Anecdotally Speaking: Recent Episodes

Shawn Callahan & Mark Schenk

Welcome to our podcast, Anecdotally Speaking. Each week we tell a business story, talk about why it works and discuss where you might tell it at work. Our aim is to help you build your story repertoire.

View Details

In Episode 273 of Anecdotally Speaking, we’re rejoined by Paul Fairweather to explore how creativity, storytelling, and illustration intertwine in his new book. In this … The post 273 – Bold, Brave and a bit Quirky – Paul Fairweather appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In Episode 272 of Anecdotally Speaking, discover how a unique metaphor helped Disney’s CEO evaluate risky decisions and how it can help you too. In … The post 272 – Are You Selling Trombone Oil? – Bob Iger appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Episode 271 of Anecdotally Speaking explores why most business problems live in a field of uncertainty, not precision. In this episode, Mark tells the story … The post 271 – Planning for the Unexpected – New Horizons appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Discover the remarkable journey of Simone Biles and the powerful lessons it offers on burnout and the importance of empathy in judging others. In this … The post 215 – Rising from Burnout – Simone Biles (rerun) appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In Episode 209 of Anecdotally Speaking, discover how asking the right questions brought us GPS – and how you can take these lessons into your … The post 209 – Take the Opposing View (rerun) appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In Episode 270, learn how a moment of courage by Katharine Graham shaped history and provided a lesson in principled leadership. Mark recounts the powerful … The post 270 – Publishing on Principal – Katharine Graham appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Discover how an Olympic medal and generosity changed lives, and what leaders can learn from this act of selflessness. In Episode 269 of Anecdotally Speaking, … The post 269 – Generosity Inspires Generosity – Maria Andrejczyk appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In Episode 268, learn how Philip Seymour Hoffman’s career illustrates the value of staying connected to your roots. In this episode, Mark shares a story … The post 268 – Sharpening the Saw – Philip Seymour Hoffman appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In Episode 267 of Anecdotally Speaking, discover how Howard Schultz reignited Starbucks’ purpose to drive a complete business turnaround. Shawn shares the story of how … The post 267 – Back to What Matters – Howard Schultz appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In Episode 266, discover how a 1930s courtroom appearance by a woman in pants turned into a lesson in values, justice, and change. In this … The post 266 – The Right to Wear Pants – Helen Hulick Beebe appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Episode 265 of Anecdotally Speaking explores Quentin Tarantino’s early setback and the value of persistence and learning from failure. In this episode, Shawn shares the … The post 265 – Thrown to the Sharks – Quentin Tarantino appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Discover how Dishoom gamified dining to become a must-visit destination, offering lessons in creative problem-solving and customer engagement. In Episode 261 of Anecdotally Speaking, Shawn … The post 261 – Gambling on a Curry – Dishoom appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In Episode 264 of Anecdotally Speaking, hear how a chance act of curiosity led to the groundbreaking discovery of Australian amber, and what it teaches … The post 264 – Finding What Didn’t Exist – Beth Norris appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In Episode 263 of Anecdotally Speaking, hear how a potter turned a late payment request into a meaningful conversation through storytelling. In this episode, Shawn … The post 263 – Chasing Payment, Finding Connection appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In Episode 262 of Anecdotally Speaking, discover how a 25-second train delay in Japan sparked a deep conversation about organisational culture. In this episode Mark … The post 262 – What We Walk Past appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In Episode 260 of Anecdotally Speaking, discover how keystone behaviours transformed Mary T. Meagher into an Olympic legend. In this episode, Shawn shares a story … The post 260 – Every Turn is An Olympic Final – Mary Meagher appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Discover how vulnerability and connection drove Eleven Madison Park to become the world’s best restaurant. In Episode 259 of Anecdotally Speaking, Mark shares a story … The post 259 – Unreasonable Hospitality – Will Guidara appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Discover how creativity under constraint led to one of the world’s most distinctive memorials. In Episode 258 of Anecdotally Speaking, Shawn shares the inspiring story … The post 258 – A Memorial in Mashed Potato – Maya Lin appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

This episode explores how story delivery can either ignite or flatten your message, illustrated by the fire and restoration of Notre-Dame. In Episode 257 of … The post 257 – How to Make a Great Story Boring – Notre-Dame appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Discover why coaching drives real behaviour change, far beyond training alone. In Episode 256 of Anecdotally Speaking, Shawn shares research by Joyce and Showers that … The post 256 – The Power of Coaching appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Discover how 17th-century Rome reveals a clever behavioural insight still relevant for change initiatives today. In Episode 255 of Anecdotally Speaking, Mark shares a story … The post 255 – Rich Church, Poor Church appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Collaboration and diversity bring progress. Listen to hear how one woman defied gender norms to receive recognition for a scientific breakthrough. The post 128 – Collaboration and diversity is how you make progress (Rerun) appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Listen to hear how Ericsson’s workplace culture was transformed by a cleaner, and the lessons this brings in empowerment and initiative. In Episode 254, Shawn … The post 254 – Cooking Up Company Culture – Ericsson appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Learn how Patagonia’s radical transparency over PFAS transformed a corporate challenge into a brand triumph. In Episode 253 of Anecdotally Speaking, Mark tells the story … The post 253 – Radical Transparency in Action – Patagonia appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In Episode 252, discover how a radical playground redesign during WWII transformed free play and what it teaches us about engagement, creativity, and ownership. Shawn … The post 252 – The Architecture of Play – Carl Sorensen appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Discover how a missed flight led to the creation of one of the world’s most iconic airlines and what it teaches us about innovation and … The post 251 – Starting an Airline with a Blackboard – Richard Branson appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In Episode 250 of Anecdotally Speaking, hear how Ruth Handler used a simple story to reframe scepticism and launch one of the world’s most iconic … The post 250 – Barbie is Born – Ruth Handler appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Discover how Jerry Seinfeld’s process in finding comfort in the mundane can guide your path to excellence in your career and life. In Episode 249 … The post 249 – Find the Torture You’re Comfortable With – Jerry Seinfeld appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In Episode 248 of Anecdotally Speaking, discover how unexpected talents and hidden connections can spark world-changing innovation. Shawn shares an unexpected story set during World … The post 248 – Tuning into New Frequencies – Hedy Lamarr appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In Episode 247 of Anecdotally Speaking, discover how moments of desperation can spark remarkable change and what businesses can learn from one man’s race against … The post 247 – The Cure was Already Here – David Fajgenbaum appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Learn how Patrick Matthew’s overlooked insight into the theory of evolution shows why execution, not just inspiration, drives real impact. In Episode 246 of Anecdotally … The post 246 – The Value is in the Doing : Patrick Matthew appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

How a coach’s unexpected decision showed the power of empathy, lifted a team, and reminded us that leadership is deeply human. In Episode 245 of … The post 245 – Doing the Human Thing: Joe Ingles appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Discover how Jeff Bezos turned a DIY desk into a powerful symbol of frugality and a cornerstone of Amazon’s culture. In Episode 244 of Anecdotally … The post 244 – Building Culture with Your Bare Hands: Jeff Bezos appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Listen to hear how Stan Lee’s bold decision-making and trust in his instincts turned Spider-Man into a global icon, and what you can learn for … The post 243 – Trust Your Spider Senses: Stan Lee appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Listen to hear a timeless fable, useful in business situations where great ideas face real-world challenges and execution matters. In Episode 242 of Anecdotally Speaking, … The post 242 – Who’s Going to Bell the Cat? appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In Episode 241 of Anecdotally Speaking, discover how a wrong note became a moment of brilliance – and the lesson it holds. Mark shares a … The post 241 – Turning Mistakes Into Magic: Miles Davies appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In episode 240 of Anecdotally Speaking, Mark and Shawn give insight into everyday storytelling—what it is, why it’s so important, and how it can be … The post Episode 240 – Everyday Storytelling: The Secret to Better Communication appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In Episode 239 of Anecdotally Speaking, Patrick Cooley, a business leader at Royal Canin, shares insights on leadership, resilience, and the role of storytelling in … The post 239 – Patrick Cooley: How Stories Shape Leadership at Mars appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Discover how well-intended incentives can backfire through the story of the great Hanoi rat hunt – a lesson in unintended consequences. In Episode 238 of … The post 238 – When Incentives Backfire: The Great Hanoi Rat Hunt appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In Episode 237 of Anecdotally Speaking, discover why staying true to your strengths and being selective with what advice you take is key to long-term … The post 237 – Play Your Own Game: Josh Waitzkin appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In Episode 236, hear the dramatic story of the Vasa, Sweden’s ill-fated warship, and the lessons it holds for leadership, decision-making, and engineering. In this …

The post 236 – Ignoring Expertise: The Vasa appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

How Julius Caesar turned a kidnapping into a power move—and what it teaches us about sales, self-worth, and negotiation. In Episode 235 of Anecdotally Speaking, …

The post 235 – Price vs Value: Julius Caesar’s Ransom appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In Episode 234 of Anecdotally Speaking, Paul Luxton, Head of Asia for Syngenta, shares insights on leadership, cultural adaptability, and the power of storytelling. Paul …

The post 234 – Paul Luxton: Storytelling and Authenticity in Leadership appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In Episode 233 of Anecdotally Speaking, learn how Domino’s transformed their business by owning their flaws and taking bold action. Mark shares the remarkable story …

The post 233 – Sorry We Suck: Domino’s Pizza appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Uncover the incredible true story of how Christmas spirit brought enemy soldiers together in No Man’s Land during World War I in 1914. In the …

The post 232 – Humanity in the Trenches: The Christmas Truce of 1914 appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In Episode 231 of Anecdotally Speaking, discover how Bob Iger used a simple story to drive a billion-dollar turnaround at Disney. In Episode 231 of …

The post 231 – A Parade to Billions: Bob Iger appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In Episode 230 of Anecdotally Speaking discover how purpose and storytelling can skyrocket performance. In Episode 230 of Anecdotally Speaking, Shawn shares a research story …

The post 230 – Purpose Drives Performance: Adam Grant appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In Episode 229 of Anecdotally Speaking, explore how Edwards Everett and Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Addresses demonstrate the impact of concise communication. In Episode 229 of …

The post 229 – Less is More: Edward Everett appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In Episode 228, we examine Orson Welles’ groundbreaking War of the Worlds broadcast and its lessons on innovation and the ethical complexities of storytelling. In …

The post 228 – The Power and Peril of Storytelling: Orson Welles appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Explore the story of Cecilia Payne, whose discovery reshaped our understanding of the universe—and what it teaches us about perseverance, recognition, and excellence. In Episode …

The post 227 – Too Good to Ignore: Cecilia Payne appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In this episode of Anecdotally Speaking, Shawn and Mark explore a gripping historical tale from Malta, highlighting lessons in resilience and ingenuity. In Episode 226 …

The post 226 – Falconry and Fortitude: The Siege of Malta appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In Episode 225 of Anecdotally Speaking, Mark explores why lightbulbs don’t last forever and the implications of planned obsolescence. In Episode 225 of Anecdotally Speaking, …

The post 225 – Shady Dealings in a Bright Industry: Phoebus Cartel appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In Episode 224 of Anecdotally Speaking, discover how barbed wire transformed the American West and its business lessons on innovation. In Episode 224 of Anecdotally …

The post 224 – Small Inventions Can Change the World: John Gates appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In Episode 223 of Anecdotally Speaking, listen to hear Shelley Beumont’s insights into the field of communications, and why storytelling, connection, and authenticity are essential …

The post 223 – Shelley Beumont: Storytelling in Communications appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In Episode 222 of Anecdotally Speaking, listen to hear a story that exemplifies why adaptability is one of the most important attributes of longevity. In …

The post 222 – Bridge to Nowhere appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In Episode 221 of Anecdotally Speaking, discover the story behind the creation of one of Paul Simon’s most iconic songs and explore the lessons in … The post 221 – Accidentally Iconic: Paul Simon appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In Episode 220 Paul Fairweather joins Anecdotally Speaking to discuss all things storytelling and creativity in business and beyond. In Episode 220 of Anecdotally Speaking, … The post 220 – Paul Fairweather: Storytelling and Creating Without Fear appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In Episode 219 of Anecdotally Speaking, learn how to change minds, build trust and influence others through your storytelling In Episode 219 of Anecdotally Speaking, … The post 219 – The Art of Brewing Influence appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In Episode 218 of Anecdotally Speaking, discover how boxing legend Vasyl Lomachenko’s unconventional training shaped him into one of the greatest of all time, and … The post 218 – Punching an Unconventional Path to Greatness – Vasyl Lomachenko appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In Episode 217 of Anecdotally Speaking, listen to hear an exemplary foundation story and learn how to effectively use foundation stories in the sales process. …

The post 217 – The Foundations of Royal Canin – Jean Cathary appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In Episode 216 of Anecdotally Speaking, listen to hear how Todd McFarlane repopularised the Spider-Man comics by going against the status quo. In episode 216 … The post 216 – Challenge the Status Quo – Todd McFarlane appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In Episode 215 of Anecdotally Speaking tune in to discover the remarkable journey of Simone Biles and the powerful lessons it offers on burnout and … The post 215 – Rising from Burnout – Simone Biles appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In 214 of Anecdotally Speaking, listen to hear how Richard Fosbury used innovation to defy all odds and win a gold medal in the high … The post 214 – Jumping to New Ideas – Richard Fosbury appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Episode 213 of Anecdotally Speaking illustrates the impact of product placement and range, giving insight into sales tactics and the impact of identity. In Episode … The post 213 – Value is Relative appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In Episode 212 of Anecdotally Speaking, delve into the gripping tale of the Mann Gulch fire, a story that will challenge your views on underlying …

The post 212 – Fight Fire with Fire – Wagner Dodge appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In Episode 211 of Anecdotally Speaking, discover Ronald Read’s secret and its application to staff development and job design. In Episode 211 of Anecdotally Speaking, … The post 211 – Looks Can be Deceiving – Ronald Read appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Episode 210 of Anecdotally Speaking gives insight into how salespeople can increase value and customer buy-in through story. In Episode 210 of Anecdotally Speaking, Shawn … The post 210 – There’s a Story Behind Everything appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In Episode 209 of Anecdotally Speaking, discover how asking the right questions brought us GPS – and how you can take these lessons into your … The post 209 – Take the Opposing View appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In Episode 208 of Anecdotally Speaking, discover how to make abstract concepts relatable and humanize data in business settings. In Episode 208 of Anecdotally Speaking, … The post 208 – Making Numbers Meaningful appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In Episode 207 of Anecdotally Speaking, learn the origin of “The Streisand Effect” and uncover its powerful lesson on perseverance in business. In Episode 207 … The post 207 – Control is an Illusion – Barbra Streisand appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Explore how John F. Sipe’s 1919 innovation provides lessons in business problem-solving and challenging the status quo. In Episode 206 of Anecdotally Speaking, Mark tells … The post 206 – Necessity is the Mother of Invention – John Sipe appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Boundless creativity can create stagnancy. Listen to hear how Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie demonstrate the importance of constraints in creativity. In Episode 205 of …

The post 205 – Creativity in Constraints – Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

We are all looking for the turning point in a good story, and we love a story that demonstrates perseverance and resolve.

Shawn and Mark discuss the relevance of this story to: explaining the data in a story, sizing up your competition and 'keeping Mum' with your competitive advantage.

The post 204 – The Serve and Return Turning Point: Agassi, Becker and perseverance appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Reducing waste increases the efficiency of raw material use. But can we all agree that scraping mould off food product prior to packaging may be a little beyond the pale?

Shawn and Mark discuss the relevance of this story to: understanding the difference between efficiency and cost cutting, short 'single point' storytelling, the retelling factor in stories with disgust, and the importance of avoiding abstraction in your stories.

The post 202 – Efficiency versus cost cutting appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

A governance and accountability story. Welcome to the Anecdotally Speaking podcast! Visit our website for more captivating stories and business insights! https://www.anecdote.com/ In this episode, …

The post 201 – Governance and accountability lose their Barings appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Welcome to the Anecdotally Speaking podcast! Visit our website for more captivating stories and business insights! https://www.anecdote.com/ In this episode, our hosts Shawn Callahan and …

The post 200 – Weber BBQ Australian Success appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Two explorers from the northern hemisphere set out to be the first to reach the South Pole - Roald Amundsen of Norway and Robert Falconer Scott of England. Their expedition planning, team, equipment and transport selections could not have been more different.

Shawn and Mark discuss the relevance of this story to: corporate culture, knowing your limitations, hand picking your teams and the impact of clear, singular goals on success.

The post 199 – Approach to the south poles apart – Amundsen Scott appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

People from Hartlepool UK are known colloquially as 'monkey hangers' - a moniker that stems from the Napoleonic Wars of the 1800s. But this story is about a larrikin mascot in a monkey suit making mayor and breaking records...

Shawn and Mark bring these disparate (but related) stories together to illustrate some business points around seizing the day, fact being stranger than fiction, and judging books by their covers.

The post 198 – Mayor in the monkey suit – Stuart Drummond appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Australian champion swimmer Kieren Perkins barely qualified for the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, and only just made the final for the 1500 metre event. Shawn and Mark discuss how extraordinary 'turn-arounds', under promising and over delivering, and reduced expectations of self can sometimes lead to world class moments.

The post 197 – Atlanta Olympic swim 1996 – Kieren Perkins appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Michigan University researchers sought to understand the 'stickiness' of stories - does factual or emotionally charged information provided 'after the fact' change how a story is told or re-told? Shawn and Mark discuss how a 'better story' might usurp an prevailing story (sometimes regardless of the truth).

The post 196 – Better fire story – Michigan Uni appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Bird watcher and engineer Eiji Nakatsu sped up and made Japan's bullet trains quieter by studying the kingfisher's beak.

Shawn and Mark stick their noses into how a business might use this story to encourage innovation through biomimicry.

The post 195 – Bullet train kingfisher nose – Eiji Nakatsu appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Jeanne Louise Calment lived to 122 years of age (a species record). Who would have thought such an age was achievable? How would you feel, betting against such a long life, and losing on the deal?

Shawn and Mark discuss how a business might use this story to illustrate the unexpected nature of planning, and the danger of 'the sure thing'.

The post 194 – French reverse mortgage – Jeanne Calment appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Andrew Loog Oldham at 19 years of age was the Rolling Stones first manager. By suggesting that Keith Richards and Mick Jagger start writing original songs, a 50 year plus collaboration was born (affectionately now known as the 'Strolling Bones' ;>). Shawn and Mark discuss how a business might use this story to explain both the value of copying masters, and encouraging innovation.

The post 193 – Rolling Stones songwriting – Andrew Loog Oldham appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Sir Peter Blake suggested a single focus for New Zealand's Americas Cup challenge - only do those things that make the boat go faster - leading to two trophies. Shawn and Mark discuss how a business might use this story to galvanise a team.

The post 192 – Americas Cup speed focus – Peter Blake appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

The quality of a good question can create insight. Join Shawn and Mark as they discuss the life saving simplicity and humble beginnings of the Apgar Test.

The post 190 – Infancy of the newborn test – Virginia Apgar appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Sometime we just have to throw plans out the window as circumstances change. Blistering temperatures in Tunisia caused the simplification of a now iconic fight scene. The post 189 – The last raiders of the lost ark – Harrison Ford – Gary Marshall appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Can you imagine Sydney Harbour without the Opera House? Well, without 10 years of delays and $90 million in cost overruns the bridge might have been the only feature in the skyline. Join Shawn and Mark for a discussion on podiums, persistence and politics.

The post 188 – Sydney Opera House – Jorn Utzon – Ove Arup appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

If it doesn't feel right, maybe it's not? Do the right thing, not the easy thing. We always have the right to choose, so ask questions and resist being made to feel 'incompetent'. Join Shawn, Mark and Anastasia Dedyukhina from Consciously Digital, as they share stories on digital privacy, attention and switching. The post 187-Privacy in the EU – Anastasia Dedyukhina – Consciously Digital appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

The launch of a new product is risky, but to see young people interact with ease can give lots of confidence. In this episode, we discuss this very point with Ursula Llabres product owner at Meta Reality Labs.

The post 185 – VR headsets are coming – Ursula Llabres from Meta appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

The beauty and power of persistence. This is the story of Jack Ma told by Vika Abromova, the country head of Mars Poland. It's another business story to tell.

The post 186 – Never give up – Jack Ma appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Opinions aren’t facts. Listen to hear how Surgeon Fiona Wood set the record straight when her son’s partner was told to reconsider her chosen career path.

The post 184 – Don’t push your bias onto others – Fiona Wood appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

We grow to love the things we are exposed to again and again. Listen to hear how the mere exposure effect helped the Caillebotte Seven become the famous painters they are today.

The post 183 – Show your work as much as possible – The Caillebotte Seven appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Some of the best ideas will come from your customers. Listen to hear how The Body Shop grew from a side hustle to an international …

The post 182 – Listen to your customer – Anita Roddick appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

It’s never too late; if you believe something should be different, try to change it. Listen to hear how Judith Curphey went from retirement to founding and training one of Australia’s most renowned choirs.

The post 181 – It’s never too late – Judith Curphey appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Don’t compare your work to that of others; focus on yourself. Listen to hear how Christine Ha’s vision impairment helped her win the third American season of Masterchef.

The post 180 – Focus on your work – Christine Ha appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

You don’t need to be an expert to develop expertise. On International Women’s Day, listen to hear how Lisa Blair beat the odds and went from sailing novice to record breaker.

The post Replay 164 – You don’t need to be an expert – Lisa Blair appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

If you design for the average, you might find you’re designing for no one. Listen to hear how challenging an assumption held for 30 years transformed aircraft cockpit design. The post 179 – There is no average appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Don’t get lax; keep up your level of focus. Listen to hear how a series of isolated decisions led to the crash of Alaska Airlines Flight 261. The post 178 – Don’t lose sight of the collective impact of your decisions appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Create a space where ideas are shared but know that having an idea doesn’t make it a good one. Listen to hear what Ron Howard took away from the set of the Andy Griffith Show. The post 177 – Create a space where ideas are shared – Ron Howard appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Similar enough to be listened to, different enough to be heard. Listen to hear how a collaboration between Run-DMC and Aerosmith changed the culture and paved the way for hip-hop music to become mainstream. The post 176 – Connect your change to something known and familiar – Run-DMC and Aerosmith appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

We risk losing sight of the bigger picture when we focus on one detail. Listen to hear how a recent participant in one of Mark’s … The post 175 – Don’t miss the big picture appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Don’t strive for excess; be content with ‘enough’. Listen to hear the Joseph Heller quote that inspired his friend Kurt Vonnegut’s tribute poem. The post 174 – We have enough – Kurt Vonnegut and Joseph Heller appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Knowledge can come from any source; be cautious about what ideas you dismiss. Listen to hear how a 10-year-old girl and her mother helped Apollo 11 land on the moon and return to Earth safely. The post 173 – Knowledge can come from any source with Maria Marenco appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Giving feedback doesn’t work; strengths, not weaknesses, offer growth opportunities. Listen to hear how Lionel Messi became one of the world’s best football players. The post 172 – Feedback doesn’t work appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Caring about the growth of your people is more likely to lead you to success than treating them like resources. Listen to hear how Bob Chapman transformed his family business so that its revenue grew from $18 million to over $2 billion. The post 171 – Everybody matters appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Change comes from unexpected sources. Listen to hear how Malcolm McLean changed the world transportation landscape. The post 170 – One person can change the world appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Suggestions and arguments don’t change minds, but experiences do. Listen to hear how a husband finally persuaded his wife to buy herself a new, improved bike.

The post Replay 136 – Experiences change minds appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Model the behaviours that will benefit your entire team. Listen to hear how Captain James Cook saved his crew from scurvy.

The post 169 – Model beneficial behaviours appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Don’t get caught up in the moment. It’s not about you. Listen to hear how some stern words eased Jason Alexander’s anxiety and pushed him back onto the acting path.

The post 168 – It’s not about you appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Believe in your people, and they’ll believe in themselves. Listen to hear how the support of a coach and school principal changed Michael Lewis’ life. 

The post 167 – Believe in your people appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

The purpose of an organisation can hugely impact the way it behaves. Listen to hear how a monetary focus made Boeing responsible for the deaths of hundreds of people.

The post 166 – Don’t let money be your purpose appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Poorly managed diverse teams are less productive than homogenous teams, but when managed well, diverse teams are the most productive. Listen for a taste of what Anecdote Principal Rob Grundel will cover in our upcoming webinar.

The post 165 – Well-managed diverse teams are more productive appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Company values enable your people to act quickly and with confidence. Listen to hear a story of values in action from Mars.

The post Replay 126 – Company values give confidence appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

You don't need to be an expert to develop expertise. Listen to hear how Lisa Blair beat the odds and went from sailing novice to record breaker.

The post 164 – You don’t need to be an expert appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

With experience, listening and empathy, you’ll come to understand cultural nuances. Listen to hear James Mills, Global Vice President of Sales at Mars Wrigley, talk …

The post 163 – Understand the culture you’re operating in appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Experience minus expectation equals satisfaction. Listen to hear how performer Andy Kaufman used contrast to make a real impact on his audience.

The post 162 – Use contrast to make an impact appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

As the saying goes, the best-laid plans of mice and men can still go wrong. Listen to hear what a group of economists proposed to eradicate an issue impacting a series of childcare centres.

The post 161 – Plans often go astray appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Great insights come from breaking free of your assumptions. Listen to hear how a high school dropout went on to win the Fields Medal.

The post 160 – Challenge your assumptions appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

If you truly care about your idea and persist with it, you won’t need every available resource or qualification to innovate. Listen to hear the story behind the Wright brothers’ first flight.

The post 159 – Try and try and try again appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

You can be efficient with things, not people. Listen to hear how Richard Branson led Mike Oldfield to a career-defining moment.

The post 158 – Don’t argue, influence appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Don’t try to achieve everything from the get-go, but take it one step at a time. Listen to hear how a German military general inspired the Founder of CNN.

The post 157 – Take it one step at a time appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Do things the right way, not the easy way. Listen to hear how adopting a more transparent system saved thousands of lives in five United States states.

The post 156 – Adopt transparent systems appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

When it comes to leadership, little things make a big difference. Listen to hear what inspired Walt Bettinger’s, CEO at Charles Schwab, leadership style.

The post 155 – Don’t ignore the Dottie in your life appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Don’t put everything into your stories. You’ll overwhelm or distract your listener. Listen to hear how cutting a scene from the original King Kong kept audiences engaged.

The post 154 – Less is more appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Sometimes you must ignore what’s happening around you and focus on your goal. Listen to hear how this strategy helped Julia Louis-Dreyfus survive breast cancer.

The post 153 – Focus on your goal appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Present a united front to avoid bad outcomes. Listen to hear how Ryan Reynolds and his brothers avoided their father’s fury.

The post 152 – Present a united front appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Successful leadership requires a balance of performance and engagement. Listen to hear how a Country Head improved his numbers without his number one salesperson.

The post 151 – Balance performance and engagement appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Anecdotally Speaking is taking a short mid-year break so that we can produce some exciting new content! We’ll be back on the 5th of July.

The post Anecdotally Speaking’s mid-year break appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

A slight change in mindset can improve your entire day. Listen to hear some examples of small stories that have a big impact.

The post 150 – In praise of small stories appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

If you give your employees guiding principles rather than rules, they will do amazing things. We replay Doug Keeley’s favourite business story of all time.

The post Replay 112 – FedEx helicopter story absolutely positively flies appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

If you want to change someone’s mind, you need to find a range of stories, not just one. Listen to hear how Charles Darwin formulated and gained support for his theory of evolution.

The post 149 – Natural selection of the fittest story appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Your decisions can have unintended consequences, so give them careful consideration. Listen to hear how one man’s decision caused the deaths of millions of people.

The post 148 – When sense takes flight appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Context and emotional state determine success, so when stakes are high, consider simulating the scenario as best you can. Listen to hear how a premier league soccer coach did just that.

The post 147 – The chemistry of hot and cold states appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Trust those around you; as a leader, you don’t always need to make the final decision. Listen to hear how an actor handles starring in and directing a movie.

The post 146 – The Assistant Director’s cut appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

When you start something, stick with it until you finish it. Listen to hear how an English mathematician solved the world’s longest-standing maths problem. Shawn …

The post 145 – Dark mansions made of cubes and squares appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

To build trust, you need to share emotional information. Listen to hear how three studies found a link between oxytocin and behaviour change.

The post 144 – Science warms up to story appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Mindset has an incredible impact on performance. Listen to hear how George Dantzig solved two famously unsolvable mathematics problems.

The post Replay 107 – You just might do it if you don’t know you can’t appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

You don’t know when your unique combination of skills will be needed. Listen to hear the story behind the miraculous rescue of thirteen boys from a Thai cave system.

The post 143 – Not exactly a man cave appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

The barriers that women face hold all of us back. Listen to hear how Dr Alice Stewart overcame all sorts of obstacles to find a correlation between x-raying pregnant women and childhood cancer.

The post Replay 075 – Conflict is essential to collaboration appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Customer service is everything. Listen to hear how one salesperson lost their business a $1.5 million contract.

The post 142 – Million-dollar bathroom basin appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

When you build a workplace culture that allows mistakes to be discussed, you ensure they won’t be repeated. Listen to hear how a jet propulsion laboratory owns its failures and fosters a learning culture.

The post 141 – Rocket science propelling librarians appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Have a plan B and keep it top of mind. Listen to hear how a desperate cry for help saved a man’s life just last month.

The post 140 – When you desperately need your plan B appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

You don’t have to follow the path people expect you to take. Listen to hear why an Australian actor refused to sign a contract worth more than one million pounds.

The post 139 – Contract bondage no good by George appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Pushing ideas and actions on people will only lead to resistance. Listen to hear how Captain James Cook used a pull strategy to save his crew from scurvy.

The post 138 – Scurvy sailors served sauerkraut appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

A team philosophy will help soothe your colleagues’ concerns in stressful situations. Listen to hear why the Beatles reminded each other that “something will happen” when tensions rose.

The post 137 – Journeys of heroes and Beatles appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Suggestion and argument alone don’t change minds, but experiences do. Listen to hear how one husband finally persuaded his wife to buy herself a new and improved bike.

The post 136 – It’s like riding a new bike appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Empathy will help you help other people. Listen to hear how a woman stopped a child’s crying by showing that she could really understand how they were feeling.

The post 135 – Noticing the cut versus feeling the pain appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

You don’t know what other people are going through. Listen to hear why Hugh van Cuylenburg will never stop pushing his organisation’s (The Resilience Project) message.

The post 134 – Look for the good and trust in the work appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Having a clear purpose will help the people in your organisation make better decisions. Listen to hear how Southwest Airlines increased its revenue by more than $1 billion by following its purpose.

The post Replay 034 – When baggage really flies appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Don’t wait for someone to come along and solve your problems—step up and make things happen. Listen to hear how a clever Storytelling for Leaders participant used an anecdote from a popular franchise to connect and build rapport. 

The post 133 – Potter spells initiative appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

What impact does your leadership have on your organisation? Listen to hear what lessons the reintroduction of a species into an ecosystem can offer business.

The post 132 – Wolves, cane toads and tubby ships appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

To put your customer first, you need to be able to see things from their perspective. Listen to hear how a 7-year-old girl prompted Doug Dietz to redesign his MRI machine.

The post Replay 023 – Industrial design with child’s play appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Follow your passion without thinking about the outcome, and success will follow. Listen to hear how a mother’s happy accident aided Evonne Goolagong Cawley’s tennis career.

The post 131 – Did you have a nice Grand Slam, darling? appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Eleanor Roosevelt once said, “Nothing has ever been achieved by the person who says, ‘It can’t be done.’” Listen to hear how one woman persisted with her vision and changed the lives of over a million people.

The post 130 – Superwoman with x-ray vision appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

It’s not enough to just say something—you need to act too. Listen to hear how Nelson Mandela showed the world that he wholeheartedly believed in reconciliation.

The post 129 – The unexpected supporter appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Collaboration and diversity bring progress. Listen to hear how one woman defied gender norms to receive recognition for a scientific breakthrough.

The post 128 – Collaboration and diversity is how you make progress appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Not all mistakes lead to failures. Listen to hear how one scientist’s carelessness resulted in a life-saving discovery.

The post 127 – The mould that broke the staph appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Company values enable your people to act quickly and have confidence that they’ve made the right decision. Listen to hear a story of values in action from Mars.

The post 126 – Shattering decision on pet food quality appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Great leaders communicate in ways that change minds and inspire action. Listen to hear how Franklin Roosevelt used an analogy to shift the events of World War II.

The post 125 – Lending a hose to neighbours on fire appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

No matter how unlikely an event seems, it pays to prepare. Listen to hear the inspiring but tragic story of Rick Rescorla, whose meticulous planning saved almost 3,000 people on 9/11.

The post 124 – When the stakes are sky high appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Choosing to remain a bystander can have disastrous effects. Listen to hear how 37 people assumed another person would take responsibility and, as a result, a young woman lost her life.

The post 123 – Tragic consequences of standing by appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Imperfect conditions don’t equate to imperfect performance. Listen to hear how a solo jazz pianist made the most of what he had and recorded the best selling solo piano album of all time.

The post 122 – Grumpy maestros and all that jazz appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

When you need to solve a problem or initiate a behaviour change, think beyond the obvious solution—you’ll likely find a more effective one. Listen to hear how a small town in Germany flipped a problematic march on its head.

The post 121 – Charitable causes for problematic pilgrims appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Problems are inevitable but solvable. Listen to hear how an English mathematician solved a 358-year-old maths problem.

The post 120 – How to love a maths problem appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Going with your gut is likely to lead you down the wrong path. Listen to hear how ignoring the data led to Blockbuster’s demise.

The post 119 – Don’t do your block buster appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Is there a place for parables in business storytelling? Listen to hear Shawn Callahan share two apocryphal stories that you could use in your workplace.

The post 118 – The grass is greener for the second mouse appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Gary Klein once said, “Insight is when you unexpectedly come to a better story.” Listen to hear Shawn and Mike Adams exchange and explain the value of insight stories.

The post 117 – How a story illuminates an insight appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

It’s time to rethink the case study. Listen to hear how a success story can transform your sales process.

The post 116 – The client hero story in your sales example appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

When circumstances change, the vision that brought you success in the past must also change. Listen to hear how a bra manufacturer overcame the challenges of the bra-burning movement of the 1970s.

The post 115 – Less support gives more liberation appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Often an idea will need a reality check—can it be executed? Listen to hear how a senior leader at Microsoft discovered the impact of storytelling.

The post 114 – Tails with the Raj of mice and men appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Attitude has a significant impact on performance. Listen to hear how a Russian gymnast went from storming out of one Olympic event to winning gold in the next.

The post 113 – Low vaulting horse raises the bar appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

If you give your employees guiding principles rather than rules, they will do amazing things. Listen to hear special guest Doug Keeley’s favourite business story of all time.

The post 112 – FedEx helicopter story absolutely positively flies appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Don’t get too fixed in your thinking, be ready to shift or adapt. Listen to hear how one CEO, set in his ways, caused his company’s market share to plummet.

The post 111 – Apple devours Blackberry pie slice appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Having an impact often depends on asking good questions. Listen to hear how the global phenomenon that is Earth Hour was born out of a question.

The post 110 – Foreign ideas triggering the cultural immune system appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

It can be tempting to turn away from seemingly insurmountable problems, but collaboration will help you find a solution. Listen to hear how a structural engineer saved thousands of people and his reputation through teamwork.

The post Replay 007 – Saving the Citicorp skyscraper appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Change is challenging, and you can’t expect everyone to pick it up immediately. Listen to hear the story behind the insight that produced the innovation diffusion theory.

The post 109 – New corn idea falls on deaf ears appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Steve Jobs was a fantastic storyteller. Listen to hear how, instead of endlessly listing features and benefits, he used an analogy to explain the importance of computers.

The post 108 – Jobs fit for a condor appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Mindset has an incredible impact on performance. Listen to hear how success often depends on our expectations.

The post 107 – You just might do it if you don’t know you can’t appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

There are many lessons to be learnt from Lewis and Clark’s expedition to the west coast of the USA. Listen to hear how to use the story as an analogy.

The post 106 – Canoes across the Rockies appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Often we dismiss signals that we should interpret. Listen to hear how one woman’s sense of smell established a new field of medicine. Podcasts are …

The post 105 – A rose by any other clinical name appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Our ability to predict is limited and assessing potential is no exception. Listen to hear how one famous football player was initially seriously underrated.

The post 104 – Quarterback payback appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

What you say can have a huge impact on how people perceive you and your organisation. Listen to hear how one CEO got it wrong and cost his company millions.

The post 103 – Cut glass shatters jeweller appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Are you looking for a key that will unlock new skills or information? Listen to hear how persistence led Shawn to a groundbreaking discovery.

The post 102 – Hidden Figures the prequel appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Are you receiving the messages that could help you avert disaster? Listen to hear Mark share a story that illustrates the importance of listening.

The post 101 – Transmitting without a receiver appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

To celebrate 100 episodes, Shawn and Mark discuss what stories from the podcast they use most often and how they use them.

The post 100 – A tonne of revered stories appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

How do you encourage productive behaviours? Listen to hear Shawn and Mark give five examples of reward and recognition in the workplace.

The post 099 – CEO becomes late chairman appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Are invisible biases impacting your decisions? Listen to hear how one man’s joke changed a town’s snow clearing system, preventing injuries and saving money.

The post 098 – Gender biased snow job really hurts appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Is a good presenter always a good business storyteller? Listen to hear Anecdote Partners, Sarah Jane McKechnie and David Pullan provide thought-provoking insights.

The post 097 – Beware your inner thespian appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Finding out the details will help you reveal insights. Listen to hear how Airbnb used storyboarding to find insights that influenced their strategy.

The post 096 – Boarders stories and smoking guns appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

People tend to do what they have always done, and sometimes without reason. Listen to hear how a grandmother’s necessity became her children’s norm.

The post 095 – Wolf stories in sheep’s clothing appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

How can you change the direction of a conversation that is going off track? Listen to hear from storytelling expert and Anecdote Partner, Param Venkat.

The post 094 – Building bridges to thaw the frozen appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Emotion leads to action. Listen to hear a story about how an internal group’s sustainability initiative resulted in behaviour change.

The post 093 – Green team schemes screen fiends appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

What problem is your product solving? Listen to hear how Dean Kamen’s Segway was an overnight success and not much more than that.

The post 092 – Seg no way appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

It is hard to put a dollar amount on experience, but it can be the difference between life and death. Listen to hear how a veteran made a quick decision.

The post 091 – Fire chief’s great instincts before bingo bango appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

How do you establish rapport and connection in a job interview? Listen to hear how the use of story can give you a special edge in the job application and interview process.

The post 090 – Corporate Storytelling—Job applications and interviews appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

The best sellers are the ones who tell stories. Listen to hear Anecdote Principals, Mike Adams and Paul Ichilcik, share their insights on sales communication.

The post 089 – Corporate Storytelling—Sales communication with Mike Adams and Paul Ichilcik appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Developing your company strategy story can uncover a lot. Listen to hear how Founder and CEO at Teach for Australia, Melodie Potts Rosevear, discovered her company’s natural storytellers while developing their strategy story.

The post 088 – Corporate Storytelling—Strategy development and communication with Melodie Potts Rosevear appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Change in an organisation can be difficult. Listen to hear Tully Cashman divulge key story strategies he has implemented at Cargill, after working with Anecdote.

The post 087 – Corporate Storytelling—Culture change and change management with Tully Cashman appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

How can you utilise story techniques when presenting an innovation? Listen to hear innovation expert, Paul Chapman, share his experiences.

The post 086 – Corporate Storytelling—Innovation with Paul Chapman appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

The shortest distance between two people is a story. Listen to hear strategy and leadership experts Bernard and Tracey Swanepoel share their experience in story listening.

The post 085 – Corporate Storytelling—Narrative insight with Bernard and Tracey Swanepoel appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

How can you inspire your team to hold your company values? Listen to hear Indranil Chakraborty, a storytelling expert and Anecdote Partner, unpack values communication.

The post 084 – Corporate Storytelling—Values communication with Indranil Chakraborty appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Have you been in a boring presentation, wearily watching slide after slide? Listen to hear marketing guru and friend of Anecdote, Darren Woolley, unpack brand communication.

The post 083 – Corporate Storytelling—Brand communication with Darren Woolley appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Can effective leadership exist without storytelling? Listen to hear how leadership consultant and executive coach, Hannah Davies, unpacks corporate storytelling.

The post 082 – Corporate Storytelling—Leadership communication with Hannah Davies appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Is MSG bad for you? Listen to hear how a letter to the editor drastically changed our perception of MSG in Chinese food.

The post 081 – Hungry public gobbles up MSG tale appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

We all know the saying, ‘the best thing since sliced bread,’ but who invented the bread-slicing machine? Listen to hear Otto Rohwedder’s surprising journey in selling his first bread slicer.

The post 080 – Crummy early adoption for first bread slicer appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Listen to hear how you should never make assumptions, even about Van Halen’s obsession over brown m&m’s.

The post 079 – Halen down on Eddie’s rogue m&m appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Sometimes when you want people to take action it can be harder expected. Listen to hear how a Yale University experiment exposed why details are important.

The post 078 – Tetanus icky not so sticky appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Sometimes asking for a favour is a good way to build rapport. Listen to hear how Benjamin Franklin turned a rival to a friend.

The post 077 – Benjamin’s book borrowing turns rival to friend appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Can you balance an egg on its pointy end? Listen to hear how Brunelleschi revolutionised how we think about innovation with one small egg demonstration.

The post 076 – Dome making not an egg-xact science appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Do you need an effective example of data storytelling? Listen to hear how Dr Alice Stewart found the correlation between x-raying pregnant women and childhood cancer.

The post 075 – Conflict is essential to collaboration appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

What happens when you highlight a colleague’s expertise to a prospect? Listen to hear how a simple tweak in conversation can dramatically change the sale.

The post 074 – It’s not how good you say you are appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

When you are focused on one task, do you miss valuable moments happening around you? Listen to hear how a world-class musician went unnoticed in a Washington train station.

The post 073 – Stradi various settings impact value appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Does your company have a strategy, but no one knows it? Listen to hear Shawn and Mark’s experience crafting companies’ strategy stories with one simple structure.

The post 072 – All about the strategy story appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Do you need to inspire your team to never give up? Listen to hear Diana Nyad’s story of swimming non-stop for 53 hours.

The post 071 – Never say Di finally escapes Cuba appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

What job does your customer hire your product to do? In this week’s episode, hear how Professor Clayton Christensen’s market research revolutionised the McDonalds milkshake.

The post 070 – Prof. Christensen gets the job done appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

How does adding one word to a question completely change what the answer will be? Listen to hear how Professor Ellen Langer changed the way we think about human behaviour.

The post 069 – How a reason can clarify your why appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Do you understand what drives your business? Listen to hear how Bob Iger’s insight evolved Disney Animation for the better.

The post 068 – How to animate Disney executive characters appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Customer experience is the be all and end all. Listen to hear how Bruce Springsteen made a contract with his fans to give them the best show, night after night.

The post 067 – Born to run and still running appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

The quality of a product can kill a company. Listen to hear how video game manufacturer, Atari, lost all business in a matter of months.

The post 066 – Atari hero transforms extraterrestrial into subterranean appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Can you think of a time when the odds weren’t in your favour, but you still made it work? Listen to hear the inspirational story of Jyoti Kumari and her 1200km journey.

The post 065 – It’s just like riding a bike 1200km appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Sometimes it’s the small things, the small changes, that make all the difference. Listen to hear how the British cycling team improved by 1% across the board and then won gold!

The post 064 – Small cogs make a pretty fly wheel appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Can you share an example of a time where you’ve refused to give up? Listen to hear Jaya Machet, an Anecdote Partner and Executive Coach, share a story that might spark your own!

The post 063 – Don’t give up on your dirty laundry appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Everyone uses analogies in their everyday conversations, but how can you use an analogy to sell an idea or reveal your employee’s potential? Listen to hear how you can, using the story of Seabiscuit.

The post 062 – Leading horses to water and lending hoses to fires appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

How do your leaders respond in a crisis? Is their strategy succinct? Listen to hear how by removing ambiguity and clearly communicating with your employees can make all the difference.

The post 061 – New Behring’s for trains off the rails appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Have you heard the story of Cliff Young? Listen to hear how one man’s performance defied the odds and how you can utilise his story in a business sense.

The post 060 – Sleepy racers run towards Cliff appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Every interaction you have with an employee is an opportunity to build engagement or destroy it. What do you usually do? Listen to hear how a small moment influenced how Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson interacts with fans!

The post 059 – Turning point between The Rock and a hard place appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Do you put 100% effort into everything you do? Is it making a difference to your performance? Listen to this podcast to hear more!

The post 058 – Pedalling like hell he can appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Can you bring out the best results of your team with one simple question? Listen to this podcast to feel the frustration between two US politicians!

The post 057 – Kissinger repeatedly lords it over Secretary appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Did you experience something at high school that you will remember forever? Listen to hear a group of high school students' invaluable experience!

The post 056 – No flies on Golding mock trial appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In this uncertain time, how do you talk to your team about what we are facing in a beneficial way? Because we are all impacted and influenced by what other people do, it is important to share positive stories and show through example what to do and how to react.

The post 055 – Not all twigs turn out to be snakes appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

This podcast considers the role of parables in business storytelling, sharing an example which highlights the need to tackle issues at their source.

The post 054 – Looking upstream for causes of downstream problems appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Why has the Star Wars character, Baby Yoda, become such a phenomenon? Learn how understanding why this has happened can help your business storytelling.

The post 053 – Andy habits build rapport appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

John Sculley, former CEO of Apple Inc., shares five stories that illustrate the importance of insight and encourage us to think differently.

The post 052 – Pepsi and Apple in new containers appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

It often pays to take a risk, to move out of silos and invite external input. This podcast gives a powerful example of where this paid off for one CEO.

The post 051 – Miners find gold in data mullock appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

To celebrate the 50th episode of Anecdotally Speaking, we bring five members of the Anecdote team together. Listen to the 50th podcast here.

The post 050 – Risky flight to the city of angels appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

The next best thing to having an experience is to listen to the story. Mike Adams recalls an event he’s never forgotten, despite not being there.

The post 049 – Second best thing to having the actual experience appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

For a strategy to work for a whole organisation, we must involve as many people as possible in its development. Find out why in this podcast.

The post 048 – Healthcare PhDs road test strategy risk appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

It's too easy to let unconscious bias impact our decisions. Here are 3 stories you can share to encourage others and remind yourself to keep an open mind. 

The post 047 – Blinded by beliefs appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In this episode of the Storytelling Podcast, Luke Brown explains how even if everything is planned to perfection, people are always an unknowable variable.

The post 046 – Work the plan and work with the people appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

It's one thing to plan for tomorrow, but how about 500 years from now? This episode talks about planning for future generations, rather than ourselves.

The post 045 – Old oak forester beams appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Imagine having the answer everyone is looking for, but no one is listening to you. This week's episode talks about the importance of keeping an open mind.

The post 044 – Navigating like clockwork appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

What do you do when the biggest night of your professional career doesn't go as planned? Well, if you're lucky, President Obama is in the room to help.

The post 043 – Show amazing grace to your audience appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Not every accident comes out of the blue. This episode talks about how the correct planning can allow you to take advantage when misfortune strikes.

The post 042 – Seasoned speed skaters savvy strategy appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Can you have your cake and eat it? This episode of the podcast tells a story illustrating how important presentation can be, along with first impressions.

The post 041 – Icing breakers and presentation matters appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

It's just like riding a bike - unless that bike has been fixed to mess with your mind. Discover how even knowing the answer doesn't mean you'll get it right.

The post 040 – Moving forward on a backwards bike appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

We all make mistakes, but what we do after is the important part. This podcast sees a great story about the right way to deal with an email faux pas.

The post 039 – Reply all and touch many appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

This story contrasts Michael Phelps’ swims at the 2008 and 2012 Olympics. Learn some valuable business points on not becoming complacent and staying on top.

The post 038 – Dolphin kicks out number one appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Dorothy Vaughan was a mathematician who worked for NASA during the 1960s. Her story is an excellent example of effectively responding to disruption.

The post 037 – Fortran reveals Hidden Figures appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

This week's podcast explains how to prevent a riot by using brains rather than brawn, and that even the smallest changes can yield the largest results.

The post 036 – The way to a rioter’s heart appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

This week's podcast shows us how not all bugs in the system are necessarily bad, and why change is made easier with a little familiarity.

The post 035 – Spotify bugs bite back appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

This week's podcast shows how Southwest Airlines stuck to their purpose which helped the airline add over $1 billion to their bottom line. Find out how.

The post 034 – When baggage really flies appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

How do stories change minds and influence people? This podcast gives a compelling example of how the right stories can shift strongly held views.

The post 033 – Nixon on the poverty line appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

The story of how James Dyson designed and produced the first bagless vacuum cleaner is one of perseverance and iteration. Find out more in this podcast.

The post 032 – Dyson innovation really sucks appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In this podcast Sir Charles Masefield describes the series of events by which, under his leadership, BAE Systems’ worst performing factory became their best.

The post 031 – Charles Masefield on humility and productivity appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

This week's podcast brings us an inspiring rags to riches story, proving that anyone can make a difference and achieve their dreams.

The post 030 – Damit Samit, what a great idea appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Paul Revere teaches us It's not what you know, but who knows you and trusts what you say! Learn the importance of investing in relationships in this podcast.

The post 029 – Paul revered while Dawes knocked appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

What makes some systems work better than others? Why is Brazilian football better than the rest of the world? Sometimes it's worth the effort to find out...

The post 028 – Hot Brazilians futsal weapon appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Bringing your data to life is crucial in making others understand why it’s important. If you work with data, this story will be particularly useful for you.

The post 027 – John Snow versus the Miasma appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In this episode we see how Henry Ford ignored what everyone around him thought and went ahead with a decision that would more than double his profit.

The post 026 – Henry Ford did that? appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

When people don’t understand what we’re trying to convey to them we get frustrated. This episode looks at how to tap into your audience.

The post 025 – How to tap into your audience appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

This episode of the podcast gives us a beautiful example of how taking care of others and helping them through tough times is beneficial for everyone.

The post 024 – U2 can protect your tribe appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Everyone sees the world differently - especially children, who are often overlooked when it comes to the customer user experience.

The post 023 – Industrial design with child’s play appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

This week's episode of the Podcast brings us to Russia, and a story about how when the going gets tough, a great company relies on its values for guidance.

The post 022 – Saving Rubles with mutual Mars appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Working as a team is rarely smooth sailing. This week's podcast tells how those moments of conflict are often simply part of the creative process.

The post 021 – Rolling stones to hidden gems appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In this episode of the podcast we hear a story about the importance of checklists, and how this simple organisational aid can change the course of history.

The post 020 – Twists and turns of a flying fortress appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

If things aren't working out, quitting is often an option. But sometimes it pays to ask an expert first, as this week's story illustrates.

The post 019 – Three feet away from the gold seam appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Storytelling with an emotional impact is a great way to grab people's attention and make a serious point, as we hear in this week's podcast:

The post 018 – Are you married? appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In this podcast we provide some examples of apocryphal stories and we dig into how to tell them, when to use them, and discuss the potential pitfalls.

The post 017 – All about apocryphal stories appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In this episode, we hear a genuine 'brand story' from International Flavours and Fragrances, and talk about the importance of data in storytelling.

The post 016 – Tips for strawberry flavour appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

This episode of the podcast tells the story of Janusz Kamiemski, who saw an opportunity to chase his dream, followed it, and got a surprise at the end.

The post 015 – Empty bunks in tall ships appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

This episode of the podcast tells a story about how the smallest action can make a huge difference to those under your leadership.

The post 014 – It ain’t what you do appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Sometimes being the boss means putting your employees or team members first. In this podcast, we see a great example of leadership in practice.

The post 013 – Travel connections appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

If a company's principles are truly worth anything, then it will impact the values and convictions of its staff. Harley Davidson is one such company.

The post 012 – Harley Davidson promise appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Sometimes a boss needs to be sure they are not surrounded by "yes men". Today's story is a great example of one manager's test of his employees' courage.

The post 011 – High viz role modelling appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

A good intervention story gives you a process for doing something differently. The latest Anecdote podcast shares a life changing example from Vietnam.

The post 010 – Bright spots appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In this episode of the Podcast, we hear a story about the great Formula One champion Jackie Stewart, and how, sometimes, you can judge a book by its cover.

The post 009 – Jackie Stewart in the pits appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Helping people find what they are truly good at is one of the many jobs of a leader. This story provides the necessary inspiration to help someone flourish.

The post 008 – Gillian is a dancer appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Sometimes people get things wrong, but the true test of character is what we do after find out we got it wrong, as the story of this engineer demonstrates.

The post 007 – Saving the Citicorp skyscraper appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

The way leaders react in times of high stress is a good measure of their character. Today's story is one of those times. Find out what happened here:

The post 006 – Accidentally winding up a bank appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

A story type we love here at Anecdote is a story about a scientific experiment. Our new podcast looks at the story of a street corner study and its results.

The post 005 – The street corner experiment appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

This week’s episode features a small story that’s versatile and really delivers. It’s about a bathroom renovation of all things. Check it out here:

The post 004 – Can’t see the bathroom from the grout appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Today's story is about how a CEO helped his company focus on one big thing and in the process helped everyone get an enormous amount of good work done.

The post 003 – Pick one great strategy appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

In this podcast Shawn and Mark share and discuss a terrific business story about the worst possible first day on the job. Check it out here:

The post 002 – World’s worst first day on the job appeared first on Anecdote.

View Details

Welcome to our new podcast. Each week Mark and I will introduce a new story you could potentially tell at work, then we will describe why it works.

The post 001 – An unexpected visitor from Mars appeared first on Anecdote.