Have a story or inflection point to share? Tap here to message us — we’d love to hear it.

We build protective stories around our awkward experiences, convincing ourselves we're simply not cut out for schmoozing in crowded rooms or making small talk with strangers. These narratives serve a purpose – they shield us from discomfort and potential rejection. 

What if we're missing out on valuable connections by staying safely on the sidelines? Through practical strategies, you can transform networking from a dreaded obligation into a valuable practice. The next time you feel that networking anxiety creeping in, remember: these are skills you already have, just applied in a new context. And who knows? You might just meet someone who changes the trajectory of your career.

Connect with Beki on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/BekiFraser
Learn more about her coaching: TheIntrovertedSkeptic.com

Follow Short Story Long's LinkedIn Page: Linkedin.com/showcase/shortstorylongpod

Get her book, C.O.A.C.H. Y.O.U.: The Introverted Skeptic’s Guide to Leadership - Amazon

Short Story Long is produced by Crowned Culture Media LLC

Have a story or inflection point to share? Tap here to message us — we’d love to hear it.

In this episode, we explore powerful themes of resilience, reinvention, and the importance of staying connected. Scott Fleszar shares how a sudden career disruption became a catalyst for reflection and transformation. Rather than being defined by circumstance, he embraced change with intention. His story demonstrates how a strong network can open unexpected doors.

Get inspired by Scott’s journey from corporate predictability to entrepreneurial possibility, revealing what it takes to lead through uncertainty. His story highlights the enduring value of relationships, the power of transferable skills, and the courage required to shape your own path. It’s a compelling reminder that leadership isn’t tied to a title, it’s how we respond to change.

Click here to connect with Scott on LinkedIn.

Connect with Beki on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/BekiFraser
Learn more about her coaching: TheIntrovertedSkeptic.com

Follow Short Story Long's LinkedIn Page: Linkedin.com/showcase/shortstorylongpod

Get her book, C.O.A.C.H. Y.O.U.: The Introverted Skeptic’s Guide to Leadership - Amazon

Short Story Long is produced by Crowned Culture Media LLC

Have a story or inflection point to share? Tap here to message us — we’d love to hear it.

The journey of leadership often requires us to make choices with incomplete information and limited time.

Drawing from my conversation with Scott Hanton about his career-defining moment when he had to decide between working for an unsuitable leader or stepping into leadership himself, I explore how we can better navigate change and uncertainty. Scott's story highlights a critical truth: most decisions don't permanently close doors. When he chose to take on a leadership role despite lacking experience, he made small adjustments along the way that ultimately led to success.

Share this episode with someone who might benefit, and join me next time as we continue exploring ways to integrate who you are with how you lead.

Connect with Beki on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/BekiFraser
Learn more about her coaching: TheIntrovertedSkeptic.com

Follow Short Story Long's LinkedIn Page: Linkedin.com/showcase/shortstorylongpod

Get her book, C.O.A.C.H. Y.O.U.: The Introverted Skeptic’s Guide to Leadership - Amazon

Short Story Long is produced by Crowned Culture Media LLC

Have a story or inflection point to share? Tap here to message us — we’d love to hear it.

Sometimes in life, we find ourselves at a crossroads that prompts uncomfortable yet exciting changes. In this episode, I speak with Scott Hanton, a seasoned researcher who faced the unexpected decision of transitioning from the world of scientific research to a pivotal leadership role. 

As Scott recounts his journey, he paints a vivid picture of what it means to walk away from established paths and how one bold step can reshape your career. From confronting questions around self-identity to navigating the complexities of managing a team, his insights are both candid and relatable. He reveals the valuable lessons learned from mentors and how proactive engagement in continuous learning is essential for effective leadership.

Join us for an insightful discussion that might just inspire your next leadership leap. Don't forget to subscribe, share, and let us know your thoughts!

You can connect with Scott on LinkedIn here.

Connect with Beki on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/BekiFraser
Learn more about her coaching: TheIntrovertedSkeptic.com

Follow Short Story Long's LinkedIn Page: Linkedin.com/showcase/shortstorylongpod

Get her book, C.O.A.C.H. Y.O.U.: The Introverted Skeptic’s Guide to Leadership - Amazon

Short Story Long is produced by Crowned Culture Media LLC

Have a story or inflection point to share? Tap here to message us — we’d love to hear it.

Explore the transformative power of kindness in leadership in this inspiring episode. Through real-world examples, I highlight how compassion and thoughtful communication strengthen relationships and create a more supportive team environment. Small, intentional acts of kindness can have a profound impact, fostering collaboration and trust within any organization.

Great leadership goes beyond directing tasks—it’s about empowering individuals to grow and succeed. This episode encourages leaders to cultivate a culture of respect and empathy, creating an environment where everyone thrives. 

Tune in for practical insights on leading with kindness and redefining leadership through connection and care.

Connect with Beki on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/BekiFraser
Learn more about her coaching: TheIntrovertedSkeptic.com

Follow Short Story Long's LinkedIn Page: Linkedin.com/showcase/shortstorylongpod

Get her book, C.O.A.C.H. Y.O.U.: The Introverted Skeptic’s Guide to Leadership - Amazon

Short Story Long is produced by Crowned Culture Media LLC

Have a story or inflection point to share? Tap here to message us — we’d love to hear it.

What drives someone to leave a stable career with Detroit's top sports franchises and dive into the uncertain world of entrepreneurship? Anthony Marzilli, a seasoned video and motion graphics editor, shares his journey of chasing passion and balance. He opens up about the pivotal moments that led him to prioritize family over a demanding job, offering a personal glimpse into the struggle between professional success and personal contentment.

As Anthony reflects on his career path, he candidly discusses reaching his limits and the toll it took on relationships he valued. He emphasizes the crucial lesson of understanding boundaries in a high-pressure environment and the importance of maintaining strong bonds with colleagues despite the challenges.

Anthony highlights the critical role of a supportive network, the emotional rollercoaster of balancing business with personal life, and the freedom found in choosing collaborators who align with one's values. =

You can find out more about Anthony at AnthonyMarzilli.com

Connect with Beki on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/BekiFraser
Learn more about her coaching: TheIntrovertedSkeptic.com

Follow Short Story Long's LinkedIn Page: Linkedin.com/showcase/shortstorylongpod

Get her book, C.O.A.C.H. Y.O.U.: The Introverted Skeptic’s Guide to Leadership - Amazon

Short Story Long is produced by Crowned Culture Media LLC

Have a story or inflection point to share? Tap here to message us — we’d love to hear it.

In this episode of Short Story Long, we explore the power of owning your career choices and breaking free from traditional corporate paths. Reflecting on Theresa’s inspiring journey from HR to sustainability, we discuss the emotional and practical aspects of redefining success on your own terms. Learn how to navigate uncertainty, build a strong support network, and turn failures into growth opportunities. Whether you're feeling stuck or seeking purpose, this episode offers actionable strategies to help you embrace change and pursue a more fulfilling career. Tune in and start transforming your work-life today!

Connect with Beki on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/BekiFraser
Learn more about her coaching: TheIntrovertedSkeptic.com

Follow Short Story Long's LinkedIn Page: Linkedin.com/showcase/shortstorylongpod

Get her book, C.O.A.C.H. Y.O.U.: The Introverted Skeptic’s Guide to Leadership - Amazon

Short Story Long is produced by Crowned Culture Media LLC

Have a story or inflection point to share? Tap here to message us — we’d love to hear it.

What happens when a seasoned HR professional decides to pivot her career path entirely? Join us as we uncover Theresa's remarkable journey from a successful 25-year career in human resources to a burgeoning role in sustainability. Theresa shares the pivotal moments that urged her to take this leap of faith, 

Theresa’s story shines a light on the importance of being open to new challenges, learning from mistakes, and the courage it takes to redefine one's career path even after decades of success.

Connect with Theresa on LinkedIn: LinkedIn.com/in/Theresa-Eileen-Gutierrez

Connect with Beki on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/BekiFraser
Learn more about her coaching: TheIntrovertedSkeptic.com

Follow Short Story Long's LinkedIn Page: Linkedin.com/showcase/shortstorylongpod

Get her book, C.O.A.C.H. Y.O.U.: The Introverted Skeptic’s Guide to Leadership - Amazon

Short Story Long is produced by Crowned Culture Media LLC

Have a story or inflection point to share? Tap here to message us — we’d love to hear it.

In this new season, host Beki Fraser goes beyond her own journey to explore the defining moments that shape careers and leadership. Each episode features conversations with leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals who have navigated pivotal decisions—embracing change, overcoming fear, and leading with authenticity.

💡 What does it take to recognize when it’s time for a change?
💡 How can you integrate who you are into how you lead?
💡 What happens when you finally step into your next big move?

Join Beki as she uncovers these powerful stories and the lessons they hold.

📅 Season 2 launches March 4—available wherever you listen to podcasts!

Produced by Crowned Culture Media.

Connect with Beki on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/BekiFraser
Learn more about her coaching: TheIntrovertedSkeptic.com

Follow Short Story Long's LinkedIn Page: Linkedin.com/showcase/shortstorylongpod

Get her book, C.O.A.C.H. Y.O.U.: The Introverted Skeptic’s Guide to Leadership - Amazon

Short Story Long is produced by Crowned Culture Media LLC

Have a story or inflection point to share? Tap here to message us — we’d love to hear it.

In this  bonus episode, Richard Dodds -- my producer and friend -- joins me to celebrate the end of our first season and the exciting path ahead. We reflect on the pivotal moments that shaped this journey, from overcoming initial challenges to embracing the art of storytelling. Richard's encouragement and collaboration were key in transforming an initial concept into an engaging podcast.

Listen as we share our journey and invite you to play a part in Season 2, either by sharing your stories or applying to be our guest. It's all about creating a safe, engaging space where stories come alive. Connect with us on LinkedIn and be part of our journey—your stories could inspire our next episode!

Want to guest on season 2? Apply here: TheIntrovertedSkeptic.com/Short-Story-Long-Podcast

Connect with Beki on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/BekiFraser
Learn more about her coaching: TheIntrovertedSkeptic.com

Follow Short Story Long's LinkedIn Page: Linkedin.com/showcase/shortstorylongpod

Get her book, C.O.A.C.H. Y.O.U.: The Introverted Skeptic’s Guide to Leadership - Amazon

Short Story Long is produced by Crowned Culture Media LLC