The Starfish Storytellers

Hosted by Liana Henry

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Aug 2026

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About the show

Welcome to The Starfish Storytellers, the podcast that makes a difference, one story at a time, by bringing storytelling to life.

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54 recent

September 10, 202649 min

Season 5, Episode 9: Stories We Leave Behind - Preserving a Life Through the Lens with James Howard

What stories will remain when the people we love are no longer here to tell them? In this episode of The Starfish Storytellers , Liana Henry sits down with Toronto-area filmmaker and videographer James Howard, founder of Family History Studio, to explore the power of preserving a life through film. James's work grew from a deeply personal experience. In 1997, he interviewed his 91-year-old grandmother for nearly five hours, capturing her memories, voice, expressions, and personality on camera. Just two weeks later, she suffered a fall that would ultimately prove fatal. Years later, James did the same for his father, creating a film his dad was able to see shortly before his death. Those experiences became the foundation for Family History Studio and James's belief that a life story film can become something truly priceless for future generations. James and Liana talk about why listening may be the most important skill a storyteller can develop, how trust helps people move beyond rehearsed answers to reveal their authentic selves, and why some of the most meaningful stories emerge from the simplest questions. They also explore the importance of preserving old photographs, home movies, recordings, and family artifacts—and how bringing those pieces together with someone's own voice can create a legacy that lasts for generations. Because someday, someone you love may want to know what Grandpa sounded like when he laughed, how Mom told the story of meeting Dad, or what childhood experience shaped the person they became. And as James reminds us, you don't know what stories are waiting to be told until you ask. Learn more about James Howard and Family History Studio: Website: familyhistorystudio.com Email: james@familyhistorystudio.com

August 13, 202650 min

Season 5, Episode 8: From Surfboards to Standing Ovations - Building a Life Through Stories with Lee Silber

What do repainting mailboxes at eleven years old, surfing in Hawaii, writing 27 books, and delivering more than 2,500 keynote presentations have in common? For Lee Silber , they've all been chapters in a life built by saying "yes" to opportunity. In this episode of The Starfish Storytellers , Liana Henry sits down with entrepreneur, award-winning author, speaker, and self-described "Facilitator of Fun" Lee Silber to explore the stories that have shaped his remarkable career—and the lessons they've taught him about confidence, curiosity, resilience, and the power of storytelling. Lee shares the deeply personal story of losing his father, why stories connect with audiences more than facts ever can, how following curiosity led him from surf shops to bestselling books, and why confidence often begins by saying yes before you're completely ready. Whether you're a leader, entrepreneur, writer, speaker, marketer, or simply someone looking for inspiration, this conversation is packed with practical wisdom, memorable stories, and heartfelt moments that will stay with you long after the episode ends. In this episode you'll discover: Why storytelling is the fastest path to connection How curiosity can become a career strategy Why confidence grows through action—not certainty Lessons from Sunshine, Jay Ondo, and the people who changed Lee's life How one compliment can transform someone forever Why authentic stories will always outperform artificial ones Connect with Lee Silber: Website: https://www.leesilber.com Books on Amazon: Search "Lee Silber" on Amazon LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leesilber

July 9, 202644 min

Season 5, Episode 7: Stroke of Success - Redefining Ambition, Resilience, and What Matters Most with Roderick Jefferson

What happens when the definition of success you've spent a lifetime pursuing nearly costs you everything? In this powerful episode, we sit down with executive leader, keynote speaker, and bestselling author Roderick Jefferson to explore the extraordinary story behind his book Stroke of Success . After decades leading global organizations, traveling the world, and reaching the highest levels of corporate leadership, Roderick suffered a devastating stroke in his sleep that left him with just a two percent chance of survival. What followed wasn't simply a journey of physical recovery. It became a complete redefinition of ambition, leadership, identity, and purpose. Together, we discuss: The hidden cost of relentless ambition How success can quietly distance us from the people who matter most Lessons learned from surviving a stroke and near-death experience Why caregivers deserve far more recognition The importance of rediscovering your "why" Building boundaries, embracing self-care, and leading with humanity This conversation is an honest reminder that true success isn't measured by titles, salaries, or frequent flyer miles, but by the lives we touch and the relationships we nurture. Whether you're a business leader, entrepreneur, caregiver, or simply someone navigating life's unexpected turns, Roderick's story will leave you asking one important question: At what cost are you pursuing success? Connect with Roderick Jefferson Website: https://www.roderickjefferson.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roderickjefferson Order Stroke of Success : https://www.roderickjefferson.com

June 11, 202644 min

Season 5, Episode 6: The Problem of Maria - Poetry, Identity, and the Power of Being Seen with Pilar Quintana

Storytelling doesn't always happen in sentences, speeches, or traditional narratives. Sometimes it happens in images, emotions, metaphors, and poems. In this special Pride Month episode of The Starfish Storytellers , host Liana Henry sits down with poet, artist, educator, and arts advocate Pilar Quintana to explore storytelling through the lens of poetry, identity, and self-expression. The conversation begins with Pilar's powerful poem, The Problem of Maria , a deeply personal exploration of gender, culture, belonging, and the lifelong search to understand oneself in a world that often demands simple definitions. As a queer, genderqueer Cuban American artist, Pilar shares how poetry became a language for expressing experiences that traditional storytelling sometimes cannot fully capture. In this conversation, Pilar discusses: • How poetry allows people to express emotions that are difficult to put into words • The relationship between identity, culture, and storytelling • Growing up as the child of Cuban immigrants and navigating multiple worlds • The power of visibility and representation within LGBTQ+ communities • Why poetry can help people process experiences and emotions in unique ways • How art and storytelling can create understanding across differences • The importance of being seen, respected, and recognized for who we truly are • How anyone can begin telling their story—even if they don't consider themselves a storyteller Through personal poems, candid reflections, and thoughtful discussion, Pilar reminds us that storytelling isn't always about finding answers. Sometimes it's about creating space for complexity, authenticity, and connection. Because every person deserves to be seen—and every story deserves to be heard. To learn more about Pilar and the Grey Court Poets, visit: https://www.instagram.com/greycourtpoets/ https://www.youtube.com/GreyCourtPoets https://www.facebook.com/GreyCourtPoets/

May 14, 202636 min

Season 5 Episode 5: Rewriting Pain - The Mind, the Body, and the Power of Story with Ron Clinton

In this episode of The Starfish Storytellers , we sit down with physical therapist, educator, and author Ron Clinton for a powerful conversation about pain, healing, and the stories we tell ourselves about our bodies. With more than 35 years of experience and extensive training in the McKenzie Method, Ron has helped thousands of patients overcome chronic back, neck, knee, and mobility issues through conservative, evidence-based approaches that often avoid medications, injections, and surgery. Together, we explore how pain is often misunderstood and how symptoms may originate far from where discomfort appears. Ron shares remarkable real-world stories from his practice, including patients misdiagnosed for years before discovering the true source of their pain. This conversation dives into the emotional side of healing, the importance of movement and self-efficacy, and how mindset, understanding, and patient empowerment can dramatically change recovery outcomes. We also discuss: Why storytelling matters in healthcare and rehabilitation The connection between movement, independence, and quality of life The role of hope and understanding in patient recovery Restless Leg Syndrome and emerging insights into possible spinal connections Why “movement is medicine” for both physical and cognitive health How patients can challenge limiting beliefs about aging and pain This episode is an inspiring reminder that healing is often a partnership and that sometimes the most powerful stories are the ones we rewrite about ourselves. To learn more about Ron Clinton, visit him at www.kneeandspinept.com . You can listen to this episode wherever you get your podcasts.

April 9, 202644 min

Season 5 Episode 4: Standing Out in a 5-Second World - Brand Clarity and the Entrepreneur’s Story

In a world where attention spans are measured in seconds, clarity isn’t just important—it’s everything. In this episode of The Starfish Storytellers , we sit down with brand strategist, author, and speaker Orly Zeewy to explore what it really takes to stand out in what she calls a “five-second world.” Orly shares her journey from fine artist to brand strategist, and how a pivotal realization—that businesses often focus on what matters to them instead of their audience—led her to help entrepreneurs turn fuzzy messaging into clear, compelling stories that connect and convert. Through powerful examples and real-world insights, this conversation dives into: Why clarity—not volume—is what cuts through the noise The biggest mistake businesses make when building their brand How to identify your ideal audience (and why you must) The role of storytelling in building trust and connection Why failure, feedback, and pivoting are essential to success The mindset shift behind her upcoming book Why Not Me? Whether you’re a startup founder, marketer, or business leader, this episode is a reminder that when you truly understand who you are, who you serve, and why it matters—you don’t just get noticed. You get remembered. To learn more about Orly, you can visit her at: https://zeewybrands.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/orlyzeewy/ https://www.youtube.com/@orlyzeewy orly@zeewybrands.com

March 12, 202630 min

Season 5, Episode 3: The Other End of the Line - Inside Sales Stories with Ceri Ruenheck

In telemarketing and lead development, storytelling happens live, unscripted, and often in the first 10–30 seconds of a phone call. While many people think of storytelling as something that happens in books, speeches, or marketing campaigns, a world of call centers proves otherwise. In this episode of The Starfish Storytellers , we sit down with Ceri Ruenheck , President of IT’S YOUR CALL , a B2B telemarketing services company with more than 30 years of experience helping companies turn conversations into opportunities. In this conversation, Ceri shares insights into: • How storytelling happens in real-time conversations • What determines whether someone stays on the line or hangs up • The role of trust in business communication • How call guides can support natural, human conversations • What it takes emotionally to handle rejection and hostility • Why call center work is often misunderstood Whether you work in sales, leadership, customer service, or simply want to improve how you communicate with others, this episode offers powerful insights about connection, trust, and the stories we carry for the brands and people we represent. Because sometimes storytelling isn’t about a stage or a spotlight. Sometimes it’s simply a calm voice on the other end of the line. In addition to watching us live on YouTube, l isten on: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Podcasts | Pandora | iHeart Radio

February 12, 202642 min

Season 5, Episode 2: Telling Stories That Convert - Video, Brand, and the Power of Visual Storytelling with Tim Bradley

What makes video storytelling actually work for business? In this episode of The Starfish Storytellers, we sit down with Tim Bradley, founder of Pennant Video, to explore how intentional, authentic video storytelling helps brands clarify their message, build trust, and drive real results. With nearly 20 years of experience in video production and agency leadership, Tim shares how storytelling goes far beyond flashy visuals, and why clarity, confidence, and connection are what truly convert. You’ll learn: Why great video storytelling isn’t about production value. It’s about purpose How Tim’s Video Marketing Trifecta™ (Anthems, Explainers & Endorsements) helps B2B brands stand out How to uncover compelling stories in even the most technical or “unexciting” industries The difference between content that exists and stories that actually connect The impact powerful storytelling can have on marketing, sales, and brand confidence Plus, Tim wraps up with a fun Quick Takes round on common storytelling clichés, brand buzzwords, and what every business should know before hitting record. If you care about storytelling that means something - and actually moves people - this episode is for you. Subscribe for more conversations on storytelling, branding, and impact!

January 8, 202648 min

Season 5, Episode 1: Finding Perspective - Resilience Stories from Around the World with Heidi Siefkas

Life has a way of delivering unexpected curveballs — moments that force us to stop, reassess, and decide how we’ll move forward. In this powerful episode of The Starfish Storytellers , we welcome Heidi Siefkas, Speaker, Storyteller, Four-Time Author, and Creator of the 'Look Up' Mantra. Heidi shares her extraordinary personal journey - from surviving a life-altering accident to rebuilding her world after profound loss - and how those experiences shaped her belief that perspective is a survival skill . What began as a personal promise to “look up” has since evolved into a global movement, bringing together resilience stories from people across cultures, continents, and lived experiences. Together, we explore: ·How resilience doesn’t erase hardship, but helps us keep moving forward ·Why perspective is something we return to again and again — not something we “find” once ·The common threads that unite global stories of survival, healing, and reinvention ·How community, mindfulness, and choice play a role in overcoming life’s hardest moments This conversation is an honest, deeply human reminder that even in our darkest seasons, one breath, one shift in perspective, and one story can change everything. To read the stories about ordinary people who have been able to do extraordinary things, pick up Heidi’s book on Amazon: https://a.co/d/2yGnrE2 .To learn more about Heidi and the ‘Look Up’ mantra, visit https://heidisiefkas.com/ .

December 8, 202552 min

Season 4, Episode 12: The Story of Santa - How to Bring Magic to Life Through Storytelling with Ed Taylor

This episode isn’t just about a man in a red suit. It’s about the art of bringing wonder, joy, and connection to life through storytelling. Santa isn’t merely a holiday figure—he’s a master storyteller, a keeper of tradition, and a living example of generosity in action. From the sparkle in a child’s eyes to the lessons we carry into adulthood, the story of Santa reminds us of kindness, courage, and the enduring power of belief. And who better to take us on this journey than Ed Taylor, one of the most requested Santa actors in the world. You’ve seen him on Jimmy Kimmel LIVE, The Today Show, and The Talk, and in commercials for Chrysler, Kohl’s, and Reddi Whip. For years, Ed has devoted himself to perfecting the magic of Santa—bringing him to life with authenticity and heart, and teaching others to do the same. In this conversation, we’ll explore: ✨ How storytelling fuels the Santa tradition ✨ Why authenticity and intention matter more than perfection ✨ The power of The Golden Christmas™—when a child transitions from believing in Santa to becoming part of Santa ✨ Insights from Ed’s book, Bexley & Thayer: The Mystery of Santa Claus, which goes beyond Christmas to explore happiness, confidence, and perseverance: https://bexleyandthayer.com/ At its heart, this episode is a celebration of the stories that connect us—and a reminder that belief, generosity, and joy are gifts we can carry all year long.