In today’s episode, we’re talking about the 3 Gifts Storytellers give us.

The first gift storytellers offer the world is the gift of connection. I’ve said this many times before, but stories are the bridges that connect us to each other. When we hear a story, scientific research shows that our brain waves actually start to synchronize with those of the storyteller.

Not only do stories connect our brains, but they also shows us we’re not alone. When someone shares a story that we can relate to, our reaction is often, “Hey, me too!” And that reaction of seeing ourselves in someone else’s story creates empathy and understanding as well as an undeniable connection to another human being.

The second gift storytellers give us is related to the first – it’s the gift of community. So often, we walk through life believing we are the only person who has ever experienced a particular emotion or setback or defeat – when in fact, there are thousands if not millions of others who are walking a similar journey. When we share our story, we draw others to us, and that often results in the creation of a common bond or community.

The third gift storytellers give us is the gift of a more diverse and inclusive worldview. Imagine if all our stories were the same. How incredibly boring would that be? Instead, we have all followed different paths and experienced different moments during our lifetimes. We have encountered different humans and had different reactions to a wide range of events.

By sharing these stories with others, we contribute to the richness of the story fabric in our own communities and around the world.

When we intentionally seek out a variety of stories and recognize that one person’s story does not represent an entire culture’s story, then we can better appreciate the individuality and uniqueness of the humans who surround us every day.

Not only have these diverse voices taught me new ways of solving problems or thinking about global issues, but they’ve also made me realize my own position of privilege in the world. And it also reminds me of my responsibility to leave this world a bit better than I found it. 

Thanks so much for listening in today! On behalf of myself and my family, I hope you have a beautiful Christmas season.

Until next time, remember to own your story, follow your purpose and raise your voice. Because the world is waiting to hear your story.

EPISODE LINKS:

Let’s Work Together- https://www.powerherplatform.com/contact

PowerHER Platform Web Site - https://www.powerherplatform.com/

Story Fuel Newsletter - https://www.powerherplatform.com/subscribe

Power Your Platform Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/569102257443807

Every brand has its own story scent – and this story scent captures what that brand stands for, how it connects with its audience and the impression that lingers long after the first encounter or sales transaction has ended.

In essence a brand’s story scent helps prospective and existing customers catch a whiff of what your brand is all about – and helps them decide whether your product, program or service is something that’s worth pursuing.

 

There are three layers to every scent: the head note, the heart note and the base note. This 3-layered scent approach is how we’re going to examine the essence of your brand’s personality today.

 

Just like in the perfume industry, the 3 layers of the story scent play off of each other, but also come together to create a lingering and memorable experience. 

 

Head notes are like first impressions, so they’re really important. Question: what is the scent our brand is giving off within the first few minutes its initial encounter with a new customer? 

 

Heart notes are the second layer of your story scent. Think of the heart note as your purpose-driven mission and vision. At the core of your brand is your authentic, emotional connection with your audience. After all, it’s so important that we connect our audience with the purpose of what we do. When people understand not just WHAT we do, but WHY we do it, we create a more memorable impression. In other words, we stand out from the crowd.

 

The third and last layer of your story scent is the base note. For the purposes of our story scent today, I want you to think of your base note as the values-based foundation of your business. What are the core values that act as a basis for everything you do and how you do it? What’s the foundation of your brand? What is the base note that lasts long after the head note and the heart notes have faded away?

 

When we create a story scent that integrates a balance of all three notes, we’re able to create a long-lasting impact that adds value to the world and makes us exited to get up in the morning.

 

As one fragrance industry expert once said, “Perfume is personal magic. It is a first impression and a lasting recollection.”

 

So what’s that smell again? When we take into account all that we’ve talked about today, it sure smells like success to me!

EPISODE LINKS:

Let’s Work Together- https://www.powerherplatform.com/contact

PowerHER Platform Web Site - https://www.powerherplatform.com/

Story Fuel Newsletter - https://www.powerherplatform.com/subscribe

Power Your Platform Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/569102257443807

Today I want to uncover the power that comes when we explore our 5 story senses.

Because our personal and professional stories are far from one-dimensional – in fact, they are RIPE with juicy details we can hear, see, taste, touch and smell. And when we use all 5 of our senses to communicate our stories, we often get much better results.

I also want to invite you to join me for a 5-Day Story Senses Challenge inside our free Power Your Platform Facebook group. That’s where our online community of women speakers, leaders and entrepreneurs will be challenged to apply each of the concepts we’re talking about today to their own brand or business.

If you’d like to join us, simply click on the link below to join our free Power Your Platform Facebook Community today. We hope to see you there!

To recap today’s episode, here are the reasons why using our 5 senses in brand storytelling just makes sense:

1.      It creates a complete picture of our brand by engaging our sense of sight, sound, smell, touch and taste.

2.      It has the power to create a long-lasting, emotional connection with our audience.

3.      It paves the way to build new collaborations and partnerships with other brands.

4.      It helps us break outside our traditional ways of storytelling in order to reimagine our brand in an entirely new way.

5.      It ignites the imagination of our customers and allows them to think of us in new ways as well.

Thanks so much for listening in to today’s podcast episode on Exploring our 5 Story Senses.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please take a moment to like, rate and review the Power Your Platform Podcast on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. When you do, we’ll be able to reach even more women and help them get their own story heard.

Until next time, keep owning your story, following your purpose and raising your voice. Because the world is waiting to hear YOUR story.

EPISODE LINKS:

Let’s Work Together- https://www.powerherplatform.com/contact

PowerHER Platform Web Site - https://www.powerherplatform.com/

Story Fuel Newsletter - https://www.powerherplatform.com/subscribe

Power Your Platform Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/569102257443807

Today we’re discussing a topic that affects us all as business owners. And that’s how we can share our business story more effectively at networking events.

Now that in-person events are back in full force after taking a dive in 2020, and there are more opportunities than ever to get your brand in front of new audiences.

The question is, how do you maximize events—both in-person and virtual – to get your story in front of your ideal audience?

When it comes to sharing your business story at networking events, there are three key guidelines I like to keep in mind. And I’ll be honest, they’re not rocket science – but somehow, I see people making some pretty common mistakes that are interrupting the flow and the impact of their business story.

The first is to maximize your business storytelling by attending the RIGHT events for you and your business.

What I’m finding right now is that there are so many events to choose from, it can actually be a bit overwhelming for business owners. Most business networking events are generic, meaning there for ALL business owners. And that’s great at times, but I’m a fan of finding your niche. And that applies to networking events as well.

In order to zero in on the kind of events that will get your story in front of potential partners and collaborators and even customers and clients, it’s key to know WHO each event is targeting and what types of people will be showing up.

The second strategy I suggest for sharing your business story at networking events is to take on a more active role at the events you attend.

Even if you don’t host the event yourself, there are usually plenty of volunteer opportunities. As an event volunteer, you might welcome attendees, hand out resources, help attendees find their way around the venue, collect feedback, track requests or encourage participants to get involved with event activities.

More visible roles at a networking event might include being a keynote speaker, a break-out session leader, a workshop trainer, an MC or a panelist.

And don’t forget that if you can’t offer your time at an event, maybe you could offer a gift bag item or a door prize. Both are great ways to get in front of a networking event audience with your business story and make an impression.

A third strategy for maximizing your business storytelling at networking events is to LISTEN. 

The more we listen, the more we find points of intersection with the people around us. And the more we find these points of intersection – or common ground – the easier it is to relate to them with a story about our own experience or skillset.

When we see those openings, it’s up to us to speak up and provide examples or stories or insights that reveal who we serve, what we do and why.

By the way, I have two more great tips, but I’m saving those for our free Power Your Platform Facebook group where you’re welcome to join us after the show. Simply click on the link below to join now -- we hope to see you there!

EPISODE LINKS:

Let’s Work Together- https://www.powerherplatform.com/contact

PowerHER Platform Web Site - https://www.powerherplatform.com/

Story Fuel Newsletter - https://www.powerherplatform.com/subscribe

Power Your Platform Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/569102257443807

Eventbrite – www.eventbrite.ca  

Fresh Idea Collective - www.instagram.com/freshideacollective

Happy Halloween! In honour of this spooky holiday, we’re going to be digging into a grave discussion about one of the biggest fears on the planet. You know the one I’m talking about. It’s that old-age fear of getting up on stage and speaking in front of an audience. The truth is, though, that in order to amplify our message, we need to have the courage to speak out. And one of the tools you can use to do just that is my 6-point Fear Formula. And hey, I’ll let you in on a secret ahead of time, there’s nothing mystical or magical about it – but I do guarantee that if you take each step to heart and practice it over time, then you’re going to see results. If you’ve ever struggled with getting onstage and speaking in front of a room full of people, then you’re in good company. Even notable celebrities like Julia Roberts, Emma Watson, Nicole Kidman and Barbara Streisand have struggled with the fear of speaking in front of a crowd face-to-face. In fact, one of out every four people experiences some sort of anxiety when it comes to sharing their story onstage. So what’s at the heart of glossophobia or the fear of public speaking? And why does it affect so many of us? The truth is that the fear we experience really doesn’t have anything to do with the story we’re sharing. It has more to do what we believe about ourselves. Psychologists tell us that many people who suffer from the fear of public speaking believe they’re not qualified enough or well-practiced enough or talented enough to be onstage. At the heart of this fear is that we’ll somehow be rejected or ridiculed when we offer our point of view. The difference between getting up on a stage and having a private conversation with one or two people is the perception that we’re somehow being evaluated when we take our place at a podium. In other words, we could technically have the very same conversation with our best friend and share a thought or an idea. And that wouldn’t throw us off. But if we step onstage and make the same presentation to a room full of strangers – or even colleagues – our nerves get tied up into knots. Isn’t it fascinating the way the human brain works? So here are the six elements of my 6-point Fear Formula which I’m excited to share with you today. Because if you take them to heart, I’ve seen firsthand the difference this approach can make. Step #1 is to Love Your Audience.    Step #2 is to Name Your Fear. Step #3 is to Own your Awesome. Step #4 is to Embrace Your Weird. Step #5 is to Know Your Stuff. Step #6 is to Do it Scared. Listen in to the full episode for more ideas under each of the 6 points above! Until next time, keep owning your story, following your purpose and raising your voice. Because the world is waiting to hear your story. EPISODE LINKS: Let’s Work Together- https://www.powerherplatform.com/contact PowerHER Platform Web Site - https://www.powerherplatform.com/ Story Fuel Newsletter - https://www.powerherplatform.com/subscribe Power Your Platform Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/569102257443807

Raise your hand if you’re a Saturday Night Live fan? Anyone? If you are, you’ve likely seen the classic skit from 2013 with Amy Poehler and Maya Rudolph. The two play Betty and Jodi, two moms from the Bronx who dish on everything from the national news to their own families.

One of my favourite Saturday Night Live skits is the one where Betti and Jodi talk about the change in the weather. And of course, since they’re from the Bronx, so the talk quickly turns to Sweata Weatha, a phrase they say about 100 times before ethe skit ends. It’s pretty hilarious.

So Betty and Jodi are actually the inspiration for today’s podcast.

Because here we are – smack dab in the middle of sweata weatha. If you’re listening in from the future, it’s currently fall and there’s a bite the in air when we get up in the morning. So what typically happens is that we bundle up, right? After all, it’s cold out there!

But inevitably what happens in the region of the world where I live is hat by the afternoon, it’s actually warm again – sometimes even hot. And at that point, people start to peel off their layers -- assuming they were smart enough to layer up earlier in the day.

Because let’s be honest: if there’s one thing Canadians know about, it’s how to layer up for the weather.  

But for me, the idea of layering doesn’t stop with fall fashion. I actually find there’s a ton of valuable in applying the concept of layering to storytelling and brand building.

And I’ve even got a fun acronym that I use. Quite appropriately, it’s HEAT: H.E.A.T. And it’s all about moving your brand audience from cold contact to warm lead and finally to hot prospect for your paid product or service.

Let’s take a look at each stage of the HEAT process: 

#1 – Hook Your Audience

#2 – Earn Their Trust

#3 – Address their Obstacles

#4 – Tell Them How You Can Help.

As you move through these four phases, you’ll create a multi-layered brand story that guides your audience along a customer journey that transforms them from stranger to loyal fan.

And if that doesn't make you warm and fuzzy, I don't know what will... 

Until next time, keep owning your story, following your purpose and raising your voice – because the world is waiting to hear your story! 

EPISODE LINKS:

Let’s Work Together- https://www.powerherplatform.com/contact

PowerHER Platform Web Site - https://www.powerherplatform.com/

Story Fuel Newsletter - https://www.powerherplatform.com/subscribe

Power Your Platform Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/569102257443807

SNL Skit: Sweata Weatha - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_2PuhzO_whY

Today we’re concluding our 6-part series on Telling Your Story Your Way. And to do so, we’re setting out to understand the Anarchist Storyteller which is the sixth story sister archetype.

So what’s the story behind the Anarchist? We’ll find out today, plus, we’ll learn which storytelling strategies and techniques work best for their unique brand personality.

There’s a famous quote that “well-behaved women rarely make history” And there’s a lot of truth to that.

 Just think of the anarchist storytellers of our time – Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Greta Thunberg and Gloria Steinam to name just a few.

What these three women have in common is not only their tenacity and fierce commitment to their cause, but the unwillingness to back down, even when everyone else around them goes home.

The Anarchist Storyteller is the Rebellious Storyteller, someone who isn’t afraid to disrupt the status quo and start a revolution.

Here are 7 points to keep in mind if you’re looking to become a more effective Anarchist Storyteller:

1.     Storytelling forms that have proven useful for many anarchists include protests, demonstrations, sit-ins, walk-outs, speeches and other forms of non-violent public confrontation.

2.  Realize that your audience not only needs to know the why behind your story, but the why now. So be sure to create a sense of urgency with your messaging.

3.     Always keep your messaging clear and simple to avoid confusion and distraction.

4.     Extend the shelf life of your message by livestreaming protest events and uploading video, audio and photography to platforms like YouTube, SnapChat, TikTok or Instagram reels.

5.     Issue a simple media advisory or press release to invite reporters, bloggers, vloggers and others to your events an announcements.

6.     Designate a spokesperson for your protest event.

7.      Use visual elements at your events, such as placards, t-shirts, emblems, mascots, dramatic performances and influencers or well-known figures.

 

Thanks so much for tuning in to this final episode of our 6-Part series on Telling Your Story Your Way. If you’re wondering which of the 6 Story Sister Archetypes best fits your brand voice and personality, click below to take our 60-second quiz today!

EPISODE LINKS:

Let’s Work Together- https://www.powerherplatform.com/contact

PowerHER Platform Web Site - https://www.powerherplatform.com/

Story Fuel Newsletter - https://www.powerherplatform.com/subscribe

Power Your Platform Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/569102257443807

60-Second Storytelling Archetype Quiz - https://www.powerherplatform.com/quiz

In today’s episode, we’re going to take a look at the fifth Story Sister Archetype which is The Activist.

 

Like the Advocate, which we covered last week, the Activist belongs to the Crusader category of storytellers. And as we’ll hear today, getting people to activate their beliefs and commit to crusading for a particular cause is at the heart of the Activist’s mission.

 

If you identify as an Activist Storyteller, then stay tuned, because we’re about to dive into some of the tools and techniques that are effective when it comes to bringing out the best in YOUR brand storytelling.

 

Here’s a recap of today’s content that’s designed to help Activist Storytellers tell their story their way:

 

1.     Know your audience (what makes them tick and the language they use to describe the issues that affect them the most).

2.    Create a narrative, not just a story, and remember to ask “What’s In it for Them?”

3.     Always include a call to action, and when you do, keep it simple, relatable and easy to follow.

 

Thanks so much for tuning in to Part 5 of our 6-Part series on Telling Your Story Your Way. If you’re wondering which of the 6 Story Sister Archetypes best fits your brand voice and personality, take our 60-second quiz by clicking om the link below.

 

Until next time, keep owning your story, following your purpose and raising your voice. Because the world is waiting to hear YOUR story.

EPISODE LINKS:

Let’s Work Together- https://www.powerherplatform.com/contact

PowerHER Platform Web Site - https://www.powerherplatform.com/

Story Fuel Newsletter - https://www.powerherplatform.com/subscribe

Power Your Platform Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/569102257443807

60-Second Storytelling Archetype Quiz - https://www.powerherplatform.com/quiz

Episode 111: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5Eyd3S3v9WOZZL0zzZDH0P

Episode 118: https://open.spotify.com/episode/73GOp79QvdLimrvVc9tXBy

In Episode 144 of the Power Your Platform Podcast, we're continuing our 6-part series on Telling Your Story Your Way. And today the spotlight is on the Adovcate Storyteller! Here are 6 key points we cover in today's episode to help Advocates tell their story their way: 1. Keep your messaging simple. One way to do this is to put a human face on a complex issue so people can grasp the human connection. 2. Take a grassroots approach to reaching your audience, including storytelling tools like direct mail campaigns, email newsletters and targeted social media ads. 3. Personalize your messaging wherever possible to cut through the clutter and get your audience's attention. 4. Harness the power of the human voice, whether through direct messaging, podcasting or YouTube channels. 5. Consider approaching traditional media outlets to help you share your message. 6. Engage your audience in a conversation to help them become a part of the solution. Not sure which of the 6 Story Sister Archetypes best fits your brand personality? Click on the link below to find out today! EPISODE LINKS: Let’s Work Together- https://www.powerherplatform.com/contact PowerHER Platform Web Site - https://www.powerherplatform.com/ Story Fuel Newsletter - https://www.powerherplatform.com/subscribe Power Your Platform Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/569102257443807 60-Second Storytelling Archetype Quiz - https://www.powerherplatform.com/quiz

Welcome to Part 3 of our 6-part series called Tell Your Story Your Way. The purpose of this series is to help you identify which of the 6 Story Sister Archetypes best fits your brand voice and personality.

In today’s episode, we’re going to take a closer look at the third Story Sister Archetype which is The Ambassador, and determine which brand storytelling strategies and techniques are ideally suited to that archetype’s unique personality.

Here are the 7 key points from today's episode:

1.     Look for live events being hosted in your area where you have the opportunity to share your expertise and your story – and remember, if you can’t find one, there’s always the option to create your own!

 

2.     Consider the size of the events you choose to attend –and then decide how you will engage with the audience once you get there.

 

3.     When planning your own event, strategize about the name, the theme and the type of audience you want to gather to make sure all three align with your main brand mission.

 

4.     Consider attending online events to connect with potential clients and customers outside your own community or region.

 

5.     Share the spotlight by profiling members of your audience on your purpose-driven platform.

 

6.     Approach potential partners and collaborators whose mission and values dovetail with your own.

 

7.     Make sure there’s a fair value exchange when entering into a new partnership. When you do, you’ll help ensure that everyone’s voice is valued.

 

Thanks so much for tuning in to Part 3 of our 6-Part series on Telling Your Story Your Way. If you’re wondering which of the 6 Story Sister Archetypes best fits your brand voice and personality, take our 60-second quiz by clicking on the link below.

Until next time, keep owning your story, following your purpose and raising your voice. Because the world is waiting to hear YOUR story.

EPISODE LINKS:

Let’s Work Together- ⁠https://www.powerherplatform.com/contact⁠

PowerHER Platform Web Site - ⁠https://www.powerherplatform.com/⁠

Story Fuel Newsletter - ⁠https://www.powerherplatform.com/subscribe⁠

Power Your Platform Facebook Group - ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/569102257443807⁠

60-Second Storytelling Archetype Quiz - ⁠https://www.powerherplatform.com/quiz⁠

This month we’re diving into a brand new series called Tell Your Story Your Way. And it’s all about recognizing your unique Story Sister Archetype and playing to your strengths when it comes to your own brand storytelling.

 

This week, we’re going to be taking a closer look at the second Story Sister Archetype which is The Architect. In this episode, we’ll uncovering the Architect’s unique superpowers – along with her kryptonite – as it relates to telling the story behind the brand or business she’s building.

 

As we discussed back in Episode 131, Architects are analytical thinkers who use their ability to see problems through a lens of logic. They are naturally curious about the world around them and excellent problem solvers. They also tend to thrive in highly structured environments.

If you identify as an Architect Storyteller then here’s what you need to know: there’s a way to tell your brand or business story that’s uniquely you, and that capitalizes on your innate strengths and skills.

One way to do this is to recognize that as an Architect Storyteller, you need structure – and not only that, you tend to create stories using structure.

This is why we see so many Architects using step-by-step action plans, frameworks and formulas as a part of their storytelling style. Not only does this logical flow to storytelling make the Architect feel right at home, it also helps her create clarity in her business, both for her clients and for herself.

Architects crave structure and stability, so it’s no wonder that their superpower is organization and consistency.

So where do Architects tend to go wrong when it comes to storytelling? In other words, what’s their kryptonite?

In my experience, Architects are so often attached to their plan that they don’t release it, even when a great opportunity comes up. Now, I’m not a fan of getting distracted by a lot of pointless side projects – but I am an advocate of paying attention to the conversations that are happening all around us, and asking if there are synergies there that we could take advantage of.

Structure and stability are deeply valued by Architects, so I’d suggest platforms like a regular newsletter or blog, LinkedIn articles, and even scripted podcasts. Since Architects are often fans of predictability, having a template they follow to communicate with their audience on a regular basis can also be a bonus.

I encourage you to continue telling your story your way, while also exploring a few new paths from time to time.

Because your story is the one element of your business that is unique from all others on the planet. No one can tell your story exactly the same way as you can. And that’s why its so worth telling.

EPISODE LINKS:

Let’s Work Together- https://www.powerherplatform.com/contact

PowerHER Platform Web Site - https://www.powerherplatform.com/

Story Fuel Newsletter - https://www.powerherplatform.com/subscribe

Power Your Platform Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/569102257443807

60-Second Storytelling Archetype Quiz - https://www.powerherplatform.com/quiz

Episode 131 - https://open.spotify.com/episode/2s00O0KbySqWh95M2SpPCS

This week, I’m launching a new series called Tell Your Story Your Way. And the purpose of this series is to help you identify which of the 6 Story Sister Archetypes best fits your brand voice and personality.

In today’s episode, we’re going to take a closer look at the first Story Sister Archetype which is The Artist, and determine which brand storytelling strategies and techniques are ideally suited to that archetype’s unique personality.

And keep in mind that even if you don’t identify with the Artist archetype, having an understanding of the way the Artist operates and how she thinks can help you reach this type of audience member with your own brand or business. So it’s definitely worth sticking around!

Here are the 6 key points from toady’s episode which is designed to help Artists tell their story their way:

1. Embrace unscripted storytelling since it will allow you to share your journey in the moment, rather than in a more structured way.

2. Consider using storytelling platforms that allow for the free flow of ideas and messaging, including podcasts, YouTube channels, photography and microblogging when reaching out to your core audience.

3. Joyfully pursue a number of side projects but be mindful of your BIG goals for the week or month and keep your eye on the prize.

4. Explore the idea of attending an event or holding one of your one to connect with your supporters.

5. Don’t follow the pack – get creative about where and when you meet your audience.

6. Creativity is your superpower, but to move your business forward, you’re going to need message clarity and consistency over time.

Thanks so much for tuning in to Part 1 of our 6-Part series on Telling Your Story Your Way. If you’re wondering which of the 6 Story Sister Archetypes best fits your brand voice and personality, take our 60-second quiz by clicking on the link below.

Until next time, keep owning your story, following your purpose and raising your voice. Because the world is waiting to hear YOUR story.

EPISODE LINKS:

Let’s Work Together- https://www.powerherplatform.com/contact

PowerHER Platform Web Site - https://www.powerherplatform.com/

Story Fuel Newsletter - https://www.powerherplatform.com/subscribe

Power Your Platform Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/569102257443807

60-Second Storytelling Archetype Quiz - https://www.powerherplatform.com/quiz

Welcome back to a fresh, new season of the Power Your Platform Podcast! Today I’m launching a new, six-part series called “Tell your Story Your Way”. And in this episode, I’ll explain the big AHA moment I had last season that led to this 6-part series.

The aha moment that occurred to me last season actually came when I was working with one of my clients who definitely did not share the same storytelling archetype as me. And the way I was encouraging her to tell her story was like fitting a square peg into a round hole. And at first, I thought she just wasn’t ready to tell her story. And then the lightbulb came on – she WAS ready to tell her story, just not in the same way as I was telling  my story.

So that realization led me to think about the different types of Story Sister Archetypes. Because each of us is mostly likely one of the six.

In case you missed Episode 131, I'm including a link below. This is the episode where I introduced the Six Story Sister Archetypes which include: the Artist, the Architect, the Ambassador, the Advocate, the Activist and the Anarchist.

Each of these story sister archetypes enjoys telling their story a different way.

Over the next six weeks, I’m going to dedicate one full episode to one of the six story sister archetypes. I’m hoping this focused approach will help us all to get clear on the type of storyteller we are individually and how we can best create a storytelling strategy that dovetails with our preferred communication style.

And remember, we can be a combination of more than one archetype, but the key is to recognize what lights you up when it comes to brand storytelling and how to create a marketing strategy that’s cheerful – not choreful – which is I word I just made up, but it seems to fit the situation. Because if you’re really going to get the most out of your marketing strategy, you’ve got to be excited about it. There’s just no way this is going to work on autopilot.

As a brand builder or business owner you have GOT to be enthusiastic about yoru own story. After all, that’s what will sell your product or service.

Someone told me recently that sales is simple the transfer of enthusiasm. And I really believe that.

So if enthusiasm is a pre-requisite for sales, then I think it’s a good idea that we embrace our own story and start telling it in a way that resonates with our ideal audience and gets them excited about what we have to offer.  

I can’t wait to dive in further starting next week, but for now, be sure to take our 60-second Storytelling Archetype quiz to find out which story Sister Archetype best fits YOUR personality (link below).

EPISODE LINKS:

Let’s Work Together- https://www.powerherplatform.com/contact

PowerHER Platform Web Site - https://www.powerherplatform.com/

Story Fuel Newsletter - https://www.powerherplatform.com/subscribe

Power Your Platform Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/569102257443807

The 6 Story Sister Archetypes Episode - https://open.spotify.com/episode/2s00O0KbySqWh95M2SpPCS

60-Second Storytelling Archetype Quiz - https://www.powerherplatform.com/quiz

Today’s Summer Recast Series is a replay for our Six Story Archetypes episode which was released earlier this year.

This episode talks about the fact that one of the keys to creating a strong brand is knowing what makes your brand voice stand out from the crowd. And one of the ways you can do this is by understanding your Story Sister Archetype.

Don’t forget to check out our NEW Story Sister Archetype Quiz by clicking on the episode links below.

This new quiz will help you determine which Story Sister Archetype you fit: the Artist, the Architect, the Ambassador, the Advocate, the Activist or the Anarchist.

And be sure to stay tuned NEXT week for the kick-off of Season 3 of the Power Your Platform Podcast. That’s when I’ll be building on what you hear in today’s episode, to really get to the heart of what it means to unlock the power of YOUR brand voice.

EPISODE LINKS:

Let’s Work Together- https://www.powerherplatform.com/contact

PowerHER Platform Web Site - https://www.powerherplatform.com/

Story Fuel Newsletter - https://www.powerherplatform.com/subscribe

Power Your Platform Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/569102257443807

60-Second Storytelling Archetype Quiz - https://www.powerherplatform.com/quiz

In today’s episode, I want to dive a bit deeper into a topic I’ve touched on many times before, but haven’t fully explored in this podcast until now. And that’s the idea of owning your story. Because at the heart of building a purpose-driven platform is this powerful idea. And today, we’re going to unpack what it means to “own our story” and what that looks like in practical terms. Brene Brown put it this way. She said, “You either walk inside your story and own it or you stand outside your story and hustle for your worthiness.” So today, I want to focus on what it means to OWN our story, and I want to break it down into three parts. Those three parts include: owning your privilege, owning your pain and owning your purpose. So let’s start with the idea of owning our privilege. For this part of your story journey, I want to challenge you to sit down and write out as many privileges as you can think of that you now have or have grown up with. Because really, privileges are kind of like invisible ink. They’re completely unnoticeable until we shine a light on them and really take the time to reflect. And the reason why it’s so important to own our privilege is that it makes us more empathetic storytellers. It prompts us to acknowledge the fact that members of our audience may not enjoy all of the privileges we have in life. And when we own our privilege, we can better recognize the systems of inequality in our culture, and work towards levelling the playing field for those around us. The second part of owning our story is about owning our pain. And we all have pain, don’t we? It’s a part of every human’s story, but often it’s the part we try to forget. Pain can come in many forms. It can be emotional pain, physical pain, spiritual pain, social pain or psychological pain. None of us make it through this life unscathed, that’s just a fact. But there’s power in pain when we own it as a part of our story.  When we own our pain and recognize the power of sharing our scars with others, it can be transformative. Because others see the humanity in us and we recognize the humanity in others. And this recognition connects us to each other. And that’s what storytelling is all about, whether on a personal or a professional level. It’s about finding ways to build bridges over the spaces that divide us so we feel more connected, and more whole. And that leads to the third and final step which is owning our purpose. Because without owning our privilege and owning our pain, we can’t really own our purpose. And I think this is why so many of us struggle to find our purpose in the first place. After all, our purpose often stems directly from those two parts of our identity: our privilege and our pain. The problem is that most of us don’t take the time to reflect on our privilege and pain long enough to recognize the purpose that lies inside them. So let me ask you this: what are the privileges you’ve enjoyed in your life? What about the pain? And when you think about it, how do the two work together to fuel your purpose? This is what’s meant by owning our story. It’s about owning our privilege, owning our pain and owning our purpose. Only then will we be truly positioned to make real impact in the world. EPISODE LINKS: Power Your Platform Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/569102257443807 PowerHER Platform Web Site - https://www.powerherplatform.com/ Subscribe to our Story Fuel Newsletter - https://www.powerherplatform.com/subscribe

In today’s episode, we’re diving into the idea of Unpacking Your Signature Stories and I can’t wait to share with you the 3 reasons signature stories are so powerful and how you can begin unpacking yours.

I think we can agree we all of us have stories that we carry with us through life. And these stories have the potential  to connect us to each other and make a huge impact.

The problem is most of us don’t even know what our stories are. We sit on them, just as though we were sitting on a stack of old, dusty suitcases. We don’t peek inside or unpack what could be useful to us or to the other people in our lives.

But remember, life’s a journey and as travelers we’re not meant to stay in one place forever. Those suitcases we’re sitting on? What’s inside is meant to equip us for what comes next, providing us with the tools and wisdom that will guide us through the next challenge we face.

So what exactly is a signature story? And why do we need them when building a story brand?

Your signature story is the message you’re best known for. Ideally it stems from your personal experience, expertise and insights. Not only should your signature story have a personal connection, however, but it should also have a universal application.

So why are signature stories so powerful?

First, they clarify why you do what you do. When we share our origin story, people understand what motivates us.

Secondly, signature stories can also reveal the values behind the brand. This helps customers align with brands they can relate to on an emotional and moral level.

Signature stories can also shape company culture. When you share the why behind your brand and what the values are that drive your business, then your employees will better understand how they should be operating day-to-day.

If you’re interested in starting to unpack your own signature story, click on the link below. I’d love to connect!

EPISODE LINKS:

Let’s Work Together- https://www.powerherplatform.com/contact

PowerHER Platform Web Site - https://www.powerherplatform.com/

Story Fuel Newsletter - https://www.powerherplatform.com/subscribe

Power Your Platform Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/569102257443807

Today we’re exploring the topic of story stretching and how you can avoid getting stuck when comes to your own creative process. Have you ever suffered from a case of BPS? Blank Page Syndrome is a condition that can slow your progress and leave you feeling frustrated and alone. The truth is, there is a LOT of writing that’s involved when it comes to building a brand. Besides coming up with social media content and your ideal customer profile, there’s also the web site copy and emails and newsletters, not to mention your core platform content for your blog, podcast or YouTube channel. But slow down for a moment – and let’s take a breath. Because you can do this. What it comes down to is remaining mentally confident and flexible so we can respond to the needs of our business quickly and efficiently, with plenty of creativity to spare. Throughout my years as a writer, I’ve adopted three tried-and-proven story stretches to help me stay flexible when it comes to new content creation, while also giving me a boost of confidence when it’s needed. 1 – Explore new paths. Get out of your rut and go for a walk or take a drive! Movement creates momentum… 2 – Get back to play. Sometimes playing for the simple sake of playing is all that’s required sometimes. And when we lose ourselves in play, it helps unlock that creative part inside of us that so often gets lost as we become adults. 3 – Embrace new collaborations. Collaboration is such a powerful tool, because it helps us get out of our own heads and see things from  a brand new perspective. I particularly enjoy working with women who don’t come from exactly the same type of background as me. As a creator and marketer, I pursue conversations with people in different types of fields, to see how they’re solving challenges within their own industry. When I do, I’m always introduced to new ways of solving problems, and it all helps me to stretch my own story muscle by causing me to look at the world through new eyes.   I hope these simple tips help you stretch your creative story muscle and remind you of all of the amazing gifts, talents and abilities you have inside you. Let’s make Blank Page Syndrome a thing of the past. Good-bye writer’s block – hello, creativity! EPISODE LINKS: Let’s Work Together- https://www.powerherplatform.com/contact PowerHER Platform Web Site - https://www.powerherplatform.com/ Story Fuel Newsletter - https://www.powerherplatform.com/subscribe Power Your Platform Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/569102257443807

In this episode we're exploring the ways you can repurpose your platform by squeezing all the goodness out of each segment so you’re able to add delicious flavour to everything that you do. As I’ve said before on this podcast, I believe one of the keys to consistent communication with your audience is a purpose-driven platform. And I also believe there are 3 main platforms we should consider as a free and shareable public space to share our long-term content. Those three platforms are podcasts, blogs and YouTube channels. Remember, you don’t need all three platforms. You really only need to focus on one. Once you’ve decided on which platform will be your focus, that platform becomes the source of all the content you need for your visibility tools (social media, newsletter, etc.). The cool thing about podcasts, blogs and YouTube channels is that they’re already neatly divided into segments. For podcasts and YouTube channels those segments are called episodes and for blogs those segments are called posts. What’s really useful about thinking about your platform in segments is that it provides multiple opportunities per episode or post to repurpose the content for your visibility tools. The beauty of repurposing is that you’re taking the same original content that you produce one time, and you’re using it over and over for maximum reach and effect. And the way you do that is by finding the little bits and pieces you can peel away from your main segment and scattering those throughout your social media content to get the most out of your time and streamline your day.   Thanks so much for listening in to today podcast episode! If you enjoyed it, then be sure to rate and review Power Your Platform on Apple Podcasts and Spotify – and thanks to every one of you who have been sharing this podcast with your friends and colleagues. I truly appreciate it. Until next time, keep owning your story, following your purpose and raising your voice – because the world is waiting to hear your story!  EPISODE LINKS: Let’s Work Together- https://www.powerherplatform.com/contact PowerHER Platform Web Site - https://www.powerherplatform.com/ Story Fuel Newsletter - https://www.powerherplatform.com/subscribe Power Your Platform Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/569102257443807 Story Sister Archetypes Episode - https://tinyurl.com/mr28sjnc

In today’s episode, we’re talking about traction. Because when it comes right down to it, without traction, we won’t be able to engage our audience over the long-term and really help them get results.

So what is traction? Traction is what happens when you get a good grip on something and you’re able to hold onto it securely. Kind of like when you’re driving down the road on a snowy day and you’ve got snow tires on your car. Rather than slipping and sliding all over the place, the snow tires help you get a grip – or traction – on the road so you stay the course and get to your destination.

How can you create a story brand that grips your audience’s attention and HOLDS it long enough for them to understand your message and take action?

This is one of the biggest challenges companies face since there are so many competing messages in the marketplace today.

In this episode, we’ll explore 4 simple ways to get more story traction:

1 - Know your audience. 2 - Optimize your language. 3 - Start a conversation. 4 - Build a community.

Thanks so much for listening in today! I hope you found at least one aha moment in today’s episode, and hey, if you did, I’d love to hear from you! Click below to connect. EPISODE LINKS:

Let’s Work Together- https://www.powerherplatform.com/contact PowerHER Platform Web Site - https://www.powerherplatform.com/ Story Fuel Newsletter - https://www.powerherplatform.com/subscribe Power Your Platform Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/569102257443807

The 6 Story Sister Archetypes - https://open.spotify.com/episode/2s00O0KbySqWh95M2SpPCS

In today’s episode, I’m sharing with you a replay of a workshop I hosted a few weeks ago about “Building Your Story Pillars.”

Now the workshop was an hour long so I’m not actually going to replay the entire workshop. But I am going to share with you the 5 story pillars that we discussed during that workshop, and I hope that as you listen in, you’ll jot down a few notes that relate to your own brand or business.

Because as business builders, it’s important that we’re aware of what our story pillars are and the important role they play in branding. The good news is that we all have a story to tell, and our audience is waiting to hear it.

And as you listen, if you feel like you could benefit from some extra support as you build your own story pillars, don’t hesitate to reach out to me by clicking on the connect link below. I’d love to hear from you and help coach you as you create a brand that creates true impact.

To recap, here are the five key story pillars we discuiss in this episode:

1.  Your Personal Story 2.  Your Purpose Story

3. Your People Story

4. Your Product Story

5. Your Promise Story

Thanks so much for listening in to today’s podcast episode. If you’re looking for a community of women spekaers, leaders and entreprneeurs who are building their own brands and making an impact in the world, be sure to join us inside our FREE Power Your Platform Facebook community. You can click below to join today!

Until next time, keep owning yoru story, following yoru purpose and raising your voice. Because the world is waiting to hear YOUR story!

  EPISODE LINKS:

Let’s Work Together- https://www.powerherplatform.com/contact

PowerHER Platform Web Site - https://www.powerherplatform.com/

Story Fuel Newsletter - https://www.powerherplatform.com/subscribe

Power Your Platform Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/569102257443807