Once Upon a Time (A Leadership Skill)

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DO SCHOOL DIFFERENT

Once Upon a Time (A Leadership Skill)

A few years ago, I got a private DM on LinkedIn.

Just: “Hey, you look like fun — want to connect?”

At first I thought it was spam, or a “join my webinar” pitch.

And normally I’d scroll right past that sort of thing.

But this time I didn’t.

And that one random message turned into a cherished, quirky series of monthly meetings on Zoom with a complete stranger, for almost two years.

We traded coaching tips (we were both new to the field), swapped stories about our families, and shared professional wins and fails.

It was always professional, but also surprisingly personal.

And I was surprised at how much I looked forward to those calls.

Reflecting back on that experience, I’ve realised that each time I met with this new friend, I was sharing a little bit about myself and telling my story.

Thinking back on that relationship, I realise now that we were using the power of storytelling for connection, for teaching, and for growth.

As leaders, parents, and people, every time we tell a story we’re painting a picture of ourselves. We’re choosing which details to highlight, which lessons to share, and sometimes even giving ourselves permission to reinvent who we are.

That random LinkedIn message taught me something crucial: storytelling isn't just entertainment. It's how we build trust, influence minds, and create lasting connections.

And here's the best part — storytelling is a skill you can master.

Just like I stumbled into monthly storytelling sessions that transformed a stranger into a trusted friend, you can intentionally use stories to lead, inspire, and connect.

So here's my challenge: share one story this week with a colleague, student, or team member.

And if you want to learn how to tell stories that build influence, trust, and lasting impact, check out the details of our Storytelling Program — The Influence Engine.

It's the system for turning everyday moments into magnetic stories that move people to action. We got started this week. You can catch the replay from the first session and join our next live call this Thursday.

TIP OF THE WEEK

Anchor It In Emotion

Stories are great for bedtime.

And they’re also a powerful tool in a leader’s toolkit.

Whether you’re opening a staff meeting or connecting with a parent, a well-told story can open hearts, change minds, and build trust.

Here are a few ways to sharpen your storytelling this week:

• Start with the spark: Skip the long setup and jump straight to the moment something changed — the surprise, the conflict, or the “aha”.

• Keep it human: Try sharing an unpolished story. Vulnerability builds credibility.

• Anchor it in emotion. Facts inform, but feelings move people. Before you speak, ask: What do I want them to feel?

• Update your old stories. Revisit a “greatest hits” story you’ve told before and ask yourself what new meaning it holds now.

• End with purpose. Every story teaches something. Make the takeaway clear, even if you don’t spell it out.

Storytelling is how leaders influence, teach, and learn — often all at once.

When you tell your story with intention, you’re shaping culture.

Facts inform. Stories inspire.

SUNDAY VIBES