Anecdotally Speaking (Shawn Callahan & Mark Schenk)

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.