In this episode of Leadership Story Talks, hosts Julienne Ryan and Jerome Deroy welcome the insightful and inspiring Lisa Hope Tilstra, coach, facilitator, podcast host, and global expert on emotional intelligence. Lisa shares her experiences working across cultures, coaching individuals from over 25 countries, and facilitating transformative workshops in 40+ countries. She is also the creator of the Make Life Less Difficult podcast, which celebrates the power of storytelling to foster connection and resilience.

This episode is a heartfelt and thought-provoking conversation about the impact of emotional intelligence, vulnerability, and storytelling on personal growth and leadership.

You’ll hear:

• The Genesis of ‘Make Life Less Difficult’: How a quote from George Eliot shaped Lisa’s philosophy and her approach to coaching, facilitating, and podcasting.
• The Role of Stories in Navigating Life’s Challenges: Why sharing and listening to stories helps create connection, resilience, and a sense of belonging.
• Choosing the Right Story at the Right Time: Lisa explains the difference between sharing stories from scars versus wounds and how to create safe spaces for storytelling.
• Cross-Cultural Lessons from a Global Career: A paradigm-shifting moment in Cambodia helped Lisa reframe how she engages with different cultures and perspectives.
• The Importance of Presence and Listening: How being fully present and acknowledging others’ experiences can transform relationships and help make life less difficult.

Key Takeaways:

• The Power of Acknowledgement: Whatever someone is going through, validating their experience is a fundamental way to support them.
• Storytelling Creates Connection: Sharing stories allows people to feel seen, heard, and understood, helping them move through challenges.
• Sadness as a Superpower: Embracing emotions like sadness can lead to healing, transformation, and deeper joy.
• Global Perspectives Matter: Simple acts, like multilingual signs, can communicate care and inclusion, especially in diverse environments.

Resources:

• Make Life Less Difficult Podcast and website – Lisa’s platform for storytelling and connection
• The Art of Gathering by Priya Parker – A resource mentioned during the episode for creating meaningful spaces.
• Lisa's Link

Narativ’s online course in partnership with New Mexico State University Global Campus:
Lead With Your Story (self-paced, on-demand course)
Podcast listeners get 25% off - Use code NARATIV → Register Here

Learn more about how to leverage Narativ’s storytelling method for your pitch and sales team: Download our free e-book, or you’re welcome to schedule a free 15-minute call with Jerome.

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