How UPS’ viral story has our brains hopped-up on oxytocin and why it matters to marketers
I have been studying neuroeconomist Paul Zak’s work on storytelling and how it actually changes the chemistry in our brain. When we’re seduced by a good story, we produce cortisol,…
Did powerpoint bring down two Space Shuttles?
Do you remember where you were on February 1, 2003? Let me remind you. As you were leading your peaceful terrestrial life, the space shuttle Columbia was disintegrating over the…
Infographic: Storytelling vs Corporate Speak
It’s not rocket science. It’s brain science. Storytelling is how we’re hardwired to understand the world. And anyone can tell compelling stories. So turn your jargon into journeys, your info…
Cool new tool for creating a quick video story on your iPad
Pick a template. Upload an image. Record your voice in snippets. Add music. Then post your video. It is that easy with Adobe Voice. Let’s face it, if content is…
Is storytelling our ultimate survival tool?
The more work I do in helping sustainability practitioners communicate, the greater appreciation I have for the power of story to help us save ourselves from ourselves. This was underscored…
How to Tell Compelling Stories to Drive Donations for Your Social Cause
Goodwill of Central Arizona will help more than 23,000 people find employment this year through its workforce development programs. Goodwill relies on your donations for the inventory it sells through…
Survival of the fittest storyteller: How stories insure our sustainability
What is the primary function of our brain? Survival. The oldest portion of our noggin – the brain stem – is our “Reptilian Brain.” It triggers our most basal instincts of…
Telling stories won’t sell my jewelry
The lady proclaimed that she owned a fairly prominent jewelry store chain in Phoenix – one I had never heard of, by the way – when she called me about…
What social marketers can learn from a common man’s story on NPR’s StoryCorps
Once I learned about the Hero’s Journey from Joseph Campbell’s work, it started appearing everywhere. This universal pattern to story permeates all of our lives. It’s not only in the stories…
How the sharing economy accommodated us in France
Michele and I had never used AirBnB until our recent three-week adventure through France. There was a terrific article in the NY Times today about the vacation rental company in…
