In this podcast episode, Michelle Cutler, a seasoned storytelling coach and screenwriter, delves into the intricate aspects of communication and the pivotal role of endings in storytelling. She outlines her role in helping people to uncover and hone their narratives through active listening and strategic questioning. Michelle draws on her innate skills as a dramatist, her formal education, and extensive professional experience in entertainment and advertising. She presents the nuances of storytelling, from understanding the audience and purpose to mastering tone, voice, and endings. Using personal stories as examples, like a poignant anecdote about a friend’s passing and its connection to certain songs, Michelle illustrates key points about being receptive to life’s signals. She also discusses the modern challenges and opportunities in communication brought by technology, advocating for messages to be refined with kindness, necessity, truth, and timeliness. Concluding with an offer for a free consultation, Michelle invites those looking to enhance their stories to connect with her, underscoring her commitment to nurturing the storyteller in everyone.
Communication is an integral part of our daily lives. Whether it’s through digital means, verbal exchanges, or written correspondence, we are constantly conveying messages. But how can we ensure that our communication is truly effective? Steve Harper recently sat down with Michelle Cutler, a storytelling coach and screenwriter, to explore the nuances of storytelling and its impact on communication. Here’s a breakdown of their enlightening conversation.
Steve Harper: Communication is a vital part of life. Every interaction, even something as simple as a work email, tells a story. But what makes a good storytelling coach?
Michelle Cutler: It’s interesting because the term “coach” was initially hard for me to embrace. I’ve always been a writer and have a knack for seeing stories in the chaos of conversations. My role is to help individuals discover and articulate their stories through active listening and thoughtful questioning. My training from NYU’s graduate film program and my years of experience have honed my ability to guide others in telling their stories effectively.
Steve Harper: In your work, you analyze various projects—be it articles, pitches, or websites. You help people refine their messages to make their stories clearer. Why is this crucial?
Michelle Cutler: With the decline of formal communication norms due to digital technology, it’s easier to send out half-formed ideas. However, the clarity of our communication can suffer as a result. Sometimes, taking a step back before sharing can improve the quality of our message. As one editor suggests, it’s beneficial to let a story marinate before finalizing it.
Steve Harper: Before sending any communication, I think it’s important to consider if it’s kind, necessary, and true. What are your thoughts on this filter?
Michelle Cutler: That’s a great approach! I’d add one more consideration: urgency. In a world filled with instant communication, determining if something truly needs to be shared immediately can help avoid hasty messages that might not be fully thought through.
Steve Harper: When it comes to storytelling, how important is the ending?
Michelle Cutler: Endings are crucial as they often reflect the story’s core message. For instance, in a pitch session, I once realized I hadn’t fully developed my story’s ending. An ending can serve as a reflection of the narrative’s start or provide a resolution that ties everything together. It’s essential to craft endings that resonate with the audience and provide closure.
Steve Harper: Can you give an example of how personal experiences can shape storytelling?
Michelle Cutler: Absolutely. For instance, you shared a story about taking a walk with your dog and experiencing a series of meaningful coincidences that felt like signs from your late mother. This story highlights how personal experiences and reflections can become powerful narratives. It can evolve into various forms, like essays or op-eds, exploring themes such as signs and their meanings in our lives.
Steve Harper: Sometimes, personal stories can connect with broader themes. For example, your experience with karaoke and the radio can be tied to a larger narrative about controlling versus embracing the unexpected.
Michelle Cutler: Exactly. Personal anecdotes can illustrate broader concepts. For example, your story about encountering songs that resonated with your past can be framed as a commentary on the beauty of unplanned moments versus our highly curated lives.
Effective storytelling is not just about what we say but how we say it. By refining our communication, understanding the elements of a compelling story, and being open to unexpected connections, we can make our messages more impactful. For those interested in exploring storytelling further, Michelle Cutler offers insights and consultations through her website.
Whether you’re crafting a story or just looking to improve your communication, remember that every message is a chance to tell a story—make it count.