DiscoverThe SpeakerPath®Episode 6: How Speakers Should Handle Trauma Stories
Episode 6: How Speakers Should Handle Trauma Stories

Episode 6: How Speakers Should Handle Trauma Stories

Update: 2025-08-25
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Description

What do you do when your story involves trauma?

Whether it’s your own or someone else’s, telling a trauma story on stage can connect deeply or cause harm. The difference is all in how you relate to it.

In this episode of The SpeakerPath® Podcast, Brian, Jo, and Francisco share how professional speakers can decide if, when, and how to use stories that deal with trauma, grief, or deeply personal struggles. 

You’ll learn:

  • How to tell if a trauma story is ready for the stage
  • The difference between catharsis for you vs. value for them
  • Why “trigger warnings” aren’t enough
  • How to keep the audience safe while telling the truth
  • When to leave the story out entirely

🎙 The SpeakerPath® is a podcast hosted by Clarity Up, a boutique message design firm that teaches smart people how to explain their big ideas to the rest of us. Learn the science, art, and business of professional speaking.

Connect with our hosts:

🔹Brian Miller, Founder & Principal Messaging Consultant: https://linkedin.com/in/brianmillerspeaks

🔹Francisco Mahfuz, Story Specialist & Lead Consultant: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fmahfuz/

🔹Ioana (Jo) Jongsma, Presence & Performance Coach: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ioana-jongsma/

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Episode 6: How Speakers Should Handle Trauma Stories

Episode 6: How Speakers Should Handle Trauma Stories