Welcome back to another episode of Stories Matter! Helping Leaders Transform Lives. In today's episode, Shelli Jost Brady and Gayle Turner dive deep into the world of customer stories and the theory of the business. They discuss the vital importance of aligning oneself with a particular identity or image and how it relates to brand messaging. With fascinating examples like choosing between a Suburban and an Explorer car, they highlight the need for customers to identify with their needs and the values of the brand. They explore the concept of being "mouth blind" to certain drinks and how storytelling plays a crucial role in creating perceptions. Join us as we uncover the theory of the business, find out who the real hero is in advertisements, and explore the power of maintaining loyal customers by upholding brand and value propositions. Stay tuned for an insightful and thought-provoking discussion that will transform the way you think about storytelling and the importance of understanding your customers. Let's dive in!

Gayle Turner is President of The Storytellers Channel, Inc. https://storytellerschannel.com/ For close to five decades he has used the power of story to initiate and sustain change while growing leaders and building productive corporate and community cultures. Check out his LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/wgayleturner/ 

Shelli Jost Brady is Founder & Catalyst at Alchemy

Consulting and Chief Operating Officer at The Storytellers Channel, Inc. Check

out her LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelli-jost-brady-94b44835/

Subscribe to The Storytellers Channel’s newsletter by

downloading a FREE checklist of how to craft intentional stories to inspire

results. https://storytellerschannel.com/inspire

Keywords

aligning oneself, identity, image, Suburban, Explorer car, lady Di, Zena, customers, brand values, understanding, employees, value proposition, integrity, private equity firms, communities, investors, creditors, brand messaging, beverages, mouth blind, emotional, self-expression, Coke, Pepsi, perceptions, stories, communication, sincerity, excitement, Kleenex, Puffs with lotion, corporate culture, soft drinks.

Welcome back to "Stories Matter! Helping Leaders Transform Lives." In today's episode, we are diving deep into the power of stories that are rooted in values. Shelli and I share our insights on how living by our values can transform not only our own lives but those of others as well. From the importance of punctuality and respecting others' time to the significance of integrity in communication, we explore the role of values in leadership and decision-making. Join us as we discuss the impact of values in business, the true meaning of trust, and the significance of being true to oneself. Get ready for an enlightening and thought-provoking conversation on how living in integrity with our values can reshape the way we lead and create a lasting impact on the world. Stay tuned for another episode of "Stories Matter! Helping Leaders Transform Lives."

Gayle Turner is President of The Storytellers Channel, Inc. https://storytellerschannel.com/ For close to five decades he has used the power of story to initiate and sustain change while growing leaders and building productive corporate and community cultures. Check out his LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/wgayleturner/ 

Shelli

Jost Brady is Founder & Catalyst at Alchemy Consulting and Chief Operating

Officer at The Storytellers Channel, Inc. Check out her LinkedIn profile to

learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelli-jost-brady-94b44835/

Subscribe

to The Storytellers Channel’s newsletter by downloading a FREE checklist of how

to craft intentional stories to inspire results. https://storytellerschannel.com/inspire

Keywords

punctuality, respecting others' time, protocol, inform, late, theater, worry, inconvenience, consideration, business roles, accurate information, empirical evidence, assumptions, decisions, livelihoods, self-employed, payroll, success, compassion, care, integrity, promises, teamwork, individualistic behavior, values, trust, authenticity, humility, communication, pretentious, values evaluation, respect, Jack Welsh, behavior, hidden information, walking the talk, punctuality, client respect, trustworthiness, ends justifying the means, core values, memories, refreshment, behavior trust, candidness, straightforwardness.

Welcome back to "Stories Matter! Helping Leaders Transform Lives." In today's episode, S13 E6 Stories Matter Planning Stories, we delve into the fascinating world of planning and how it profoundly impacts our lives and the organizations we lead. Join us as we explore the value of documenting the planning process, the importance of adapting to unexpected changes, and the myths and misconceptions surrounding planning. With insights from Shelli's and my experiences in design work, public commission, and management information systems, we'll uncover the keys to effective strategic planning and why starting somewhere is more important than never starting at all. So, grab your notepads and join us for an enlightening discussion on why Planning and Stories Matter!

Gayle Turner is President of The Storytellers Channel, Inc. https://storytellerschannel.com/ For close to five decades he has used the power of story to initiate and sustain change while growing leaders and building productive corporate and community cultures. Check out his LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/wgayleturner/ 

Shelli

Jost Brady is Founder & Catalyst at Alchemy Consulting and Chief Operating

Officer at The Storytellers Channel, Inc. Check out her LinkedIn profile to

learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelli-jost-brady-94b44835/

Subscribe

to The Storytellers Channel’s newsletter by downloading a FREE checklist of how

to craft intentional stories to inspire results. https://storytellerschannel.com/inspire

Keywords

documenting planning process, valuable, confirmation, agreed-upon assumptions, decisions, choices, assumptions, snapshot, flow of conversation, references, decision-making, variables, trajectory of decisions, computer science, ones and zeros, cards, plans X Y Z, irrelevant, changing circumstances, backup plan, plan A, strategic decision, vision, mission, throwaway, experiences, progress, starting, failure, design work, public commission, transition plan, gas bill, negative reaction, profits, focus of activities, understanding current state, future planning, irrelevant plans, unexpected changes, thorough planning, Army term, OBE, stories people tell themselves, space planning, master planning, being on commission, plans never used, shelved plans, Winston Churchill quote, stimulating economy, agile versus waterfall, shaming, discouraging starting, punch cards, flowcharts, homework assignments, documenting assumptions, different outcomes, Management Information Systems, effective decisions, lack of strategic direction, Future Shock, rapid pace of change, struggling to keep up, software updates, reactive to change, underlying assumptions, few things done the same way, plans worthless, planning invaluable, lack of people, lack of time, lack of resources, bigger plan, smaller plans, transition plan, fear of condemnation, shelving imperfect plans, starting somewhere, advancements, inventions, series of failed events.

Welcome back to "Stories Matter! Helping Leaders Transform Lives. In today's episode, we dive deep into the world of strategy stories. Join us as we explore the crucial role that strategy plays in organizations and how it can shape the trajectory of success.

In this enlightening conversation, we begin with a thought-provoking quote by Socrates about the importance of defining terms. Gayle expresses his frustration with the dictionary's definitions of "strategy" and "tactics," setting the stage for a compelling discussion on differentiating between the two. Drawing inspiration from Peter Drucker's writings, we unravel the essence of strategic and tactical decisions, uncovering the complexities involved in charting the course for an organization.

As we navigate the podcast, we explore the various challenges faced by businesses in today's rapidly changing landscape. From the ongoing "great resignation" to the limitations of time, money, and resources, organizations are grappling with unprecedented hurdles. Gayle and Shelli reflects on their own journeys and ponder how they managed to navigate these challenges when starting their own business.

Understanding the power of a clear mission, vision, values, and strategy, we delve into the importance of having a guiding compass in decision-making. We unpack the four strategic choices: defense, offense, flanking, and guerrilla tactics, providing valuable insights into how different businesses can position themselves for success.

Throughout the episode, we hear fascinating stories about strategic choices made by SMBW Architecture, shedding light on their vision-driven approach and their commitment to excellence. The role of long-term perspective and the balance between short-term obstacles and long-term goals take center stage as we explore the marathon-like nature of running a business.

In a world where immediate problems often take precedence, we emphasize the significance of not losing sight of the bigger picture. We share experiences and wisdom from renowned author John Lewis, highlighting the diverging of operations and R&D as crucial for resilience and future preparedness.

Join us as we unravel the intricacies of strategy stories, drawing upon real-life examples and expert insights. Discover how a clear vision, strategic decision-making, and adaptability can transform lives and lead to remarkable outcomes. Stay tuned for this pivotal episode of "Stories Matter! Helping Leaders Transform Lives," where stories truly matter, and strategies shape the world.

Gayle Turner is President of The Storytellers Channel, Inc. https://storytellerschannel.com/ For close to five decades he has used the power of story to initiate and sustain change while growing leaders and building productive corporate and community cultures. Check out his LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/wgayleturner/ 

Shelli Jost Brady is Founder & Catalyst at Alchemy Consulting and Chief Operating Officer at The Storytellers Channel, Inc. Check out her LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelli-jost-brady-94b44835/

Subscribe to The Storytellers Channel’s newsletter by downloading a FREE checklist of how to craft intentional stories to inspire results. https://storytellerschannel.com/inspire

Keywords

keywords, Socrates, defining terms, frustration, dictionary, definitions, strategy, tactics, Peter Drucker, strategic decisions, tactical decisions, complexity, incomplete information, senior executives, pattern recognition, intuition, business landscape, time, money, resources, great resignation, managing, clear mission, vision, values, strategic choices, defense, offense, flanking, guerrilla tactics, small businesses, Walmart, competition, R&D, planning department, declaration

Welcome back to another episode of "Stories Matter! Helping Leaders Transform Lives." In today's episode, entitled "Vision," we delve into the power of vision and the role it plays in creating positive change. Join hosts Gayle and Shelli as they discuss the importance of understanding our origin stories, crafting a vision for the future, and navigating the inevitable challenges that arise along the way. They explore the concept of "jumping the gun" and "putting the cart beforer the horse," cautioning against rushing into action without proper alignment and unity. Drawing insights from Dr. John Lewis's book "Story Thinking," they guide us through a cycle of automation, disruption, investigation, ideation, expectation, affirmation, and new routine. They shed light on our resistance to change and the fear of the unfamiliar, while also sharing personal anecdotes of reinvention and calculated risk-taking. Additionally, they emphasize the significance of enrolling others into our vision and the incremental storytelling required to bring the team together. So, buckle up and get ready to embark on a journey of transformation and growth in today's captivating episode of "Stories Matter!"

Gayle Turner is President of The Storytellers Channel, Inc. https://storytellerschannel.com/ For close to five decades he has used the power of story to initiate and sustain change while growing leaders and building productive corporate and community cultures. Check out his LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/wgayleturner/ 

Shelli Jost Brady is Founder & Catalyst at Alchemy Consulting and Chief Operating Officer at The Storytellers Channel, Inc. Check out her LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelli-jost-brady-94b44835/

Subscribe to The Storytellers Channel’s newsletter by downloading a FREE checklist of how to craft intentional stories to inspire results. https://storytellerschannel.com/inspire

Keywords

jump the gun, carp for the horse, uniting, alignment, half pipe, leaders, stories, mission, origin stories, change, future, vision, Dr. John Lewis, Story Thinking, cycle, automation, disruption, investigation, ideation, expectation, affirmation, new routine, affirmation, reptile brain, fear, unfamiliar, comfort, entrepreneur, career change, present context, calculated risks

Welcome back to another episode of "Stories Matter! Helping Leaders Transform Lives." In today's episode, titled "The Case for Change," we delve into the topic of transformation and the need for leaders to understand and adapt to the ever-evolving world around them. Shelli and I share the importance of embracing change and stepping out of our comfort zones. We explore the process of alchemy and how change is an integral part of our growth as human beings. The pandemic has brought about significant changes, particularly in the way we work and gather, and we discuss the challenges and opportunities that arise from these shifts. From reimagining office spaces to the rise of intergenerational homes, we explore the various dimensions of change and its impact on our society. Join us as we delve into the case for change and uncover the transformative power it holds.

Gayle Turner is President of The Storytellers Channel, Inc. https://storytellerschannel.com/ For close to five decades he has used the power of story to initiate and sustain change while growing leaders and building productive corporate and community cultures. Check out his LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/wgayleturner/ 

Shelli Jost Brady is Founder & Catalyst at Alchemy Consulting and Chief Operating Officer at The Storytellers Channel, Inc. Check out her LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelli-jost-brady-94b44835/

Subscribe to The Storytellers Channel’s newsletter by downloading a FREE checklist of how to craft intentional stories to inspire results. https://storytellerschannel.com/inspire

Keywords

change, leadership, alchemy, comfort zone, evolution, resistance, familiarity, ego, working from home, office spaces, pandemic, protection measures, endemic, pre-pandemic conditions, World War II, demographic shifts, business dynamics, cottage industries, humility, COVID outbreak, church activities, remote work, quality of life, workforce shifts, primary research, tension, flux, alternative housing options.

"The power of storytelling can transform lives and shape the future. As leaders, it's crucial to embrace the evolution of our narratives and learn from our origin stories. In this episode of Stories Matter!, we dive deep into the importance of allowing stories to evolve and the significance of finding a middle ground that represents a truth worth embracing. And as always, we've got some inspiring stories and practical steps for you to take action on."

Objective: Become a person worth listening to so you can lead effectively and create a meaningful impact. This episode's main message revolves around the story of The Storytellers Channel's origin and how it ties into the importance of understanding and sharing our own stories. By embracing the evolution of our narratives and valuing storytelling as a leadership tool, we can connect with others on a deeper level and inspire positive change in our organizations and communities.

[What You Need to Know]

- Taking points in time and evolving as markets change is crucial for growth and success.

- Discarding what no longer works is not a failure but a necessary part of evolution and growth.

- Understanding both the starting point and the destination is essential for effective strategic planning.

- Considering different perspectives and narratives from various stakeholders provides a comprehensive understanding of the current situation.

- Sharing stories creates a sense of pride and connection within a community.

- Telling a compelling story is a powerful leadership tool.

[What You Need to Do]

1. Embrace the evolution of your narratives and be open to change.

2. Take time to understand your starting point and envision your desired destination.

3. Seek out and consider different perspectives and narratives.

4. Share your own story as a way to connect with others and inspire positive change.

5. Use storytelling as a leadership tool to create impact in your organization and community.

[TAKE ACTION]

Do this now: Reflect on your own story and the evolution of your narrative. How can you use storytelling as a leadership tool to create a meaningful impact? Take the first step by sharing your story with someone today and see how it can inspire connection and growth.

Gayle Turner is President of The Storytellers Channel, Inc. https://storytellerschannel.com/ For close to five decades he has used the power of story to initiate and sustain change while growing leaders and building productive corporate and community cultures. Check out his LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/wgayleturner/ 

Shelli Jost Brady is Founder & Catalyst at Alchemy Consulting and Chief Operating Officer at The Storytellers Channel, Inc. Check out her LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelli-jost-brady-94b44835/

Subscribe to The Storytellers Channel’s newsletter by downloading a FREE checklist of how to craft intentional stories to inspire results. https://storytellerschannel.com/inspire

"Why have a mission statement, if you don't have a mission?."

Objective: The Why

In this episode, we dive into the importance of having a clear mission in your business and personal life. We share a story that highlights the power of a strong mission statement and how it can rally an entire organization towards a common goal. Plus, we discuss the significance of being authentic and true to yourself, because that's what truly makes a leader worth listening to.

On this episode of Stories Matter! Helping Leaders Transform Lives, we explore the topic of mission statements and why they matter. We delve into the differences between mission, and vision, and how they each play a crucial role in shaping the direction of a business. We discuss the concept of self-storytelling and the impact it can have on enrolling others in your vision.

Action Steps:

1. Reflect on and discern why you lead. What drives you and gives your work meaning?

2. Craft a mission statement that clearly defines your business, who it serves, and how they benefit.

3. Develop a compelling vision for the future state of your company, one that inspires and motivates your team.

4. Embrace the power of storytelling to effectively communicate your mission, and vision. Use anecdotes and personal experiences to engage and enroll others.

5. Stay true to yourself and your essence. Be authentic in your leadership and don't succumb to the pressures of following business fads.

[TAKE ACTION]

Take action now! Start by finding clarity in your purpose, crafting a mission statement, and developing a compelling vision for your business. Then, embrace the power of storytelling to engage and enroll others in your mission.

Be the leader worth listening to.

Gayle Turner is President of The Storytellers Channel, Inc. https://storytellerschannel.com/ For close to five decades he has used the power of story to initiate and sustain change while growing leaders and building productive corporate and community cultures. Check out his LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/wgayleturner/ 

Shelli Jost Brady is Founder & Catalyst at Alchemy Consulting and Chief Operating Officer at The Storytellers Channel, Inc. Check out her LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelli-jost-brady-94b44835/

Subscribe to The Storytellers Channel’s newsletter by downloading a FREE checklist of how to craft intentional stories to inspire results. https://storytellerschannel.com/inspire

"Fear, fear, fear drives a lot of negative behavior." - Greg Provo

"Quiet leadership: Digging deeper into the power of fear and its impact on negative behavior."

[Why This Is Important]

Objective: Understanding the role of fear in driving negative behavior.

Main Message: Fear is a powerful motivator that influences our actions and decisions. By mastering our fear, we can become more effective leaders and create positive change.

[What you need to know]

• Fear is a common driver of negative behavior, such as anger, prejudice, and resistance to change.
• Greg Provo believes that fear of loss, fear of humiliation, and fear of death or pain are significant sources of negative behavior.
• To be a successful leader, it is essential to recognize and address the underlying fears that drive negative actions.
• Greg Provo aims to take the fear out of confusion and create a solid foundation for people to relax and grow.
• Many spiritual and religious teachings emphasize the importance of choosing love over fear, as fear often leads to hatred and resistance.
• Overcoming fear is crucial for personal growth and success in various areas of life.
• Greg Provo's diverse experiences in acting, improv comedy, and stand-up comedy have taught him valuable lessons about fear and taking risks.
• He is exploring creative pursuits, including starting a TV film production company and experimenting with technology to create thought-provoking art.
• Balancing technical skills with creative endeavors helps Greg keep his left and right brain engaged and supports personal growth.

[What you need to do]

• Reflect on the role of fear in your own life and how it influences your behavior.
• Identify specific fears that may be holding you back and work on mastering them.
• Consider exploring creative outlets and hobbies to challenge yourself and learn new skills.
• Embrace opportunities to speak up and share your ideas, even if it means admitting when you don't know something.
• Recognize that fear can hinder your growth and success, and actively work towards overcoming it.

[TAKE ACTION]

• Take a moment to examine the fears that drive your negative behavior and consider how you can master them. Remember, embracing vulnerability and taking risks can lead to personal and professional growth.

Greg Provo is Chief Executive Officer at Strategy Cafe, Inc. He's an experienced leader and educator specializing in strategy, operations, business development, and enterprise architecture from the scale of Fortune 200 to the personal service of small businesses. Founded and led an IT consulting company that specialized in providing hands-on technical development and support. Passionate about AI, blockchain technology and business applications. Always looking for new challenges and would love the opportunity to speak further with you - feel free to reach him on linked in.

Gayle Turner is President of The Storytellers Channel, Inc. https://storytellerschannel.com/ For close to five decades he has used the power of story to initiate and sustain change while growing leaders and building productive corporate and community cultures. Check out his LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/wgayleturner/ 

If you'd like to explore how clarifying your organization's stories and sharing the stories that exemplify those values can improve performance click here and schedule a time to talk with Gayle.

"Treating people with respect is one of our core competencies."

[Why This Is Important]

Objective: Seize opportunities.

Greg Provo shares his perspective on leadership and the importance of quiet leadership. He tells a metaphorical story about a chimpanzee with a bucket, highlighting the fleeting nature of leadership based on external factors. Greg emphasizes the need for leaders to provide tools and information to empower decision-making.

Micromanagement is a counterproductive approach in business. Greg believes in hiring good people who align with the company's values and allowing them to do their jobs. Treating people with respect and avoiding jargon-filled communication is crucial for building a caring and high-performing team.

[What You Need to Know]

• Quiet leadership is effective in getting the job done without resorting to bluster or anger.
• Providing tools and information empowers people to make informed decisions.
• Hiring good people and trusting them to do their jobs is essential.
• Treating others with respect and communicating clearly are key components of a caring culture.

[What You Need to Do]

1. Embrace quiet leadership: Lead by example, focusing on courage, candor, commitment, competence, and caring.
2. Provide tools and information: Ensure your team has access to the necessary resources and knowledge to make informed decisions.
3. Avoid micromanagement: Hire competent individuals and trust them to carry out their responsibilities.
4. Foster a caring culture: Treat people with respect, communicate clearly, and create an environment where everyone feels valued.
5. Support small businesses: Help them succeed by offering security solutions, technical support, and fostering growth opportunities.

[TAKE ACTION]

Take a moment to reflect on your leadership style. Are you embracing quiet leadership and empowering your team? Consider how you can provide the necessary tools and information for informed decision-making. Aim to create a caring culture that values and respects every team member. Additionally, explore ways to support and uplift small businesses in your community.

Greg Provo is Chief Executive Officer at Strategy Cafe, Inc. An experienced leader and educator specializing in strategy, operations, business development, and enterprise architecture from the scale of Fortune 200 to the personal service of small businesses.

Founded and led an IT consulting company that specialized in providing hands-on technical development and support. Passionate about AI, blockchain technology and business applications. Always looking for new challenges and would love the opportunity to speak further with you - feel free to reach him on linked in.

Gayle Turner is President of The Storytellers Channel, Inc. https://storytellerschannel.com/ For close to five decades he has used the power of story to initiate and sustain change while growing leaders and building productive corporate and community cultures. Check out his LinkedIn profile to learn the rest of the story. https://www.linkedin.com/in/wgayleturner/ 

If you'd like to explore how clarifying your organization's stories and sharing the stories that exemplify those values can improve performance click here and schedule a time to talk with Gayle.