Corporate Storytelling: When Your Story is Worthless

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Marketing TeleCourse is Next Week. Sign Up Now.

From Storyteller.net:

Storytellers and other Performing Artists! Are you making it as a full or part-time artist? Let us help you increase your income and improve your enjoyment of your work in our next TeleCourse series. Storyteller.net presents the TeleCourse Version of the "Outside In Storytelling Marketing Boot Camp" in October 2008. Every Wednesday, you will learn more tips, trick and techniques presented by K. Sean Buvala in an interactive, fun and informative evening TeleCourse. You can learn more when you visit this link right now! Begins next week, register today.

The official blog for K. Sean Buvala, storyteller and storytelling coach.

The Storyteller and the Security Camera

The official blog for K. Sean Buvala, storyteller and storytelling coach.

Press Release: The Ancient Secret of Public Speaking Workshop

Press Release

For Immediate Release
Use Date: August 24- October 8, 2008

Synopsis: Award-winning speaker coach and storyteller offers new training workshops in the West Valley of the greater Phoenix area. Adults who use public speaking in any format are invited to register for the “Ancient Secret of Public Speaking” workshops in October or November 2008.

Avondale, AZ- Improving and mastering public speaking will be the results when those in any career field attend the newest two-day training workshop offered in the West Valley. The “Ancient Secret of Public Speaking Workshop” has two remaining sessions in 2008: October 9 and 10 and then again November 6 and 7. Presented by long-time Arizona resident and national presenter, K. Sean Buvala, the workshops are limited to a few students per session to insure personal attention. For more information and to register, please see the website at http://www.ancientsecretworkshop.com .

“After several decades of public speaking work, I’ve come to recognize and apply a core element in every excellent speech or presentation of any type. In the workshop, we tap into this ‘secret’ skill, one we are all born with, and teach our students how to immediately use the skill,” says Sean Buvala, the creator and presenter for the “Ancient Secret of Public Speaking” workshop. He continued, “I’ve spoken with and coached in nearly every major industry, including construction, sales, health care, ministry, education and others. I’ve worked nationally with small companies and major international corporations. In all cases, our secret skill of building narrative can be used and is used by all speakers in those organizations.”

Sean has decided to keep this national workshop in the Phoenix area. “We’ve been offering a variety of workshops here in the west valley for about a year now. We have had attendees from all over the U.S. With this new workshop, we’re expanding our offerings so that anyone of any skill level can come and learn to speak with greater clarity, getting their message to stick in the hearts and minds of their listeners. As a side benefit, we’re creating business for west-valley hotels, caterers and retailers.” says Sean.

Buvala continued, “The workshop is surprisingly affordable for this level of training and includes many practice and coaching sessions. We also put out some great meals, which are included in the price of the workshop. We work our participants very hard as they develop new skills or fine-tune current skills. It’s always good to watch our participants grow and have a great time, too.”

The remaining 2008 workshops are offered at a discount price before a price increase in 2009. “I’ve seen entire teams grow and learn much when they learn the narrative secret.”

For the latest information and updates, please visit the website at http://www.ancientsecretworkshop.com.

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Keywords: learn storytelling, learn public speaking, workshops, corporate training, speaker consultant, goodyear, avondale, human resources, hr, sales, teaching, teacher, inservice, insurance, ministry, how to be a better public speaker, confident speaking, real estate, arizona, toastmaster, education, continuing education, college,


The official blog for K. Sean Buvala, storyteller and storytelling coach.

New Lower-Price offer on the Storytelling 101 Kit!

Hey, we changed the bonus items for the Storytelling 101 kit and dropped the price a whole bunch. Come and check it out. Mention this blog when you order and I will send you an extra gift. http://www.storytelling101.com


The official blog for K. Sean Buvala, storyteller and storytelling coach.

More Boot Camp Pics.

More pics from the Marketing Boot Camp.

The official blog for K. Sean Buvala, storyteller and storytelling coach.

Marketing Camp 08.08 Pictures

A few pics from the "Outside In Storytelling Marketing Boot Camp #2" held August 15-17, 2008 in Glendale, Arizona.

The official blog for K. Sean Buvala, storyteller and storytelling coach.

Marketing Telecourse is Here!

I give in! You wanted the OISBCamp Telecourse Workshop.....You got it!

Info is here:
http://www.storytellercoach.com/outsidein/telecourse.shtml

No travel, no hotels. Just five weeks of focused learning.

First come, first serve. This one will fill up.

http://www.storytellercoach.com/outsidein/telecourse.shtml

*The early-bird catches the free coaching, too.


The official blog for K. Sean Buvala, storyteller and storytelling coach.

Stone Soup Noodles

Took a day off last week to create some soup with my helpers, daughter #4 and cousin #3.

We made spinach noodles, vegetarian soup and chicken soups.

Since I tend to think in narrative and story, I kept being reminded of the STONE SOUP story. Here's an audio version in the podcast from the ACT!VATED STORYTELLERS There is some background information at WIKIPEDIA but like many wiki entries there, not everything is correct. I am pretty hard -pressed to find a Grimm Brothers' version of this story. I think it is better traced through stories from Eastern Europe in variants such as "nail soup."

If you have not made home-made noodles before, then let me guide you. Follow the pictures above. You'll first need to create the dough, consisting of flour, spinach, eggs and olive oil.

We use a hand-cranked pasta machine that requires more hands than one person has. We end up with four long stretches of flat noodle dough. These are then run through the other end of the machine to cut them. When they are cut, some of them still stick together and get hand-separated by the assistants. As they lay on the drying racks, they become a tunnel of noodles, as you can see here by the spelunkers.

While the noodles dry, the soups are attended to. You can see our two pots of soups going at it in the pictures above.

Once the noodles dry, it is time to cut them down to size. They can stay long, but for soup we trim them down with kitchen scissors. There's a picture of the pile there.

After a little more drying, the noodles go into the pot of boiling water just as any pasta would be cooked. Noodles made this way cook very quickly, about 3 minutes vs. the 8 for packaged product.

As you can see by the last picture, noodles must be slurped to really get the full effect.

Making noodles is a time-intensive process and will be an occasional treat at our house. Cost-wise, we're looking about the same as packaged pasta although the flavor is decidedly different and better. However, the memory-making and education/learning components of doing a project like this with children is above and beyond the discussion of cost and time.

So, want to connect story to lesson planning? How about stone soup created in the classroom? How about noodles created as part of the that process?

Stone soup and spinach noodles. Now, there's a story.

Quiet? Readers?

Some of those interesting experiences today.

Before the school children arrived for my first set, one of the adults asked me:

Her: So what are you doing today with the children?

Me: I am a storyteller.

Her: Oh , good. Something to put them to sleep for a while. That will make them quieter for us.

Me: I think you are in for a big surprise, I'm kinda noisy.

Her: Oh.

And one of the children asked (again) after I had done several connected, fun participatory stories:"So when are you finally gonna start reading some books to us?"

Sigh.

The official blog for K. Sean Buvala, storyteller and storytelling coach.

Free TeleCourses

Hey folks, we've got lots of free TeleCourses this month. Come check it out at http://www.storyellerconference.com . Just finished today's course, great fun. Come learn with us. Next course is Saturday, followed by THREE next week.

The official blog for K. Sean Buvala, storyteller and storytelling coach.

Free Storytelling ECourse

From Storyteller.net:

Learn the Art of Storytelling! Your own pace, privately and FREE OF CHARGE!

We’ve developed a free, 36-lesson Ecourse just for you! More than just "tips" to clutter up your Emailbox, we’ll teach you great things for storytelling to adults, teens, tweens and children.

Get free storytelling and presentation tips and lessons in your Email. Every 14 days or so, you’ll get another great storytelling tip and lesson from Storyteller.net director and master storyteller K. Sean Buvala. Subscribe today.

We never give away, sell or distribute your contact information. Never. You are in control of you subscription.

Use the form on this page to get started today. You’ll get your first lesson in a day or so.


The official blog for K. Sean Buvala, storyteller and storytelling coach.

Free TeleConferences for July

I've just set up the dates for all the July 2008 Free Storytelling Teleconferences. Go to http://www.storytellerconference.com/ to register and learn more.

July 9 Wednesday:
"Will Your Clients Call You First? Ten Easy Ways to Stay In Their MindTops"

July 12 Saturday:
"So You Want To Be a Professional Storyteller?"

July 15 Tuesday:
"Storytelling 101: An Introduction to Storytelling for All Types of Storytellers."

July 16 Wednesday:
"Public Speaking 911: Five Fixes for Public Speaking Problems."

July 17 Thursday:
"So You Want To Be A Professional Storyteller?"

July 21 Monday:
"Public Speaking 911: Five Fixes for Public Speaking Problems."

July 24 Thursday:
"Making Your Storytelling CD (Right the First Time.)"

July 28 Monday:
"Will Your Clients Call You First? Ten Easy Ways to Stay In Their MindTops."

July 30 Wednesday:
"Storytelling 101: An Introduction to Storytelling for All Types of Storytellers."

The official blog for K. Sean Buvala, storyteller and storytelling coach.

Every Business Needs the Power of Storytelling

“But I don’t need corporate storytelling, it has nothing to do with my work.”

I was in a city across the country from me and I was teaching the corporate storytelling version of my “Storytelling 101" presentation for a large company. The training had been designated as a “not mandatory but we want you to be there” event, so some people came to the meeting just a bit hostile.

During the break, I was, umm, sitting in the bathroom and behind a closed door. That’s all I will say about that. Just know that those who came in could not see me. Two other men entered the bathroom and as they washed their hands, they began to talk about how “stupid” it was for them to be there at storytelling training. “What do I need corporate storytelling for?” the first man asked the other and continued with other gripes.

I stepped out of the place I was sitting which I think shocked the first guy. Perhaps surprised to see me and a bit embarrassed about griping about the speaker behind his back, the first man then started in on me about “what could a storyteller teach me?”

Washing my hands, I asked him, “So, what do you do here?”

He then went on to explain that he directed the process where the company secured new buildings. He told me about how they have to help the decision makers understand how the building will be used, not just how much it costs. He then told me about one particular building they acquired that was now used to help families work through long-term illness saying, “What a difference it makes in the lives of people.” The pride of his work was clearly reflected in his conversation.

I said, “You know, that was a great story you just told me.”

He stopped, took a long look into the mirror and sighed. He knew I had caught him in the proof that every area of every business uses storytelling. He knew that he had just used storytelling to tell me about his work.

This executive looked right at me, mumbled, “Oh, (censored)” and walked out the door.
My new corporate friend was very attentive the rest of the training session.

No matter what your company is about, I would be honored to train you and your staff in the power of corporate storytelling. Please let me know how I can help you.

The official blog for K. Sean Buvala, storyteller and storytelling coach.

Pre Release Sale: Outside In Storytelling Audio Training Series

Greetings. I am doing a "soft release" of the Outside In Storytelling Marketing Boot Camp Audio Training Kit. The kit will include 4-5 CD's of audio training, most of which was recorded live at the OISB Camp. Your kit will also have the handouts and worksheets as well as a certificate good for a 1/2 hour phone coaching meeting with me. All of this will be in a three ring binder. I am releasing the kit on or about July 15, 2008. We don't have the final cost yet, but it will be no less than $295.

HOWEVER, you, beloved readers, can order the kit NOW in pre-release status for just $189 plus the $4.95 shipping.

I am only selling 10 of these at this price. First come, first serve. You'll get your kit in July when it is released. Remember, this is the kit only, not a camp registration.
Order now. My phone coaching costs more than $189 for an hour, so this WHOLE KIT for $189 is a steal. The amount of information in this kit will change your career, if you are really serious about your performing artist business.

You can order at our online store at this link here. It's minimal info right now, but the store is open.

Of course, the camp in August is STILL ON and we would love to host you in August. You get the audio files as part of the camp registration, by the way.

The official blog for K. Sean Buvala, storyteller and storytelling coach.

More on ROI

I've been getting some interesting online and offline feedback to my post a few days ago regarding "return on investments". Thanks for the conversations, folks.

Just a quick thought 'cuz there aren't enough cliches in blogs already:

"If you keep on doing what you've always done, you'll keep on getting what you've always got."

And also, here is one of the comments I posted for that other post:

You are right, folks can stay home. But...How many good stories do you know where a journey must be set out on, the growth obtained and the journey home a changed person?

That is the power of going off to a conference like ours. And like many stories, there are monsters to defeat. In the case of the OISBC, some participants found that the monster was themselves and their old belief systems.

There are few stories that say, "see how much I learned never leaving my house." There are exceptions and they are few. One of the past participants of the OISBC included in her comments about the camp that a person needs to come ready to focus ("make it a retreat") on the volume of information we deliver. The power is not just the information. The power is in the journey, the setting-aside of time, the sacrifice of one's gold, the entering into and of energized space. Journey to the conference.


The journey tho', if we believe in the truth of the stories we tell, is pretty darn important.
Journeying to the same place, over and over again, loses its ability to teach. Time for folks to set out on a new path.


Being a full-time storyteller is not for everyone. It takes a lot of sacrifice, as any small business does.

The official blog for K. Sean Buvala, storyteller and storytelling coach.

Take a Listen Now! In Depth for the "Outside In Storytelling Marketing Camp."

Our most recent marketing workshop was in February. Part of that camp experience was a follow up conference call. We recorded that call and it's here for you to listen to now (click here). If you are on the edge about attending the next camp in August 2008, please listen to these folks talk about what they've learned and how they are applying the learning from the camp.

"Sean, there were so many wonderful things that came 'at' us in the boot camp, that I have just started working on just a little bit of it at a time. One of the things that became very clear to me was that I really needed to spend time redefining my niche. I thought I knew. I knew what I enjoyed. Even my mission statement didn't truly reflect what is was I actually do. So I spent time trying to refine that and working on my niche some more. That is just one of the things ( I learned). I am going to name two or three more..." - Call Participant, North Carolina

The audio is a bit rough in places, such are the wonders of conference call technology. One of the things I like about this call is that you can hear Priscilla and I working through some thoughts about marketing one of her events. This is the kind of give and take that happens at the camp- something you can't just get from listening to the camp audio recordings.

You can register for the next camp at our website. Use the promo coupon code: dryheat to save 20%.

The official blog for K. Sean Buvala, storyteller and storytelling coach.

The Return on the Investment

Hey storytellers and other working artists....So, what’s the ROI on the conferences you keep attending every year?

The email or the posting (I get many) reads something like,

“I go to so many conferences that I just can’t afford to come to your 'Outside In Storytelling Marketing Boot Camp.' You should (do something that makes it nearly painless for them) to attend.”

So, if you will, let me talk to your CEO for a moment. Yes, you have one for your small business and that small business is YOU. I know, it will be hard to quit being an Owner for a moment, but I need to talk to your CEO, the one who makes real life, bottom-line decisions.

Dear CEO- maybe you need to convince this storyteller that it’s time to ask a real question: “How much ROI (return on investment) are you getting from going to the same conference(s) every year, seeing the same people, taking yet another version of the same workshops you take each year?”

Hold up there. Your Owner side is popping up and saying, “But I like the people, the setting, the friendship, the fun” of the conferences I keep going to year after year after year.” Your Owner may be right in that those things are important for one part of your spirit, but your CEO needs to step in and focus on your bottom line. So, again, CEO, what is the ROI in these same conferences every year? Is it time to take a break this year and attend the “Outside In Storytelling Marketing Boot Camp?"

One woman left the OISBC last year and went out and made nearly $1000 with a simple change in her marketing strategy. Paid for her workshop in just one week. Others report new publicity from the tips they learned at the workshop. I can't assure you that you will do the same. You might do better.

So, what’s the ROI on the conferences you keep attending every year? You know, the real ROI, the one that pays the gasoline bill, the electric bill and puts food on your table? You know, the real ROI that knows the economy is changing?

Somebody will write me and tell me that I don’t understand how important relationships are and how they need to go to the conferences to be refreshed. Those folks probably are not ready for the life-changing, career-reorienting content of the “Outside In Storytelling Marketing Boot Camp.”

I also get told to “apply” to present the OISBC at various conferences. That would mean spending my money to fix your business. No thanks. You are welcome to make arrangements to bring the OISBC to your area for a reasonable fee. I am one of the most flexible national-level folks out there.

This isn’t arrogance. For some, it is a wake up call to understand your business and seize the freedoms of doing what you love. You can do it.

The OISBC could change your bottom line. It will change the way you think about your storytelling small business. It will affirm your vocation as well.

What if one just one technique from the OISBC brought you ten more gigs next year? That would more than pay for the costs associated in coming to the OISBC. If it wouldn’t, then you need to charge more. If you can’t charge more, then you need to go get a more traditional job or you need to move somewhere where you can charge more.

Take some time off from one of your regular conferences and come spend time at the OISBC. We’ll treat you like gold and challenge you like crazy.

So, what’s the ROI on the conferences you keep attending every year?

Click here to register for the August 2008 Boot Camp

The official blog for K. Sean Buvala, storyteller and storytelling coach.

Storyteller.net May 2008 Podcast Is Here!

The latest Storyteller.net Podcast is now available. You can listen right now when you click here!

The May 2008 edition features stories by Tim Ereneta (in the picture to the left) telling "Isabella and Her Brother" from his performance at the "Emergent Storytelling Series," Mary Garrett telling "Heaven and Hell" from her new CD, Sean Buvala telling his version of the "Lion and the Mouse," recorded live at a school show for small children (your speakers will get a workout on that one) and Debra Morningstar who tells "The Grasshopper's Song" from her new CD.

The coaching moment this month is from Priscilla Howe recorded at the "Outside In Storytelling Marketing Boot Camp."

The official blog for K. Sean Buvala, storyteller and storytelling coach.

Small is the New Big

In a quick response to Tim's latest blog post:

Tim, with respect for you, I disagree. I really want to agree. I really want to believe change is on the horizon. But, it’s not.

To be even more honest, my compassion is fatigued. I’m still waiting for that apology call from the BOD after the Eric Miller fiasco. Did you get your call yet? I know, it is never going to happen. And really, does anyone believe the ED resigned of her own accord? If that is true, then we really do lack leadership.

Tim, It’s not a battleship, in my opinion. That is too modern a reference. Rather, it is an old-timey, rusted bicycle that has been given a new coat of paint, right over the rust. Then, they added one of them new-fangled battery powered lights to the front. “See how pretty it is, children?” There is nothing new here, with the exception of the location change. This is not even the first time an online forum has been tried and failed for the NSN. What is going on?

The Marketplace solution is already in reach, has been for years with the clear knowledge of the last two Chairs, with zero out of pocket expense from the BOD. Don’t see that happening, do we? Saying collaboration is desired is smoke screen, as I have experienced it.

Now, instead of taking the money that is already on the table, we’re supposed to do benefit concerts for the NSN? Sigh.

The solutions for the NSN are:

1. Allow it to die and resurrect Phoenix-like with a new mission, a new look, a new name, new energy. Nothing says “we mean to change” like letting something, well, change.

2. The new organization must work with existing organizations in true collaboration, reaching out to heal the many wounded that have been left in the wake of the NSN’s path over the last few years. The current economy also demands collaboration.

3. The new organization must be de-centralized. Set Godin calls it, “Small is the New Big.” Regional offices in Chicago, Boston, Phoenix the current office in Tennessee (for example) will allow for a fast moving, modern organization that can reclaim the “Mother of All Art Forms” mantle that storytelling should have. The new ED can then choose to work out of any of those offices. How powerful an incentive that will be!

4. If there is not going to be a resurrection, then there needs to be competition. That will be an economic hit, too. However, right now, you can have your national storytelling in any flavor you want as long as it’s 1970 Julep. Maybe, ultimately, that is the problem.

It's time for me to just stop talking about this. Your mileage may vary. Shoot the messenger. Not valid where prohibited by law. I may be wrong. User assumes all risks.

The official blog for K. Sean Buvala, storyteller and storytelling coach.