Here’s what to do
Be free
You stories should be told, not read. We love hearing storytellers connect when there is no PAGE between them and their thoughts. In this space, there is no judgement.
What do you want us to know?
What does the listener get out of your story? Why is what happens in the story important to you? If you can’t answer this, then think of a different story. A story without a point isn’t a story, and we want listeners to connect with your journey and success/win!
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Have a great first line that grabs attention and relays your message
No: “So I was thinking about climbing this mountain. But then I watched a little TV and made a snack and took a nap and my mom called and vented about her psoriasis then I did a little laundry (a whites load) (I lost another sock, darn it!) and then I thought about it again and decided I’d climb the mountain the next morning.”
Yes: “The mountain loomed before me. I had my hunting knife, some trail mix and snow boots. I had to make it to the little cabin and start a fire before sundown or freeze to death for sure.”
Know your story well enough so you can have fun!
Listening to you panic to think of the next memorized line isn’t fun for anyone. Make an outline, memorize the key points and play with the details. Enjoy yourself. Imagine you are simply sharing a life experience. This is not a deposition.
…and what not to do
Steer clear of ambiguous endings that wander
They kill a story! Your last line should be clear in your head before you start. Yes, bring the audience along with you as you contemplate what transpires in your story, but remember, you are driving the story, and must know the final destination. Keep your hands on the wheel!
No angry rants
Take up this anger issue with your therapist, or skip therapy and shape your anger into a story with some sort of resolution. (Stories = therapy!)
No fake accents (though we’ll laugh, it won’t get you on the podcast)
If your story doesn’t work in your own voice, or that of your people of origin, please consider another story. In our experience, imitating accents from another culture or race rarely works and often offends.