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“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:
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
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“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:
Follow Honey Head Films on:
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
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“We make our media the same way we make our barbecue, and that’s low and slow.” — Shawn Walchef
How do you run a business and still find time to create content?
In this episode, Rain sits down with Shawn Walchef, owner of Cali BBQ and founder of Cali BBQ Media, to explore how storytelling and content creation aren’t distractions—they’re growth engines. Shawn shares how he went from struggling restaurateur to building a thriving media company on top of his barbecue brand, and why every business today needs to think like a media company.
They break down how to overcome the fear of looking foolish, why quantity and speed matter more than perfection, and how to turn your phone into your most valuable tool.
Shawn also gives practical tips on stacking content, building a team, and staying consistent without burning out. If you’ve ever wondered how to juggle business and content—or whether it’s worth the effort—this episode will change your mindset.
In this episode, you will learn to:
Follow Shawn on:
Or visit his website HERE!
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
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“Your story comes from your heart, and then you structure it to deliver it in the best way.” — Rain Bennett
Ever hear the term "story beat" and wonder what it really means?
In this episode, Rain breaks down the mysterious middle ground between scenes and acts—the story beat. And he uses Blake Snyder’s popular (and sometimes polarizing) Save the Cat beat sheet to do it.
You’ll get a clear explanation of what a beat is, how the 15-beat structure works, and why it's helped thousands of storytellers—from screenwriters to brand strategists—craft more compelling narratives.
Rain walks you through the full beat sheet, explains how it maps to The Lion King, and shares tips on how to use this structure for your own business, brand, or film storytelling. If you’ve been overwhelmed by big frameworks, this episode will give you a clear, practical tool to work with.
In this episode, you will learn to:
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“People want to feel heard. If you don’t create a collaborative space, they won’t come back.” — Stewart Cohen
How do you build a long, successful creative career when you are the brand?
In this episode, Rain sits down with director and visual storyteller Stewart Cohen to explore the balance between artistry and entrepreneurship. With decades of experience in commercial production, photography, and branded storytelling, Stewart has mastered the dance of creating great work while sustaining strong client relationships—and still making time for passion projects.
They discuss how personal work often leads to professional opportunities, the importance of trust and collaboration, and how to get authentic performances from real people.
Stewart shares how his curiosity drives his creativity, why connection is the true metric for success, and why making stuff just for fun might be the smartest business decision you ever make.
If you're a storyteller trying to make it in a noisy world, this episode is packed with hard-earned wisdom.
In this episode, you will learn to:
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“The stories we take on as children are often the ones we spend the rest of our lives trying to rewrite.” — John Bucher
What if the story you’re living isn’t the one you were meant to live?
In this episode, Rain sits down with John Bucher, President of the Joseph Campbell Foundation, to explore how the ancient patterns of mythology still shape our modern lives. Together, they dive deep into Joseph Campbell’s enduring influence on storytelling—from Star Wars to brand narratives—and how we can harness those same mythic structures to better understand our own identities and destinies.
John shares his personal journey from a small Texas town to becoming a global thought leader in mythology, and how a series of “accidents” and calls to adventure helped him rewrite his life’s story. They also discuss how stories evolve, how to avoid getting stuck in the romanticized “Hollywood version” of your life, and why lived experience will always outshine AI-generated narratives.
This is a powerful, heartfelt conversation about the stories we inherit, the ones we believe, and the ones we choose to write next.
In this episode, you will learn to:
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“You don’t just present a pitch—you present a world your audience wants to live in.” — Rain Bennett
What do the Gettysburg Address, I Have a Dream, and your next sales pitch have in common?
They all follow a specific structure—one that Nancy Duarte calls the Sparkline.
In this solo episode, Rain breaks down how this framework works, why it resonates so deeply, and how you can use it to capture attention, build trust, and persuade your audience—whether you're on a stage, pitching a product, or crafting a social post.
Rain dives deep into the Sparkline’s rhythm of “what is” and “what could be,” how this pattern mirrors the Hero’s Journey, and why it triggers emotional investment and action. He also explores resistance in storytelling, the power of contrast, and the neuroscience behind narrative immersion. To drive it home, he analyzes Steve Jobs’s legendary 2007 iPhone keynote—step by step.
If you want to spark belief in your message, this episode is your blueprint.
In this episode, you will learn to:
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“It’s okay to not be okay. It’s just not okay to stay that way.” — Nina Sossamon-Pogue
What do you do when life knocks you flat?
Former U.S. gymnast turned Emmy-winning journalist, tech exec, and resilience coach Nina Sossamon-Pogue has fallen—and learned how to get back up more times than she can count. In this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain sits down with Nina to explore how we build personal resilience, reframe failure, and use storytelling to take control of our lives when everything feels out of control.
They dig into Nina’s practical “T.H.I.S.” framework, which helps people process failure, navigate identity loss, and shift the narrative they’re stuck in.
This conversation blends the science of mindset with the art of storytelling to help high achievers—and anyone in a “now what?” moment—redefine success and take back authorship of their lives. If you’ve ever felt lost in the messy middle of your story, this one’s for you.
In this episode, you will learn to:
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"Most nonfiction books could’ve been blog posts—but fiction sticks with you for life." — Nathan Baugh
Is fiction just entertainment—or is it the best self-help you’re not reading? In this episode, Rain Bennett sits down with storyteller, writer, and World Builders creator Nathan Baugh to talk about the power of fiction in a world obsessed with productivity, optimization, and self-help checklists.
Together they explore the overlooked lessons hiding in classic novels, the creative trap of only producing for money, and the rising role of AI in the writing world.
Nathan opens up about how he left a traditional job to build a platform as a writer, how he balances client work with his fantasy novels, and why his mission is to simply write stories he’d want to read.
They also break down what makes a twist land, how storytelling frameworks translate across mediums, and the unexpected ways fiction can deepen human connection. If you're trying to create meaningful work in a noisy digital world, this conversation is a breath of fresh air.
In this episode, you will learn to:
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"The drugs we've accepted in society—alcohol, nicotine, caffeine—were chosen for productivity, not well-being." — Paul Austin
What if the stories we’ve been told about psychedelics were wrong? In this episode, Rain Bennett sits down with Paul Austin, founder of Third Wave and Psychedelic Coaching Institute, to explore how microdosing and intentional psychedelic use are helping people heal, focus, connect, and live more purposeful lives.
With a background in education and entrepreneurship, Paul has spent the last decade helping reframe the narrative around substances like psilocybin and LSD—not as dangerous drugs, but as ancient tools being rediscovered for modern growth.
They discuss the data behind microdosing, the role of psychedelics in mental health and creativity, and how narrative shifts in culture require patience, education, and empathy. You’ll also learn how this resurgence intersects with storytelling, business innovation, community building, and AI—and why those looking to find their voice, their path, or their tribe might want to look a little deeper.
Whether you’re skeptical or curious, this conversation will open your mind to the potential of storytelling on a molecular level.
In this episode, you will learn to:
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"It's not just what you say—it's how you say it. And who you're saying it to." — Esther Oyetunji
What makes a story unforgettable? At this year’s Full Frame Documentary Film Festival in Durham, North Carolina, Rain Bennett spoke with three sets of storytellers, each using a different medium, subject, and method—but all working toward the same goal: to move their audience. In this special episode, Rain shares his conversations with Jennifer Tiexiera and Guy Mossman, the co-directors of SPEAK, the film’s star Esther Oyetunji, and Ned Phillips, co-director of The Last Partera.
From the deeply collaborative filmmaking process behind SPEAK, to the competitive, emotionally resonant stage presence of Esther, to Ned’s eight-year journey of capturing the fading legacy of Costa Rican midwifery—this episode is a masterclass in the versatility of documentary storytelling.
You’ll learn how each of these artists found their story, built relationships with their subjects, overcame technical hurdles, and ultimately created something deeply meaningful. Whether you're a filmmaker, writer, speaker, or content creator, this episode will inspire you to embrace your own unique storytelling path.
In this episode, you will:
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"You have to give yourself permission to be terrible at being a business owner when you start." — Keenya Kelly
In a world where social media platforms change by the week, how do you stay visible, build a loyal audience, and run a profitable business?
Keenya Kelly has done just that—amassing over 500,000 TikTok followers and building a thriving brand across multiple platforms.
In this episode of The Storytelling Lab, she sits down with Rain to talk about the reality behind going viral, how to grow your email list through short-form content, and how to avoid the burnout so many creators face.
They discuss strategies for platform diversification, how creators can start thinking like entrepreneurs, and what it really takes to build long-term success online. Keenya also opens up about her journey from network marketing to becoming a top-tier content strategist—and why personal growth is essential to brand growth.
Whether you’re just starting out or ready to scale, this episode is packed with real talk and real tactics to help you thrive in the ever-changing digital world.
In this episode, you will learn to:
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"It's not the frame of your house that makes it a beautiful home—but without it, the house falls apart. It's the same with your story." — Rain Bennett
What if we told you that some of the best stories of all time—from Toy Story to Finding Nemo—were all built on the same simple 8-step framework?
In this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain breaks down the Story Spine, a storytelling structure originally developed by improv teacher Kenn Adams and later adopted by the storytelling giants at Pixar.
Rain takes us through the full arc of this framework, from its humble beginnings in a California improv class to its now-iconic place in Pixar’s creative process. He shares how this deceptively simple structure helps storytellers stay grounded while crafting emotional, impactful narratives.
You’ll also hear real movie examples (like The Goonies and Rocky) broken down with this method, and learn how to apply it to your own work—whether that’s a film, blog post, or Instagram caption. If you want to tell better stories with more clarity and impact, start with the spine.
In this episode, you will learn to:
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"Social media isn’t just a tool; it’s an opportunity to co-create stories with your audience. They don't need more information. They need insights, emotion, and most importantly, connection." - Cyndi Zaweski
Building a supportive community as a solopreneur, artist, or small business owner can feel overwhelming—especially if you’re an introvert.
In this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain Bennett sits down with storytelling expert Cindy Zaweski to explore how sharing your authentic journey online can create deeper connections and real relationships, not just followers.
Cindy shares her path from journalism to marketing, the lessons she learned from burnout, and how she rebuilt her business in a way that aligned with her true passions.
If you’re struggling to find your audience, or wondering how to create content that actually resonates, this episode is for you!
In this episode, you will learn to:
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"South Park’s creators cracked the code on storytelling, and their method will instantly improve your stories." - Rain Bennett
In this episode of the Storytelling Lab podcast, Rain discusses the common pitfalls that storytellers face, particularly the challenge of tying together various elements of a story to maintain audience engagement.
But there is a simple yet powerful storytelling principle to help avoid this, straight from the creators of South Park: the "But, Therefore" model. This method ensures that every event in your story is causally linked, keeping your audience engaged and eager to know what happens next.
Through examples from popular films and personal anecdotes, Rain illustrates how effective storytelling requires a clear cause-and-effect relationship between events, urging listeners to apply these techniques in their own storytelling endeavors.
Whether you’re crafting a film, writing a LinkedIn post, or creating short-form content, this approach will transform how you structure your stories. Tune in to learn how to ditch the "And then…" trap and create stories that truly captivate.
In this episode, you will learn:
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"You've got to get out of your own way. Put yourself out into the world, and just give it to the universe. Lean into the space shared with the world." — J. R. Martinez
In episode 184 of The Storytelling Lab podcast, J.R. Martinez, a best-selling author, keynote speaker, and actor, shares his inspiring journey of resilience and personal growth after being injured in the military.
As Martinez recounts his experience of turning pain into power, he delves into the transformative power of mindset, the significance of vulnerability, and the ongoing process of self-discovery.
Host Rain Bennett engages in a conversation that sheds light on the impact of challenging conversations, the importance of embracing vulnerability, and finding purpose through shared experiences.
Martinez's narrative serves as a powerful example of overcoming adversity and the potential for growth through the shared stories of personal transformation. This episode offers valuable insights for individuals seeking resilience and personal growth, emphasizing the transformative power of mindset and the significance of embracing vulnerability in navigating life's challenges.
In this episode, you will learn to:
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"We so rarely stop and realize when we're in good fortune. We don't understand when we're in ill fortune that we won't be there forever. It's just part of the shape of our story." — Rain Bennett
In this episode of The Storytelling Lab podcast, Rain Bennett delves into Kurt Vonnegut's "Eight shapes of stories" theory, emphasizing its relevance in understanding the simplicity of storytelling, both in entertainment and real life.
Using examples from popular culture, Rain explores each story shape, offering valuable insights that can be applied to various aspects of life and storytelling.
This episode serves as a valuable resource for individuals seeking to better understand their own stories and navigate life's ups and downs with resilience and perspective.
Whether one is a writer looking to understand narrative patterns or simply wants to gain a deeper understanding of their own stories, this episode of The Storytelling Lab provides a compelling exploration of storytelling and its relevance to our everyday lives.
In this episode, you will learn to:
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"A great story will always win and find its home and its place in the world. So get better, do better, be better. And if you're in it to win it, then you stay with it and you evolve." — Rodes Phire
In this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rodes Phire, an independent filmmaker, dives deep into her directorial debut film, Farewelling, and shares her insights on the challenges and triumphs of independent filmmaking.
She emphasizes the significance of simplicity in storytelling, discussing her intentional approach to keeping the film uncomplicated and impactful, even within budget constraints.
Rodes sheds light on the emotional connections and personal experiences that influenced the narrative, making it resonate with audiences on a profound level.
Her candid discussion about managing multiple roles as a filmmaker, mindset coach, and entrepreneur provides valuable insights for aspiring creators grappling with similar challenges in the indie filmmaking space.
Rodes's genuine passion for authentic storytelling and her ability to infuse real-life struggles into her work make this episode a must-listen for aspiring filmmakers seeking to enhance their storytelling through simplicity and authentic creativity.
In this episode, you will learn to:
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"It's okay for you to use inspiration from other stories that have been there. The point is for you to know how do you tell your story differently" — Rain Bennett
In this episode of The Storytelling Lab, Rain dives into the emotional arcs of stories, drawing from his experience as a filmmaker and author.
He discusses the six emotional story shapes artificial intelligence identified through Project Gutenberg and emphasizes the universal nature of these patterns in storytelling.
Through examples from iconic films and his own personal anecdotes, Bennett highlights the impact of emotional storytelling on audience engagement and suggests using these patterns as inspiration rather than rigid templates.
You'll gain a deeper understanding of emotional storytelling and learn how to leverage these patterns to create more impactful and resonant narratives, ultimately enhancing your ability to engage with your audience through compelling storytelling.
In this episode, you will:
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"You have to show up every day and produce because you need the reps. And that is because you need the data from those reps. You can't take one shot in the dark—one stab at it with your one idea—and it not work out, and learn anything valuable from that experience." - Rain Bennett
In this episode of the Storytelling Lab podcast, Rain Bennett shares his personal journey as a storyteller and screenwriter, discussing the importance of consistency, character understanding, and professionalism in the writing process.
He reflects on his experiences writing his first three screenplays, emphasizing the lessons learned from each project, including the challenges of adapting true stories and the necessity of daily practice to develop one's craft.
Bennett encourages listeners to embrace their storytelling ambitions and to show up for their creative work, regardless of the obstacles they face.
In this episode, you will learn to:
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