The Storytelling Lab

“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.

“You don’t just present a pitch—you present a world your audience wants to live in.” — Rain BennettWhat 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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“It’s okay to not be okay. It’s just not okay to stay that way.” — Nina Sossamon-PogueWhat 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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

"Most nonfiction books could’ve been blog posts—but fiction sticks with you for life." — Nathan BaughIs 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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

"The drugs we've accepted in society—alcohol, nicotine, caffeine—were chosen for productivity, not well-being." — Paul AustinWhat 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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

"It's not just what you say—it's how you say it. And who you're saying it to." — Esther OyetunjiWhat 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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

"You have to give yourself permission to be terrible at being a business owner when you start." — Keenya KellyIn 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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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

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

"South Park’s creators cracked the code on storytelling, and their method will instantly improve your stories." - Rain BennettIn 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 storytellersThe "and then..." trap and how easy it is to fall intoHow to structure stories for maximum engagementHow effective stories are made up of cause-and-effect chainsWhy rearranging your story in creative ways doesn't sacrifice the connection of story events Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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

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