Why Active Listening Is the Missing Link in Your Storytelling Skills

Storytelling Is Not Just About Speaking In a professional culture that prizes confident communication, it’s easy to assume that storytelling is all about how well you speak. We’ve been conditioned to think that if we can tell a clear, emotionally charged, and well-structured story, we’ll capture attention and earn influence. But that belief leaves out […]
When to Use Storytelling for Maximum Impact

Why Timing Matters in Storytelling Storytelling has always been one of the most effective ways to communicate ideas that stick. But story alone isn’t a magic bullet—it’s not just what you say, but when you say it that defines its power. In today’s world, people are flooded with messaging from every direction. Every platform, every […]
Your Message is Getting Drowned Out. Storytelling is the Lifeboat.

The Modern Communication Crisis Every day, your message competes with a digital tsunami. Emails, ads, pings, push notifications, LinkedIn updates, Slack threads, and a constant stream of headlines—this is the reality your audience wakes up to. We live in a world where attention is under siege, and even the most important messages are lost before […]
You’re Not as Good a Storyteller as You Think—Here’s Why

The Overconfidence Trap Most professionals overestimate their storytelling ability. Because they can speak confidently, deliver a decent presentation, or hold attention in a meeting, they assume they’re naturally good at telling stories. But what they’re often doing is performing—not connecting. They’re talking at people, not to them. And as a result, they mistake clarity for […]
Great Storytelling Starts with Great Listening—Here’s How to Get Better

In a world dominated by noise, speed, and artificial intelligence, great storytelling is more essential than ever. It’s how we make sense of complexity, break through the digital clutter, and move people to action. But here’s the truth that most people miss: the foundation of great storytelling isn’t charisma, cleverness, or even writing skill—it’s great […]
The High Cost of Miscommunication in Product Management and Product Marketing

By Stacey Weber In the fast-paced world of product management and product marketing, effective communication is not just a skill—it’s a necessity. Miscommunication can lead to costly mistakes, wasted resources, and missed opportunities. Let’s explore some real-world examples of how communication errors can have significant financial impacts. Imagine a scenario where a product manager is […]
If You Can’t Tell a Great Story, You’re Already Losing

By John Geraci In today’s hyperconnected world, the ability to tell a great story is no longer a “nice-to-have” — it’s the difference between making an impact or getting lost in the noise. If you can’t tell a story that cuts through the clutter, inspires action, and builds real human connection, then you’re already behind. […]
Six Key Reasons Your Profit Might be Suffering (And How to Fix Them)

By Stacey Weber If you follow my blog, you’ve heard all about my beliefs in doing market research. I believe that the best research is done face-to-face with real, authentic conversations between you and your buyers and users – current and potential. These human connections allow us insight into the most important problems that our […]
Why Some Stories Inspire Action While Others Get Ignored

By John Geraci, CI2 Advisors In today’s noisy world, stories have become our best shot at being heard. We’re all navigating a barrage of messages every day—emails, alerts, social posts, video calls, texts. In the middle of that digital chaos, most communication barely registers. But occasionally, a story cuts through. It lands. It lingers. It […]
Revitalize Your Market Perspective: Fresh Ideas for Spring

By Stacey Weber I think I can finally say that it is Spring in Wisconsin. It’s been a few weeks since we saw any snow, and the grass is getting greener every day. I’ve seen many of my favorite birds return (snowbirds that they are), including Sandhill Cranes, Baltimore Orioles, Rose-Breasted Grosbeaks. The vultures are […]