Your Stories Don’t Define You, How You Tell Them Will

302 Spread Love

With how the current world is it can be incredibly easy to become desensitized and disheartened, especially when we are surrounded by ignorance, hatred, and suffering. Feeling helpless and heartbroken in times like these is completely normal, but it’s important to take a breath and consider how you can help others, your community, and yourself. Traumatic events like these take time to heal from and no one is going to be okay overnight, but we can try to spread kindness and love even when we are hurting and mourning for others.

In this episode Sarah Elkins opens her heart to express her profound sadness, despair, and fear at the current state of the world, most notably the tragedy that is occurring in the Middle East. 

Highlights

• It’s okay to not be okay. Especially in the unfortunate world we live in.

• Protect your neighbors, your friends, and your family. Be there for those who are hurting and prove to them and others that you stand with love. 

• The only place to have conversations that inform and change opinions is in person, not social media.

Quotes

“Can we separate civilians from their hateful government power grabs and evil actions? Or are we somehow responsible for our own suffering from terrorism?”

“Posting on social media isn’t really about informing people. No one ever changed their mind based on a meme they saw, or an article they read that was shared on a platform like facebook, instagram, or tiktok. When we share those memes or articles that confirm our own opinions we know they’ll either antagonize people or confirm our friends' opinions, they’ll never change them.”

Dear Listeners it is now your turn,

I’m asking you right now to tell people you are grieving for the families that are victims of brutal warfare. That you understand it’s their government, it’s their leaders, it’s those power hungry, greedy people who spew hate to distract us and create divisions, who are using us as pawns in their games of global chess. This isn’t a game. This is the worst of brutality against humanity, targeting civilians, targeting children.

I’m asking you to pay attention to what you share because what you share online matters, before you share anything ask yourself; “Am I contributing to hate?” “Am I contributing to alienation?” 

I’m asking you right now to stop spewing hate and to start spreading love. 

And, as always, thank you for listening. 

About Sarah

"Uncovering the right stories for the right audiences so executives, leaders, public speakers, and job seekers can clearly and actively demonstrate their character, values, and vision."

In my work with coaching clients, I guide people to improve their communication using storytelling as the foundation of our work together. What I’ve realized over years of coaching and podcasting is that the majority of people don’t realize the impact of the stories they share - on their internal messages, and on the people they’re sharing them with.

My work with leaders and people who aspire to be leaders follows a similar path to the interviews on my podcast, uncovering pivotal moments in their lives and learning how to share them to connect more authentically with others, to make their presentations and speaking more engaging, to reveal patterns that have kept them stuck or moved them forward, and to improve their relationships at work and at home.

The audiobook, Your Stories Don’t Define You, How You Tell Them Will is now available!

Included with your purchase are two bonus tracks, songs recorded by Sarah's band, Spare Change, in her living room in Montana.

Be sure to check out the Storytelling For Professionals Course as well to make sure you nail that next interview!

301 Sharing Meaningful Stories To Portray Your Values and Skills

Storytelling has been a part of human culture since we lived in caves, from stories of great heroes to warnings not to go into dangerous places, knowing how to tell stories has been vital to our existence more now than ever. Knowing how to tell stories and knowing what meaningful stories to share is a skill that is important to hone and practice daily.

In this episode Sarah Elkins shares another meaningful story that exemplifies her values and skills as a professional and person, while also telling stories about others in her life and how through these stories show their own values and talents. 

Highlights

• Practicing what you teach others is one of the many keys to success, if others see you take your own advice they will feel more inclined to use it.

• Telling your stories about your talents and skills is far more important than you think.

• Everyone benefits from healthy communication and knowing how to share stories.

Quotes

“As great as it is to have the confirmation of these experts, to know the research and neuroscience is catching up, it’s even more confirmation for me that what I’m doing is practical, useful, and relevant. There’s room for me.”

“I explained that professionals that can share compelling, entertaining stories that demonstrate their skills are more likely to be invited to apply for internal positions.”

“You see, story sharing isn’t just for leaders of organizations, story sharing is how you can become a leader wherever you happen to sit.”

Dear Listeners it is now your turn,

I just shared a story of a meaningful moment in my day and you, my listener, picked up all kinds of clues about who I am. When you share a meaningful moment in your day you are amplifying particular aspects of your personality and your values. I urge you to make your stories the kind that attract the people you want in your life.

And, as always, thank you for listening. 

Mentioned in this episode

Karen Eber: How Your Brain Responds To Stories and Why They’re Crucial For Leaders

The Secret of Culture Change, How to Build Authentic Stories That Transform Your Organization 

About Sarah

"Uncovering the right stories for the right audiences so executives, leaders, public speakers, and job seekers can clearly and actively demonstrate their character, values, and vision."

In my work with coaching clients, I guide people to improve their communication using storytelling as the foundation of our work together. What I’ve realized over years of coaching and podcasting is that the majority of people don’t realize the impact of the stories they share - on their internal messages, and on the people they’re sharing them with.

My work with leaders and people who aspire to be leaders follows a similar path to the interviews on my podcast, uncovering pivotal moments in their lives and learning how to share them to connect more authentically with others, to make their presentations and speaking more engaging, to reveal patterns that have kept them stuck or moved them forward, and to improve their relationships at work and at home.

The audiobook, Your Stories Don’t Define You, How You Tell Them Will is now available!

Included with your purchase are two bonus tracks, songs recorded by Sarah's band, Spare Change, in her living room in Montana.

Be sure to check out the Storytelling For Professionals Course as well to make sure you nail that next interview!

300 An Accidental Podcaster

Sometimes when we’re trying to give others an opportunity we don’t realize that we are the ones that would benefit most. We try our hardest, using our talents to the best of our ability, and through that hard work we can achieve greatness or sometimes stand in our own way.

In this episode Sarah Elkins ruminates on how she began this podcast and how it has given her the opportunity to hear the stories of others as well plenty of time to reflect on her own stories and how she has grown and changed as both an entrepreneur and storyteller. 

Highlights

• What works for others might not work for you.

• Your strengths can sometimes be your weakness. That’s okay, sometimes all you need to do is reach out for an outside perspective.

• Remember to show up for yourself, it’s great to be there for others but you need to focus on yourself too.

Quotes

“As a talent it’s my ability to switch gears easily, to instinctively prioritize my energy toward the path of least resistance. It also means I need to switch gears regularly or I’ll sabotage myself because I get bored.”

“Your strategic thinks so fast about the solution, and your activator compels you to begin immediately but sometimes you forget that others are involved, you forget to take them along for the ride.”

“When I’m accountable to others it doesn’t mean I’m necessarily accountable to myself.”

Episodes mentioned

187 When Command is In Your Top StrengthsFinder Talents, 188 Strategic and Activator Might Look Impulsive, 189 Ideation and Adaptability Gain Momentum

About Sarah

"Uncovering the right stories for the right audiences so executives, leaders, public speakers, and job seekers can clearly and actively demonstrate their character, values, and vision."

In my work with coaching clients, I guide people to improve their communication using storytelling as the foundation of our work together. What I’ve realized over years of coaching and podcasting is that the majority of people don’t realize the impact of the stories they share - on their internal messages, and on the people they’re sharing them with.

My work with leaders and people who aspire to be leaders follows a similar path to the interviews on my podcast, uncovering pivotal moments in their lives and learning how to share them to connect more authentically with others, to make their presentations and speaking more engaging, to reveal patterns that have kept them stuck or moved them forward, and to improve their relationships at work and at home.

The audiobook, Your Stories Don’t Define You, How You Tell Them Will is now available!

Included with your purchase are two bonus tracks, songs recorded by Sarah's band, Spare Change, in her living room in Montana.

Be sure to check out the Job Interview Storytelling Course as well to make sure you nail that next interview!

299 Clarity and Having The Courage to Do What You Aspire To

The constant pressure to do the best and be the best is something many of us grew up knowing. Thinking we had to have straight A’s in school, trying to be the best in our extracurriculars, and even taking up tasks that should have been given to someone who’s skills would suit the task better, whether it’s because of our own internal voices or external pressures we need to learn to seek clarity and focus on the skills that make us invaluable to our team and family. 

In this episode Sarah Elkins and Mandi Graziano discuss how past failures, current clarity, and future aspirations drive us and shape us into who we are today.

Highlights

• Just because you failed at something in the past doesn't mean you aren’t smart. Everyone learns differently.

• Feeling like you don’t fit in is a universal and normal experience.

• Embrace your strengths and acknowledge when you can’t do a job outside of your field of expertise.

Quotes

“Some great sales people aren’t great leaders and some great leaders aren’t great sales people.”

“Just lead by example, just share one tip once a week in the meeting of something that has worked for you in the past: And that is mentoring without mentoring, then you’re raising everybody around you without telling people what to do.”

Dear Listeners it is now your turn,

What are you going to do with this information that you received today? This gift of a moment where you could develop clarity about what activities you really like to do, the activities that bring you that kind of passion where you can find time in your day everyday to do those things, because it’s not just at work but at work is where you spend most of your time, so find opportunities to feed that to find more satisfaction  and maybe it’s time to reach out to a coach to help you find that clarity.

And, as always, thank you for listening. 

About Mandi (From her Website)

In the early days, Facetime Coaching Company was Mandi's "side hustle" while she worked for hotels. Since 2010, her Coaching, Speaking, &  Writing have grown and become a very equal part of her world. 

In 2010, Mandi went to “the other side” of the hotel business and joined her long time client, HPN Global, a full service site selection & venue finding global meetings company. Here she finds hotels and venues for her clients all over the world, negotiates pricing & contracts while consulting her clients in all aspects of managing their meetings, conferences and conventions.

Mandi runs her businesses with vigor, balance and excitement. 

Some people may say she has a "side hustle" Mandi believes "It's ALL HUSTLE why can't we do all the things we love?"

It’s important to Mandi that fun ensues in all her professional endeavors, even in the most serious of situations. Whether she is coaching your team to close deals OR scouting out the perfect location for your meeting, there will always be laughs and excitement.

Check out Mandi’s website Mandi Graziano, as well as her LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook!

About Sarah

"Uncovering the right stories for the right audiences so executives, leaders, public speakers, and job seekers can clearly and actively demonstrate their character, values, and vision."

In my work with coaching clients, I guide people to improve their communication using storytelling as the foundation of our work together. What I’ve realized over years of coaching and podcasting is that the majority of people don’t realize the impact of the stories they share - on their internal messages, and on the people they’re sharing them with.

My work with leaders and people who aspire to be leaders follows a similar path to the interviews on my podcast, uncovering pivotal moments in their lives and learning how to share them to connect more authentically with others, to make their presentations and speaking more engaging, to reveal patterns that have kept them stuck or moved them forward, and to improve their relationships at work and at home.

The audiobook, Your Stories Don’t Define You, How You Tell Them Will is now available!

Included with your purchase are two bonus tracks, songs recorded by Sarah's band, Spare Change, in her living room in Montana.

Be sure to check out the Job Interview Storytelling Course as well to make sure you nail that next interview!

298 You Have To Take Care of Yourself In Order To Be Your Best

 Everything we do, whether it be work, caring for our families, or even going for a morning walk, all starts with ourselves and in today’s work culture of burning the candle at both ends, it can be easy to forget that we need to take breaks and prioritize our well being in order to do our best in everything we do. Hopefully by doing so we can model a behavior that others can follow and make a change for the better.

In this episode Sarah Elkins and Mandy Hoskinson discuss the importance of self care in today’s day and how others will follow by example, especially when it comes to creating a healthy and thriving environment.

Highlights

• You have to learn about others and actively listen to them to learn about them and shift your perspective into belonging. 

• Surrounding yourself with the things you want to incorporate into your life.

• Choosing your battles and taking the breaks that will help you do what you do better.

• Everything you do starts with you, so take care of yourself. Take a break.

Quotes

“Competition makes life expensive, it makes social interactions kind of strange, and I was reflecting on how I could incorporate slowness in my life and I think that comes from being in places where people are more sane and more kind because they have chosen a life where they’re not overwhelmed all the time.”

“You can still choose that busy life anywhere and you can still choose a peaceful life anywhere, but if your environment encourages it and your community encourages it that can really help.”

“You find your people anywhere if you look for them and stay open.”

Dear Listeners it is now your turn,

When you think about the work you do whether you work as an internal innovator, or as an entrepreneur, maybe you have a side hustle, what will you do with the information you just heard? Will you learn to take those breaks, will you choose to be that person that models the behavior that you want to see in the people around you, will you bring your best self by choosing to be that model and live the way that you know is going to benefit you and everyone around you.

And, as always, thank you for listening. 

About Mandy

Mandy Hoskinson is a marketing agency founder, community leader, and creative person. Her award-winning agency, Zolay (@zolaystudio) works with clients spanning B2B, B2C, SAAS, government and creative industries. This social impact-focused agency also gives away 20% of its work away pro-bono (WIP). Mandy is also the President of the Social Media Club of Los Angeles. You can find her most places as @mediamandy.

Be sure to check out Mandy’s LinkedIn and Instagram, as well as her website Mandy Hoskinson, Zolay Studio and Zolay Studio Instagram!

About Sarah

"Uncovering the right stories for the right audiences so executives, leaders, public speakers, and job seekers can clearly and actively demonstrate their character, values, and vision."

In my work with coaching clients, I guide people to improve their communication using storytelling as the foundation of our work together. What I’ve realized over years of coaching and podcasting is that the majority of people don’t realize the impact of the stories they share - on their internal messages, and on the people they’re sharing them with.

My work with leaders and people who aspire to be leaders follows a similar path to the interviews on my podcast, uncovering pivotal moments in their lives and learning how to share them to connect more authentically with others, to make their presentations and speaking more engaging, to reveal patterns that have kept them stuck or moved them forward, and to improve their relationships at work and at home.

The audiobook, Your Stories Don’t Define You, How You Tell Them Will is now available!

Included with your purchase are two bonus tracks, songs recorded by Sarah's band, Spare Change, in her living room in Montana.

Be sure to check out the Job Interview Storytelling Course as well to make sure you nail that next interview!

297 Change, Growth, and Hope - How The Belief Others Have In Us Can Move Us

Change is an inevitable part of life, how you choose to handle that change is what defines us as people. Will you crumble and erode like an immovable boulder, or will you bend and grow like a sapling waiting for it's time to reach the sky? We never know what we are capable of until we are put to the test, even though sometimes others see our potential better than we ever could. 

In this episode Sarah Elkins reconnects with her friend Amy Oviatt, they discuss these points as well as how our beliefs are shaped by our experiences and how others view us.

Highlights

• Find friends who will lift you up.

• There are deep truths that we do not see in ourselves until years later. People who believe you are destined for great things aren’t wrong, sometimes the greatness is just delayed. 

• You will be surprised what you are capable of.

• How will you take feedback when you receive it?

Quotes

“I would certainly hope that I’m a person who creates safety for other people, because we all need that and we all want that.”

“The upside of that part of me is that I really figure it out. It may take me a while but I’m not somebody who ever just buries things and moves along, I must figure out the answer.”

Dear Listeners it is now your turn,

What will you do in the next week to uncover something that maybe is blocking you from what you want to do? What will you do, will you take a step tomorrow, will you take a step the next day to make a choice to live the life you want to live? What book will you read and take action on? Maybe you’ll hire somebody, maybe you’ll be a coach, maybe it’ll be a fitness instructor or a life coach, maybe it’ll be a hypnotherapist. But what will you go into with big wide open arms and open eyes and open heart to make a change to improve whatever is going on in your life.

And, as always, thank you for listening. 

About Amy

Colorado native Amy Oviatt graduated with honors from the Hypnosis Motivation Institute, the only accredited college of Hypnotherapy. She holds a degree in Business from CU - Boulder, and has a wide variety of experience in her toolbelt. 

On her own spiritual and healing journey, Amy has found inspiration in the works of Caroline Myss, Gary Zukav, Brian Weiss, amongst others. 

Hypnotherapy, including Life Coaching, Therapeutic Imagery, and other healing modalities, is a powerful vehicle to move clients forward in achieving the healthy and fulfilling life they seek. Amy helps her clients release limiting beliefs, replace unwanted habits, and align the subconscious with their most important goals, resulting in improved relationships, greater success, and more peace on their own life’s journey. 

Check out Amy’s Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram! As well as her website Guided Journeys!

About Sarah

"Uncovering the right stories for the right audiences so executives, leaders, public speakers, and job seekers can clearly and actively demonstrate their character, values, and vision."

In my work with coaching clients, I guide people to improve their communication using storytelling as the foundation of our work together. What I’ve realized over years of coaching and podcasting is that the majority of people don’t realize the impact of the stories they share - on their internal messages, and on the people they’re sharing them with.

My work with leaders and people who aspire to be leaders follows a similar path to the interviews on my podcast, uncovering pivotal moments in their lives and learning how to share them to connect more authentically with others, to make their presentations and speaking more engaging, to reveal patterns that have kept them stuck or moved them forward, and to improve their relationships at work and at home.

The audiobook, Your Stories Don’t Define You, How You Tell Them Will is now available!

Included with your purchase are two bonus tracks, songs recorded by Sarah's band, Spare Change, in her living room in Montana.

Be sure to check out the Job Interview Storytelling Course as well to make sure you nail that next interview!

This is the 4^th episode in a series on storytelling for professionals.

In episode 292, Sarah shared stories about her love language – which is cooking for people. She explained that when we share stories of the activities that bring us great joy in service to others, we offer a glimpse of our character and values to our audience, whether that’s at work, in an interview, with family and friends, or when we’re sharing content in any form of media or on any platform. Her stories of nurturing and nourishing people in her home demonstrated part of what makes her a good addition to any team – her positive energy and ability & ambition to create an environment where people feel safe and encouraged to bring their best.

Episode 294 was a story about a team she worked with at a job years ago. It was a work story that demonstrated her openness to learning, how she manages frustration and different ways of approaching projects and relationships, and her meeting facilitation skills.

And last week’s episode 295 was a personal story about planning a family reunion for 40 guests. It demonstrated her meeting & event planning skills, team building/leadership, and made it very clear what matters to her.

In this episode you'll hear about stories Sarah shared in job interviews, why she shared those particular stories, and the end result (spoiler alert: she didn't get the job).

The idea and goals for this series is for professionals to truly understand the value of sharing personal experiences and work stories in different environments, and to uncover your stories to begin collecting them so you're ready when an opportunity presents itself. 

By preparing stories to answer the most common, (kind of stupid), questions, you have the opportunity to share so much about yourself, way beyond what’s on your resume and cover letter.

In any professional setting, whether around the proverbial water cooler, at a networking event, when presenting to your team or organization, side conversations during meetings, knowing how to share meaningful stories is a practical skill.

Collect your stories, practice them, and categorize them so you are likely to share the right one at the right time, with the right audience, demonstrating your skills, values, character, and vision.

Thanks for listening to Your Stories Don’t Define You, How You Tell Them Will.

Curious about how Sarah's workshops and keynotes will help you and your audience or team be better ambassadors for your organization and their careers?

Visit her website, elkinsconsulting.com, to schedule a discovery call.

Quote

"By preparing stories to answer the most common, and kind of stupid questions, you have the opportunity to share so much about yourself way beyond what's on your resume or cover letter."

295 Personal Stories and How They Matter

The relevance of stories in career and life is something that is undeniable, whether it be a professional story about a time you were vital to your team at work, or a more personal story that demonstrates skills that are so second nature to you that you don’t even think about them any more, learning when and how to share every story and how they put your talents and values on display is a skill that can take you above and beyond.

In this episode Sarah Elkins shares a personal story that exemplifies her skills, talents, and values, throughout the story listen for cues, and take note of how she tells the story in a way that compliments everyone and the situation they were in, and not just herself. 

Highlights

• Sharing personal stories to portray skills and values.

• Check with yourself on what your intentions are regarding new projects and responsibilities.

• Asking for help and advice can be critical in certain situations. It doesn’t mean you’re incapable, it means that you are willing to use the tools provided to you.

Quotes

“Listen again to hear the cues, notice how I included other characters in my story. Notice how I described my role in it so a listener would know I was the primary character while acknowledging that I didn’t succeed alone.”

“Sharing a story of a personal experience like mine is a great way to demonstrate your skills, character, and values.”

Dear Listeners it is now your turn,

What stories came to mind for you as I shared my family reunion story?

Think about the steps you took to make that project or experience successful.

Think about how you interacted with other characters in your story.

Were you the hero? Were you the guide?

Why does this story matter to you? What was the impact of your success?

And, as always, thank you for listening. 

About Sarah

"Uncovering the right stories for the right audiences so executives, leaders, public speakers, and job seekers can clearly and actively demonstrate their character, values, and vision."

In my work with coaching clients, I guide people to improve their communication using storytelling as the foundation of our work together. What I’ve realized over years of coaching and podcasting is that the majority of people don’t realize the impact of the stories they share - on their internal messages, and on the people they’re sharing them with.

My work with leaders and people who aspire to be leaders follows a similar path to the interviews on my podcast, uncovering pivotal moments in their lives and learning how to share them to connect more authentically with others, to make their presentations and speaking more engaging, to reveal patterns that have kept them stuck or moved them forward, and to improve their relationships at work and at home.

The audiobook, Your Stories Don’t Define You, How You Tell Them Will is now available!

Included with your purchase are two bonus tracks, songs recorded by Sarah's band, Spare Change, in her living room in Montana.

Be sure to check out the Job Interview Storytelling Course as well to make sure you nail that next interview!

294 Communication is Key

Frustration and irritation is common in every relationship, more often than not it stems from not understanding others or hearing out what others have to say. It is up to us and those we work with to find a peaceful and healthy resolution. 

In this episode Sarah Elkins ruminates on the early points in her career and how she saw her talents even before knowing about Strengths Finder, but most importantly how she was able to help her company and colleagues. 

Highlights

• The bad parts of a story are just as important as the good.

• Progress takes time.

• Holding yourself and others accountable. 

Quotes

“I’m sure we can find a way to work better together.”

“I just want people to feel like their voices are heard, that’s it. I want to set the foundation here for this group of faculty to know we aren’t railroading them into agreeing to something that doesn’t make sense.”

“I was still very frustrated but far less than before because I knew his goals. Understanding his leadership goals allowed me to back off and know that he was leading differently from me, but he was leading.”

Dear Listeners it is now your turn,

Think back on the story I just shared, did my story remind you of something that happened recently at work or maybe earlier in your career? What was your experience that was similar, can you identify the characters in the story and what lessons you learned? Categorize the story so you can identify what that story demonstrates about who you are and how you work. 

And, as always, thank you for listening. 

About Sarah

"Uncovering the right stories for the right audiences so executives, leaders, public speakers, and job seekers can clearly and actively demonstrate their character, values, and vision."

In my work with coaching clients, I guide people to improve their communication using storytelling as the foundation of our work together. What I’ve realized over years of coaching and podcasting is that the majority of people don’t realize the impact of the stories they share - on their internal messages, and on the people they’re sharing them with.

My work with leaders and people who aspire to be leaders follows a similar path to the interviews on my podcast, uncovering pivotal moments in their lives and learning how to share them to connect more authentically with others, to make their presentations and speaking more engaging, to reveal patterns that have kept them stuck or moved them forward, and to improve their relationships at work and at home.

The audiobook, Your Stories Don’t Define You, How You Tell Them Will is now available!

Included with your purchase are two bonus tracks, songs recorded by Sarah's band, Spare Change, in her living room in Montana.

Be sure to check out the Job Interview Storytelling Course as well to make sure you nail that next interview!

293 Self Reflection: Assessments

Fear of the self is something that has existed for hundreds of years, it’s been something remarked upon by Plato and Socrates, and it is a very common human experience. However if we approach our talents and sense of self with curiosity we can foster a healthy, loving relationship with yourself, your career, and your future.

In this episode Sarah Elkins reflects on the assessments she was hired for and found that some of the audience didn’t “buy into” her assessments, only for said audience members to discover things about themselves. 

Highlights

• How you subconsciously act often reflects your talents.

• Have faith in the professionals you hire.

• Don’t allow the fear of how others may react or treat you based on your talents effect your desire to learn more about them.

Quotes

“One thing I’ve noticed in my work with clients is that some people want to distance themselves from their results, and for one reason or another they don’t want to experience themselves through the concepts of whatever assessment they took.”

“I get it. Most of us have been given negative feedback about our talents, we’ve been criticized for our approach to problem solving.”

Dear Listeners it is now your turn,

When was a time you were skeptical about something and decided to be open to the possibility anyway? Have you recently changed your mind about something you believed strongly? What story can you tell to demonstrate your willingness to change your mind, to demonstrate your ability to take in new information that might alter how you see yourself, or how to approach a problem. 

Add your story to your collection of stories, because whether you’re interviewing for a job, interviewing for a podcast, or maybe even on a date, having the right story to share can demonstrate exactly the qualities you want people to know about you. 

And, as always, thank you for listening. 

About Sarah

"Uncovering the right stories for the right audiences so executives, leaders, public speakers, and job seekers can clearly and actively demonstrate their character, values, and vision."

In my work with coaching clients, I guide people to improve their communication using storytelling as the foundation of our work together. What I’ve realized over years of coaching and podcasting is that the majority of people don’t realize the impact of the stories they share - on their internal messages, and on the people they’re sharing them with.

My work with leaders and people who aspire to be leaders follows a similar path to the interviews on my podcast, uncovering pivotal moments in their lives and learning how to share them to connect more authentically with others, to make their presentations and speaking more engaging, to reveal patterns that have kept them stuck or moved them forward, and to improve their relationships at work and at home.

The audiobook, Your Stories Don’t Define You, How You Tell Them Will is now available!

Included with your purchase are two bonus tracks, songs recorded by Sarah's band, Spare Change, in her living room in Montana.

Be sure to check out the Job Interview Storytelling Course as well to make sure you nail that next interview!

292 Food Stories

Love languages come in many different forms; gift giving, words of affirmation, and for today’s episode specifically, the act of cooking and giving a good meal to those you hold close. It is vital to the health and continuation of relationships that we discover these languages and think about how these actions impact how others view us.

In this episode Sarah Elkins ruminates on the concept of love languages and how important they are to understand and how they influence how we are perceived by others and ourselves.

Highlights

• Discovering your love language is vital to understanding how you are seen by others.

• Living in the moment and enjoying that moment is more rewarding than any photograph.

• Find your why and realize how it impacts yourself and those around you.

Quotes

“I think a lot about legacy, about how I want to know myself and how I want people to experience me. And in my work as a speaker and coach I’ve asked a lot of people those questions: “How do you want to see yourself? What do you want to see in yourself? Kindness? Intelligence? Competence? What do you need to know or experience to be confident that you are those things?”

“I asked her the question: How do you want to see yourself? What words do you want to use to describe yourself?

Her answer didn’t surprise me, but it surprised her a little. She said: I want to see myself as resilient, competent, and thoughtful.

My next question made her stop to think: How will you know you are those things?

After a few moments she answered: “When the people I care about describe me that way.”

“And what do you need to DO, to BE, to SAY to ensure they describe you that way?”.”

Dear Listeners it is now your turn,

What is your love language? What stories can you share that demonstrate it so you don't have to say: "My love language is...?" 

And, as always, thank you for listening. 

About Sarah

"Uncovering the right stories for the right audiences so executives, leaders, public speakers, and job seekers can clearly and actively demonstrate their character, values, and vision."

In my work with coaching clients, I guide people to improve their communication using storytelling as the foundation of our work together. What I’ve realized over years of coaching and podcasting is that the majority of people don’t realize the impact of the stories they share - on their internal messages, and on the people they’re sharing them with.

My work with leaders and people who aspire to be leaders follows a similar path to the interviews on my podcast, uncovering pivotal moments in their lives and learning how to share them to connect more authentically with others, to make their presentations and speaking more engaging, to reveal patterns that have kept them stuck or moved them forward, and to improve their relationships at work and at home.

The audiobook, Your Stories Don’t Define You, How You Tell Them Will is now available!

Included with your purchase are two bonus tracks, songs recorded by Sarah's band, Spare Change, in her living room in Montana.

Be sure to check out the Job Interview Storytelling Course as well to make sure you nail that next interview!

291 The Stories We Keep

As much as we all may wish for life to be sunshine and daisies we can often end up focusing on the storms and trials that accompany them. It can be easy to lose yourself to grief and bitterness when viewing your life through those storm clouds, however it is important to remember that it is only a passing thing that shadow and even darkness must pass, and how you tell your story after those times can reframe how you see your life and give hope to others who may be going through something similar.

In this episode Sarah Elkins and the esteemed Rob Kugler discuss the importance of stories involving grief and sorrow, while also acknowledging the great acts of kindness and courage it takes to survive through these times in life. 

Highlights

• Spite can be a great motivator in certain circumstances.

• Stay mindful of how you tell your story so that you tell it in a way that can be appreciated and reflect your values.

• Doing your best in situations where things feel out of control.

• It’s important to know that what you’re going through is not uncommon and to tell those stories brings comfort and acknowledgement to others. No story is too mundane to tell.

Quotes

“People keep on asking, “Hey are you going to write another book?” And I tell people, “Yes, I’d love to but I haven’t done the things I want to do to write about yet.”.”

“There’s not alot to complain about if you don’t look at the one thing you can’t have.”

“When is that moment, or when is that conversation that starts your story? There’s times when, even to get to the other side as we mentioned earlier, just moving forward with confidence of knowing the value of the story that already exists. So if we’re like to say “Hey I want to look at making a second edition.” But also following through on the ideas of the calendars and prints from the photos that I took along the journey.”

Dear Listeners it is now your turn,

The first thing I’m going to ask you to do is when you read a book that you really like, leave a review. You can do it on Amazon, on Good Reads, maybe share it because those of us who have written books know that writing a review really is meaningful, so if you really liked a book leave a review even if you kind of liked a book write a review and leave three or four stars. But write a review because that means people are reading the book and that matters to us. 

The second thing I’m going to ask you to do is to consider what struggles you’ve experienced in your life, what grief you’ve experienced in your life, and how you can frame that story so that somebody else can feel what you’re feeling and see what it’s like to come out the other side. 

That’s what I’m asking you to do because your stories don’t define you, but how you tell them will.

And, as always, thank you for listening. 

About Rob from his LinkedIn

Through experiences from teaching Pre-K to leading Marines, from acting in Los Angeles to field marketing, from leading volunteers in Disaster Relief Operations to finishing a degree in Fire Protection Technology, from traveling the country taking photographs with my three-legged labrador to publishing a book with a major publisher, well rounded life experience is my biggest asset.

I am currently bringing those experiences into classwork at Washington State University where I am obtaining a degree in Strategic Communications.

My goal at WSU is to learn new ways that my writing and photography can not only tell stories of my experiences, but the stories of brands, companies, organizations and people I believe in.

Be sure to check out Rob’s LinkedIn, his photography Instagram, and Facebook! As well as Marcus Brotherton and Rob’s website Life Illustrated!

Pick up a copy of his book A Dog Named Beautiful! And be sure to check out No Vet Alone where you can help veterans in need.

About Sarah

"Uncovering the right stories for the right audiences so executives, leaders, public speakers, and job seekers can clearly and actively demonstrate their character, values, and vision."

In my work with coaching clients, I guide people to improve their communication using storytelling as the foundation of our work together. What I’ve realized over years of coaching and podcasting is that the majority of people don’t realize the impact of the stories they share - on their internal messages, and on the people they’re sharing them with.

My work with leaders and people who aspire to be leaders follows a similar path to the interviews on my podcast, uncovering pivotal moments in their lives and learning how to share them to connect more authentically with others, to make their presentations and speaking more engaging, to reveal patterns that have kept them stuck or moved them forward, and to improve their relationships at work and at home.

The audiobook, Your Stories Don’t Define You, How You Tell Them Will is now available!

Included with your purchase are two bonus tracks, songs recorded by Sarah's band, Spare Change, in her living room in Montana.

Be sure to check out the Job Interview Storytelling Course as well to make sure you nail that next interview!

290 Ideation

Working on ourselves is a never ending yet very worthwhile endeavor that shapes who we become as people, and where we want to go in life. Sometimes that work is hard and can seem intimidating or at the very least tedious, especially if our strengths have been criticized or used against us in the past. However, like anything worth doing, growing as an individual takes hard work and support, especially from yourself.

In this episode Sarah Elkins poses this thought to the listeners of Your Stories Don’t Define You How You Tell Them Will, and implores us to look inward and begin to see our strengths as things that can benefit us instead of hinder us.

Highlights

• Love your talents because they make you who you are even if you sometimes struggle with them.

• Practicing what you have learned and want to learn will improve your skills both new and old.

• Allowing yourself to flow in whatever way you need to go. 

Quotes

“One thing I became aware of in the first year of my coaching practice, is that I have to be very careful not to project my own feelings onto my clients.”

“The space between stimulant and response and the choice we have in that space. Will we give that stimulant a positive, negative, or neutral value?”

Dear Listeners it is now your turn,

Have you reacted defensively to frustration after seeing the results of an assessment, maybe like the Clifton Strengths, Meyers-Briggs, Enneagram, or Disc? What are the memories that are surfacing after seeing those qualities that were criticized in the past, and what stories can you begin to collect as evidence of those results as beneficial in your life as strengths.

And, as always, thank you for listening. 

About Sarah

"Uncovering the right stories for the right audiences so executives, leaders, public speakers, and job seekers can clearly and actively demonstrate their character, values, and vision."

In my work with coaching clients, I guide people to improve their communication using storytelling as the foundation of our work together. What I’ve realized over years of coaching and podcasting is that the majority of people don’t realize the impact of the stories they share - on their internal messages, and on the people they’re sharing them with.

My work with leaders and people who aspire to be leaders follows a similar path to the interviews on my podcast, uncovering pivotal moments in their lives and learning how to share them to connect more authentically with others, to make their presentations and speaking more engaging, to reveal patterns that have kept them stuck or moved them forward, and to improve their relationships at work and at home.

The audiobook, Your Stories Don’t Define You, How You Tell Them Will is now available!

Included with your purchase are two bonus tracks, songs recorded by Sarah's band, Spare Change, in her living room in Montana.

Be sure to check out the Job Interview Storytelling Course as well to make sure you nail that next interview!

289 Fear Is A Liar

Doubt, fear, and feeling awkward is a normal human experience, although it is important to celebrate the great and amazing things you do and are capable of, it is just as important to acknowledge that we all have limitations and we all feel fear in trying the new or the not quite perfected. It is only through facing and accepting that fear and persevering onward that we can continue to grow into our ideal selves.

In this episode Sarah Elkins and Tammy Hader discuss how fear influences our decision and the importance of overcoming that fear in order to succeed in life and grow as an individual by confronting your fears and inner monologue in order to become the best version of yourself.

Highlights

• Sometimes our fears motivate us, but we have to remember we’ll only be scared in the moment and nothing will ever be as bad as our fear convinces us it will be.

• Perspectives shift and change as we grow and that is okay. 

• It’s okay to occasionally have doubts but never let them consume you.

• It’s okay for behaviors you are trying to teach yourself to feel awkward and unnatural at first, but eventually they will come naturally.

Quotes

“It’s only going to be scary while I’m surrounded by things I don’t see, and once I’m on top of that fear everything will be fine.”

“What I’ve kind of figured out through this whole process is that you can take that regret and if you just own it and learn from it, then it kind of turns it into something a lot more special, and meaningful, and at times maybe even something beautiful, and it gives you something you can bond with each other over.”

“I’m just an average person which is kind of the point, I’m one of the millions of average people out there that could change the world just by being a little kinder everyday. You know it’s really us worker bees that can do that, it’s not the grand viral gestures that can make the biggest most sustainable difference.”

Dear Listeners it is now your turn,

Time to look in the mirror. It’s time to look up, and do that thing that’s uncomfortable for you, model what you want to see in the world remember that when you put something out there whether it’s on social media or in person, you are sending signals about what kind of person you are, whether you’re a loving and kind person or whether you’re a person who’s judgmental and hateful. So pay attention because this is your legacy.

And, as always, thank you for listening. 

About Tammy

Tammy Hader possesses no official, academic writer’s pedigree. With a BBA in accounting from Wichita State University, her history resides in numbers. After a 30-year accounting career, Tammy reinvented herself as a writer in 2018. She is an essay writer at Medium, BizCatalyst360, and WebMD. Tammy is an editor for the Medium publication Journal of Journeys, and she is a contributing author in the Daily Gift Book Series. When not writing, she enjoys caring for her mom, cooking for her family, and serving her two rescue kitties with the royal attention they deserve. 

Be sure to check out her website and pick up her book at Tammy Hader! Connect with her on her Twitter, LinkedIn, and Facebook! 

About Sarah

"Uncovering the right stories for the right audiences so executives, leaders, public speakers, and job seekers can clearly and actively demonstrate their character, values, and vision."

In my work with coaching clients, I guide people to improve their communication using storytelling as the foundation of our work together. What I’ve realized over years of coaching and podcasting is that the majority of people don’t realize the impact of the stories they share - on their internal messages, and on the people they’re sharing them with.

My work with leaders and people who aspire to be leaders follows a similar path to the interviews on my podcast, uncovering pivotal moments in their lives and learning how to share them to connect more authentically with others, to make their presentations and speaking more engaging, to reveal patterns that have kept them stuck or moved them forward, and to improve their relationships at work and at home.

The audiobook, Your Stories Don’t Define You, How You Tell Them Will is now available!

Included with your purchase are two bonus tracks, songs recorded by Sarah's band, Spare Change, in her living room in Montana.

Be sure to check out the Job Interview Storytelling Course as well to make sure you nail that next interview!

288 Do Overs

It’s completely normal to have limiting beliefs and times in life that are stressful and discouraging, they can make you feel as if you’re alone and stuck in a rut that you can’t quite escape. However it is not the end of the world, although it is difficult you can change these thought processes and pull yourself out of the rut you’re in, through your hardwork and determination as well as a supportive network you can give yourself a “do over” and change the trajectory of your life for the better. 

In this episode Sarah Elkins and Curt Sassak discuss the importance of giving yourself grace to change and start over, as well as unlearning the harmful ideologies that have been ingrained in us, while working towards a fulfilling and meaningful life. 

Highlights

• What beliefs or phrases are you carrying with you from someone you know from your formative years?

• You are what you practice.

• You can always start over when you recognize patterns that negatively affect you.

Quotes

“Limiting beliefs are so insidious and are so ingrained in us we don’t even recognize them.”

“One of those things I can change and have complete control over is my attitude. I can be negative and moany or I can just accept, “Okay this is how it is right now but it doesn’t mean it’s permanent.” And you chin up, and weather the storm, smooth seas don’t make a skilled sailor. That was another thing, that was when it really hit me that it really comes down to mindset. We have a choice, we all have a choice.” 

“When you take responsibility you have control over it.” 

Dear Listeners it is now your turn,

I’m going to ask you to consider the Victor Frankle quote which is one of my favorites, and I’m going to paraphrase because I don’t have it completely memorized, but Victor Frankle was a Holocaust survivor and if he can say this after experiencing Auschwitz almost anyone can relate to this. And his comment was, “There is space between stimulant and response and in that space is our choice.” Listeners, I am asking you to take that space between something that’s happening and how you respond to it, to choose the value instead of giving it automatic value, positive or negative. Really consider that part of your life that you are frustrated with, is it happening to you or is it happening for you.

And, as always, thank you for listening. 

About Curt

A former award-winning executive chef of 27 years. Very successful, Curt climbed every career mountain but found emptiness at the top and lost his purpose and fulfillment. He now helps leaders and executives who end up in the same predicament rediscover their "why" and purpose in life and career.

Be sure to check out Curt’s LinkedIn like this post or this one! As well as his Free Training offer!

About Sarah

"Uncovering the right stories for the right audiences so executives, leaders, public speakers, and job seekers can clearly and actively demonstrate their character, values, and vision."

In my work with coaching clients, I guide people to improve their communication using storytelling as the foundation of our work together. What I’ve realized over years of coaching and podcasting is that the majority of people don’t realize the impact of the stories they share - on their internal messages, and on the people they’re sharing them with.

My work with leaders and people who aspire to be leaders follows a similar path to the interviews on my podcast, uncovering pivotal moments in their lives and learning how to share them to connect more authentically with others, to make their presentations and speaking more engaging, to reveal patterns that have kept them stuck or moved them forward, and to improve their relationships at work and at home.

The audiobook, Your Stories Don’t Define You, How You Tell Them Will is now available!

Included with your purchase are two bonus tracks, songs recorded by Sarah's band, Spare Change, in her living room in Montana.

Be sure to check out the Job Interview Storytelling Course as well to make sure you nail that next interview!

Episode 287 Should I Stay or Should I Go?

When you’ve been in a job position, or really any position, long enough you will notice things that make that position grating on your nerves, or maybe it’s even making you sick to some degree due to how you are treated in the workplace. Maybe these issues are simply perceptions you have or projections onto others of a much larger issue. Regardless it is your responsibility to be mindful of these actions and decide what will be best for you and fall in line with your values.

In this reuploaded episode of 217, Sarah Elkins and Karen Elkins Cohen discuss stories from their careers on clients they’ve helped and what these people inadvertently taught them, and through these stories they hope that you too will gain something useful and helpful to your own life.

Highlights

• It’s okay to love your work but make sure that you are in touch with your own values and messages so you can decide if the work you’re doing now should be continued in the same way.

• Keep your communications respectful regardless of if that respect is reciprocated 

• Take accountability for your own actions, acknowledge and learn from your mistakes.

Quotes

“Sometimes we don't know that it’s time to move on to a new opportunity, we may love the work we’re doing or the organization we’re doing it.”

“If you find yourself continually late to work, ask yourself if you are dreading the work, the environment, your supervisor, or if there’s a different reason.”

“Anyone who has held a job has made a mistake at some point.”

About Karen

 Karen is a Human Resources and Organization Development expert with more than 20 years of human resources experience. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Communication Disorders for the University of Northern Colorado and a Master’s degree in Organization Development from the University of San Francisco. 

Visit Karen’s LinkedIn and Website to learn more! 

About Sarah

"Uncovering the right stories for the right audiences so executives, leaders, public speakers, and job seekers can clearly and actively demonstrate their character, values, and vision."

In my work with coaching clients, I guide people to improve their communication using storytelling as the foundation of our work together. What I’ve realized over years of coaching and podcasting is that the majority of people don’t realize the impact of the stories they share - on their internal messages, and on the people they’re sharing them with.

My work with leaders and people who aspire to be leaders follows a similar path to the interviews on my podcast, uncovering pivotal moments in their lives and learning how to share them to connect more authentically with others, to make their presentations and speaking more engaging, to reveal patterns that have kept them stuck or moved them forward, and to improve their relationships at work and at home.

The audiobook, Your Stories Don’t Define You, How You Tell Them Will is now available!

Included with your purchase are two bonus tracks, songs recorded by Sarah's band, Spare Change, in her living room in Montana.

Be sure to check out the Job Interview Storytelling Course as well to make sure you nail that next interview!

286 Choosing and Creating Your Own Community

Connection and choosing the community that will help you grow and thrive is vital to self growth and peace of mind, especially when you are going through major changes in life or are thinking of how you want to spend your life. 

In this episode Sarah Elkins and Vanessa Jupe discuss the importance of community and connection while navigating life and its changes. 

Highlights

• Planning for the future and enjoying the time you have. 

• Connection and support are vital to every stage in life.

• If you don’t feel like you belong in a community you can make your own.

Quotes

“It took me a year before I was like, “Okay we’re gonna do the community event.” I was just so worried about it I just didn’t want it to become a negative thing, because I’ve seen so much of that and I want what we’re building to be incredibly supportive.”

“It’s tough because there are people and things that you love, and you’re like “Ah, well, now that I have a kid I’m going to be making different decisions than I might have if it was just me.”.”

“There are some very painful things that I experienced in my life that I don’t know if I’ve learned a lesson from yet, and there were things that I was scared about that were awesome! And I was like “Oh, I learned that I could do that thing that I thought was scary.” Right? So it’s not always the most painful.”

Dear Listeners it is now your turn,

Your stories don’t define you, the things that happened to you or in your life that’s not what defines you. It’s how you talk about those things, It’s how you choose your internal dialogue, and the stories you’re telling so that you can shift them from maybe being a victim to being your own guide and hero. And remember there are lots of guides out there just waiting to be in your corner and support you, and I just have one request Listeners; It doesn’t have to be when you’re having a big decade birthday, or when you’re about to empty nest, or some random arbitrary part of your life that you can do the program that Vanessa’s husband created for them, where you think about the moments in the last ten years that are really meaningful, that have shaped you into who you are today, and start thinking about what moments you want over the next ten years, you can do that today it doesn’t have to be a big decade birthday or new years eve, I encourage you to think about that.

And, as always, thank you for listening. 

About Vanessa

Vanessa Jupe founded Leva after experiencing the challenges of breastfeeding, being a working mom, and finding work-life balance firsthand. She is a passionate leader with 20 years of experience in the digital product development. Jupe is also a mother and wife.

Jupe holds a BBA in Information Systems from the University of the Incarnate Word, an MS in Technology Commercialization from UT Austin McCombs School of Business, and a certificate in Women in Leadership from Cornell University.

Jupe is committed to helping working moms succeed. She believes that all moms deserve to have a fulfilling career and a happy family life. Leva is her way of making that happen.

Connect with Vanessa on her Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn!

Check out Vanessa’s website Levapp and the associated Instagram and LinkedIn!

About Sarah

"Uncovering the right stories for the right audiences so executives, leaders, public speakers, and job seekers can clearly and actively demonstrate their character, values, and vision."

In my work with coaching clients, I guide people to improve their communication using storytelling as the foundation of our work together. What I’ve realized over years of coaching and podcasting is that the majority of people don’t realize the impact of the stories they share - on their internal messages, and on the people they’re sharing them with.

My work with leaders and people who aspire to be leaders follows a similar path to the interviews on my podcast, uncovering pivotal moments in their lives and learning how to share them to connect more authentically with others, to make their presentations and speaking more engaging, to reveal patterns that have kept them stuck or moved them forward, and to improve their relationships at work and at home.

The audiobook, Your Stories Don’t Define You, How You Tell Them Will is now available!

Included with your purchase are two bonus tracks, songs recorded by Sarah's band, Spare Change, in her living room in Montana.

Be sure to check out the Job Interview Storytelling Course as well to make sure you nail that next interview!

285 Bloom Where You’re Planted

When we are first starting out in our careers it can feel like we’re lost and in a rut, constantly fighting the tide as we try to sail the seas of life. However, much like the humble dandelion, it’s through this resilience and persistence that we can grow in whatever environment we find ourselves in.

In this episode Sarah Elkins and Nathalie Lussier discuss the importance of thriving and trying new things that can bring us joy and fulfillment, even if they are new and strange. Because it is only when we make the attempt that we will learn more about ourselves and the strength within us.

Highlights

• Sometimes scrapping ideas is the first step in the right direction.

• Resilience can keep you afloat through all of life’s turbulence.

• Growing and working hard over time on your passions, even if they’re new to you.

Quotes

“Bloom where you’re planted.”

“I think it’s when people were sharing about it with their friends. The sort of word of mouth effect, because that was like obviously I can like what we created and think it’s cool, but if other people aren’t seeing the value and aren’t sharing it with their friends because they think it’s awesome and they need to try it, then I don’t know if we created anything great. So for me that was the big thing.”

“I feel like sometimes these situations open us up for better things even though it doesn’t feel like it in the moment.”

Dear Listeners it is now your turn,

I started this question for you about ten or fifteen minutes into the conversation with Nathalie: What can you take on? What can you think about in terms of problem solving where you are now? What is something that you could do, maybe as a side hustle, maybe into the future as you get more experience and build the portfolio of trying it where you are now, being somebody who blooms where they’re planted, what problem can you solve? I’ll be curious to find out, please comment or send me an email, let me know what you thought of this episode.

And, as always, thank you for listening. 

About Nathalie

Nathalie Lussier is an award-winning entrepreneur who has been making websites since she was 12 years old. She graduated with a degree in Software Engineering and a job offer from Wall Street, but she turned down this job to start her own business right out of college.

As the founder of AccessAlly, the powerful digital course and membership solution for industry leaders, she believes that access to education can help defy stereotypes and make the world a better place while providing a sustainable livelihood for enterprising teachers.

Connect with Nathalie on her LinkedIn, and Facebook! Be sure to check out her websites Nathalie Lussier, Accessally, and 30 Days List Building Challenge!

About Sarah

"Uncovering the right stories for the right audiences so executives, leaders, public speakers, and job seekers can clearly and actively demonstrate their character, values, and vision."

In my work with coaching clients, I guide people to improve their communication using storytelling as the foundation of our work together. What I’ve realized over years of coaching and podcasting is that the majority of people don’t realize the impact of the stories they share - on their internal messages, and on the people they’re sharing them with.

My work with leaders and people who aspire to be leaders follows a similar path to the interviews on my podcast, uncovering pivotal moments in their lives and learning how to share them to connect more authentically with others, to make their presentations and speaking more engaging, to reveal patterns that have kept them stuck or moved them forward, and to improve their relationships at work and at home.

The audiobook, Your Stories Don’t Define You, How You Tell Them Will is now available!

Included with your purchase are two bonus tracks, songs recorded by Sarah's band, Spare Change, in her living room in Montana.

Be sure to check out the Job Interview Storytelling Course as well to make sure you nail that next interview!

284 Satisfaction

It is inevitable that we will encounter a person or an event that can make anything seem like a trial. From a dead car battery on a trip in another country, to a little bit more rain than you planned on during a work commute, these events can seem like thorn after thorn in your side. However when you take a step back and contemplate how you handled these situations you may just be pleasantly surprised in yourself and your abilities.

In this episode Sarah Elkins reflects on her experiences on her trip to Italy, how her magic shined, even if she didn’t see it at the time, and how sometimes all it takes is a little time to see that what was a rather unpleasant experience can be a learning experience that is not only fulfilling but satisfying. 

Highlights

• Finding meaning and inspiration in frustration when things don’t go your way. 

• Reframing experiences that may have not all been great but can strengthen your natural talents.

• Keeping track of what makes you satisfied and using your natural skills to bring more of that satisfaction into your day to day life.

Quotes

“I had been lamenting some of the obstacles and frustrations I had experienced on my trip. Re-experiencing those disappointments, finding the learning opportunities.”

“Once you understand your talents in this depth, the way that they’re showing up so naturally and instinctively, you can find ways to incorporate those talents with intention into your days at work and at home. Which I promise will reduce stress and conflict, while bringing your best self to whatever activities you have to do.”

Dear Listeners it is now your turn,

Think about a story you told where you might be seen as a victim or a complainer, can you think of a different perspective or framing you can take in telling that story? Ask yourself these questions: What did I learn from the experience? What might I have found satisfying about it? Who helped me in that time, who was a guide or mentor that I can focus on more than the person or situation that might be seen as the villain in my story.

And, as always, thank you for listening. 

Mentioned in This Episode

Happy Hour With Einstein by Melissa Hughes

Happier Hour with Einstein, Another Round by Melissa Hughes

Melissa Hughes Youtube Channel

About Sarah

"Uncovering the right stories for the right audiences so executives, leaders, public speakers, and job seekers can clearly and actively demonstrate their character, values, and vision."

In my work with coaching clients, I guide people to improve their communication using storytelling as the foundation of our work together. What I’ve realized over years of coaching and podcasting is that the majority of people don’t realize the impact of the stories they share - on their internal messages, and on the people they’re sharing them with.

My work with leaders and people who aspire to be leaders follows a similar path to the interviews on my podcast, uncovering pivotal moments in their lives and learning how to share them to connect more authentically with others, to make their presentations and speaking more engaging, to reveal patterns that have kept them stuck or moved them forward, and to improve their relationships at work and at home.

The audiobook, Your Stories Don’t Define You, How You Tell Them Will is now available!

Included with your purchase are two bonus tracks, songs recorded by Sarah's band, Spare Change, in her living room in Montana.

Be sure to check out the Job Interview Storytelling Course as well to make sure you nail that next interview!

283 Cultivating Your Ideal Environment 

Creativity and problem solving often go hand in hand usually in very unexpected ways, however when given the chance to bend and try things in new and unexpected ways without judging yourself or your abilities you may just find that these two vital skills can shape your strength and identity going forward.

In today’s episode Sarah Elkins and Dr. Cyndi Burnett discuss the importance of creativity and education and how these two things can shape our identities and images of authenticity going forward.

Highlights

• Sometimes you need to do things differently than you normally would in order to connect with your audience.

• You have to work with people who are different from you, you do not want to be stuck in an echochamber.

• Everyone is creative in their own way.

Quotes

“That’s what teaching is, it’s all problem solving. So if you think about creativity as problem solving and not just arts and crafts and who has a nice door, then you’ll understand that all of you in this classroom are creative, otherwise you wouldn’t survive as a teacher.”

“Sometimes it’s hard to stop and say; okay hey we made it through this week, let’s celebrate that! Just finding those small things that we can celebrate in both our personal and professional lives can really help with the overall wellbeing that we’re moving forward through something.”

“I give them a baby plant with a letter that says; This plant represents your wellbeing. If you can’t keep it alive you’re not doing something for yourself. And so if it dies you need to really stop and reflect on what you’re doing wrong that you can’t even keep this plant alive, ‘cause it only takes a little bit of watering once a week. If you can’t do that you’re not taking care of yourself.”

Dear Listeners it is now your turn,

What if you took this challenge from Cyndi and the next time you found yourself judging yourself for something you do or don’t do or something you’re afraid to do or something you have an idea about and you “Should” all over yourself about, I should be happy, or I should be okay with this without implementing this new idea I have. The next time you do that, really question where that came from and just as importantly, if not more importantly, find somebody who will support your idea or who will challenge you to think about your idea and how you can actually implement it. Find the people in your life, your community, that when you say “I have this crazy idea,” they say, “Awesome, how can I help?”

And, as always, thank you for listening. 

About Cyndi

Dr. Cyndi Burnett is the Director of Possibilities for Creativity and Education, and the co-founder of the Creative Thinking Network for Educators.  Her mission is to empower educators to infuse creative thinking into the classroom.  She taught deliberate creativity and creative problem solving for 20 years at the Center for Applied Imagination at SUNY Buffalo State University.  She is also the co-host of the Fueling Creativity in Education podcast.

Connect with Cyndi on her LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook!

Be sure to check out her podcast Fueling Creativity in Education! As well as her websites Creativity and Education, and Creative Thinking Network!

About Sarah

"Uncovering the right stories for the right audiences so executives, leaders, public speakers, and job seekers can clearly and actively demonstrate their character, values, and vision."

In my work with coaching clients, I guide people to improve their communication using storytelling as the foundation of our work together. What I’ve realized over years of coaching and podcasting is that the majority of people don’t realize the impact of the stories they share - on their internal messages, and on the people they’re sharing them with.

My work with leaders and people who aspire to be leaders follows a similar path to the interviews on my podcast, uncovering pivotal moments in their lives and learning how to share them to connect more authentically with others, to make their presentations and speaking more engaging, to reveal patterns that have kept them stuck or moved them forward, and to improve their relationships at work and at home.

The audiobook, Your Stories Don’t Define You, How You Tell Them Will is now available!

Included with your purchase are two bonus tracks, songs recorded by Sarah's band, Spare Change, in her living room in Montana.

Be sure to check out the Job Interview Storytelling Course as well to make sure you nail that next interview!