Book Authoring Webinar mentioned in this episode: https://forms.gle/H4AaqdQkbgwWCdDR6

WATCH this episode on YouTube

In this episode, Michael speaks with Dr. Rod Berger, an expert in storytelling and author of 'The Narrative Edge.' They discuss the importance of authentic storytelling, the writing process, and the challenges faced by first-time authors. Dr. Berger shares insights on finding inspiration, managing time for writing, and overcoming writer's block, emphasizing that everyone has a unique story to tell. In this conversation, Dr. Rod Berger discusses the importance of authenticity in writing, the challenges of the writing process, and his experiences with publishing. He emphasizes the need for writers to find their unique voice and stay true to themselves, as well as the significance of storytelling in connecting with audiences. Dr. Berger shares insights on navigating the publishing world, the role of editors, and the importance of understanding one's own story and its impact. He concludes with advice for aspiring authors on being authentic and the value of storytelling in all aspects of life.

TOPICS

• Everybody has a story.
• The essence of storytelling is universal.
• Writing can be a challenge, but it's rewarding.
• Finding time to write requires flexibility.
• Inspiration can come from everyday life.
• You can write chapters independently.
• Give yourself permission to explore ideas.
• Writer's block is often about lack of inspiration.
• Life experiences can fuel creativity.
• Each person's writing journey is unique. Writer's block often stems from not being authentic.
• Finding your voice is crucial for effective writing.
• Public speaking experiences can shape writing style.
• Authenticity leads to better audience reception.
• The writing process can be daunting but rewarding.
• Initial feedback from editors can boost confidence.
• Daily routines can help manage the writing process.
• Understanding the publishing landscape is essential.
• Storytelling is a powerful tool in all areas of life.
• Not everyone needs to write a book, but everyone has a story.

BOOKS:

The Narrative Edge - Authentic Storytelling That Meets The Moment (Wiley)

I'd like to thank Michael for a wonderful interview and for his passion for writing and educating youth in a powerfully engaging manner. Here is a bit more about his show and how you can continue to learn from his work.

Change the Narrative

By Michael Hernandez

Travel with award-winning educator, author, and international speaker, Michael Hernandez, as he interviews innovation leaders and searches for answers about how to innovate in work, life, and culture.

Find out more about Producer and Host, Michael Hernandez on Linked In: bit.ly/MichaelHernandezLinkedIn and on Instagram: @Changing.The.Narrative

Get more inspiring ideas every month--sign up for our free email newsletter: bit.ly/ChngNarSignup

Dr. Rod Berger is a keynote speaker, moderator, producer, author, and expert in strategic storytelling. Berger’s book, The Narrative Edge: Authentic Storytelling That Meets The Moment (Wiley), hits bookstores in late 2025. He draws on more than 4,000 interviews conducted worldwide for Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, and Fair Observer, including a cover story about former Virgin Entertainment co-founder Jason Felts, for Los Angeles Magazine, as well as various podcasts. He has captured the narratives of investors, CEOs, renowned entrepreneurs, bestselling authors, scholars, and cultural icons such as NBA legends Magic Johnson and Charles Barkley, as well as United Nations officials and Van Halen’s Sammy Hagar, while also exploring the behind-the-scenes world of Formula 1.

Berger has met with the Crown Princess of Sweden, Pope Francis, United Nations officials, and NGO leaders, covering stories of water insecurity with WaterAid, the intergenerational refugee crisis faced by displaced Sudanese in Uganda, and the impacts of child marriage in Western Africa with the Le Korsa Foundation.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

He has partnered with The Jim Henson Company to create a television show, The Ultimate GOAT, that combines his passion for distant lands and storytelling with culture, sports, and puppetry for family programming.

Berger conducts moderated keynote events that blend storytelling with live, on-stage narratives featuring cultural icons such as Opal Lee, the recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, a Nobel Peace Prize nominee, and recognized as the “Grandmother” of Juneteenth. In 2023, Berger received the inaugural Pangea International Literacy Prize and delivered his TEDx Talk, “Story is Our Currency.” He lives in Franklin, Tennessee, with his wife and two children.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.