In this episode, Majeed sits down with Kyle Gray, founder of The Story Engine, to talk about what makes a powerful story, why so many experts struggle to choose the right one, and how speakers can move beyond information into true emotional connection.

Kyle shares his process for helping business owners, leaders, and professional speakers uncover the stories that actually resonate with their ideal clients. He explains why the best stories often aren't the obvious "success" stories, but the moments connected to struggle, shame, uncertainty, and transformation.

They also explore how AI is changing the speaking industry, what AI can and cannot replace, and why the human transformation that happens through crafting and delivering a signature talk still matters deeply.

Key Highlights:

• Why speakers often struggle to find the right story
• How to access stories through emotion instead of overthinking
• Why your client's pain should shape the story you tell
• The danger of building a talk around yourself instead of the audience
• How AI can support creativity without replacing deep human transformation
• Why a signature talk is more than a sales tool — it can help you become more aligned with who you are
• How short-form content can help you practice and sharpen your bigger message
• Why stories help us make meaning in uncertain times

Tools + Takeaways:

• Start by identifying the three biggest problems your ideal client is facing
• Ask what they are really afraid of beneath the surface
• Notice where that emotion shows up in your body
• Ask yourself: "When have I felt this before?"
• Use that story to show your audience that you understand them
• Let AI support your process, but don't outsource your voice, meaning, or humanity
• Remember: the right story is not always the most impressive story — it's the one that creates connection

Notable Quotes:

"Your brain redacts most of the right stories."

"We want to paint our clients' language on our own stories."

"Most speakers build a talk for themselves instead of something that really serves the audience."

"When you start telling your story differently, you look at yourself differently."

"We all have an individual opportunity to pick up our pen and finish the story the way we want."

Learn More About Kyle: Connect with Kyle Gray at thestoryengine.co or on Instagram at @heykylegray.

His upcoming book, The Forcing Mind, explores how trying to force your business, your speech, or your creativity can actually block the right stories — and how to get back into alignment with what you're really here to say.

🖥 Connect with Expert Speaker: https://www.expertspeaker.com

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