The Storytelling Lab

Rain Bennett

The Storytelling Lab covers everything you need to know about personal and professional stories to leverage their power to deepen your connections, increase your sales + donations, and serve your audiences better with real-life examples and experts.

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237 episodes
Updated July 8

Episodes237

Newest first

January 19 · 59 min
What Happens When YOU Become the Story with Elton Anderson, Jr.
“Every time you press upload, you’re telling the universe this is your part in the grand scheme.” — Elton Anderson, Jr. What if your content wasn’t just a creative outlet, but a mirror for your transformation? In this episode, Rain Bennett sits down with Elton Anderson—a photographer, storyteller, and founder of L10 Media—for a deep, vulnerable conversation on using storytelling to break free of the algorithm, let go of outdated identities, and build a media platform rooted in purpose. Elton shares his own creative pivot, leaving behind a successful photography career and embracing a new chapter built around authenticity, micro media ownership, and spiritual self-alignment. Together, they explore how to attract the right audience by showing up fully as yourself, why resistance is a sign you’re on the right path, and how to build a life and career that flow from the inside out. If you're multi-passionate, burned out by content trends, or questioning how to evolve in public, this episode will show you that your shadow isn’t something to fear—it’s where your story begins. In this episode, you will learn to: Embrace identity shifts as part of your creative evolution Find your unique voice through consistent, imperfect action Use storytelling as a tool to connect with others and yourself Build a micro media company around your personal purpose Reframe resistance as a signal that you're on the right path Follow Elton on: Instagram TikTok or visit his website, HERE! And for more storytelling tips and tricks, Visit rainbennett.com or thestorytellinglabpodcast.com Follow on TikTok @chiefstorytellingofficer Follow on Twitter @rainbennett Follow on Instagram @rainbennett Follow on Facebook @thestorytellinglab Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Dec 22, 2025 · 21 min
The Real Reason Your Brand Feels Disconnected with Rain Bennett
“If your company doesn’t know the story that it’s helping to tell, no marketing campaign is going to save you.” — Rain Bennett Most businesses mistake their vision for a quarterly goal or a financial target, but that’s not a story anyone wants to join. In this solo episode, Rain Bennett unpacks the critical difference between vision and mission, showing how your vision acts as the narrative North Star for your entire brand. Rain shares a clear, actionable framework based on Simon Sinek’s “Just Cause” model and explains how the best visions are resilient, inclusive, and service-oriented. Through two powerful case studies—Patagonia and The People’s Game—Rain illustrates how a well-crafted vision can guide every part of your business, from branding to product development to internal culture. If you’ve ever struggled to articulate why your company exists beyond just making money, this episode gives you the foundation to start telling a story that actually matters. In this episode, you will learn to: Define a brand vision that is resilient, inclusive, and service-oriented Align your team and decisions around a single, powerful story Avoid the common mistakes that make most vision statements meaningless Use real-world case studies to guide your own storytelling strategy Craft a vision that inspires belief, not just activity For more storytelling tips and tricks, Visit rainbennett.com or thestorytellinglabpodcast.com Follow on TikTok @chiefstorytellingofficer Follow on Twitter @rainbennett Follow on Instagram @rainbennett Follow on Facebook @thestorytellinglab Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Dec 15, 2025 · 26 min
The Billion-Person Mission That Started With Bankruptcy with David Meltzer
“I was made from mistakes. I was promoted, protected, loved, and perfected by them.” — David Meltzer After losing $100 million and hitting rock bottom, David Meltzer rebuilt his life and his business around a mission to empower over 1 billion people to be happy. In this episode, Rain Bennett sits down with David to explore how storytelling became the vehicle for that transformation. David opens up about the bankruptcy he once hid from the world, the emotional healing that followed, and the new definition of success that changed everything. They talk about the myth of “give more, get more,” the strategic use of vulnerability, and how to build a brand rooted in service and joy. If you’ve ever struggled to see the upside in your darkest moments, this conversation will show you how to flip the script and turn your pain into purpose. In this episode, you will learn to: Reframe failure as the foundation for your most powerful story Create a happiness-driven business model that serves and scales Embrace vulnerability to build real trust and connection Shift from ego-based identity to a mission-based life Teach your team to lead with empathy, clarity, and consistency Follow David on: LinkedIn Instagram TikTok YouTube or pre-order his new book, HERE! And for more storytelling tips and tricks, Visit rainbennett.com or thestorytellinglabpodcast.com Follow on TikTok @chiefstorytellingofficer Follow on Twitter @rainbennett Follow on Instagram @rainbennett Follow on Facebook @thestorytellinglab Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Dec 8, 2025 · 50 min
How a Local Utility Company Became a Storytelling Powerhouse with Krystal Phillips
“It’s not just about keeping the lights on—it’s about building a relationship with the people at the end of the line.” — Krystal Phillips, JO-EMC Storytelling isn’t just for trendy brands or startups. In this episode, Rain sits down with Krystal Phillips, Communications and Community Relations Manager at Jones-Onslow EMC, to explore how a rural electric co-op built a storytelling culture that would rival any big tech brand. Krystal reveals the behind-the-scenes thinking that led a utility company to invest in heartfelt video stories, internal leadership programs, and community-first content. Together, they unpack how to measure storytelling ROI when you can’t rely on sales, how buy-in from leadership transforms culture, and why authenticity matters more than production value. This episode is a must-listen for anyone working in “unsexy” industries who wants to make storytelling their competitive advantage. In this episode, you will learn to: Harness storytelling as a strategic tool, even in “boring” or highly regulated industries Build team buy-in by grounding your strategy in community and trust Establish internal programs that create a pipeline of storytellers inside your organization Humanize your brand with stories that foster empathy and emotional connection Measure the real ROI of storytelling beyond dollars and metrics Follow Krystal on: LinkedIn Instagram or visit the JO-EMC website, HERE! And for more storytelling tips and tricks, Visit rainbennett.com or thestorytellinglabpodcast.com Follow on TikTok @chiefstorytellingofficer Follow on Twitter @rainbennett Follow on Instagram @rainbennett Follow on Facebook @thestorytellinglab Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Dec 1, 2025 · 55 min
Storytelling That Builds Trust Across Any Organization with Salvatore Manzi
“A shared narrative means everyone in the organization is speaking about the story in the same way.” — Salvatore Manzi If every person on your team is telling a different version of your brand story, you don’t have a marketing problem—you have a clarity crisis. In this episode, communication strategist and author Salvatore Manzi joins Rain to break down how to build a shared narrative that aligns everyone in your organization. From CEOs to customer service reps, consistency in storytelling builds trust, clarity, and emotional resonance. Salvatore shares actionable frameworks for clear and compelling communication, how to blend personal and brand narratives, and why metaphors are essential tools for influence. Whether you're leading a nonprofit or a global brand, this episode will sharpen your storytelling and unify your message. In this episode, you will learn to: Align your entire team behind a unified narrative that eliminates confusion Use storytelling frameworks to turn complex data into meaningful messages Build trust with audiences by integrating vulnerability into your leadership voice Avoid common communication pitfalls in both nonprofits and STEM-driven businesses Apply the “problem, process, outcome” structure to make your stories more actionable Follow Salvatore on: LinkedIn Instagram or visit his website, HERE! And for more storytelling tips and tricks, Visit rainbennett.com or thestorytellinglabpodcast.com Follow on TikTok @chiefstorytellingofficer Follow on Twitter @rainbennett Follow on Instagram @rainbennett Follow on Facebook @thestorytellinglab Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Nov 24, 2025 · 54 min
How to Use Storytelling to Fuel a Content Engine with David Ebner
“A message map is the most underutilized resource for marketers.” — David Ebner What if the reason your marketing isn’t working has nothing to do with the content itself, but everything to do with the foundation it’s built on? In this episode, Rain sits down with David Ebner, founder of Content Workshop and one of the clearest voices in content strategy, to unpack why most brand storytelling falls flat. They explore the concept of the message map, how to build a storytelling system that scales, and why trust is the most important marketing metric you’re probably not tracking. David also opens up about how his background in creative writing fuels his approach to business storytelling, what metrics actually matter, and how emotion creates longevity in brand relationships. Whether you're a solopreneur or scaling a team, this episode will challenge the way you think about content and give you a smarter path forward. In this episode, you will learn to: Apply the power of a message map to bring structure and purpose to your content Use storytelling as a system, not just a one-off tactic Rethink your marketing metrics and focus on what truly builds trust Leverage long-form cornerstone content to fuel your daily output Avoid burnout by shifting from production obsession to strategic clarity Follow David on: LinkedIn or visit the Content Workshop website, HERE! And for more storytelling tips and tricks, Visit rainbennett.com or thestorytellinglabpodcast.com Follow on TikTok @rainbennett.storyeller Follow on Twitter @rainbennett Follow on Instagram @rainbennett Follow on Facebook @thestorytellinglab Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Nov 17, 2025 · 1 hr 9 min
How Personal Stories Build Public Trust in Just 7 Minutes with Aaron Calafato
“The shortest distance between two souls is a story.” — Aaron Calafato Aaron Calafato doesn’t just teach storytelling—he lives it. In this episode, we dive into what it really means to lead with story, both as an artist and a business strategist. Aaron shares how he built an audience (and a business) by showing up authentically and consistently, telling personal stories that are never just about him. We discuss the fine line between self-expression and self-indulgence, how personal narratives can unlock professional growth, and why he refuses to monetize his podcast Seven Minute Stories. This conversation is full of heart, humor, and hard-earned wisdom for anyone trying to build trust through story. In this episode, you will learn to: Identify the differences between storytelling as a gift and storytelling as a performance Use personal stories to create trust, not just attention Balance art and business while staying true to your values Build long-term brand equity through consistent storytelling Avoid the trap of trying to be “cool” when what people really want is connection Follow Aaron on: YouTube Instagram or listen to his show, Seven Minute Stories, HERE! And for more storytelling tips and tricks, Visit rainbennett.com or thestorytellinglabpodcast.com Follow on TikTok @rainbennett.storyeller Follow on Twitter @rainbennett Follow on Instagram @rainbennett Follow on Facebook @thestorytellinglab Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Nov 10, 2025 · 24 min
Building a Narrative Operating System that Scales Your Business
“A story is a single arc of transformation. A narrative is the thread that connects them all.” — Rain Bennett Most businesses think their biggest challenge is marketing. But what if the real issue is story misalignment? In this solo episode, Rain Bennett introduces the Narrative Operating System—a strategic framework designed to bring your brand's stories into alignment across every department: from vision and mission to product, marketing, advertising, and sales. This isn't just a branding tool. It’s a storytelling system that ensures your internal culture and external messaging work in harmony. Rain breaks down each layer of the system and shows how companies can create a brand people don’t just buy from, but they believe in. You’ll learn why most teams default to their own version of the story, how that causes confusion and erodes trust, and how the Chief Storytelling Officer role solves that. If you’ve ever felt like your message was scattered or your content inconsistent, this episode gives you a clear roadmap to fix it for good! In this episode, you will learn to: Align every department with one cohesive brand narrative Build a storytelling system that fuels marketing, product, and sales Understand the difference between story and narrative—and why it matters Use narrative to drive consistency, connection, and long-term loyalty Embrace the CSO role as the protector of your brand’s story DNA For more storytelling tips and tricks, Visit my website rainbennett.com or thestorytellinglabpodcast.com Follow me on TikTok @rainbennett.storyeller Follow me on Twitter @rainbennett Follow me on Instagram @rainbennett Follow me on Facebook @thestorytellinglab Subscribe to my Youtube Channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Oct 27, 2025 · 1 hr 4 min
How the Soundtracks of Our Lives Shape who We Become with Patrick Hicks
“If it makes me curious, then maybe it’ll make someone else curious, too.” — Patrick Hicks What started as a 30-day content challenge became a storytelling movement powered by rock, raw honesty, and curiosity. In this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain Bennett speaks with Patrick Hicks, creator of a viral TikTok account (@patrickhicksmusic), where he tells the stories behind the songs that shaped our lives. With over half a million followers and a growing book project, Patrick has built a creator career that feels authentic, soulful, and sustainable. They discuss how Patrick’s background in marketing, music, and punk DIY culture gave him the tools to grow his audience without losing his voice. You’ll hear how he balances content creation with a full-time job, why he never polishes his videos, and how he structures stories to connect emotionally—without chasing algorithms. This episode is a masterclass in following your curiosity, honoring your influences, and building something meaningful on your own terms. In this episode, you will learn to: Turn a simple idea into a large, loyal audience by following your own curiosity Tell better stories by pairing emotional narratives with musical memory Structure short-form content that resonates without being overproduced Build trust and authenticity by leaning into your quirks and imperfections Balance creative pursuits with real life while still growing your platform Follow Patrick on: TikTok Instagram or subscribe to his Substack here! And for more storytelling tips and tricks, Visit rainbennett.com or thestorytellinglabpodcast.com Follow on TikTok @rainbennett.storyeller Follow on Twitter @rainbennett Follow on Instagram @rainbennett Follow on Facebook @thestorytellinglab Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Oct 20, 2025 · 51 min
Interviewing as a Tool for Trust, Healing, and Human Connection with Wil Weldon
"Interviewing is not about taking something—it's about helping them be more of who they are." — Wil Weldon What if the key to more powerful storytelling lies not in your editing skills—but in your ability to deeply listen? In this soul-stirring episode, Rain Bennett talks with Wil Weldon, a video journalist, former massage therapist, and Reiki practitioner who’s developed a holistic approach to interviewing called Heart-Forward Storytelling. They dive into Wil’s new book INNERviewing: Heart-Forward Storytelling and Holistic Communication, which teaches storytellers, coaches, marketers, and everyday humans how to create space for transformational conversations. You’ll learn how principles of energy transfer, intention, and trust can improve your interviews—not just on camera, but in life. From family storytelling to trauma-informed listening, this episode reminds us that storytelling is more than performance—it's connection at its deepest level. In this episode, you will learn to: Create deeper interviews by minimizing your ego and agenda Apply Reiki-inspired principles to your communication process Build trust and energy in storytelling relationships without manipulation Preserve your family’s legacy through intentional, heart-centered conversations Redefine interviewing as a collaborative, healing experience—not an extractive one For more storytelling tips and tricks, Visit rainbennett.com or thestorytellinglabpodcast.com Follow on TikTok @rainbennett.storyeller Follow on Twitter @rainbennett Follow on Instagram @rainbennett Follow on Facebook @thestorytellinglab Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Oct 13, 2025 · 57 min
The Ethics of Filming Real Love Triangles in Mistress Dispeller with Elizabeth Lo
"I wanted each character to be complex enough and sympathetic enough that there's some deep reason you could identify in yourself." — Elizabeth Lo How do you tell a story that's intimate, ethically complicated, and rooted in real-life secrecy—without exploiting your subjects? In this episode, Rain Bennett speaks with acclaimed documentary filmmaker Elizabeth Lo, director of Mistress Dispeller, one of the most talked-about films this year. The film follows a professional “mistress dispeller” in China hired to break up extramarital affairs on behalf of betrayed spouses—yes, it’s exactly what it sounds like. Elizabeth opens up about how she gained the trust of real people in real love triangles, how she balanced empathy with narrative clarity, and how she created emotional tension through stillness instead of sensationalism. They discuss ethical gray areas, building documentaries without control, and letting stories unfold naturally while still crafting a cohesive arc. If you’re a nonfiction filmmaker or just someone interested in telling hard stories with humanity, this episode is a must-listen. In this episode, you will learn to: Earn the trust of documentary subjects by building long-term, authentic relationships Let stories unfold naturally instead of forcing a narrative structure Navigate ethical storytelling with sensitive, real-world material Use stillness and silence to create emotional tension Align your personal values with the stories you choose to tell For more storytelling tips and tricks, Visit rainbennett.com or thestorytellinglabpodcast.com Follow on TikTok @rainbennett.storyeller Follow on Twitter @rainbennett Follow on Instagram @rainbennett Follow on Facebook @thestorytellinglab Subscribe to the Youtube Channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Oct 6, 2025 · 21 min
Brand Stories Grab Attention, But Brand Narratives Build Movements
“A story is a singular arc of transformation. A narrative is the thread that ties all your stories together.” — Rain Bennett Is telling your brand story enough to build a loyal audience? In this episode, Rain Bennett breaks down the essential but often misunderstood difference between brand story and brand narrative. While most marketers focus on crafting engaging stories, Rain explains why the real secret to lasting brand trust lies in building a clear, consistent narrative thread that connects everything you do, from vision to product to marketing and sales. He uses powerful metaphors—from Hamilton to the Bible to Christmas lights—to help you see the structure of your storytelling system in a new way. You’ll also learn how the Chief Storytelling Officer is the guardian of that narrative, ensuring every department speaks in harmony. If you’ve ever felt like your content is scattered or your message is missing the mark, this episode will show you how to realign your storytelling, as well as your business. In this episode, you will learn to: Distinguish between brand story and brand narrative—and why both are essential Use narrative as a strategic compass for every department in your business Build trust and loyalty by aligning all stories under one cohesive thread Create a system (not just content) to sustain long-term brand impact Step into the Chief Storytelling Officer role and protect your narrative across platforms For more storytelling tips and tricks, Visit my website rainbennett.com or thestorytellinglabpodcast.com Follow me on TikTok @rainbennett.storyeller Follow me on Twitter @rainbennett Follow me on Instagram @rainbennett Follow me on Facebook @thestorytellinglab Subscribe to my Youtube Channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Sep 29, 2025 · 55 min
Stories are Spells: Marketing Lessons from a Magician with Jimi Gibson
“If you're not leaning into your own abracadabra, you're leaving your competitive advantage on the table.” says magician and marketer, Jimi Gibson. What if storytelling wasn’t just about clever hooks or flashy content—but instead about casting spells that transform how people feel and act? In this episode, Rain sits down with Jimi Gibson, a marketing strategist, TEDx speaker, and lifelong magician, to explore the deep parallels between magic and storytelling. Jimi shares how the neuroscience behind awe, attention, and trust can be reverse-engineered into any brand message or business interaction. He even performs a mind-blowing magic trick live on the show—proving firsthand how story structure mirrors a magic trick’s setup, curiosity, and climax. Whether you’re a founder, marketer, or content creator, this episode reveals how to tap into your own “abracadabra” and use it to spark genuine human connection. In this episode, you will learn to: See storytelling as a biological sequence of connection, curiosity, and closure Use the magician’s mindset to build anticipation and deliver transformation Apply the three-part structure of a magic trick to your content and copywriting Translate your personal quirks into brand authenticity and visibility Reframe timing as a tool for trust—not just attention For more storytelling tips and tricks, Visit my website rainbennett.com or thestorytellinglabpodcast.com Follow me on TikTok @rainbennett.storyeller Follow me on Twitter @rainbennett Follow me on Instagram @rainbennett Follow me on Facebook @thestorytellinglab Subscribe to my Youtube Channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Sep 22, 2025 · 49 min
Why Ownable Originality Is the Only Differentiator Left with Rob Meyers
“Ownable originality is about creating something uniquely you—something no one else can do, even if they tried.” — Rob Meyers What does it mean to create something that no one else can replicate? In this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain sits down with Rob Meyers, Managing Director of the creative studio Versus, to explore the concept of “ownable originality.” Rob shares the philosophy behind Versus—one that prioritizes culture over style, curiosity over templates, and meaning over metrics. The result? A studio that helps brands and creators make work that is not only beautiful, but deeply aligned with who they are. They discuss the evolving landscape of branded content, how more companies are creating their own original documentaries and films, and why traditional marketing models are no longer enough. Rob also explains how a founder-led, culture-first organization can scale without losing its soul—and how his team’s creative autonomy fuels both client work and original IP like films, books, and games. If you’re looking for a model that balances creativity, commerce, and community, this conversation will inspire you to reimagine your own storytelling strategy. In this episode, you will learn to: Define your brand through culture, not content volume or visual style Build a studio or agency that empowers creativity across departments Make the case for long-form storytelling and brand-backed originals Balance client work with internal creative projects to retain passion Lead with values and build trust as your most irreplaceable asset For more storytelling tips and tricks, Visit my website rainbennett.com, or Follow me on TikTok @rainbennett.storyeller Follow me on Twitter @rainbennett Follow me on Instagram @rainbennett Follow me on Facebook @thestorytellinglab Subscribe to my Youtube Channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Sep 15, 2025 · 57 min
Turning Emotions Into Images on the Page with Gary Smith
“If you write well, readers see your story differently—but they see it. It’s a visual medium, even in text.” — Gary Smith What happens when a fine art photographer becomes a novelist? In this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain Bennett sits down with Gary Smith, a visual artist turned fiction author, who brings a unique perspective to the craft: writing as seeing. Gary explains how his background in photography shapes the way he builds scenes, characters, and emotions on the page. His process begins with feeling, moves through visualization, and ends with carefully structured prose that reads like a cinematic experience. The conversation dives deep into discipline, creativity, character development, and how the act of storytelling can help both writer and reader reflect on life’s deeper questions. Gary shares how years of long-distance running and construction work taught him the habits and resilience that now power his writing routine. This episode is packed with wisdom for any writer who wants to create stories that resonate visually, emotionally, and philosophically. In this episode, you will learn to: Develop a storytelling mindset that starts with feeling and translates to visual scenes on the page Build a daily writing practice grounded in discipline, not motivation Use your life experience to create authentic, layered characters See your scenes cinematically and structure your chapters like movie frames Understand how self-publishing can be a fulfilling and strategic path for fiction writers For more storytelling tips and tricks, Visit my website rainbennett.com, or Follow me on TikTok @rainbennett.storyeller Follow me on Twitter @rainbennett Follow me on Instagram @rainbennett Follow me on Facebook @thestorytellinglab Subscribe to my Youtube Channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Sep 1, 2025 · 59 min
Why Connection Beats Consistency in Content Marketing with Renee Frojo
“Consistency is not about how often you post—it's about how consistently you show up in your message.” — Renee Frojo What if the key to growing your brand wasn’t pumping out more content, but going deeper with your message? In this episode of The Storytelling Lab, host Rain Bennett talks to Renee Frojo, a former journalist turned brand storyteller, about why clarity in your narrative beats consistency in your posting schedule. Renee breaks down how founders, solopreneurs, and startups can stop chasing viral trends and start building powerful stories that connect, convert, and scale. From her personal evolution in content marketing to the development of her storytelling retreats and workshops, Renee shares the systems she uses to help brands mine for meaningful stories and communicate with confidence. They discuss how storytelling enhances every part of your business—from sales calls to short-form social content—and why authenticity has its limits when it comes to brand building. If you're burned out by content creation and looking for a smarter, more resonant approach, this episode will reshape the way you think about storytelling in business. In this episode, you will learn to: Reframe consistency by focusing on a cohesive brand narrative rather than daily content output Identify emotionally resonant stories through Renee’s “story mining” framework Apply short-form storytelling techniques that stand out in crowded digital spaces Build trust and credibility with authentic vulnerability—without oversharing Design storytelling-driven case studies that simplify your value and deepen engagement For more storytelling tips and tricks, Visit my website rainbennett.com, or Follow me on TikTok @rainbennett.storyeller Follow me on Twitter @rainbennett Follow me on Instagram @rainbennett Follow me on Facebook @thestorytellinglab Subscribe to my Youtube Channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Aug 25, 2025 · 1 hr 3 min
Unlocking Emotional Insights with Story-Driven Data and AI with James Warren
“The more narrow we get with our prompts, the deeper and more profound the insights become.” — James Warren How do you uncover what your customers and employees really think—without another boring survey? In this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain speaks with James Warren, the founder of Share More Stories and creator of SEEQ, a storytelling and insights platform that blends the emotional power of stories with the analytical depth of AI. With a background in brand strategy and corporate leadership, James has pioneered a way to analyze written stories to reveal the underlying emotions, needs, and values of employees, customers, and communities. James shares how emotional mapping, sensory prompts, and narrative-based strategy help organizations tap into deeper truths that conventional analytics miss. Whether you’re a team leader, marketer, or founder, this episode offers powerful insight into how empathy and data can combine to unlock connection and impact at scale. In this episode, you will learn to: Uncover hidden truths by using storytelling as a data collection method for organizational insight Bridge the gap between emotional intelligence and analytics by using tech tools like AI and NLP without sacrificing humanity Design better prompts that help employees and customers recall deeper, more meaningful stories Strengthen both employee and customer experience (EX and CX) by listening to the emotions that drive behavior Use stories to create authentic culture alignment across leadership, brand, and community For more storytelling tips and tricks, Visit my website rainbennett.com, or Follow me on TikTok @rainbennett.storyeller Follow me on Twitter @rainbennett Follow me on Instagram @rainbennett Follow me on Facebook @thestorytellinglab Subscribe to my Youtube Channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Aug 19, 2025 · 18 min
The Rise of the Chief Storytelling Officer Role
“The CSO needs a seat at every department’s table—product, marketing, sales—because story threads through all of it.” — Rain Bennett Storytelling isn’t just about marketing anymore—it’s about leadership, alignment, and growth. In this special 200th episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain kicks off Season 14 by exploring the rise of a new essential role in business: the Chief Storytelling Officer. Whether you’re at a massive company like Nike or a scrappy startup, someone needs to take responsibility for narrative consistency across your entire organization. Rain shares insights from his interviews with real CSOs, including Nike’s Nelson Farris, and breaks down what this role looks like—why it matters, what it includes, and how to fill it (even if it’s you). From establishing your brand’s core “why” to ensuring cohesion across departments like product, marketing, and sales, the CSO is the linchpin of a modern brand. And as Rain writes his next book on the topic, he’s bringing listeners along for the journey. This episode sets the stage for a season focused on clarity, alignment, and the systems that make brand storytelling sustainable. In this episode, you will learn to: Understand the purpose and impact of the Chief Storytelling Officer as a leadership role, not just a creative one. Translate your brand’s purpose and vision into aligned stories across product, marketing, sales, and internal culture. Avoid misalignment and brand dilution by building a system of narrative cohesion from top to bottom. Identify the right person to fill the CSO role—whether that’s you or someone already doing the work informally. Create trust and connection with customers, teams, and investors through one clear, consistent story. For more storytelling tips and tricks, Visit my website rainbennett.com, or Follow me on TikTok @rainbennett.storyeller Follow me on Twitter @rainbennett Follow me on Instagram @rainbennett Follow me on Facebook @thestorytellinglab Subscribe to my Youtube Channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jul 14, 2025 · 21 min
Brandon Sanderson’s Simple Storytelling Model that Always Works
“Think about what your story promises and then ask yourself if you're actually moving toward it.” — Rain Bennett Tired of overcomplicated storytelling formulas? In this episode, Rain simplifies the process with a three-step model inspired by bestselling fantasy author Brandon Sanderson: Promise, Progress, Payoff. This framework is rooted in classical storytelling principles but designed for clarity and ease—whether you're telling a short story, a brand narrative, or a social media post. Rain breaks down what each step means, how to apply it in your work, and why it's so effective at keeping your audience engaged and emotionally invested. You’ll hear examples from The Lion King, Star Wars, and even YouTube tutorials to show how Promise, Progress, and Payoff show up across formats. If you're feeling overwhelmed by storytelling theory, this episode brings you back to what matters most: clear expectations, forward motion, and satisfying endings. In this episode, you will learn to: Use Promise, Progress, Payoff to guide any story you’re telling, no matter the format or length. Establish clear expectations early to draw your audience in and build trust. Keep your story on track by checking whether each moment is moving the narrative forward. Deliver a satisfying resolution that rewards the time and attention of your audience. Adapt this structure to content of any scale, from brand videos to epic novels. For more storytelling tips and tricks, Visit my website rainbennett.com, or Follow me on TikTok @rainbennett.storyeller Follow me on Twitter @rainbennett Follow me on Instagram @rainbennett Follow me on Facebook @thestorytellinglab Subscribe to my Youtube Channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jun 23, 2025 · 1 hr 8 min
How to Make Indie Filmmaking Sustainable with Erika Arlee and Kristi Ray
“If you get your timeline pushed back, think of it as another year to make the story better.” — Erika Arlee What does it really take to build a sustainable filmmaking career? In this episode, Rain sits down with Erika Arlee and Kristi Ray, the powerhouse duo behind Honey Head Films, to explore how they’ve grown a production company that balances passion, purpose, and profit. They share the story of their debut feature A Song for Imogene, and how they expanded it from a short film into a fully realized, distributed feature while staying true to their vision. Erika and Kristi break down how they built their brand around authentic Southern stories, women filmmakers, and a collaborative, values-driven approach. You’ll learn how they crowdfunded, built community buy-in, and turned obstacles into creative opportunities. If you’re dreaming of turning your passion for film into a business that lasts, this conversation is packed with hard-earned wisdom and inspiration. In this episode, you will learn to: Build an authentic film brand that aligns with your values and attracts the right collaborators. Create momentum around your project by involving your community early and often. Balance client work with creative projects so your passion stays alive while paying the bills. Approach collaboration strategically to find the partners who can help you grow. Treat your indie film like a startup by thinking about your audience and exit strategy from the start. Follow Honey Head Films on: Instagram Facebook Or visit their website HERE! *** A Song for Imogene is now on Amazon Prime! For more storytelling tips and tricks, Visit my website rainbennett.com, or Follow me on TikTok @rainbennett.storyeller Follow me on Twitter @rainbennett Follow me on Instagram @rainbennett Follow me on Facebook @thestorytellinglab Subscribe to my Youtube Channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Storytelling Lab

What Happens When YOU Become the Story with Elton Anderson, Jr.

The Real Reason Your Brand Feels Disconnected with Rain Bennett

The Billion-Person Mission That Started With Bankruptcy with David Meltzer

How a Local Utility Company Became a Storytelling Powerhouse with Krystal Phillips

Storytelling That Builds Trust Across Any Organization with Salvatore Manzi

How to Use Storytelling to Fuel a Content Engine with David Ebner

How Personal Stories Build Public Trust in Just 7 Minutes with Aaron Calafato

Building a Narrative Operating System that Scales Your Business

How the Soundtracks of Our Lives Shape who We Become with Patrick Hicks

Interviewing as a Tool for Trust, Healing, and Human Connection with Wil Weldon

The Ethics of Filming Real Love Triangles in Mistress Dispeller with Elizabeth Lo

Brand Stories Grab Attention, But Brand Narratives Build Movements

Stories are Spells: Marketing Lessons from a Magician with Jimi Gibson

Why Ownable Originality Is the Only Differentiator Left with Rob Meyers

Turning Emotions Into Images on the Page with Gary Smith

Why Connection Beats Consistency in Content Marketing with Renee Frojo

Unlocking Emotional Insights with Story-Driven Data and AI with James Warren

The Rise of the Chief Storytelling Officer Role

Brandon Sanderson’s Simple Storytelling Model that Always Works

How to Make Indie Filmmaking Sustainable with Erika Arlee and Kristi Ray