The Story in Your Head

Hosted by MacklinConnection

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Episodes

142

Latest episode

Jun 2026

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About the show

Welcome to "The Story in Your Head" podcast with Co-Hosts Ron Macklin and Deb Dendy. Embark on a transformative journey with 'The Story in Your Head' podcast, where we delve into the power of narratives in shaping our lives and the cultures within organizations. Our expert hosts, alongside a diverse array of guests, explore the realms of self-talk and collective storytelling, uncovering insights that foster authentic connections, personal growth, and thriving workplace environments. Each episode is a masterclass in understanding and reshaping the narratives that influence our personal interactions and professional dynamics. Discover strategies to enhance self-awareness, build stronger relationships, inspire leadership, and cultivate inclusive, innovative company cultures. Whether you're seeking to enrich your personal life, elevate your professional relationships, or transform your company's culture, 'The Story in Your Head' is your guide to harnessing the power of story for a more fulfilling and productive future. Tune in and take the first step towards rewriting the stories that define us, individually and collectively. Because when we change the stories we tell ourselves and each other, we can change the world. Website: Visit www.macklinconnection.com

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60 recent

June 3, 202626 min

Why Most Companies Are Struggling with AI Adoption

In this episode of “The Story in Your Head,” Ron and Deb explore one of the biggest conversations happening in business today: why are so many organizations investing heavily in AI – and still struggling to see results? The conversation moves beyond technology into the heart of leadership development, company culture, and the communication problems organizations face when transformation collides with uncertainty.Embark on a transformative journey with 'The Story in Your Head' podcast, where we delve into the power of narratives in shaping our lives and the cultures within organizations. Our expert hosts, alongside a diverse array of guests, explore the realms of self-talk and collective storytelling, uncovering insights that foster authentic connections, personal growth, and thriving workplace environments. Each episode is a masterclass in understanding and reshaping the narratives that influence our personal interactions and professional dynamics. Discover strategies to enhance self-awareness, build stronger relationships, inspire leadership, and cultivate inclusive, innovative company cultures. Whether you're seeking to enrich your personal life, elevate your professional relationships, or transform your company's culture, 'The Story in Your Head' is your guide to harnessing the power of story for a more fulfilling and productive future. Tune in and take the first step towards rewriting the stories that define us, individually and collectively. Because when we change the stories we tell ourselves and each other, we can change the world. To learn more about the Imaginal Community: https://imaginalcommunity.mn.co/ To learn more about creating a better corporate culture in the workplace, head over to www.macklinconnection.com

May 20, 202624 min

The Workforce Crisis That Will Reshape Company Culture Forever

In this episode of “The Story in Your Head,” Ron and Deb explore one of the least discussed forces shaping the future of business: the collision between demographic decline and artificial intelligence. As developed nations face shrinking populations and aging workforces, organizations are being forced to rethink everything from labor strategy to company culture, workforce sustainability, and long-term economic growth. At the same time, rapid advances in AI in the workplace are transforming how businesses operate, communicate, and lead.Embark on a transformative journey with 'The Story in Your Head' podcast, where we delve into the power of narratives in shaping our lives and the cultures within organizations. Our expert hosts, alongside a diverse array of guests, explore the realms of self-talk and collective storytelling, uncovering insights that foster authentic connections, personal growth, and thriving workplace environments. Each episode is a masterclass in understanding and reshaping the narratives that influence our personal interactions and professional dynamics. Discover strategies to enhance self-awareness, build stronger relationships, inspire leadership, and cultivate inclusive, innovative company cultures. Whether you're seeking to enrich your personal life, elevate your professional relationships, or transform your company's culture, 'The Story in Your Head' is your guide to harnessing the power of story for a more fulfilling and productive future. Tune in and take the first step towards rewriting the stories that define us, individually and collectively. Because when we change the stories we tell ourselves and each other, we can change the world. To learn more about the Imaginal Community: https://imaginalcommunity.mn.co/ To learn more about creating a better corporate culture in the workplace, head over to www.macklinconnection.com

May 7, 202638 min

How One Roofing Company Is Using AI to Outperform the Competition

In this episode of “The Story in Your Head,” Ron and Deb are joined by Julian Caldwell, Chief Information Officer at JR & Co., explore how artificial intelligence is transforming even the most traditional industries. Together they discuss how leaders in his company are shaping company culture, accelerating leadership development, and addressing communication problems that often hold organizations back – all by using AI.Embark on a transformative journey with 'The Story in Your Head' podcast, where we delve into the power of narratives in shaping our lives and the cultures within organizations. Our expert hosts, alongside a diverse array of guests, explore the realms of self-talk and collective storytelling, uncovering insights that foster authentic connections, personal growth, and thriving workplace environments. Each episode is a masterclass in understanding and reshaping the narratives that influence our personal interactions and professional dynamics. Discover strategies to enhance self-awareness, build stronger relationships, inspire leadership, and cultivate inclusive, innovative company cultures. Whether you're seeking to enrich your personal life, elevate your professional relationships, or transform your company's culture, 'The Story in Your Head' is your guide to harnessing the power of story for a more fulfilling and productive future. Tune in and take the first step towards rewriting the stories that define us, individually and collectively. Because when we change the stories we tell ourselves and each other, we can change the world. To learn more about the Imaginal Community: https://imaginalcommunity.mn.co/ To learn more about creating a better corporate culture in the workplace, head over to www.macklinconnection.com

April 22, 202626 min

When AI and Your Team Disagree: The Decision That Defines Company Culture

In this episode of “The Story in Your Head,” Ron and Deb break down what happens when AI and your human network don’t agree, how communication problems begin to surface inside organizations, and what leadership development really looks like in a world where data and human judgment collide.Embark on a transformative journey with 'The Story in Your Head' podcast, where we delve into the power of narratives in shaping our lives and the cultures within organizations. Our expert hosts, alongside a diverse array of guests, explore the realms of self-talk and collective storytelling, uncovering insights that foster authentic connections, personal growth, and thriving workplace environments. Each episode is a masterclass in understanding and reshaping the narratives that influence our personal interactions and professional dynamics. Discover strategies to enhance self-awareness, build stronger relationships, inspire leadership, and cultivate inclusive, innovative company cultures. Whether you're seeking to enrich your personal life, elevate your professional relationships, or transform your company's culture, 'The Story in Your Head' is your guide to harnessing the power of story for a more fulfilling and productive future. Tune in and take the first step towards rewriting the stories that define us, individually and collectively. Because when we change the stories we tell ourselves and each other, we can change the world. To learn more about the Imaginal Community: https://imaginalcommunity.mn.co/ To learn more about creating a better corporate culture in the workplace, head over to www.macklinconnection.com

April 8, 202631 min

The Hidden Leadership Problem AI Is About to Make Impossible to Ignore – with Jason Beutler from RoboSource

In this episode of “The Story in Your Head,” Ron and Deb are joined by Jason Beutler, founder and CEO of RoboSource, on why artificial intelligence often sparks both curiosity and apprehension. Together, they explore how to view AI as less of a threat and more as tool to unlock human potential. Jason shared powerful insights not only on AI adoption, but on how leaders must rethink company culture, leadership development, and the way organizations handle communication problems in an AI-driven world.Embark on a transformative journey with 'The Story in Your Head' podcast, where we delve into the power of narratives in shaping our lives and the cultures within organizations. Our expert hosts, alongside a diverse array of guests, explore the realms of self-talk and collective storytelling, uncovering insights that foster authentic connections, personal growth, and thriving workplace environments. Each episode is a masterclass in understanding and reshaping the narratives that influence our personal interactions and professional dynamics. Discover strategies to enhance self-awareness, build stronger relationships, inspire leadership, and cultivate inclusive, innovative company cultures. Whether you're seeking to enrich your personal life, elevate your professional relationships, or transform your company's culture, 'The Story in Your Head' is your guide to harnessing the power of story for a more fulfilling and productive future. Tune in and take the first step towards rewriting the stories that define us, individually and collectively. Because when we change the stories we tell ourselves and each other, we can change the world. To learn more about the Imaginal Community: https://imaginalcommunity.mn.co/ To learn more about creating a better corporate culture in the workplace, head over to www.macklinconnection.com

March 25, 202629 min

Are You Ready for How AI is Testing Your Leadership Skills?

In this episode of “The Story in Your Head,” Ron and Deb explore how technological change reshapes not just productivity, but company culture, trust, and the way leaders communicate. In today’s rapidly advancing technological world, adapting to new tools like generative AI is no longer optional – it’s a defining moment for modern leadership development. As AI becomes embedded in the workplace, the real question isn’t just who adopts it first, but how leaders guide their organizations through the transition without creating fear or communication problems.Embark on a transformative journey with 'The Story in Your Head' podcast, where we delve into the power of narratives in shaping our lives and the cultures within organizations. Our expert hosts, alongside a diverse array of guests, explore the realms of self-talk and collective storytelling, uncovering insights that foster authentic connections, personal growth, and thriving workplace environments. Each episode is a masterclass in understanding and reshaping the narratives that influence our personal interactions and professional dynamics. Discover strategies to enhance self-awareness, build stronger relationships, inspire leadership, and cultivate inclusive, innovative company cultures. Whether you're seeking to enrich your personal life, elevate your professional relationships, or transform your company's culture, 'The Story in Your Head' is your guide to harnessing the power of story for a more fulfilling and productive future. Tune in and take the first step towards rewriting the stories that define us, individually and collectively. Because when we change the stories we tell ourselves and each other, we can change the world. To learn more about the Imaginal Community: https://imaginalcommunity.mn.co/ To learn more about creating a better corporate culture in the workplace, head over to www.macklinconnection.com

March 11, 202629 min

The $200M Decision: How One Leadership Stand Changed Company Culture – Lessons from Anthropic AI and OpenAI

In this episode of “The Story in Your Head,” Ron and Deb explore the ever-evolving landscape of AI in the workplace, and how recent events have highlighted the impact of taking a stand. They weave together the connection between leadership strategy, organizational culture, and the ripple effects that a leader's decisions have on employees, customers, trust, company culture, and the broader AI industry.Embark on a transformative journey with 'The Story in Your Head' podcast, where we delve into the power of narratives in shaping our lives and the cultures within organizations. Our expert hosts, alongside a diverse array of guests, explore the realms of self-talk and collective storytelling, uncovering insights that foster authentic connections, personal growth, and thriving workplace environments. Each episode is a masterclass in understanding and reshaping the narratives that influence our personal interactions and professional dynamics. Discover strategies to enhance self-awareness, build stronger relationships, inspire leadership, and cultivate inclusive, innovative company cultures. Whether you're seeking to enrich your personal life, elevate your professional relationships, or transform your company's culture, 'The Story in Your Head' is your guide to harnessing the power of story for a more fulfilling and productive future. Tune in and take the first step towards rewriting the stories that define us, individually and collectively. Because when we change the stories we tell ourselves and each other, we can change the world. To learn more about the Imaginal Community: https://imaginalcommunity.mn.co/ To learn more about creating a better corporate culture in the workplace, head over to www.macklinconnection.com

February 25, 202636 min

Why Smart Leaders Are Rewriting the Rules of AI in the Workplace

In this episode of “The Story in Your Head,” Ron and Deb welcomed Andre Walker, Senior Vice President of Power Operations at Pattern Energy, to discuss AI in the workplace, leadership, and the evolving demands on modern organizations. Together, they explored not only the technological implications of AI, but also how its integration influences company culture, trust, and strategic decision-making.Embark on a transformative journey with 'The Story in Your Head' podcast, where we delve into the power of narratives in shaping our lives and the cultures within organizations. Our expert hosts, alongside a diverse array of guests, explore the realms of self-talk and collective storytelling, uncovering insights that foster authentic connections, personal growth, and thriving workplace environments. Each episode is a masterclass in understanding and reshaping the narratives that influence our personal interactions and professional dynamics. Discover strategies to enhance self-awareness, build stronger relationships, inspire leadership, and cultivate inclusive, innovative company cultures. Whether you're seeking to enrich your personal life, elevate your professional relationships, or transform your company's culture, 'The Story in Your Head' is your guide to harnessing the power of story for a more fulfilling and productive future. Tune in and take the first step towards rewriting the stories that define us, individually and collectively. Because when we change the stories we tell ourselves and each other, we can change the world. To learn more about the Imaginal Community: https://imaginalcommunity.mn.co/ To learn more about creating a better corporate culture in the workplace, head over to www.macklinconnection.com

February 11, 202628 min

Why Leaders Who Fear AI Are Falling Behind

In this episode of “The Story in Your Head,” Ron and Deb explore a timely question: what happens when AI in the workplace collides with human curiosity? As organizations integrate artificial intelligence into everyday operations, leaders are being challenged to rethink company culture, communication, and how curiosity drives innovation. Together they examine curiosity not only as a human trait but as a leadership skill increasingly essential for modern leadership development.Embark on a transformative journey with 'The Story in Your Head' podcast, where we delve into the power of narratives in shaping our lives and the cultures within organizations. Our expert hosts, alongside a diverse array of guests, explore the realms of self-talk and collective storytelling, uncovering insights that foster authentic connections, personal growth, and thriving workplace environments. Each episode is a masterclass in understanding and reshaping the narratives that influence our personal interactions and professional dynamics. Discover strategies to enhance self-awareness, build stronger relationships, inspire leadership, and cultivate inclusive, innovative company cultures. Whether you're seeking to enrich your personal life, elevate your professional relationships, or transform your company's culture, 'The Story in Your Head' is your guide to harnessing the power of story for a more fulfilling and productive future. Tune in and take the first step towards rewriting the stories that define us, individually and collectively. Because when we change the stories we tell ourselves and each other, we can change the world. To learn more about the Imaginal Community: https://imaginalcommunity.mn.co/ To learn more about creating a better corporate culture in the workplace, head over to www.macklinconnection.com

January 28, 202629 min

The Leadership Mistake That’s Breaking High Performing Teams (And How to Fix It)

In this episode of “The Story in Your Head,” Ron and Deb explore how leadership mindset, company culture, and shared stories determine whether teams merely function – or truly thrive. Together they discuss how teams, organizations, and AI can achieve greater outcomes when stories, purposes, and roles are aligned. The conversation transitions from leadership and followership dynamics to the implications of AI on human interactions, pondering how AI will continue to shape our world.Embark on a transformative journey with 'The Story in Your Head' podcast, where we delve into the power of narratives in shaping our lives and the cultures within organizations. Our expert hosts, alongside a diverse array of guests, explore the realms of self-talk and collective storytelling, uncovering insights that foster authentic connections, personal growth, and thriving workplace environments. Each episode is a masterclass in understanding and reshaping the narratives that influence our personal interactions and professional dynamics. Discover strategies to enhance self-awareness, build stronger relationships, inspire leadership, and cultivate inclusive, innovative company cultures. Whether you're seeking to enrich your personal life, elevate your professional relationships, or transform your company's culture, 'The Story in Your Head' is your guide to harnessing the power of story for a more fulfilling and productive future. Tune in and take the first step towards rewriting the stories that define us, individually and collectively. Because when we change the stories we tell ourselves and each other, we can change the world. To learn more about the Imaginal Community: https://imaginalcommunity.mn.co/ To learn more about creating a better corporate culture in the workplace, head over to www.macklinconnection.com