Good Story vs. Right Story: How to Tell Stories That Actually Connect
We’ve all been there. You’re giving a presentation, leading a team meeting, or even just trying to make a point at the dinner table and you drop a story you think will land perfectly.
It’s funny. It’s dramatic. People laugh. Maybe even clap.
But when the dust settles, you realize something: they remembered the story, but not your message.
That’s the danger of confusing a good story with the right story. And it’s one of the most common public speaking mistakes leaders make.
👉 Want the full breakdown? Watch the episode on YouTube here:
So, how do you make sure your storytelling in public speaking doesn’t just entertain but actually connects and sticks? Here are three simple shifts:
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Ditch the “funny uncle” story. Just because a story gets laughs doesn’t mean it belongs in your talk. If it doesn’t directly support your point, your audience walks away remembering the wrong thing.
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Start in the moment. The endless “let me back up” backstory is a surefire way to lose attention. The best presentation storytelling techniques drop your audience straight into the action.
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Run the mirror test. The right story is never just about you, it’s about your audience. If they can’t see themselves in your story, they’ll tune out. This is how you build leadership communication skills that stick.
👉 Want more examples (and what not to do)? Listen here:
Here’s the bottom line: storytelling for leaders isn’t about how many “good” stories you can tell. It’s about choosing the right one—the one that makes your audience lean in, connect, and remember your message.
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