom into a moment of heartbreak in middle school, it was more than comfort. It was liberation. In this episode, I take you inside that story and unpack the stunning power of this reframe: the reminder that rejection doesn't strip you of your agency. You still have a choice. You still get to pivot, reframe, and keep creating. We explore: How "they get to change their mind" frees you from taking rejection personally How "you get to change your mind too" reminds you of your own power and choice Why rejection isn't just an ending, but often a signal of completion How to use rejection as a springboard into the final step of my C.R.E.A.T.E. framework: Evolve Because here's the truth: rejection does not unmake you. It simply points to a new choice, a new path, a new creation waiting for you. 🔑 In this Episode, You'll Learn: A liberating reframe for rejection that helps you stay in your agency How to spot when "no" really means "this is complete" Practical ways to pivot and evolve when something ends Why changing your mind is not flakiness — it's wisdom in action 🎧 Tune in to hear how this one sentence — "You get to change your mind" — can become your permission slip to reframe, pivot, and keep creating.   About: The Reframe to Create podcast is hosted by Joy Spencer, an Executive Leadership and Storytelling Coach, Speaker, and Organizational Development Consultant working with professionals and leaders at all levels within organizations.  Joy leverages over 17 years of experience she gained while working to champion change in social justice movements, including those related to global access to essential medicines and consumer advocacy for online privacy.  This work required a dogged commitment to not merely challenging the status quo, but to reimagining and working towards creating an ideal future.  It is this commitment to creating that has shaped Joy's coaching philosophy and approach today. Using her signature C.R.E.A.T.E. framework, Joy guides her clients through a process to become incomparable in work so they can get paid to be themselves.   Follow Joy on LinkedIn  - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joy-spencer  

Do you struggle to create consistently in the mornings—even though you know it sets up your day for success? You're not alone. I've fought this battle for years, and I've learned something game-changing: 💡 Your morning doesn't start in the morning—it starts the night before.   In this episode of Reframe to Create, I share my candid struggle with building a solid night routine and how that impacts my ability to create first thing in the morning. You'll hear: Why your nighttime habits may be sabotaging your creativity. The three essential steps to conquer the night so you can master the morning. How to protect your sleep, reclaim your environment, and set yourself up for success. Why Creating Mavens never give their best energy to their job first. Your mornings can become a launchpad for creativity—but only if you win the battle the night before.   About: The Reframe to Create podcast is hosted by Joy Spencer, an Executive Leadership and Storytelling Coach, Speaker, and Organizational Development Consultant working with professionals and leaders at all levels within organizations.  Joy leverages over 17 years of experience she gained while working to champion change in social justice movements, including those related to global access to essential medicines and consumer advocacy for online privacy.  This work required a dogged commitment to not merely challenging the status quo, but to reimagining and working towards creating an ideal future.  It is this commitment to creating that has shaped Joy's coaching philosophy and approach today. Using her signature C.R.E.A.T.E. framework, Joy guides her clients through a process to become incomparable in work so they can get paid to be themselves.   Follow Joy on LinkedIn  - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joy-spencer  

Have you ever felt stuck, replaying past decisions and beating yourself up about what you "should have known"? I've been there—so much so that when I was learning to drive, I spent more time staring into my rear-view mirror than focusing on the road ahead. In this episode of Reframe to Create, I'm sharing why regrets don't have to break you or keep you stuck. Instead, they can become treasure troves of learning—if you know how to reframe them. You'll learn: Why regrets are not a bug but a feature of life. How beating yourself up about the past prevents you from learning. Two powerful perspective shifts to help you move from regret to growth. How to see your past as sealed as your future—so you can finally let go. Regret doesn't have to haunt you. It can teach you. It can guide you. It can even help you create something beautiful.   About: The Reframe to Create podcast is hosted by Joy Spencer, an Executive Leadership and Storytelling Coach, Speaker, and Organizational Development Consultant working with professionals and leaders at all levels within organizations.  Joy leverages over 17 years of experience she gained while working to champion change in social justice movements, including those related to global access to essential medicines and consumer advocacy for online privacy.  This work required a dogged commitment to not merely challenging the status quo, but to reimagining and working towards creating an ideal future.  It is this commitment to creating that has shaped Joy's coaching philosophy and approach today. Using her signature C.R.E.A.T.E. framework, Joy guides her clients through a process to become incomparable in work so they can get paid to be themselves.   Follow Joy on LinkedIn  - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joy-spencer  

The other day, I was devouring a bacon, egg, and cheese croissant sandwich with a friend (yes, it was as delicious as it sounds) when our convo shifted from breakfast to bilingual babies to life transitions. That's how we do. She's pregnant with her third and was wondering when to teach her kids Portuguese. I told her the answer in one word: Now. Because you don't wait for the perfect time. You get ready now. That chat turned into a deeper reflection on those seasons when nothing seems to be happening—but you know something is around the corner. You may not know what or when, but there's something in your spirit whispering, "Get ready." And I've lived that. Years before I made a major move to a new city, I started preparing. Not because I had all the details, but because I had a desire. I decluttered my life—physically, mentally, emotionally—so that when the moment came, I could move light, free, and fully ready. That's what this episode is about: Positioning yourself to meet opportunity—not with overwhelm—but with open arms. 🎧 In this episode, we'll explore: Why you already know enough to start preparing now What to do in your "still" seasons when nothing seems to be moving How the "Stop, Start, Continue" framework can guide your next steps Why action—not clarity—brings more clarity And what Portuguese, closets, and junk mail have to do with your next big thing 🔑 You'll walk away with: The mindset shift that helps you feel ready—even when life feels uncertain Simple prompts to declutter and position yourself for the life you want The confidence to trust your curiosity as your compass So... what are you getting ready for? The move? The business? The creation? The shift? You already know enough to get started. Let's get ready—now.   About: The Reframe to Create podcast is hosted by Joy Spencer, an Executive Leadership and Storytelling Coach, Speaker, and Organizational Development Consultant working with professionals and leaders at all levels within organizations.  Joy leverages over 17 years of experience she gained while working to champion change in social justice movements, including those related to global access to essential medicines and consumer advocacy for online privacy.  This work required a dogged commitment to not merely challenging the status quo, but to reimagining and working towards creating an ideal future.  It is this commitment to creating that has shaped Joy's coaching philosophy and approach today. Using her signature C.R.E.A.T.E. framework, Joy guides her clients through a process to become incomparable in work so they can get paid to be themselves.   Follow Joy on LinkedIn  - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joy-spencer  

I spent decades believing Star Wars was set in the future. Yes, the Star Wars. Yes, the one that literally starts with "A long time ago…" No, I didn't want to believe it. 😂 But here's the thing: It made me ask, where else am I stuck in an old story? What invisible frames am I living in, the ones that keep me from seeing what's possible for me? Because you can only create out of who you are. And who you are is shaped by the story you believe. ✨ You want to innovate? Get restoried. ✨ You want to get paid to be you? Get restoried. ✨ You want to create work that sets you apart? Get restoried. That's what this new episode is about — how to break free from the old story holding you back so you can finally reframe to create.  🔑 Want help? If you're ready to find the stories that are anchoring you, inspiring you, and holding you back — and finally step into the freedom of creating with your gifts — I'd love to help you reframe and get restoried. Learn more at reframetocreate.com/restoried.   About: The Reframe to Create podcast is hosted by Joy Spencer, an Executive Leadership and Storytelling Coach, Speaker, and Organizational Development Consultant working with professionals and leaders at all levels within organizations.  Joy leverages over 17 years of experience she gained while working to champion change in social justice movements, including those related to global access to essential medicines and consumer advocacy for online privacy.  This work required a dogged commitment to not merely challenging the status quo, but to reimagining and working towards creating an ideal future.  It is this commitment to creating that has shaped Joy's coaching philosophy and approach today. Using her signature C.R.E.A.T.E. framework, Joy guides her clients through a process to become incomparable in work so they can get paid to be themselves.   Follow Joy on LinkedIn  - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joy-spencer    

We've all been told that storytelling is a superpower. But what if the way you've been using it is aimed at the wrong target? In this episode, I sit down with Dan Manning, who will help us reframe storytelling from something you tell to something you design—with empathy, intention, and transformation at the core. Dan Manning is a veteran fighter pilot, entrepreneur, and master story designer who will help you take your storytelling to the next level.   If you want your stories to do more than just sound good but you want them to move people, then this one's for you. 🔑 In This Episode, You'll Learn: Why your audience is already telling themselves a story and how to make sure it's the right one The difference between storytelling and story design (and why it matters so much) How to avoid triggering the wrong narrative in your audience's mind The power of listening, empathy, and understanding pain before you ever open your mouth Dan's "Nano Story" and "Micro Story" tools for building impactful stories fast How to frame your story so people choose transformation 🖇️ Connect with Dan on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/danmanning 🌍 Learn more at: buildthestory.com   About my guest: Dan is the Chief Story Architect and Founder of Build The Story, where he helps founders, coaches, and consultants create short, impactful stories to sell themselves and their businesses.  Before beginning this business, Dan was an Air Force officer, fighter pilot, and military diplomat. He led the day-to-day air operations against ISIS from the Combined Air Operations Headquarters in Qatar. During that deployment, he also served as the lead operational negotiator with Russian forces in Syria. In his storytelling work, he examines how stories shape our beliefs and behaviors.    About: The Reframe to Create podcast is hosted by Joy Spencer, an Executive Leadership and Storytelling Coach, Speaker, and Organizational Development Consultant working with professionals and leaders at all levels within organizations.  Joy leverages over 17 years of experience she gained while working to champion change in social justice movements, including those related to global access to essential medicines and consumer advocacy for online privacy.  This work required a dogged commitment to not merely challenging the status quo, but to reimagining and working towards creating an ideal future.  It is this commitment to creating that has shaped Joy's coaching philosophy and approach today. Using her signature C.R.E.A.T.E. framework, Joy guides her clients through a process to become incomparable in work so they can get paid to be themselves.   Follow Joy on LinkedIn  - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joy-spencer  

  "Thought leader."  What comes to mind when you hear that?  A know-it-all?  A viral TED Talk speaker?  Something you could never be? In this episode, we're breaking down that phrase and rebuilding it with purpose. And who better to help us reframe thought leadership than Carol Cox, the founder and CEO of Speaking Your Brand® and one of the original voices who pushed me to launch this very podcast! Carol is back on the mic (you may remember her from Episode 54), and she's bringing clarity, conviction, and a serious invitation to elevate how you show up and speak up. Together, we unpack what thought leadership really is (and what it isn't), why it's critical for mission-driven professionals, and how you can get started today. 💡 In This Episode, You'll Learn: What thought leadership really means and why you might already be doing it The different "packages" your thought leadership can take How stepping into thought leadership supports your personal brand and mission 🎁 Resources + Links Mentioned: Grab Carol's free Thought Leadership Workbook: https://speakingyourbrand.com/guide  Listen to the Speaking Your Brand® Podcast Connect with Carol on LinkedIn Revisit Episode 54: Becoming Better at Navigating Transitions with Carol Cox About my guest: Carol Morgan Cox is the founder and CEO of Speaking Your Brand®,  a coaching and training company that helps high-performing, purpose-driven women entrepreneurs and professionals create their signature talks and thought leadership platforms. Carol is host of the weekly 5-star rated Speaking Your Brand® podcast and during election seasons serves as a Democratic political analyst on TV news. Carol was named as one of Orlando's Women of the Year in 2021 and has been featured in Forbes. Through her company and content, her mission is to empower more women to find and use their voice, to tell the stories that need to be told, and to activate ideas for change. About: The Reframe to Create podcast is hosted by Joy Spencer, an Executive Leadership and Storytelling Coach, Speaker, and Organizational Development Consultant working with professionals and leaders at all levels within organizations.  Joy leverages over 17 years of experience she gained while working to champion change in social justice movements, including those related to global access to essential medicines and consumer advocacy for online privacy.  This work required a dogged commitment to not merely challenging the status quo, but to reimagining and working towards creating an ideal future.  It is this commitment to creating that has shaped Joy's coaching philosophy and approach today. Using her signature C.R.E.A.T.E. framework, Joy guides her clients through a process to become incomparable in work so they can get paid to be themselves.   Follow Joy on LinkedIn  - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joy-spencer