The Being Playful Podcast

S1E8 Connecting Dots, Creating Narratives with Tobin Trevarthen


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Ever wondered how playfulness can transform business narratives and foster deeper connections? In this episode, Chris chats with Tobin Trevarthen, a strategic narrative expert who reveals how his journey from nightclub DJ to corporate storyteller has shaped his unique approach to helping businesses and executives find their voice.

Tobin shares his fascinating career path, which includes roles at major media organizations and the creation of innovative narrative frameworks. He explains how his experience as a DJ taught him to "read the room" and facilitate emotional connections - skills that would later prove invaluable in his corporate work. Through his company Spatial Shift, he now helps brands and executives craft their strategic narratives, drawing from what he calls his "cookbook of recipes" built over 30 years of experience.

In this engaging conversation, Chris and Tobin explore how playfulness manifests in unexpected ways - from creating corporate narratives to fostering generational understanding in the workplace. Tobin shares powerful insights about staying relevant in a changing world, including his creation of the "narrative playbook" during COVID-19 to help executives navigate uncertainty.

The discussion takes fascinating turns into:

  • How making mosaics became a metaphor for Tobin's work in connecting disparate pieces into coherent narratives
  • The power of playfulness in breaking down barriers between different generations in the workplace
  • The importance of creating safe spaces for creativity and authentic connection in corporate settings
  • How neurodiversity has influenced Tobin's understanding of communication and led to innovative projects in neuro-universal language
  • Chris and Tobin wrap up by discussing the transformative power of playfulness in fostering connection and understanding across different perspectives, whether generational, neurological, or cultural. Their conversation reveals how maintaining curiosity and openness can lead to unexpected innovations and deeper human connections.

    Want to learn more about Tobin's work? You can find him on:

    • LinkedIn: Tobin Trevarthen
  • Website: spatialshift.com
  • Newsletter: "Now New Next" on Substack
  • This episode offers valuable insights for anyone interested in strategic narratives, organizational culture, and the power of playfulness in professional settings.

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    The Being Playful PodcastBy beingplayful