Welcome back to Lending Leadership: The Creative Brief!

We’re kicking off something extra special this week—a three-part series focused on the art and business impact of storytelling. If you’ve ever wondered how some people seem to captivate with their personal stories while others fall flat, you’re in the right place. In this episode, we explore why storytelling isn’t just a “nice to have” for leaders, marketers, and sales professionals—it’s essential.

And to help us unpack the science and soul of effective storytelling, we’re joined by guest Will Greenblatt, founder of Outloud Speaker School, accomplished public speaking coach, and self-described “recovering child actor.” Will is a master at helping people turn their real-life stories into their secret weapon for connection, persuasion, and career success.

In Part 1 of this series, Will Greenblatt walks us through his own “three act origin story,” complete with vulnerable moments, setbacks, and the surprising ways his lows have shaped the success he experiences today. Together, we discuss the difference between a pitch and a story, what it means to genuinely open up (while respecting personal boundaries), and why sharing your truth is often the first step to building real trust.

Key Takeaways

1. Your Story Is Your Superpower
2. Everyone has a unique origin story—even if you don’t think yours is “interesting.” Learning how to share it in a structured, honest way is the quickest route to helping people know, like, and trust you.
3. Storytelling Outshines Pitching
4. People forget pitches, but they remember stories. Replacing the pitch-heavy mindset with authentic storytelling opens the door to deeper, more memorable business connections.
5. Vulnerability Has No Set Boundary
6. The “line” for appropriate vulnerability is different for everyone, and you can’t always predict how people will respond. What matters most is checking your intention—tell your story for connection, not just for applause or approval.
7. Authenticity Over Approval
8. Performing to please others might get you noticed, but it rarely leads to genuine happiness or lasting success. The goal is to express yourself honestly and let business success follow as a natural byproduct, not the main objective.
9. Human Storytelling in the Age of AI
10. With technology making it easier than ever to outsource our words and ideas, the ability to tell your own story—raw, real, and unpolished—is more valuable than ever. As Will Greenblatt passionately warns, don’t hand your unique voice to a machine; the struggle to articulate your truth is what deepens your connections and defines your personal brand.

Whether you’re a leader, marketer, or just someone trying to make a lasting impression, this episode sets the stage for practical, heartfelt storytelling that resonates. Don’t miss next week’s follow-up, when we break down the secret sauce of the “three act origin story” and help you craft your own.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like and subscribe—Lending Leadership: The Creative Brief will be back next week to pick up right where we left off!