We’ve all been taught to highlight achievements, stack credentials, and prove our worth. But when it comes to leadership, those victories don’t connect with people the way we hope. What people really connect with is your story — especially the parts you least want to tell. Here are some key lessons I took from master storyteller, Kyle Gray!
Vulnerability Creates Connection
Your audience won’t remember your list of wins. They’ll remember the story that made you human. Vulnerability is the bridge between your experience and their trust.
Reframing Pain into Purpose
That moment you avoid talking about — the failure, setback, or shame — is often the most important. When reframed, it stops being a scar and becomes proof that you can guide others through their own struggles.
Storytelling Is a Skill, Not a Script
Effective storytelling isn’t about memorizing lines. It’s like martial arts — a practice you refine over time. The more you train in it, the more natural it becomes to meet your audience where they are.
So What’s the Point:
Your greatest influence as a leader comes not from your victories, but from the stories you once tried to hide.
Your Next EASIEST Step:
Take five minutes today to write down a story you’ve resisted sharing — a failure, setback, or moment of doubt. Ask yourself: How could this story serve someone else? The act of reframing it is the first step to transforming it into leadership gold.
Join the Alignment Village:
If you’re ready to align your story, your habits, and your leadership, join us inside the Next Level Village. You’ll get access to free resources, training, and a community of leaders doing the same work.