The Dr. Rod Berger Channel - Stories That Meet The Moment

I never expected a story about artificial intelligence to hit me right in the gut—but Rich Tu’s “Human Response” did just that. This episode goes beyond tech headlines, unraveling how personal grief, cultural identity, and creative exploration can mingle to spark wholly new ways of experiencing art.

We unpack the emotional backbone of Rich’s acclaimed exhibit: how, after losing his father, he used AI to remix the narrative of a life, creating a digital tapestry woven from memory, possibility, and vulnerability. Rich shares why the cold logic of machine learning sometimes exposes what’s most tender in us, and how the layering of voicemails, NASA recordings, and animated words invites viewers to reimagine their own loss and legacy.

For educators and creative leaders, Rich reveals the friction between commercial constraint and personal catharsis—and how opening up that space for risk, reflection, and realness can make all the difference. We also get an inside look at Rich’s design for FIFA World Cup 2026, and how he folded his immigrant story into one of sport’s most iconic visual moments.
Guest: Rich Tu, Partner & Executive Creative Director at Sunday Afternoon, professor at SVA, and poster artist for the 2026 FIFA World Cup NY/NJ

Can vulnerability power the future of storytelling? Tune in for a conversation that may just change how you see creativity—and yourself.
To learn more about Rich Tu and his latest work with LL Cool J, check out: www.richtu.com

To learn more about The Narrative Edge: Authentic Storytelling That Meets The Moment (Wiley) and to preorder the book that's climbing the charts, click here: www.drrodberger.com/book

1. **00:00 Journey of Vulnerability** – The host shares how writing "The Narrative Edge" became an unexpected path toward reflection and embracing vulnerability.
2. **01:25 Introducing Rich Tu** – Rich Tu, award-winning designer and creative director, is welcomed and praised for his thoughtful, relational approach to creativity.
3. **03:10 Story as the Centerpiece** – The conversation pivots to exploring storytelling and how Rich’s exhibit, "Human Response," exemplifies narrative innovation.
4. **04:05 Human Response Origins** – Rich explains that the origins of "Human Response" were rooted in both personal loss and curiosity about AI’s creative capabilities.
5. **06:20 Experimenting with AI and Grief** – Rich details how he used AI to imagine alternative versions of his late father's life, using his obituary as a storytelling foundation.
6. **08:15 Crafting the Narrative Arc** – He describes the process of distilling extensive AI conversations into a 10-minute animated experience featuring hand-animated prompts.
7. **09:45 Building an Immersive Space** – Rich walks through the creation of a physical exhibit space, complete with augmented reality, immersive video, and community collaboration.
8. **11:05 Audio as Emotional Anchor** – The emotional power of incorporating personal voicemails and ambient NASA sounds is discussed, deepening the audience’s connection.
9. **13:00 The Challenge of Vulnerability** – Rich credits his curator with encouraging real vulnerability in the exhibit, pushing beyond his commercial art comfort zone.
10. **16:05 Evolving Storytelling Through Art** – He unpacks how this deeply personal project shifted his approach to narrative, highlighting the importance of open-ended questions in art.
11. **22:20 Digital vs. Physical Realities** – Discussing the creative tension between digital creation and real-world experiences, Rich reflects on how art influences life balance.
12. **28:30 FIFA World Cup Poster Commission** – Rich shares the excitement and responsibility of being tasked with designing the official poster for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
13. **34:45 Layered Visual Storytelling** – The process of infusing symbolism, cultural references, and personal history into the poster’s design is revealed.
14. **39:00 Connecting Personal and Global Narratives** – Rich explores how lessons from “Human Response” fueled his bravery and authenticity in global projects like the World Cup poster.
15. **41:45 Embracing the Role of Main Character** – He reflects on intentionally becoming the main character in his own narrative, aspiring to inspire others through bold, representative storytelling.

Dr. Rod Berger is a keynote speaker, moderator, producer, author, and expert in strategic storytelling. Berger’s book, The Narrative Edge: Authentic Storytelling That Meets The Moment (Wiley), hits bookstores in late 2025. He draws on more than 4,000 interviews conducted worldwide for Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, and Fair Observer, including a cover story about former Virgin Entertainment co-founder Jason Felts, for Los Angeles Magazine, as well as various podcasts. He has captured the narratives of investors, CEOs, renowned entrepreneurs, bestselling authors, scholars, and cultural icons such as NBA legends Magic Johnson and Charles Barkley, as well as United Nations officials and Van Halen’s Sammy Hagar, while also exploring the behind-the-scenes world of Formula 1.

Berger has met with the Crown Princess of Sweden, Pope Francis, United Nations officials, and NGO leaders, covering stories of water insecurity with WaterAid, the intergenerational refugee crisis faced by displaced Sudanese in Uganda, and the impacts of child marriage in Western Africa with the Le Korsa Foundation.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

He has partnered with The Jim Henson Company to create a television show, The Ultimate GOAT, that combines his passion for distant lands and storytelling with culture, sports, and puppetry for family programming.

Berger conducts moderated keynote events that blend storytelling with live, on-stage narratives featuring cultural icons such as Opal Lee, the recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, a Nobel Peace Prize nominee, and recognized as the “Grandmother” of Juneteenth. In 2023, Berger received the inaugural Pangea International Literacy Prize and delivered his TEDx Talk, “Story is Our Currency.” He lives in Franklin, Tennessee, with his wife and two children.

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In this inspiring episode of Healed and Chilled, Coach Yana sits down with master storyteller and interviewer Dr. Rod Berger — a man who has captured the voices of NBA icons Magic Johnson and Charles Barkley, world leaders, rock legends, and even royalty. With over 4,000 interviews for outlets like Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, and Los Angeles Magazine, Dr. Berger’s stories span continents and cultures, from refugee camps in Africa to boardrooms in the Nordics.

We dive deep into the art — and power — of authentic storytelling, exploring why it’s the ultimate currency for leaders, entrepreneurs, and changemakers. Dr. Berger shares insights from his upcoming book, The Narrative Edge (Wiley), and reveals behind-the-scenes moments from conversations with everyone from the Pope to Sammy Hagar.

Whether you’re looking to inspire, lead, or connect, this episode will leave you seeing your own story in a whole new light.

📚 Learn more about Dr. Rod Berger and his new book: https://www.drrodberger.com/book
🌟 For all your children’s confidence coaching needs, connect with Coach Yana: https://thelaptoplifecoach.com/

Dr. Rod Berger is a keynote speaker, moderator, producer, author, and expert in strategic storytelling. Berger’s book, The Narrative Edge: Authentic Storytelling That Meets The Moment (Wiley), hits bookstores in late 2025. He draws on more than 4,000 interviews conducted worldwide for Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, and Fair Observer, including a cover story about former Virgin Entertainment co-founder Jason Felts, for Los Angeles Magazine, as well as various podcasts. He has captured the narratives of investors, CEOs, renowned entrepreneurs, bestselling authors, scholars, and cultural icons such as NBA legends Magic Johnson and Charles Barkley, as well as United Nations officials and Van Halen’s Sammy Hagar, while also exploring the behind-the-scenes world of Formula 1.

Berger has met with the Crown Princess of Sweden, Pope Francis, United Nations officials, and NGO leaders, covering stories of water insecurity with WaterAid, the intergenerational refugee crisis faced by displaced Sudanese in Uganda, and the impacts of child marriage in Western Africa with the Le Korsa Foundation.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

He has partnered with The Jim Henson Company to create a television show, The Ultimate GOAT, that combines his passion for distant lands and storytelling with culture, sports, and puppetry for family programming.

Berger conducts moderated keynote events that blend storytelling with live, on-stage narratives featuring cultural icons such as Opal Lee, the recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, a Nobel Peace Prize nominee, and recognized as the “Grandmother” of Juneteenth. In 2023, Berger received the inaugural Pangea International Literacy Prize and delivered his TEDx Talk, “Story is Our Currency.” He lives in Franklin, Tennessee, with his wife and two children.

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Check out my latest interview on Simple Conversations.

Dr. Rod Berger boasts an Illustrious Portfolio of interviews, featuring notable guests such as Pope Francis, Magic Johnson, Charles Barkley, Metta World Peace, Guy Fieri, Jenson Button, Khabib Nurmagomedov, and Many More. Join Dr. Rod Berger as he shares the Top 5 life-changing lessons he’s learned from conducting over 100 expert interviews with leaders, innovators, and visionaries from around the world. In this exclusive video, Dr. Berger reveals powerful insights on success, leadership, personal growth, and resilience — distilled from years of conversations with some of the most influential minds in business, education, and beyond. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, leader, or lifelong learner, these takeaways will inspire you to think bigger, work smarter, and create meaningful change in your life and career. Don’t miss the wisdom that could shape your next big breakthrough.

👉 Watch now to discover the key principles that top performers live by — and how you can apply them starting today.#LifeChangingLessons#ExpertInsights#LeadershipTips#SuccessHabits#PersonalGrowth#interview

Learn more about and preorder his new book, The Narrative Edge: Authentic Storytelling That Meets The Moment (Wiley) here:
www.drrodberger.com/book

Dr. Rod Berger is a keynote speaker, moderator, producer, author, and expert in strategic storytelling. Berger’s book, The Narrative Edge: Authentic Storytelling That Meets The Moment (Wiley), hits bookstores in late 2025. He draws on more than 4,000 interviews conducted worldwide for Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, and Fair Observer, including a cover story about former Virgin Entertainment co-founder Jason Felts, for Los Angeles Magazine, as well as various podcasts. He has captured the narratives of investors, CEOs, renowned entrepreneurs, bestselling authors, scholars, and cultural icons such as NBA legends Magic Johnson and Charles Barkley, as well as United Nations officials and Van Halen’s Sammy Hagar, while also exploring the behind-the-scenes world of Formula 1.

Berger has met with the Crown Princess of Sweden, Pope Francis, United Nations officials, and NGO leaders, covering stories of water insecurity with WaterAid, the intergenerational refugee crisis faced by displaced Sudanese in Uganda, and the impacts of child marriage in Western Africa with the Le Korsa Foundation.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

He has partnered with The Jim Henson Company to create a television show, The Ultimate GOAT, that combines his passion for distant lands and storytelling with culture, sports, and puppetry for family programming.

Berger conducts moderated keynote events that blend storytelling with live, on-stage narratives featuring cultural icons such as Opal Lee, the recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, a Nobel Peace Prize nominee, and recognized as the “Grandmother” of Juneteenth. In 2023, Berger received the inaugural Pangea International Literacy Prize and delivered his TEDx Talk, “Story is Our Currency.” He lives in Franklin, Tennessee, with his wife and two children.

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I am not often thrown a creative curve ball, though when I am, I hope I can quote, pick it up, before it slides over the proverbial plate - I had no idea how powerful Chris and Jim are as hosts of Dealcasters Live! I hope that the energy comes through in this podcast episode. I encourage listeners to check out Dealcasters (links below) and review this episode and their show. They are absolute pros! 

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If you're struggling to connect authentically with your audience through storytelling, this episode reveals the psychology behind content that converts.

Dr. Rod Berger has conducted over 4,000 interviews worldwide - from Pope Francis to Magic Johnson - and he's about to share the strategic storytelling secrets that separate viral content from forgettable noise. As the author of the upcoming book The Narrative Edge and a clinical psychologist turned communication architect, Rod exposes why your "perfect" content might be sabotaging your influence.

In this episode, Rod reveals his curiosity-driven interview framework that transforms ordinary conversations into must-watch content, the dangerous "side stories" destroying creator confidence, and why vulnerability - not polish - builds unbreakable audience loyalty. Whether you're launching your first podcast or scaling your livestream empire, Rod's evidence-based approach to narrative psychology will revolutionize how you show up on camera.

Plus, discover the three-step method Rod uses to help entrepreneurs own their story before someone else writes it for them, and why AI can never replace the human elements that make audiences hit "follow."

Don't fear the gear—master the story behind it.

Rod's Book - "The Narrative Edge: Authentic Storytelling that Meets the Moment": https://geni.us/NarrativeEdge

🔗 Engage with Rod Berger

✅  Official: https://www.drrodberger.com/ 

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✅  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drrodberger/ 

✅  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drrodberger

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Dr. Rod Berger is a keynote speaker, moderator, producer, author, and expert in strategic storytelling. Berger’s book, The Narrative Edge: Authentic Storytelling That Meets The Moment (Wiley), hits bookstores in late 2025. He draws on more than 4,000 interviews conducted worldwide for Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, and Fair Observer, including a cover story about former Virgin Entertainment co-founder Jason Felts, for Los Angeles Magazine, as well as various podcasts. He has captured the narratives of investors, CEOs, renowned entrepreneurs, bestselling authors, scholars, and cultural icons such as NBA legends Magic Johnson and Charles Barkley, as well as United Nations officials and Van Halen’s Sammy Hagar, while also exploring the behind-the-scenes world of Formula 1.

Berger has met with the Crown Princess of Sweden, Pope Francis, United Nations officials, and NGO leaders, covering stories of water insecurity with WaterAid, the intergenerational refugee crisis faced by displaced Sudanese in Uganda, and the impacts of child marriage in Western Africa with the Le Korsa Foundation.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

He has partnered with The Jim Henson Company to create a television show, The Ultimate GOAT, that combines his passion for distant lands and storytelling with culture, sports, and puppetry for family programming.

Berger conducts moderated keynote events that blend storytelling with live, on-stage narratives featuring cultural icons such as Opal Lee, the recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, a Nobel Peace Prize nominee, and recognized as the “Grandmother” of Juneteenth. In 2023, Berger received the inaugural Pangea International Literacy Prize and delivered his TEDx Talk, “Story is Our Currency.” He lives in Franklin, Tennessee, with his wife and two children.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dr. Rod Berger has interviewed over 4,000 people and just wrote his first book, "The Narrative Edge", but his real expertise is in finding the human behind the talking points. In this episode, we explore what makes storytelling important, how Rod breaks through people's scripted responses to get to an authentic connection, and his philosophy that "if you're not telling your story, someone else is."

Rod shares how his "Forrest Gump-like" career of saying yes to unexpected opportunities led him from psychology to refugee work to becoming a master interviewer. We dig into the vulnerable process of writing his first book, why he refuses to ask questions you could find in a press release, and how true presence and authenticity can change everything.

Whether you're struggling to find your authentic voice or wondering how to connect more deeply with others, this episode will make you rethink how you show up in your own story.

Links for this episode:

• Dr. Rod Bergers book "The Narrative Edge"
• Subscribe to the newsletter:⁠ ⁠⁠imperfect.email⁠
• The website:⁠ imperfect.club⁠⁠⁠
• Instagram:⁠ ⁠⁠@imperfect_creatives⁠⁠⁠
• TikTok:⁠ @imperfect.creatives⁠⁠
• YouTube:⁠ ⁠@Imperfect_Creatives

You can learn more about Michael Carruthers and his show, Imperfect Creativew, below: 

Imperfect Creatives
with Michael Carruthers

Exploring what it actually takes to build meaningful creative work in the real world, either alongside or instead of traditional careers. Conversations with people at every stage of the journey, from side project builders to full-time creators and founders, about the practical and emotional reality of choosing purpose over default paths.

____________________________________
Chapters

(00:00) The Journey of Storytelling

(05:36) Embracing Opportunities: The Power of Saying Yes

(13:43) Crafting Your Own Narrative

(22:09) The Art of Authentic Interviewing

(30:46) The Addictive Nature of Storytelling

(36:52) The Impact of Connection

(42:51) The Importance of Being Present

(46:56) The Evolution of Storytelling

(54:59) Capturing Stories with Integrity

(01:00:18) Episode Wrap-Up

Dr. Rod Berger is a keynote speaker, moderator, producer, author, and expert in strategic storytelling. Berger’s book, The Narrative Edge: Authentic Storytelling That Meets The Moment (Wiley), hits bookstores in late 2025. He draws on more than 4,000 interviews conducted worldwide for Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, and Fair Observer, including a cover story about former Virgin Entertainment co-founder Jason Felts, for Los Angeles Magazine, as well as various podcasts. He has captured the narratives of investors, CEOs, renowned entrepreneurs, bestselling authors, scholars, and cultural icons such as NBA legends Magic Johnson and Charles Barkley, as well as United Nations officials and Van Halen’s Sammy Hagar, while also exploring the behind-the-scenes world of Formula 1.

Berger has met with the Crown Princess of Sweden, Pope Francis, United Nations officials, and NGO leaders, covering stories of water insecurity with WaterAid, the intergenerational refugee crisis faced by displaced Sudanese in Uganda, and the impacts of child marriage in Western Africa with the Le Korsa Foundation.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

He has partnered with The Jim Henson Company to create a television show, The Ultimate GOAT, that combines his passion for distant lands and storytelling with culture, sports, and puppetry for family programming.

Berger conducts moderated keynote events that blend storytelling with live, on-stage narratives featuring cultural icons such as Opal Lee, the recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, a Nobel Peace Prize nominee, and recognized as the “Grandmother” of Juneteenth. In 2023, Berger received the inaugural Pangea International Literacy Prize and delivered his TEDx Talk, “Story is Our Currency.” He lives in Franklin, Tennessee, with his wife and two children.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. In this episode, we talk with Global Media Personality, Author, and Speaker Dr. Rod Berger — a master storyteller and interviewer with over 4,000 interviews under his belt for outlets like Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, and Los Angeles Magazine.

Dr. Berger’s upcoming book, The Narrative Edge: Authentic Storytelling That Meets The Moment (Wiley, Nov 2025), dives deep into the power of meaningful narratives in today's media-driven world. He has chronicled stories from NBA legends Magic Johnson and Charles Barkley, rock icon Sammy Hagar, global leaders from the UN, the Pope, and the Crown Princess of Sweden, even reporting from refugee camps in Africa with WaterAid.

With over 350,000 social media followers, a TV development deal with The Jim Henson Company, and a major publishing deal with Wiley, Dr. Berger stands as a leading voice in the evolution of authentic media and public discourse.

🎙️ We discuss his fascinating career, unique interview moments, storytelling philosophy, and what it takes to create lasting impact through media. Don’t miss this powerful conversation.

📘 Preorder the book: The Narrative Edge 
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Dr. Rod Berger is a keynote speaker, moderator, producer, author, and expert in strategic storytelling. Berger’s book, The Narrative Edge: Authentic Storytelling That Meets The Moment (Wiley), hits bookstores in late 2025. He draws on more than 4,000 interviews conducted worldwide for Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, and Fair Observer, including a cover story about former Virgin Entertainment co-founder Jason Felts, for Los Angeles Magazine, as well as various podcasts. He has captured the narratives of investors, CEOs, renowned entrepreneurs, bestselling authors, scholars, and cultural icons such as NBA legends Magic Johnson and Charles Barkley, as well as United Nations officials and Van Halen’s Sammy Hagar, while also exploring the behind-the-scenes world of Formula 1.

Berger has met with the Crown Princess of Sweden, Pope Francis, United Nations officials, and NGO leaders, covering stories of water insecurity with WaterAid, the intergenerational refugee crisis faced by displaced Sudanese in Uganda, and the impacts of child marriage in Western Africa with the Le Korsa Foundation.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

He has partnered with The Jim Henson Company to create a television show, The Ultimate GOAT, that combines his passion for distant lands and storytelling with culture, sports, and puppetry for family programming.

Berger conducts moderated keynote events that blend storytelling with live, on-stage narratives featuring cultural icons such as Opal Lee, the recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, a Nobel Peace Prize nominee, and recognized as the “Grandmother” of Juneteenth. In 2023, Berger received the inaugural Pangea International Literacy Prize and delivered his TEDx Talk, “Story is Our Currency.” He lives in Franklin, Tennessee, with his wife and two children.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Narrative Edge: Authentic Storytelling that Meets the Moment 

Discover the potential of a compelling story―and how to craft one―with expert help from an experienced storyteller

In The Narrative Edge: Authentic Storytelling that Meets the Moment celebrated writer, interviewer, and speaker Dr. Rod Berger delivers an inspiring and practical discussion about the rebirth of stories in our society's collective consciousness. The author explains how great stories are woven into corporate strategy, educational curricula, social media platforms, and more, and how to tap into those stories to connect with your audiences.

You'll learn about how to tell your own story―rather than leave it to be told by someone else―validating your presence and authenticating your own unique experiences. You'll also discover a one-of-a-kind tapestry of characters, ideas, and themes that combine to highlight the singular power and potential of story.

Want to be a guest on Book 101 Review? Send Daniel Lucas a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/17372807971394464fea5bae3

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Dr. Rod Berger is a keynote speaker, moderator, producer, author, and expert in strategic storytelling. Berger’s book, The Narrative Edge: Authentic Storytelling That Meets The Moment (Wiley), hits bookstores in late 2025. He draws on more than 4,000 interviews conducted worldwide for Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, and Fair Observer, including a cover story about former Virgin Entertainment co-founder Jason Felts, for Los Angeles Magazine, as well as various podcasts. He has captured the narratives of investors, CEOs, renowned entrepreneurs, bestselling authors, scholars, and cultural icons such as NBA legends Magic Johnson and Charles Barkley, as well as United Nations officials and Van Halen’s Sammy Hagar, while also exploring the behind-the-scenes world of Formula 1.

Berger has met with the Crown Princess of Sweden, Pope Francis, United Nations officials, and NGO leaders, covering stories of water insecurity with WaterAid, the intergenerational refugee crisis faced by displaced Sudanese in Uganda, and the impacts of child marriage in Western Africa with the Le Korsa Foundation.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

He has partnered with The Jim Henson Company to create a television show, The Ultimate GOAT, that combines his passion for distant lands and storytelling with culture, sports, and puppetry for family programming.

Berger conducts moderated keynote events that blend storytelling with live, on-stage narratives featuring cultural icons such as Opal Lee, the recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, a Nobel Peace Prize nominee, and recognized as the “Grandmother” of Juneteenth. In 2023, Berger received the inaugural Pangea International Literacy Prize and delivered his TEDx Talk, “Story is Our Currency.” He lives in Franklin, Tennessee, with his wife and two children.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It was a pleasure to be on Julia's podcast about storytelling in the age of AI. Check out her show description below and subscribe to her show!

AI can’t feel. And that’s exactly why your story matters.
What do you get when a media strategist and and lifelong storyteller with a doctorate in clinical psychology meets an AI consultant?

A very real conversation about the limits of AI — and the power of human narrative.
🎙️ I had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Rod Berger PsyD, whose upcoming book The Narrative Edge dives deep into the stories we live, tell, and often forget to own.

We talked about:
• Why AI will never write the real origin story of your brand
• How storytelling influences leadership, team dynamics, and innovation
• Why founders should stop hiding behind features—and start leading with meaning
• What happens when your narrative gets lost in templated content and prompt loops
And yes - we laughed, we went deep, and Rod dropped insights I’ll be thinking about for a long time.

Thank you, Rod, for this ace interview and for reminding us why authentic storytelling still cuts through all the noise.

Dr. Rod Berger is a keynote speaker, moderator, producer, author, and expert in strategic storytelling. Berger’s book, The Narrative Edge: Authentic Storytelling That Meets The Moment (Wiley), hits bookstores in late 2025. He draws on more than 4,000 interviews conducted worldwide for Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, and Fair Observer, including a cover story about former Virgin Entertainment co-founder Jason Felts, for Los Angeles Magazine, as well as various podcasts. He has captured the narratives of investors, CEOs, renowned entrepreneurs, bestselling authors, scholars, and cultural icons such as NBA legends Magic Johnson and Charles Barkley, as well as United Nations officials and Van Halen’s Sammy Hagar, while also exploring the behind-the-scenes world of Formula 1.

Berger has met with the Crown Princess of Sweden, Pope Francis, United Nations officials, and NGO leaders, covering stories of water insecurity with WaterAid, the intergenerational refugee crisis faced by displaced Sudanese in Uganda, and the impacts of child marriage in Western Africa with the Le Korsa Foundation.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

He has partnered with The Jim Henson Company to create a television show, The Ultimate GOAT, that combines his passion for distant lands and storytelling with culture, sports, and puppetry for family programming.

Berger conducts moderated keynote events that blend storytelling with live, on-stage narratives featuring cultural icons such as Opal Lee, the recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, a Nobel Peace Prize nominee, and recognized as the “Grandmother” of Juneteenth. In 2023, Berger received the inaugural Pangea International Literacy Prize and delivered his TEDx Talk, “Story is Our Currency.” He lives in Franklin, Tennessee, with his wife and two children.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Book Authoring Webinar mentioned in this episode: https://forms.gle/H4AaqdQkbgwWCdDR6

WATCH this episode on YouTube

In this episode, Michael speaks with Dr. Rod Berger, an expert in storytelling and author of 'The Narrative Edge.' They discuss the importance of authentic storytelling, the writing process, and the challenges faced by first-time authors. Dr. Berger shares insights on finding inspiration, managing time for writing, and overcoming writer's block, emphasizing that everyone has a unique story to tell. In this conversation, Dr. Rod Berger discusses the importance of authenticity in writing, the challenges of the writing process, and his experiences with publishing. He emphasizes the need for writers to find their unique voice and stay true to themselves, as well as the significance of storytelling in connecting with audiences. Dr. Berger shares insights on navigating the publishing world, the role of editors, and the importance of understanding one's own story and its impact. He concludes with advice for aspiring authors on being authentic and the value of storytelling in all aspects of life.

TOPICS

• Everybody has a story.
• The essence of storytelling is universal.
• Writing can be a challenge, but it's rewarding.
• Finding time to write requires flexibility.
• Inspiration can come from everyday life.
• You can write chapters independently.
• Give yourself permission to explore ideas.
• Writer's block is often about lack of inspiration.
• Life experiences can fuel creativity.
• Each person's writing journey is unique. Writer's block often stems from not being authentic.
• Finding your voice is crucial for effective writing.
• Public speaking experiences can shape writing style.
• Authenticity leads to better audience reception.
• The writing process can be daunting but rewarding.
• Initial feedback from editors can boost confidence.
• Daily routines can help manage the writing process.
• Understanding the publishing landscape is essential.
• Storytelling is a powerful tool in all areas of life.
• Not everyone needs to write a book, but everyone has a story.

BOOKS:

The Narrative Edge - Authentic Storytelling That Meets The Moment (Wiley)

I'd like to thank Michael for a wonderful interview and for his passion for writing and educating youth in a powerfully engaging manner. Here is a bit more about his show and how you can continue to learn from his work.

Change the Narrative

By Michael Hernandez

Travel with award-winning educator, author, and international speaker, Michael Hernandez, as he interviews innovation leaders and searches for answers about how to innovate in work, life, and culture.

Find out more about Producer and Host, Michael Hernandez on Linked In: bit.ly/MichaelHernandezLinkedIn and on Instagram: @Changing.The.Narrative

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Dr. Rod Berger is a keynote speaker, moderator, producer, author, and expert in strategic storytelling. Berger’s book, The Narrative Edge: Authentic Storytelling That Meets The Moment (Wiley), hits bookstores in late 2025. He draws on more than 4,000 interviews conducted worldwide for Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, and Fair Observer, including a cover story about former Virgin Entertainment co-founder Jason Felts, for Los Angeles Magazine, as well as various podcasts. He has captured the narratives of investors, CEOs, renowned entrepreneurs, bestselling authors, scholars, and cultural icons such as NBA legends Magic Johnson and Charles Barkley, as well as United Nations officials and Van Halen’s Sammy Hagar, while also exploring the behind-the-scenes world of Formula 1.

Berger has met with the Crown Princess of Sweden, Pope Francis, United Nations officials, and NGO leaders, covering stories of water insecurity with WaterAid, the intergenerational refugee crisis faced by displaced Sudanese in Uganda, and the impacts of child marriage in Western Africa with the Le Korsa Foundation.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

He has partnered with The Jim Henson Company to create a television show, The Ultimate GOAT, that combines his passion for distant lands and storytelling with culture, sports, and puppetry for family programming.

Berger conducts moderated keynote events that blend storytelling with live, on-stage narratives featuring cultural icons such as Opal Lee, the recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, a Nobel Peace Prize nominee, and recognized as the “Grandmother” of Juneteenth. In 2023, Berger received the inaugural Pangea International Literacy Prize and delivered his TEDx Talk, “Story is Our Currency.” He lives in Franklin, Tennessee, with his wife and two children.

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For those who follow my work, I will be sharing podcast shows that feature interviews with me about my new book, The Narrative Edge: Authentic Storytelling That Meets the Moment (Wiley). 

I highly recommend people check out Sean's wonderfully original and raw podcast, The Principal Liner Notes Podcast. You can also connect with Sean on LinkedIn. 

Here are the original show notes from my episode with Sean:
In this inspiring episode, I’m joined by the dynamic Dr. Rod Berger—a storyteller, connector, and relentless advocate for the human side of education. Known for his ability to amplify voices that matter in education, business, and mental health, Dr. Berger brings an eclectic perspective shaped by his background in psychology, leadership, and media.

We riff on the power of authentic storytelling, the intersection of education and innovation, and the importance of humanizing school leadership. From his work with Forbes and publications across the globe to his unwavering belief in the power of relationships, Dr. Berger shares personal reflections and professional wisdom that will resonate with every educator and leader.

We also explore Rod's upcoming book with Wiley, The Narrative Edge. Now available for pre-order on Amazon.

Tune in as we explore why vulnerability is a strength, how to lead with empathy in a noisy world, and what it really means to "find your note" in the symphony of leadership.

🔗 Learn more about Dr. Rod Berger: drrodberger.com

Dr. Rod Berger is a keynote speaker, moderator, producer, author, and expert in strategic storytelling. Berger’s book, The Narrative Edge: Authentic Storytelling That Meets The Moment (Wiley), hits bookstores in late 2025. He draws on more than 4,000 interviews conducted worldwide for Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, and Fair Observer, including a cover story about former Virgin Entertainment co-founder Jason Felts, for Los Angeles Magazine, as well as various podcasts. He has captured the narratives of investors, CEOs, renowned entrepreneurs, bestselling authors, scholars, and cultural icons such as NBA legends Magic Johnson and Charles Barkley, as well as United Nations officials and Van Halen’s Sammy Hagar, while also exploring the behind-the-scenes world of Formula 1.

Berger has met with the Crown Princess of Sweden, Pope Francis, United Nations officials, and NGO leaders, covering stories of water insecurity with WaterAid, the intergenerational refugee crisis faced by displaced Sudanese in Uganda, and the impacts of child marriage in Western Africa with the Le Korsa Foundation.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

He has partnered with The Jim Henson Company to create a television show, The Ultimate GOAT, that combines his passion for distant lands and storytelling with culture, sports, and puppetry for family programming.

Berger conducts moderated keynote events that blend storytelling with live, on-stage narratives featuring cultural icons such as Opal Lee, the recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, a Nobel Peace Prize nominee, and recognized as the “Grandmother” of Juneteenth. In 2023, Berger received the inaugural Pangea International Literacy Prize and delivered his TEDx Talk, “Story is Our Currency.” He lives in Franklin, Tennessee, with his wife and two children.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.