When the urge to gripe arises, consider that no matter what dark clouds may loom on the horizon, you threaded the needle of human history. Imagine what life would have been like had you been born not so many years … READ MORE→
Here are two great stories to NEVER tell: One day a man was walking along the beach when he noticed a boy picking things up and gently throwing them into the ocean. “Hey kid, what are you doing?” “Throwing starfish … READ MORE→
Advice on how to deal with stage fright ranges from absurd (don’t picture the audience naked unless you’re speaking at a super-model convention—and that could be distracting) to just plain useless. The popular assumption is that people are naturally fearful … READ MORE→
What is musical storytelling? Many of our favorite storytellers rely on music to help them deliver their messages with impact. Depending on what’s happening in the story, they use specific techniques and strategies. For example, when there’s a dream sequence, … READ MORE→
A story’s success relies on three perspectives—three lenses through which its component parts must be viewed: What to Say: Choose the right words How to Say it: What media and skills will you use to deliver your message? Why They’ll … READ MORE→
Find the music in your words! A speechwriting colleague told me she always guaranteed her clients that her work would be well received by the audience. “That’s a big risk,” I said. “No matter how good your writing is, you … READ MORE→
Another agonizing networking event! You walk around the room, introduce yourself to the next stranger, ask them what they do, and pray they’ll offer anything remotely relevant to you. Great! Another realtor! Wow! Another financial manager! Nice to meet you … READ MORE→
Watch a sunbeam Magic! The light reveals swirling dust, a hidden universe Slip a jar under it Close the lid What do you have? Nothing Take a picture of a sunset. Can you capture the grandeur of the frameless … READ MORE→
Is AI-Generated Marketing Copy the powerful shortcut we’ve been told it is? The explosive growth of online content has done little for the evolution of graphic design or copywriting. Publishing has never been so easy, and the demands of producing … READ MORE→
Keep your poor me stories off the stage. My friend Tony showed me a video of a speaker who told the story of her escape from alcohol and depression and her long, hard road to personal and professional success. “It’s … READ MORE→
