Business storytelling is the difference between a pitch that gets polite nods and one that gets funded. In this episode, we break down how business storytelling transforms a standard startup presentation into a compelling narrative that investors actually respond to. If you care about leadership communication, speaking with confidence, and learning how to communicate with influence, this conversation will change how you think about pitching.
Karen sits down with venture capitalist and author Ben Wiener to discuss his novel
Fever Pitch, a story that doubles as a masterclass in business storytelling. Instead of relying on slides crammed with data, Ben argues that founders need structure, stakes, and emotional clarity. His HEART framework reframes how leaders approach presentation skills, structuring a presentation, and even overcoming the fear of public speaking.
Why most pitch decks fail before the second slide
How to use business storytelling to create executive presence in high-stakes rooms
The five psychological pressure points investors subconsciously look for
Why radical differentiation matters more than incremental improvement
How founders can develop confident communication without feeling salesy
This episode goes beyond startup tactics. It’s about communication for leaders who want to own the room, whether they’re pitching investors, leading a team, or delivering effective presentations. If you want sharper meeting facilitation skills, stronger memorable messaging, and more persuasive leadership communication, this conversation delivers practical insight you can apply immediately.
00:00 Introducing “Fever Pitch” and Startup Storytelling
00:58 Ben Wiener’s Journey from VC to Author
03:02 Why Fiction Can Teach Startup Strategy
06:27 Storytelling as the Foundation of a Strong Pitch
07:34 Guy Kawasaki’s 10-20-30 Rule and Pitch Lessons
12:01 Why Most Startup Pitch Decks Fail
14:03 The HEART Framework Explained
19:51 What Investors Really Want to Hear First
26:18 Reframing Pitching as Partnership, Not Persuasion
32:07 The Business Power of Paying It Forward
33:38 Closing and Bonus Content Invitation
Learn more about Ben Wiener’s book: Fever Pitch
Visit Ben Wiener’s website
Explore Speaker Dynamics University
Follow Speaker Dynamics on Instagram
Connect with Karin Reed on LinkedIn
Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm