Narativ Leadership Story Talks

Hosted by Narativ Inc

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Jun 2026

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About the show

Leadership Story Talks is a podcast hosted by Jerome Deroy, CEO of Narativ, and Julienne Ryan, business author, communication and HR specialist, and frequent Narativ training contributor.In each episode, Jerome and Jules discuss the practices that engage, motivate, develop, retain, and attract people to businesses, whether these are your customers or your employees. Their principles and tools are based on real world stories that leverage listening and storytelling to become a better leader and management professional.

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June 15, 202640 min

Leadership Story Talks | Hidden Patterns That Shape How We Lead Under Pressure with Logan Yonavjak

“People are always judging you and making assessments of you. Wouldn’t you like to know a better proxy of what most people are thinking rather than just walk around not knowing?” — Logan YonavjakIn this episode of Leadership Story Talks, we sit down with entrepreneur, impact investor, and Founder Readiness Institute CEO Logan Yonavjak for a fascinating conversation about leadership capacity, human development, and the hidden patterns that shape how we lead under pressure.Drawing from her background in impact investing, psychology, and leadership assessment, Logan shares how a pivotal moment in high school — and an unexpected question from a mentor — helped shape the trajectory of her life and career. From wilderness leadership experiences in the Southwest to building AI-powered tools that analyze leadership readiness, this conversation explores what it really means to grow as a leader in increasingly complex environments.Together, we discuss why self-awareness is often missing in professional development, what organizations overlook when promoting leaders, and how AI might help us better understand not just what people say — but what they leave unsaid.You’ll Hear:How a single question from a mentor changed Logan’s life directionWhy leadership breakdowns often happen under pressure and complexityThe concept of “capacity” vs. credentials in leadershipHow AI can identify patterns — and even “negative space” — in communicationWhy many organizations struggle to support leaders as they growThe role of Jungian psychology and adult developmental theory in leadership assessmentHow self-awareness and coachability impact long-term successWhy storytelling, listening, and leadership development are deeply connectedThe difference between personality assessments and measuring developmental capacityLogan’s vision for using AI to support more conscious and effective leadershipResources & Links:Founder Readiness InstituteFounder Readiness Institute YouTube ChannelHere's a link to the LISTENING LABNarativ’s online course in partnership with New Mexico State University Global Campus:Lead With Your Story (self-paced, on-demand course)Podcast listeners get 25% off - Use code NARATIV → Register HereLearn more about how to leverage Narativ’s storytelling method for your pitch and sales team: Download our free e-book, or you’re welcome to schedule a free 15-minute call with Jerome. Please join our mailing list to stay updated on all our latest episodes and events. EMAIL Jerome@narativ.comLINKEDIN https://www.linkedin.com/company/narativ-incTWITTER @narativBuy Julienne’s book here

June 8, 202610 min

Leadership Story Talks | Jerome & Julienne Discuss Moments That Matter

“People remember moments more than processes.”In this debrief episode of Leadership Story Talks, we reflect on our conversation with Chris Dyer and explore why the moments leaders choose to acknowledge can have such a lasting impact on culture, trust, and employee engagement. Jerome Deroy and Julienne Ryan unpack Chris’s idea that employees rarely remember the day-to-day processes or meetings—but they do remember the moments when leaders paused, noticed their work, and made them feel valued. The conversation explores how acknowledgment, storytelling, and values-based leadership shape whether people feel connected to an organization… or eventually choose to leave it.This episode also dives into the role storytelling plays in making organizational values visible—not just written on a wall or website, but embodied through real actions and real people.You’ll HearWhy leaders need to intentionally “mark the moment” instead of immediately moving on to the next taskHow acknowledgment and respect can directly impact employee retentionWhy people remember experiences and human moments more than systems or processesThe connection between storytelling and making organizational values visibleHow stories build trust internally and externallyWhy values only matter when leaders actively recognize and celebrate themJulienne’s insight on the danger of “commoditizing relationships” at workJerome’s reflection on how storytelling helps organizations attract people aligned with their valuesResources & Links🎧 Listen to our full conversation with Chris Dyer:Moments That Matter with Chris DyerHere's a link to the LISTENING LABNarativ’s online course in partnership with New Mexico State University Global Campus:Lead With Your Story (self-paced, on-demand course)Podcast listeners get 25% off - Use code NARATIV → Register HereLearn more about how to leverage Narativ’s storytelling method for your pitch and sales team: Download our free e-book, or you’re welcome to schedule a free 15-minute call with Jerome. Please join our mailing list to stay updated on all our latest episodes and events. EMAIL Jerome@narativ.comLINKEDIN https://www.linkedin.com/company/narativ-incTWITTER @narativBuy Julienne’s book here

June 1, 202612 min

Leadership Story Talks | Jerome & Julienne Discuss the LIVE Storytelling Event

“Stories reveal something universal precisely because they are so specific.”In this debrief episode of Leadership Story Talks LIVE, hosts Jerome Deroy and Julienne Ryan reflect on the powerful themes that emerged from the latest Stories That Shaped Us live event featuring Kelly Skwarcan, Christy Pretzinger, and Jen Mueller. Together, they explore what the stories revealed about leadership, kindness, connection, vulnerability, and what it really means to “win.”From stepping away from toxic environments, to creating space for others to shine, to building businesses rooted in kindness, the conversation uncovers how deeply personal stories can illuminate universal truths. Jerome and Julienne also reflect on why people are so hungry for authentic connection right now — and how storytelling helps us feel less alone in an increasingly divided world. You’ll HearWhy the stories from this live event all connected around the idea of “winning” — and redefining what winning really means How great leadership often means stepping out of the spotlight so others can shine Why specific, deeply personal stories often reveal the most universal truths The connection between storytelling, belonging, and feeling less alone How curiosity and listening can counter division and polarization Julienne’s realization that storytelling can permeate even everyday communication like emails and updates Why storytelling is less about memorizing words and more about being present and connected in the moment Resources & LinksListen to the full Leadership Story Talks LIVE event episode: HEREThe Listening LabWant to deepen your listening, storytelling, and communication skills in a live community setting?Take advantage of a special free one-month trial of The Listening Lab:The Listening Lab Free Trial: https://listeninglabfreespot.carrd.co/Join Us LiveWant to experience these storytelling events in real time?Explore upcoming Leadership Story Talks LIVE events here:Narativ Events Page: https://narativ.com/events/Here's a link to the LISTENING LABNarativ’s online course in partnership with New Mexico State University Global Campus:Lead With Your Story (self-paced, on-demand course)Podcast listeners get 25% off - Use code NARATIV → Register HereLearn more about how to leverage Narativ’s storytelling method for your pitch and sales team: Download our free e-book, or you’re welcome to schedule a free 15-minute call with Jerome. Please join our mailing list to stay updated on all our latest episodes and events. EMAIL Jerome@narativ.comLINKEDIN https://www.linkedin.com/company/narativ-incTWITTER @narativBuy Julienne’s book here

May 26, 202652 min

Leadership Story Talks LIVE | Stories That Shaped Us

“Every single person needs to know that they matter.”In this special edition of Leadership Story Talks LIVE! — "Stories That Shaped Us", we explore the deeply human moments that shape who we become as leaders, listeners, and storytellers.Through stories of resilience, kindness, integrity, and unexpected transformation, this live event reminds us that storytelling is not about polished performance — it’s about presence, connection, and the courage to share what’s real.Featuring Kelly Skwarcan, Christy Pretzinger, and Jen Mueller, this conversation explores the moments that tested them, shaped their values, and transformed the way they lead and connect with others.From career setbacks and self-doubt to acts of generosity and spotlighting others, these stories reveal how leadership is often forged in the quiet, deeply personal moments that stay with us long after the event itself ends. What You’ll HearHow storytelling becomes a shared act between speaker and listenerWhy leadership is often shaped through adversity, reinvention, and vulnerabilityThe power of kindness, psychological safety, and making people feel that they matterWhat it means to give others the spotlight — and why that can transform leadershipStories about resilience, identity, integrity, and purposeWhy listening is not passive, but an active force that shapes human connectionHow meaningful moments can completely change the way we communicate and leadResources & LinksFor more on Kelly Skwarcan:Kelly Skwarcan WebsiteFor more on Christy Pretzinger:Christy Pretzinger WebsiteWG ContentChristy Pretzinger LinkedInFor more on Jen Mueller:Jen Mueller LinkedInTalk Sporty To Me YouTube ChannelTalk Sporty Feedback PlatformThe Listening LabWant to deepen your listening, storytelling, and communication skills in a live community setting?Take advantage of a special free one-month trial of The Listening Lab:The Listening Lab Free TrialJoin Us LiveWant to experience these storytelling events in real time?Explore upcoming Leadership Story Talks LIVE events here:Narativ Events PageHere's a link to the LISTENING LABNarativ’s online course in partnership with New Mexico State University Global Campus:Lead With Your Story (self-paced, on-demand course)Podcast listeners get 25% off - Use code NARATIV → Register HereLearn more about how to leverage Narativ’s storytelling method for your pitch and sales team: Download our free e-book, or you’re welcome to schedule a free 15-minute call with Jerome. Please join our mailing list to stay updated on all our latest episodes and events. EMAIL Jerome@narativ.comLINKEDIN https://www.linkedin.com/company/narativ-incTWITTER @narativBuy Julienne’s book here

May 18, 202630 min

Leadership Story Talks | How Women Navigate Family, Work & Burnout with Giovanna Rossi

“Women are asked to parent like they don’t have jobs — and work like they don’t have kids.”What happens when resilience becomes both a survival strategy… and a catalyst for systems change?In this episode, we sit down with Giovanna Rossi — public affairs strategist, leadership coach, founder of Family Friendly New Mexico, and host of NPR’s The Well Woman Show. Giovanna shares the deeply personal story that shaped her work: watching her single mother walk across the stage to receive her diploma after years of sacrifice, determination, and raising a family while putting herself through school.That experience became the foundation for Giovanna’s lifelong mission: improving the systems that impact women, caregivers, and families.From policy work and workplace culture to burnout, invisible labor, and values-based leadership, this conversation explores what it means to lead sustainably in a world that often rewards overwork and perfectionism. Giovanna also shares practical insights from her Well Woman framework — helping leaders align their values with their actions so they can make meaningful impact without losing themselves in the process.This is a thoughtful and deeply human conversation about leadership, caregiving, resilience, and redefining success. You’ll HearThe childhood moment that shaped Giovanna’s understanding of resilience and possibilityHow her mother’s experience as a single parent inspired her work in systems changeWhy career paths are rarely linear — and how “squiggly lines” often lead to purposeThe hidden conflict many caregivers face: “parent like you don’t have a job, work like you don’t have kids”How burnout is often tied to living out of alignment with your valuesGiovanna’s framework for distinguishing between what’s urgent and what’s truly importantWhy community and group support are essential for women leadersThe invisible workload women often carry — and the pressure to appear perfect and productiveHow workplace policy changes can help women and families thrive instead of merely surviveWhy Giovanna believes busy women are the ones most capable of changing the world ResourcesWell Woman Life The Well Woman Show (NPR): The Well Woman ShowFamily Friendly New MexicoGiovanna Rossi on LinkedIn: Giovanna Rossi LinkedIn@wellwomanlife on Instagram and FacebookHere's a link to the LISTENING LABNarativ’s online course in partnership with New Mexico State University Global Campus:Lead With Your Story (self-paced, on-demand course)Podcast listeners get 25% off - Use code NARATIV → Register HereLearn more about how to leverage Narativ’s storytelling method for your pitch and sales team: Download our free e-book, or you’re welcome to schedule a free 15-minute call with Jerome. Please join our mailing list to stay updated on all our latest episodes and events. EMAIL Jerome@narativ.comLINKEDIN https://www.linkedin.com/company/narativ-incTWITTER @narativBuy Julienne’s book here

May 11, 202611 min

Leadership Story Talks | Jerome & Julienne Discuss Cultural Differences in Business

“The more you understand where someone comes from, the more you understand how they show up.”In this debrief episode, Jerome Deroy and Julienne Ryan reflect on their conversation with Dean Foster—and the deeper implications of culture in how we listen, lead, and connect.What begins as a discussion about global cultural differences quickly becomes something more personal: a reminder that culture isn’t just geographic—it’s inherited, lived, and often invisible to us.Drawing from their own backgrounds and past podcast conversations, Jerome and Julienne explore how curiosity about others’ stories can unlock trust, deepen relationships, and ultimately make us better leaders.You’ll Hear- Why culture shapes far more of our behavior than we consciously realize- How exploring your own heritage can deepen your understanding of others- The hidden biases we carry—especially around language, accents, and communication styles- Why curiosity (“How did you get here?”) is one of the most powerful leadership tools- How small investments in understanding others can save time and conflict later- The role of storytelling in uncovering identity, building trust, and fostering collaboration- A simple but powerful call to action: ask better questions and invite storiesKey TakeawayWe often prioritize efficiency over connection—but when we skip the human context, we lose the very thing that makes collaboration work.Understanding someone’s culture isn’t about memorizing differences. It’s about being curious enough to listen to the story behind the person.ResourcesListen to the full conversation in episode #184 with Dean FosterRelated episode #67 with Heather Hansen on language, accents, and biasHere's a link to the LISTENING LABNarativ’s online course in partnership with New Mexico State University Global Campus:Lead With Your Story (self-paced, on-demand course)Podcast listeners get 25% off - Use code NARATIV → Register HereLearn more about how to leverage Narativ’s storytelling method for your pitch and sales team: Download our free e-book, or you’re welcome to schedule a free 15-minute call with Jerome. Please join our mailing list to stay updated on all our latest episodes and events. EMAIL Jerome@narativ.comLINKEDIN https://www.linkedin.com/company/narativ-incTWITTER @narativBuy Julienne’s book here

May 4, 202638 min

Leadership Story Talks | From Wonder to Space With Bryce Kennedy

“If it weren’t for hope in those 90% failures, I’m not sure where I’d be.”What if a single moment—something as simple as noticing a poster on a wall—could change the trajectory of your life?In this episode, we sit down with Bryce Kennedy, Executive Director of Space Valley Foundation and Space Connectivity Senior Officer at the United Nations’ International Telecommunication Union. Bryce shares the unexpected journey that led him from law, consulting, and even acting… into the world of space.At the heart of his story is a powerful idea: wonder.From a pivotal pandemic moment under the stars to building a global initiative designed to ensure access to space for all, Bryce’s journey is anything but linear. It’s a story of experimentation, resilience, and ultimately aligning with something deeply human—the search for hope and meaning.This conversation invites us to rethink how we approach our careers, our failures, and the values that quietly guide us.You’ll HearHow a chance encounter with a NASA roadmap reignited Bryce’s childhood sense of wonder—and changed everythingWhy a “90% failure rate” can actually be a sign you’re on the right pathThe unexpected throughline in Bryce’s career: from law to acting to spaceHow hope became the hidden driver behind his life and workWhy “wonder” is more than a feeling—it’s a gateway to innovation and global collaborationThe mission behind Space Valley Foundation and the global Space for Good initiativeA powerful reframe: instead of forcing outcomes, align with your “North Star” and let possibilities emergeResourcesSpace Valley FoundationBryce Kennedy on LinkedInHere's a link to the LISTENING LABNarativ’s online course in partnership with New Mexico State University Global Campus:Lead With Your Story (self-paced, on-demand course)Podcast listeners get 25% off - Use code NARATIV → Register HereLearn more about how to leverage Narativ’s storytelling method for your pitch and sales team: Download our free e-book, or you’re welcome to schedule a free 15-minute call with Jerome. Please join our mailing list to stay updated on all our latest episodes and events. EMAIL Jerome@narativ.comLINKEDIN https://www.linkedin.com/company/narativ-incTWITTER @narativBuy Julienne’s book here

April 27, 202613 min

Leadership Story Talks | Jerome & Julienne Discuss Sequoia v Bonsai

“It’s not about perfection, it’s about connection.”OverviewWhat if growth isn’t supposed to look polished?In this debrief episode, Jerome Deroy and Julienne Ryan reflect on their conversation with Nicolas Darveau-Garneau and his powerful metaphor: be a sequoia, not a bonsai.A bonsai is carefully shaped, controlled, and aesthetically pleasing—but limited. A sequoia, on the other hand, grows wild and tall over time, shaped by its environment, weathering challenges, and drawing strength from deep roots.This conversation explores what that metaphor means for leadership, storytelling, and organizational culture. From embracing experimentation and failure, to balancing structure with openness, Jerome and Julienne unpack how real growth happens—not through control or perfection, but through connection, listening, and lived experience.You’ll HearWhy organizations that prioritize experimentation over perfection are the ones that truly grow How “messy” stories—especially the ones that didn’t go as planned—build trust and connectionThe hidden tension between control (bonsai) and organic growth (sequoia) in leadership and cultureWhy Narativ’s methodology balances both: structure that creates safety + space for authentic expressionHow storytelling isn’t the starting point—it’s the result of intentional listening and connection-buildingWhy the real goal isn’t just telling a story, but being heard and acknowledgedHow drawing from past experiences—both positive and difficult—creates meaning and forward momentumResources🎧 Listen to the full conversation with Nick HEREHere's a link to the LISTENING LABNarativ’s online course in partnership with New Mexico State University Global Campus:Lead With Your Story (self-paced, on-demand course)Podcast listeners get 25% off - Use code NARATIV → Register HereLearn more about how to leverage Narativ’s storytelling method for your pitch and sales team: Download our free e-book, or you’re welcome to schedule a free 15-minute call with Jerome. Please join our mailing list to stay updated on all our latest episodes and events. EMAIL Jerome@narativ.comLINKEDIN https://www.linkedin.com/company/narativ-incTWITTER @narativBuy Julienne’s book here

April 20, 202638 min

Leadership Story Talks | A Life Uncovered with Kenny Leahman

“If I was scattered, the team was scattered—and it was life or death.”What happens when the life you’ve built is also the life you’re hiding inside?In this episode, Jerome Deroy and Julienne Ryan sit down with leadership coach and former CIA officer Kenny Leahman to explore the concept of “living under cover”—and what it takes to drop it.From volunteering for two years in Afghanistan during the height of the war to navigating the internal conflict of living a double life, Kenny shares how extreme environments sharpened his understanding of focus, trust, and leadership. But it’s his personal journey—coming out to his wife, his organization, and ultimately himself—that reveals the deeper cost of inauthenticity.This conversation moves beyond storytelling into something more fundamental: the courage to be seen, the role of self-awareness in leadership, and the transformational power of dropping the covers that hold us back.You’ll Hear– How a life-and-death leadership environment in Afghanistan clarified what truly matters – Why focus isn’t just a productivity tool—but a signal of leadership and commitment– The surprising parallel between intelligence work and coaching: deep, trust-based relationships – What it means to “live under cover”—and why everyone, in some way, does– The internal cost of misalignment between identity, values, and behavior– A powerful story of coming out—and the unexpected leadership response that changed everything – How fear of being “found out” shows up as imposter syndrome in leaders– The role of self-awareness in leadership—and why lack of it can do real harm– How to identify the gap between the values you claim and the values you live– Why dropping your cover doesn’t just transform you—it expands your impact– The three questions every leader should ask themselves: Who am I? Who do I need to be? How do I get there?ResourcesKenny's websiteConnect with Kenny on LinkedINKenny's story on Yahoo! NewsHere's a link to the LISTENING LABNarativ’s online course in partnership with New Mexico State University Global Campus:Lead With Your Story (self-paced, on-demand course)Podcast listeners get 25% off - Use code NARATIV → Register HereLearn more about how to leverage Narativ’s storytelling method for your pitch and sales team: Download our free e-book, or you’re welcome to schedule a free 15-minute call with Jerome. Please join our mailing list to stay updated on all our latest episodes and events. EMAIL Jerome@narativ.comLINKEDIN https://www.linkedin.com/company/narativ-incTWITTER @narativBuy Julienne’s book here

April 13, 202612 min

Leadership Story Talks | Jerome & Julienne Discuss Finding Values in Stories

“It’s the responsibility of leaders to embrace vulnerability—because that’s what creates trust.”In this debrief, Jerome and Julienne reflect on a powerful insight from their conversation with Jim O’Gorman, Chief People Officer at Included Health: values don’t come to life through statements—they come to life through stories.Jim’s example of recognizing employees who embody company values opens the door to a deeper conversation about how organizations can move beyond abstract principles and into lived, everyday behaviors. Jerome and Julienne explore how storytelling—especially authentic, vulnerable storytelling—builds trust and turns values into something people can see, feel, and replicate.Drawing from their work with organizations like Cigna and others, they highlight how simple practices—asking for stories, sharing them, and amplifying them—can create a ripple effect across teams. What starts as recognition of a few individuals quickly becomes a culture where everyone sees themselves in the values and wants to contribute their own stories.At its core, this conversation is a reminder: you don’t need to invent culture—you need to notice it, name it, and share it.You’ll Hear:– From Values to Behavior – Why values only matter when they are demonstrated through real, observable actions—and how stories make that visible.– Authenticity Builds Trust – How leaders who share not just successes but vulnerabilities create deeper connection and credibility.– Recognition as Storytelling – How celebrating employees through stories reinforces culture and creates momentum across an organization.– The Ripple Effect of Shared Stories – Why highlighting a few stories often inspires many more, turning storytelling into a participatory, organic practice.– Start Simple: Ask and Listen – A practical approach to uncovering stories: ask people when they’ve seen values in action, then listen and share.Culture isn’t created in mission statements or posters—it’s revealed in the stories people tell about what actually happens every day.Here's a link to the LISTENING LABNarativ’s online course in partnership with New Mexico State University Global Campus:Lead With Your Story (self-paced, on-demand course)Podcast listeners get 25% off - Use code NARATIV → Register HereLearn more about how to leverage Narativ’s storytelling method for your pitch and sales team: Download our free e-book, or you’re welcome to schedule a free 15-minute call with Jerome. Please join our mailing list to stay updated on all our latest episodes and events. EMAIL Jerome@narativ.comLINKEDIN https://www.linkedin.com/company/narativ-incTWITTER @narativBuy Julienne’s book here