Episode 11 - How to be a better storyteller with Michel Neray

If you want to get better at talking about what you do, presenting, selling, marketing, public speaking, writing, or sharing stories of any kind… listen to this episode! 

Michel Neray is a professional speaker, consultant, creator of Inside-Out storytelling, and the founder of momondays -- a monthly storytelling event that pre-pandemic was in 16 cities. 

Michel has helped thousands of individuals and organizations to drill down to their core message, become category leaders and craft more impactful stories to become more effective leaders, salespeople, coaches, teachers, trainers, speakers, and influencers of all types. He also uses the Inside-Out approach to differentiate, position, and brand organizations in the market.

I know Michel because back in the early 2000s he gave me my first “real” job out of University by hiring me at his boutique marketing/messaging agency called The Essential Message. Michel mentored me and provided me with a ton of experience that allowed me to leapfrog ahead in my career. I routinely apply many of the things he taught me to this day. Years later, I spoke at momondays, in which I delivered a speech that catapulted my business and brand. 

Many of the concepts Michel taught me remain relevant and timeless — and we cover a number of them in this discussion.

In this episode, we explore: 

• The value of storytelling, and why human beings are wired for story.
• How to discover (and tell) your “origin story”.
• The event, and personal story, that changed both of our lives and our careers for the better.
• Why you should share personal details in your stories. (Hint: the more personal the story, the more universal the message.)
• The role of curiosity in feedback and mentorship, and the questions you should be asking your colleagues, students, clients, mentees.
• How to take feedback, and the importance of developing your own critical thinking about your work.
• The problem with elevator pitches and what you should say / do instead.
• How to become better at whatever you do by becoming a student of your own impact.
• Why you should go out and engage with other people about your writing and work rather than keeping it to yourself.

When you’re done listening to this episode, be sure to check out Michel Neray at  https://neray.com (where’s he got lots of useful free resources) and https://momondays.com/