Everyone has a story...
The most important story any business can share is its Capital S Story, the authentic narrative that answers these fundamental questions: Why someone should buy from, work for, invest in or partner with that business.
In each Storylines Live episode, host Paul Furiga breaks down business storytelling and interviews business leaders and marketing experts about their own Capital S Stories.
This is the podcast for you if you’re just beginning to market your organization, if your messages aren’t connecting with those audiences you most want to reach — or if you just love a good business story. You can start listening on the Marketing Podcast Network by clicking here!
About our host
Paul Furiga is a career storyteller. From Cincinnati’s City Hall to the White House press room (all while carrying a notebook and eventually an editor’s red pen) over a two-decade life in journalism, through building a successful marketing agency in the next two decades, stories are always at the heart of his work. He’s the founder and Chief Storyteller at WordWrite.
Our Episodes
Episode 1: Storytelling, Influence Marketing and the Pittsburgh Pirates with Jason Falls
Jason Falls is a leading digital strategist, author, speaker and thinker in the digital and social media marketing industry. He also founded and serves as executive producer of the Marketing Podcast Network. In this episode of Storylines Live, we spoke with Jason about the importance of harnessing your story, influence marketing, and the best ways to drive action from your strategy.
Episode 2: Reaching Your Target Audience, Podcasting and the Super Bowl with Christoph Trappe
Christoph Trappe is an author, content strategist, and host of the Business Storytelling Show Podcast. He is also the director of content strategy at Growgetter, a growth marketing firm that drives growth for businesses in the data, insights, and analytics sectors. In this episode of Storylines Live, we spoke with Christoph about reaching the right audiences through targeted storytelling, engagement, and making connections.
Episode 3: Business Development for Lawyers – The Power of Connections and Storytelling with Steve Fretzin
Steve Fretzin is an author, podcast host, and “business development therapist.” He coaches and trains lawyers in the most modern-day business development skills, providing precise tips, fresh ideas and actionable tasks that drive tangible results. In this episode, we talk with Steve about the importance of connections, storytelling, and differentiation in a competitive landscape.
Episode 4: Love, Care, and Respect – The Keys to an Effective Sales Approach with Connie Whitman
Connie Whitman, MBA, is an author, podcast host, and CEO of Changing the Sales Game. She focuses on a unique approach that has led her to years of success in sales, emphasizing love, care, and respect as the critical foundation to any mutually profitable business relationship. In this episode of Storylines Live, we speak with Connie about her experiences and dive into the power of building genuine relationships when selling to clients.
Episode 5: The Power of People – Exploring the Impact of Human Capital in Business Valuation with Dave Bookbinder
Dave Bookbinder is on a mission to change the conversation about how the accounting world recognizes the value of people’s contributions to a business enterprise, and to validate what every CEO on the planet claims: “Our people are this company’s most valuable asset.” Working closely with business owners, CFOs, Controllers, and CEOs, Dave strives to build relationships that add value for the long term. He also serves as the host of the internet TV show and podcast called Behind The Numbers– the show that digs a little deeper to understand what matters most in business.
Episode 6: Understanding Client Stories – Developing Custom Solutions for Business Growth with Diane Helbig
Diane Helbig is an internationally recognized business and leadership development advisor, author, award-winning speaker, workshop facilitator, and podcast host. Diane works with her clients to create, implement, and monitor individualized strategies that result in better communication and increased performance. In this episode of Storylines Live, we speak with Diane about the importance of understanding your clients’ stories to create custom solutions and achieve optimal business growth.
Episode 7: The Art of Uncovering Unique Stories in PR with Jody Fisher
Jody Fisher has worked in New York City PR for more than 20 years, representing clients in healthcare, higher education, financial services, real estate, entertainment and nonprofits. Jody started his own PR agency just this year, after building a PR practice for a local marketing company that went from zero to high six figures in just a few years. He also hosts The PR Podcast, which interviews people who play a role in how news gets made. Jody also offers tips and insights on his social media channels for experienced and novice PR pros.
Episode 8: The Power of Stories – Using Connections and Collaboration for Business Growth with Susan Finch
In this episode of Storylines Live, Paul speaks with Susan Finch about the power of storytelling in business. With over 30 years of experience in the marketing industry, Susan is passionate about creating and implementing data-driven strategies that help her clients grow their reputation, reach, and authority. As president and owner of Funnel Media Group, she leads a team of experts in producing podcasts, videos, and voiceovers for B2B clients across various sectors. In this episode, Paul and Susan dive into the unexpected benefits of podcasting and highlight the value of storytelling in connecting with others. Tune in to learn more!
Episode 9: Building Your Practice – How Effective Marketing Strategies Can Help Lawyers Grow Their Firms with Ken Hardison
Ken Hardison has fought for people’s rights as a trusted personal injury lawyer for over 35 years. His ethics, integrity, and passion for his clients helped to build one of North Carolina’s most successful firms, Hardison & Cochran, and a successful Social Security disability firm, Carolina Disability Lawyers, in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Now, as owner and publisher of the law firm management website, Law Practice Advisor, and founder and president of PILMMA, Ken devotes his time to helping attorneys build their own law practices with proven marketing strategies. Ken has also authored 5 books on marketing and managing law firms. In this episode of Storylines Live, Paul and Ken discuss Ken’s journey as an attorney and marketing expert and the mistakes to avoid when growing your law practice.
Episode 10: Using Stories to Empower, Enhance and Elevate People and Organizations
In episode 10 of Storylines Live, Paul is joined by Eric Guy, founder of Center for Victory. Center for Victory unlocks, reinforces and enriches relationships to create meaningful success in life, family, and business. The organization offers seminars that teach people how to empower your organization’s experts to drive change and build a better workforce. With years of experience and a passion for positive change, Eric shares his perspective on how connection not only transforms individuals, but also sets organizations apart in today's competitive landscape.
Episode 11: Overcoming Adversity by Standing in the Power of Your Story with Marsha Vanwynsberghe
For the past 25 years, Marsha has dedicated her life to being a Kinesiologist and Personal Trainer. During this time, she has empowered countless individuals to achieve physical and emotional transformations in their bodies and lives. As she is also a renowned speaker, author, and podcaster, her ultimate mission is to guide her clients towards taking responsibility for their well-being and recognizing the importance of self-care amidst the chaos of everyday life. Marsha’s clients have delved deep into their thoughts, beliefs, habits, and actions, uncovering the key to unlocking their true potential. Tune into the episode to learn more!
Episode 12: Exploring Personal Transformation – From Rock Bottom to Holistic Self-Improvement with Kevin Palmieri
In episode 12 of Storylines Live, we met with Kevin Palmieri, CFO, Founder and Co-Host of Next Level University, a global top-100 self-improvement podcast. We explored Kevin’s personal story and discussed the significance of his experiences in connecting with others through relatable storytelling. Tune into the episode to learn more!
Episode 13: From Tragic to Magic – Using Thought Leadership to Generate Business Success with Nicky Billou
Nicky Billou, founder of eCircle Academy, is a seasoned professional with expertise in helping individuals and businesses thrive. His program is dedicated to empowering others and driving success through thought leadership, clarifying your message and connecting with your customers. In this episode of Storylines Live, we dove into client success stories and explored why storytelling is so important in business. Tune in today!
Episode 14: How to Find Success With an RFP: Increasing Win Rates and Simplifying Processes with Lisa Rehurek
Lisa Rehurek is a best-selling author, national speaker/trainer, and strategic RFP (Request for Proposal) expert. Her organization, the RFP Success Company, helps businesses create the kind of responses that capture the right attention and emotional connection while building trust. With over 26 years of experience and her down-to-earth, “get it done” personality, Lisa leads from the front. In today’s episode of Storylines Live, Lisa and Paul discuss RFPs, storytelling, leadership and much more! Give it a listen.
Episode 15: The Power of Rebranding: Helping Healthcare Leaders Uncover Their Story and Unlock Their Potential with Mary E. Maloney
Mary E. Maloney, Founding CEO and Brand Strategist for Revealing Genius, specializes in helping healthcare leaders define and communicate their brand to gain the recognition they deserve and advance their careers. Using her proven E.T.A.™ framework, she solves complex positioning and messaging challenges to enhance thought leadership and industry influence. With almost 30 years of experience, she have successfully transformed brands and advised top companies in the healthcare sector. In today’s episode of Storylines Live, Paul and Mary E. dive into storytelling, branding and much more!
Episode 16: From Passion to Purpose: Transforming Your Business Model to Make an Impact with Ben Christensen
Ben Christensen is the Founder and CEO of Cambium. The company's story began where his life did, in rural New Mexico. A childhood immersed in woodworking and science instilled in Christensen a deep understanding of sustainable wood use and climate action. He spent a considerable time learning the extent of the challenges posed by wood waste management. In this episode of Storylines Live, Paul and Ben dive into using stories to build connections and add value to business models!
Episode 17: Passing the Torch: Empowering Future Generations through Storytelling and Impact with Moshe Amsel
Moshe Amsel’s grandfather came from Nazi Germany with nothing when he was eleven years old. He used the wealth he made from multiple business ventures to provide the down payments for first-time home purchases for his 36 grandchildren. Amsel’s experience as a recipient of generational wealth was so positive that he decided his entire focus would be helping others do the same. In this episode of Storylines Live, Paul and Moshe discuss the importance of having a focus as a business owner and how you can get the most out of your business.
Episode 18: Grit and Growth: Stories of Entrepreneurial Success and Sales Leadership with Brian Wesely Kerlin
Brian Wesely Kerlin is the Founder and CEO of Optitude. His background as an entrepreneur and sales leader with over 20 years of experience with start-ups, second-stage companies and top-tier Fortune 50 companies, is complimented by his genuine grit and approachable attitude, giving him a unique capacity to lead others to get things done when it really counts. In this episode, Paul and Brian discuss the entrepreneurial journey and working hard to get what you want.
Episode 19: Our Capital S Story: Exploring WordWrite’s Journey and Unique Edge in the Market with Jeremy Church
With a rich background in sports and coaching, Jeremy Church, Partner and Vice President of WordWrite, understands what it takes to be a servant leader and create client roadmaps for success. In this episode, Paul and Jeremy discuss the ins and outs of WordWrite, the company's evolution over the years, and what makes WordWrite different from competitors.
Episode 20: A Lawyer’s Guide to Success: The Importance of Storytelling in the Legal Industry with Max Eckstein
Max Eckstein, COO for Ciancio Ciancio Brown, P.C., is a senior leader, thinker, and visionary in the legal field. In this episode, Paul and Max discuss how his rich expertise has allowed him to help business owners, professionals, and clients find their desired personal and professional success stories, solve challenges, and build relationships.
Episode 21: The Power of Storytelling in Sales with Stephen Steers
Stephen Steers helps professional services firms tell the stories that get customers excited to buy, and has consulted, advised and led workshops for more than 750+ companies from 30 countries. In this episode, Paul and Stephen discuss how effective sales is about listening, learning and connecting through stories.
Episode 22: From Startup to Success: The Making of a Marketing Leader with Kayla Starta
Kayla Starta, Co-Founder and CMO of Refresh Digital Strategy, started her entrepreneurial journey by launching her own digital marketing firm. After several years in business and a strategic merger, Starta continues to serve small businesses in a greater capacity. In this episode, Paul and Kayla discuss the entrepreneurial journey, the importance of partnerships, and utilizing storytelling for continual client growth.
Episode 23: "Y" Stories Matter in Business with Amy Kienle
Amy Kienle has been involved with the YMCA since she was a child. Now, as President and CEO of the YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh, Kienle looks to inspire and lead while fulfilling the Y's mission. In this episode, Paul and Amy discuss the history of the Y, how the Y is different from other nonprofits, and the importance of hearing and sharing community stories.
Episode 24: Harnessing Hard Work: The Path to Tech Leadership with Adam Murphy
Adam Murphy, President and CEO of Sourceree, is an experienced technology entrepreneur and government program manager. In this episode, Paul and Adam discuss working hard and earning your way, how small teams can make a large impact, and how Adam built a company that focuses on technology that changes lives.
Episode 25: Building A Better Future: Behavioral Healthcare in Businesses with Jonathan De Carlo
Jonathan De Carlo, CEO of C4 Consulting, had no interest in behavioral health or the healthcare industry as a young professional. However, after holding a third shift position as a Behavioral Health Tech, Jonathan uncovered his true passion and built a company that helps its clients improve financial performance, enhance competitive positions, and achieve the most productive organizational alignment among staff, management, and Board to optimize overall performance.
Episode 26: Navigating the Entrepreneurial Rollercoaster with Michael Halperin
Michael Halperin, Certified EOS Implementer® and Entrepreneur, has spent 30 years as a business leader and entrepreneur. In this episode, Paul and Michael discuss the successes and setbacks Michael has experienced throughout his business ventures, and what he has learned as a leader in the field.
Episode 27: Turning Panic into a Plan with Jonathan Bernstein
Jonathan Bernstein, Chairman & Founder of Bernstein Crisis Management, has over three decades of experience helping companies handle high-stakes situations. In this episode, Paul and Jonathan share real-life crisis management stories, essential strategies, and actionable tips to help business owners stay calm, make decisive moves, and protect their brands during a crisis.
Episode 28: The Key to Lifelong Partnerships: People-Focused Learning and Development with Jason Lavender
Jason Lavender, Co-Founder and CEO of Electives, has years of experience applying transformational approaches to learning and development in the corporate world. In this episode, Paul and Jason discuss the importance of people-focused work and why building relationships is necessary to form lifelong business partnerships.
Episode 29: Revolutionizing Communications: Strategies for Modern PR Success with Gini Dietrich
In this episode, Paul sits down with Gini Dietrich, the visionary behind Spin Sucks, a movement that’s transforming the PR industry. They dive deep into the unique ways Gini helps clients using the groundbreaking PESO Model©, and how she has successfully ran an agency for almost two decades. Whether you're a PR professional or a business leader looking to grow, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiring stories from one of the industry's top leaders.
Episode 30: AI, Marketing, and the Human Element in Recruiting with Todd Raphael
Todd Raphael, Head of Content at SkyHive AI, is a seasoned marketing and journalism expert. In this episode Paul and Todd dive deep into the world of content strategy, the evolving role of AI in talent acquisition, and how companies can better leverage AI-driven tools to enhance their recruiting processes.
Episode 31: Mastering Storytelling to Build Genuine Connections with LeeAnn Marie Webster
LeeAnn Marie Webster, creator of No Regrets Formula™, host of the Full Self Expression Forum, and star of Fancy Meeting Me Here, is an attorney-turned-international keynote speaker and entrepreneur with over two decades of marketing and business development experience. In this episode, Paul and LeeAnn discuss the importance of storytelling and utilizing it to connect with people.
Episode 32: The Storytelling Strategy for Mission-Driven Brands with Sara Lohse
Sara Lohse, AFC® is an award-winning author, storyteller, and brand architect with a knack for turning narratives into connections. In this episode, Paul and Sara discuss how she uses her passion and talent to help mission-driven brands amplify their impact and the importance of using story to connect with business owners and their audiences.
Episode 33: How Breaking Barriers Leads to Breakthroughs in Business with Andrew L. Anderson
Andrew L. Anderson is an author, speaker, master teacher and trainer, community and spiritual leader, and certified life transformation and business productivity coach. Andrew has coached some of the country’s top leaders and coaches—and helped hundreds of clients break through limiting beliefs, transform their lives and businesses, and find lasting freedom. In this episode, Paul and Andrew discuss his unique story and the importance of investing in yourself as a business owner.
Episode 34: Revolutionizing Recruitment: A Blueprint for Hiring Success with Josef Stetter
For over 16 years, Josef Stetter has incorporated humor, energy, passion, and full self-expression into his personal and professional life. Through his company The Celebrate Group, he has helped over 11,000 people find a job they love with a 90% success rate of finding anybody employment in any field in under three months. In this episode, Paul and Josef discuss finding and retaining talent, and how his Capital S Story led to him tackling the broken recruiting system.
Drop us a line.
Whether you're interested in learning more about storytelling, our business podcast, or if you'd like to be featured on an episode, reach out to speak with us today!