Leilani Garrett has spent years inside corporate environments where strategy decks, metrics, and serious meetings often take up most of the room.

Her work now asks a quieter question: what happens to the humans inside all of that?

In this conversation, Doug and Leilani talk about storytelling as a bridge between people, not just a tool for marketing or presentation. Leilani explains why innovation depends on trust, why AI still needs human judgment, and why leaders should pay attention to the quiet contributors who may be doing excellent work without asking to be seen.

One of the most useful moments is her idea of small story-based exercises, like asking people when they were genuinely proud at work. Not as a gimmick. As a way to help people feel known.

For planners, Leilani brings warmth, corporate credibility, and practical judgment. She understands the room and still keeps the people in focus.

Sara Davenport had the kind of career that can look like the finish line from the outside.

She was an Emmy-winning TV anchor in a major market, working in front of millions of people. But one night, during a hurricane, seven months pregnant and sitting under her desk at the station with a bag of Doritos, she found herself asking a much bigger question:

“Is this it?”

That moment became the beginning of a different story.

In this conversation, Sara and I talk about life inside TV news, the hidden cost of the dream job, the pull between identity and reinvention, and why listening may be one of the most underrated storytelling skills we have.

We also get into what AI can and cannot do, why generic content disappears from memory, and how specific stories help people feel something before they try to remember anything.

Because sometimes the story changes before we are ready to admit it.

And sometimes it starts under a desk.

Connect with Sara Davenport:
Website: www.SaraDavenport.net
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/sara-davenport-journalist/

Connect with Doug Thompson:
Website: https://thedougthompsontx.com
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/thedougthompson
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thedougthompson
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0xHMEppHHHV54MAJU5AYoY

This is a very personal episode for me.

Just before my wife went into the hospital for the last time, my friend Tara LaFon Gooch introduced me to Mark Victor Hansen by text.

In the months that followed, Mark checked in with me through texts. I was not ready to record, and he never made that a problem. His messages were kind, steady, and supportive while I was trying to find my way through a lot of loss. He met me where I was.

Mark has written 328 books, including the Chicken Soup for the Soul series, and his books have sold millions of copies. But during this season of losing both my wife and my mom, I found myself borrowing courage not only from the stories in those books, but from the kindness Mark showed me personally.

This conversation is about the stories that stay with us, the people who give us room when life is hard, and the ways hope can show up before we are fully ready to reach for it.

Connect with Mark Victor Hansen:

Website: https://markvictorhansen.com/

Library: https://www.markvictorhansenlibrary.com/

After losing both his wife and his mother within a week, Doug Thompson found himself wondering whether he should keep doing the podcast at all.

This solo episode opens Season 10 from a personal and reflective place. Doug talks about grief, memory, and the slow process of deciding what still fits after life changes in a way you did not ask for.

Out of that season came the new name: Storytelling for Real Life with Doug Thompson. It was not a rebrand as much as a recognition. The show had always been about stories that help people make meaning, build connection, and move through hard conversations.

This episode is a quiet reset for the season ahead. It is about loss, reflection, and why stories are not just for stages, books, or podcasts. Sometimes they are how we find our way through real life.

Connect with Doug:

Website: https://thedougthompsontx.com

LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/thedougthompson

Instagram: @thedougthompson

Threads: @thedougthompson

Email: [email protected]

Ever wonder how women break through the glass ceiling in tech or leadership? Spoiler alert: it’s all about storytelling, mindset shifts, and a sprinkle of audacity. Buckle up for a journey from India’s software boom to New York Times Square billboards—minus the confetti, but with plenty of wisdom.

In this episode:

• Neeraja’s journey from a shy girl in India to global leadership icon
• How women can find their voice by telling their stories
• Cultural hurdles and how urban metros are changing mindsets
• Practical tips for public speaking, handling hecklers, and visualizing success
• The importance of mindset challenges, from LinkedIn content to TED Talks
• The secret sauce: storytelling as a unique leadership tool

Timestamps:00:00 - Introducing Neeraja: Women’s empowerment in leadership00:34 - Neeraja’s 25 years in IT and her pivotal career shift01:22 - The role of storytelling in empowering women to lead02:17 - Overcoming cultural barriers in India’s corporate world03:47 - The drop-off of women in leadership tiers & closing the gap04:46 - Asking for what you want: From shy girl to boss lady05:45 - Mentoring as a catalyst for change & sharing personal stories06:13 - Why stories build confidence and break barriers07:09 - Cultural shifts in India’s urban centers08:45 - Challenging mindsets & the importance of self-belief09:24 - How fear inflates risks & the power of visualization10:41 - The storytelling approach in keynotes and talks11:23 - The mindset of visibility & LinkedIn content challenges12:22 - How to tackle fears of judgment & content creation13:30 - Inner voice and mindset blocks that hold women back14:44 - Power poses, breathing techniques, & visualizing success15:42 - Handling surprises & technical issues in public speaking16:35 - The power of practice & helping just one person at a time17:06 - Why nobody needs to be perfect—just authentic18:36 - Embracing haters & managing digital negativity19:21 - Managing differing opinions in real life & online20:04 - Turning hecklers into improv exercises & staying agile21:11 - Planning for disruptions & visualizing worst-case scenarios22:00 - How preparation, cues, & environment cushion fears23:20 - Asking for what you need: Stage, facilities, & audience info24:46 - Shifting mindsets around women re-entering the workforce25:16 - The importance of know your audience & the value of visualization25:59 - Brain hacks athletes use & how to rehearse mentally26:24 - Connect with Neeraja: LinkedIn & upcoming programs27:01 - Final thoughts: Your story is your superpower

Resources & Links:

• Thinkers360 Top 100 Thought Leaders
• Neeraja Ganesh LinkedIn
• LinkedIn Writing Mindset Challenge
• Storytelling as a Leadership Tool

Connect with Neeraja:

• LinkedIn

Keep shining, telling your stories, and smashing those glass ceilings—because your voice matters!

Join Doug Thompson as he sits down with Daniel Wood, CEO and co-founder of the Swedish Wealth Institute, to explore the transformative power of mentorship and the journey from financial setbacks to global success. Discover how Daniel's experiences with world-class mentors like Robert and Kim Kiyosaki have shaped his mission to democratize success and empower individuals worldwide. Tune in for insights on building wealth, overcoming challenges, and the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people.

Join us as we dive into the inspiring journey of Ahmet Bozer, former President of Coca-Cola International, who shares his insights on leadership, authenticity, and the pursuit of one's potential. Discover how Ahmet transitioned from a global executive to a purpose-driven storyteller, and learn about his new book, "Soldiery," which challenges us to rethink success and lead with heart. Tune in for a conversation that explores the common currency of humanity and the power of self-reflection.

Keywords

Cecilia Wichmann, cardiac arrest, entrepreneurship, storytelling, resilience, CPR, emergency response, music, inspiration, community support

Summary

In this engaging conversation, Doug Thompson interviews Cecilia Wichmann, an entrepreneur, public speaker, and cardiac arrest survivor. Cecilia shares her inspiring journey from her early entrepreneurial ventures to her life-changing experiences with cardiac arrest. She emphasizes the importance of resilience, community support, and the need for everyone to learn CPR. Cecilia discusses her return to the EMS field, her creative projects in music and storytelling, and the significance of overcoming fear to pursue dreams. The conversation concludes with Cecilia encouraging listeners to embrace their stories and connect with her through various platforms.

Takeaways

Cecilia's entrepreneurial spirit was influenced by her grandfather's inventions.

Surviving cardiac arrest changed Cecilia's perspective on life.

Gratitude plays a crucial role in Cecilia's daily life.

Everyone should learn CPR to help in emergencies.

Cecilia's experience in EMS is driven by a desire to give back.

Finding purpose can stem from overcoming adversity.

Cecilia's music projects reflect her journey and creativity.

Fear of the unknown often holds people back from pursuing dreams.

Community support is vital for personal growth and success.

Encouragement can help others take the first step towards their goals.

Titles

From Cardiac Arrest to Empowerment: Cecilia Wichmann's Journey

The Power of Resilience: Lessons from Cecilia Wichmann

Sound bites

"Why was I the chosen one?"

"I had a great day at the time."

"Everybody has a story."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Cecilia Wichmann

02:09 Cecilia's Journey and Entrepreneurial Spirit

05:11 Surviving Cardiac Arrest: A Life-Changing Experience

09:10 The Importance of CPR and Emergency Response

11:43 Returning to EMS: A Call to Serve

14:19 Finding Purpose Through Adversity

16:09 Creative Ventures: Music and Storytelling

19:20 Overcoming Challenges and Sharing Stories

26:01 Closing Thoughts and How to Connect

Summary

In this engaging conversation, Doug Thompson and Kathryn Baron explore the intricacies of storytelling, particularly in the nonprofit sector. Kathryn shares her journey as a nonprofit professional, emphasizing the importance of authenticity, visual memory, and connecting with audiences. They discuss effective fundraising strategies, the evolving landscape of nonprofits, and the significance of individual donors. Kathryn expresses her mission to continue making a positive impact and her desire to share her insights on larger platforms.

Takeaways

Kathryn's background in nonprofit work spans over 25 years.

Storytelling is a powerful tool for connecting with audiences.

Authenticity and transparency are crucial in communication.

Visual memory enhances storytelling and audience engagement.

Fundraising requires a deep understanding of donor motivations.

Direct mail remains a highly effective fundraising strategy.

Nonprofits must diversify their funding sources to remainsustainable.

Building relationships with donors is essential for long-term success.

Catherine aims to help organizations navigate transitionsand rebranding.

Engaging with audiences on a personal level fosters deeperconnections.

Titles

The Art of Storytelling in Nonprofits

Connecting Through Authenticity

 Sound bites

"You have to make a case for it."

"I think I should be on some stages."

"I love having phone calls with people."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

02:28 The Power of Storytelling

05:10 Visual Memory and Connection

08:05 Authenticity in Communication

10:51 Fundraising and Nonprofit Strategies

16:28 Challenges in Nonprofit Funding

19:05 Future Aspirations and Leadership

23:08 New Podcast outro with logo.mp4

Keywords

storytelling, nonprofit, fundraising, authenticity, visualmemory, audience connection, communication, mission-driven, transparency,engagement

Summary

In this engaging conversation, Joy McAdams shares her journey from working in media to becoming a prominent figure in healthcare marketing and endurance sports. She discusses the importance of storytelling in healthcare, her experiences as a guide for challenged athletes, and her transition into competitive sports. Joy emphasizes the significance of community support and personal growth through physical challenges, while also advocating for those with health challenges. The conversation culminates in a call to action for supporting her upcoming race with a challenged athlete, highlighting the impact of their journey on others.

Link to Ashely's fundraiser GiveSendGo | Donate to Support Ashley Get To The Finish Line For MS!

Takeaways

• Joy McAdams has a passion for helping healthcare practices thrive.
• Her background in media has shaped her storytelling skills.
• Building relationships is crucial in healthcare marketing.
• Joy emphasizes the importance of personal growth through physical challenges.
• She advocates for challenged athletes and their journeys.
• The experience of guiding a challenged athlete is transformative.
• Community support plays a vital role in endurance sports.
• Joy's transition from amateur to pro showcases her dedication.
• HYROX training combines strength and endurance effectively.
• The message of perseverance is essential for those facing health challenges.

Sound Bites

• "I'm really glad he shared with me."
• "It's to send the message to the world."
• "I'm strong enough to carry you."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Joy McAdams

02:37 Joy's Journey in Healthcare and Media

05:48 Storytelling in Healthcare

08:30 The Challenge Athlete Experience

11:40 The Importance of Support in Endurance Sports

14:37 Transitioning from Amateur to Pro

17:49 The High Rocks Challenge

20:47 Supporting Ashley and the Ironman Foundation

27:34 New Podcast outro with logo.mp4

Connect with Joy

https://www.linkedin.com/in/joy-mcadams-59878a10a/

https://www.instagram.com/jmcadams5/

keywords healthcare, endurance sports, storytelling, Ironman, HYROX, personal growth, community support, athlete advocacy, social media, relationship building