Storytelling Mastery Lecture Notes

Introduction

• Speaker's experience in storytelling coaching.
• Purpose: Compress knowledge into 20 lessons for effective storytelling.

Lesson 1: Avoid the S-word

• Avoid using the word "story"; it can create negative expectations.
• Use alternatives like "experience," "case," "example," or "event."

Lesson 2: Start Story Strong (SSS)

• Engage audience within the first 7 seconds.
• Use hooks: action, questions, or cliffhangers.

Lesson 3: Master One Story Structure

• Hero’s journey structure is not suitable for casual storytelling.
• Introduce CART structure: Context, Adversity, Resolution, Takeaway
  • Context: Set the scene.
  • Adversity: Introduce conflict.
  • Resolution: Show how the character deals with adversity.
  • Takeaway: Share what you learned.

Lesson 4: Show, Don’t Tell

• Use dialogue, actions, and metaphors to convey emotions.

Lesson 5: Build a Story Bank

• Record and categorize stories for future use.
• Key elements to capture: title, point, summary, use case, rating.

Lesson 6: Find Magic in the Mundane

• Focus on small, relatable stories.
• Use "Homework for Life" exercise to identify story-worthy moments.

Lesson 7: Share Tiny Stories

• Use everyday moments to share tiny stories in conversations.

Lesson 8: Build Anticipation

• Create suspense with story teasers and mini cliffhangers.

Lesson 9: Bring Your Characters to Life

• Use descriptions, quirks, and dreams/fears to develop characters.

Lesson 10: Make it Emotional

• Share thoughts and emotions to connect with the audience.

Lesson 11: Act Out Key Moments

• Use voice and body language to animate the story.

Lesson 12: Break Expectations

• Incorporate unexpected elements to keep the audience engaged.

Lesson 13: Turn Up the Heat

• Raise stakes by showing goals, impact on others, and time pressure.

Lesson 14: Show the Change

• Stories should reflect transformation or change in characters.

Lesson 15: Keep it Simple

• Use clear, simple language to ensure comprehension and connection.

Lesson 16: Uncover Forgotten Stories

• Use stream of consciousness journaling to recall past stories.

Lesson 17: Avoid Generic Language

• Use specific, descriptive words to enhance storytelling.

Lesson 18: Memorize SME (Start, Moments, End)

• Memorize the beginning, key moments, and the end of your story.

Lesson 19: Rehearse with a Tutor

• Practice storytelling with a language tutor for feedback.

Lesson 20: Commit to a Big Goal

• Set challenging goals to push your storytelling abilities.