Here’s the truth no one wants to admit: most marketing falls flat because it’s trying too hard to impress and not hard enough to connect.

In a powerful conversation with story coach and podcast pro Seth Donlin, we unpacked why storytelling isn’t just a “nice to have” for your business. It’s the missing link between your brand and your audience. If you’re relying on over-polished, jargon-filled messaging to win people over, it’s time to rethink the script.

Why Relatable Beats Remarkable

Seth broke down a game-changing perspective: the stories that resonate aren’t the flashy ones. They’re the real, honest, relatable ones. The ones that make people say, “Oh wow, me too.”

Whether you’re writing copy, hopping on a podcast, or pitching your services, here’s what to remember:

• Skip the highlight reel

• Share the messy middle

• Talk like a human, not a brand manual

People trust people who are real. And the more you show up with humility, clarity, and vulnerability, the more you earn that trust and with it, the right kind of attention.

Enter: Active Guesting

If you’ve ever been a guest on a podcast and wondered afterward, Did that even move the needle? You need to hear about Seth’s concept of active guesting.

It’s not about showing up and hoping magic happens. It’s about preparing intentionally so your interview aligns with your business goals and delivers real value to the audience.

Here’s how to make every guest spot count:

• Know your key talking points (and why they matter to that audience)

• Seed your call to action naturally (not like a sales pitch)

• Share real stories that tie into your offer in a helpful, non-cringey way

This isn't manipulation...it’s alignment. It’s about crafting a conversation that benefits the host, the listeners, and you.

Ditch the Elevator Pitch

Seth and I also tackled a big one: networking without being weird. You know what I’m talking about that robotic moment where someone says, “So, what do you do?” and suddenly you forget how to speak like a normal person.

Instead of defaulting to a rehearsed pitch, Seth encourages us to lead with story.

Try this:

• Share the problem you solve through the lens of a client story

• Focus on outcomes, not titles

• Let your personality lead—because chemistry beats credentials every time

This approach is especially powerful on platforms like LinkedIn, where showing up as your authentic self is your biggest competitive edge.

Use Your Story as Strategy

Here’s the biggest takeaway from this episode: Storytelling isn’t fluff. It’s strategy.

Whether you’re trying to land more clients, get booked on more podcasts, or grow your personal brand, your story is the most powerful tool you have. And the best part? You don’t need to invent anything you’ve been living this story all along.

🎧 Tune into the full episode with Seth Donlin to learn how to tell your story, show up with purpose, and turn conversations into connections.
Because when you lead with story, the right people start listening.