Steve Harper and Michelle Tamara Cutler discuss the importance of storytelling and the role of antagonists in personal narratives. Cutler, a storytelling coach and screenwriter, explains that an antagonist is essential for conflict and character development, whether in fiction or non-fiction. She emphasizes that an antagonist provides conflict for the protagonist to overcome. She clarifies that an antagonist can be any obstacle or conflict, not necessarily a person, with examples like nature, in the case of floods, or belief systems and societal norms. They explore how everyday events can be elevated into compelling stories by adding stakes and relatable challenges making even the smallest stories memorable.
In our everyday lives, we often overlook the profound stories hidden in the mundane. A simple coffee run, for example, might seem trivial, but when explored through a different lens, it can reveal universal truths, relatable conflicts, and meaningful resolutions. This concept was masterfully unpacked in a recent podcast featuring Michelle Cutler, a storytelling expert. Here’s what we learned about transforming life’s small moments into stories that resonate.
As Michelle explains, a story’s depth often lies in its context. Imagine you’re rushing to the hospital because a loved one is giving birth. You stop for coffee—an ordinary action—but suddenly, it’s a decisive moment. Do you prioritize speed to arrive on time, or take the extra two minutes to arm yourself with caffeine to stay alert for the long hours ahead?
This scenario illustrates how stakes, urgency, and metaphor can elevate an everyday decision into a pivotal scene. In storytelling, perspective is everything. The coffee isn’t just coffee; it’s a symbol of preparation, sacrifice, or even self-care under pressure.
Stories become impactful when they tap into universally relatable experiences. Waiting in line, debating whether to break a $20 bill, or dealing with a slow cashier—these are moments most of us recognize. They connect us to the protagonist’s journey because we’ve been there ourselves.
Michelle emphasizes the importance of “taking the personal and making it universal.” By weaving relatable themes into your narrative—like impatience, indecision, or the pressure to perform—you create a story that resonates with a broader audience.
A good story needs conflict, but the antagonist doesn’t have to be a person. It could be time, fatigue, or even your own doubts. In the podcast example, the slow-moving 7-Eleven clerk might initially seem like the conflict, but the real tension lies within the protagonist’s internal struggle: to grab the coffee or leave without it.
Michelle warns against over-focusing on external antagonists. If you spend too much time describing the clerk’s inefficiency, the audience might lose sight of the real protagonist—you. Instead, the conflict should highlight your journey, your decisions, and your growth.
Whether you’re writing a blog post, creating a newsletter, or penning a memoir, your audience craves a story that promises something meaningful. A headline like “I Went to Buy Coffee, and It Changed My Day” might not entice readers, but “How a Coffee Run Taught Me About Decisions Under Pressure” might pique their interest.
Michelle notes that great storytelling requires a balance of relatability, stakes, and resolution. By building tension and offering insight, you invite readers to join you on your journey and leave them with something valuable to reflect on.
In a world where people often emphasize the negatives, Michelle advocates for embracing your role as the protagonist. By focusing on your strengths, challenges, and victories, you can craft stories that are not only engaging but also empowering.
Your story doesn’t have to be grand to matter. Even a small, personal anecdote can carry significant weight when explored deeply and told authentically.
Michelle’s insights remind us that every moment—no matter how mundane—holds the potential for a great story. By exploring the stakes, context, and universal themes, we can transform our everyday experiences into narratives that inspire, connect, and resonate.
If you’re feeling stuck in your storytelling journey or need a fresh perspective, Michelle Cutler offers expert guidance through her website at michellecutler.com. Whether you’re crafting personal essays, family stories, or professional content, her expertise can help you uncover the deeper layers of your narrative.