Words that Change Lives

Hosted by Helen Packham

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Jun 2026

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About the show

Would you like to improve your ability to connect with others in a world where mutual understanding appears to be declining? Join Helen Packham, Verbal communications strategist and speaker coach, to explore how we can speak more honestly, talk more authentically, and communicate more effectively to motivate, educate and inspire. This podcast is for leaders, coaches, consultants and small business owners who want to increase the impact of their communication from 1-2-1 conversations to thousands online and in person. No matter how big or small the audience, tune in to learn how the words you use can make a massive impact. Whether you want to stand on the TEDx stage, pitch an idea, influence a group of people, resolve conflict or inspire action in others, there’s something for you in this podcast. In weekly episodes, Helen will be sharing her wisdom, insight and approaches, as well as speaking to top experts in the field of verbal communication to help you express to impress. Helen has built her career on helping leaders, coaches, and consultants 10x the impact of their communication to engage, educate and inspire their audiences. She has 15 years of experience in leadership development and communication and 8 years in entrepreneurship. A TEDx curator and speaker, Helen passes on the powerful tool of storytelling to her clients so that they can confidently present and speak with impact. Living on the sunny south coast with her two kids, she loves beach time, downs walks and Djing house and drum and bass music. Helen truly believes that we can all harness the power of our words to change lives, for the better.

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60 recent

June 15, 202652 min

Stories in Our DNA – Ep 9: A Story For 10,000 Years

What if the greatest threat to our stories isn’t forgetting, but losing the ability to read them? In this fascinating conversation, Helen speaks with Andrew Warner, Special Projects Director at the Long Now Foundation, an organisation dedicated to fostering long-term thinking over the next 10,000 years. They explore the Rosetta Project, endangered languages, the Digital Dark Age, the 10,000-Year Clock, and why preserving language may be one of humanity’s most important acts of stewardship.Along the way you’ll hear about the Rosetta Disc currently resting on a comet, another archive on the Moon, endangered languages, the Antikythera Mechanism, Voyager’s Golden Record, and the remarkable human desire to leave something meaningful behind.This is a conversation about legacy, stewardship and the stories that connect past, present and future.You’ll discover:✓ Why future generations may struggle to read our digital records✓ How the Rosetta Stone inspired a modern attempt to preserve the world’s languages✓ Why linguists estimate that most of today’s languages may disappear within the next century✓ How language carries ecological, medicinal and cultural knowledge✓ Why stories are some of the longest-lasting technologies humanity has ever created✓ What the Long Now Foundation means by “long-term thinking”✓ How ordinary people can help preserve cultural memory in their own communitiesResources & LinksThe Long Now FoundationLong Now FoundationThe Rosetta ProjectRosetta ProjectThe 10,000-Year ClockClock of the Long NowLong Now Seminars & TalksLong Now Talks ArchiveInternet ArchiveInternet ArchivePanLexPanLex Language ProjectEnjoyed the episode?If this conversation sparked your curiosity about language, story, legacy or humanity’s future:⭐ Follow Words That Change Lives⭐ Share this episode with a friend⭐ Leave a rating and review on your favourite podcast platformEvery review helps more people discover the show and helps these important conversations travel further.Because the stories we preserve today may be the stories that help someone understand who we were tomorrow.

June 8, 202636 min

Stories in Our DNA – Ep 8: Story in the Age of Intelligence

What happens when storytelling, consciousness, and artificial intelligence begin to merge?In this thought-provoking episode, Helen Packham speaks with David Lindberg, creator of Nakaya — an AI-generated parallel universe designed to explore human consciousness, inner awakening, creativity, and our relationship with technology.Together, they explore the power of metaphor, mythology, visual storytelling, and AI as a new creative medium for human expression. Through the lens of Nakaya’s creatures, worlds, and symbolism, this conversation asks profound questions about identity, truth, belonging, flow, and what it means to “come home” to ourselves in the age of intelligence.From ancient storytelling traditions to immersive digital worlds, Helen and David discuss the tension between enchantment and escapism, the future of creativity, and why the stories we create through AI still reveal deeply human truths.This episode is both philosophical and deeply practical — exploring not only where storytelling may be heading, but how we stay connected to truth, humanity, and meaning as technology evolves around us.In this episode:• What Nakaya is and why it resonates so deeply with people• How AI can become a creative and philosophical storytelling tool• The role of metaphor and symbolism in human transformation• Why visual worlds can act as mirrors for human consciousness• The psychology of consumption, disconnection, and “the maw”• Storytelling, spirituality, flow states, and belonging• The balance between enchantment and escapism in digital worlds• Why creativity and inner work matter more than ever in the age of AI• The fears and resistance surrounding AI-generated art• How honesty and truth reconnect us to ourselvesIf this episode speaks to you, please follow, share, and leave a review.Download Your Stories In Our DNA Season 2 Companion Kit Here:https://helenpackham.com/podcast-season-2/Find David Lindberg & Nakaya:https://www.instagram.com/nakaya.world/https://nakaya.world/#StoriesInOurDNA #ArtificialIntelligence #StorytellingPodcast #NarrativePsychology #Consciousness #Creativity #AIArt

June 1, 202634 min

Stories in Our DNA – Ep 7: The Stories We Can Tell Instead

What if the stories that change us most don’t follow the hero’s journey at all?In this episode, Helen Packham explores three powerful storytelling structures that offer an alternative to conflict-driven narratives: Kishōtenketsu, Ring Composition, and the Braided Narrative. Together, they reveal how stories can create meaning through contrast, reflection, connection, and recognition, not just struggle and triumph.From the quiet symbolism of an umbrella carried “just in case” to the invisible emotional habits we use to feel safe, Helen explores how story structures shape identity, leadership, communication, and the way we understand ourselves.Drawing from cultural storytelling traditions, narrative psychology, coaching insights, and personal reflection, this episode invites you to rethink what makes a story meaningful and why quieter transformations still deserve to be heard.In this episode:• Why conflict isn’t the only path to meaningful storytelling• How Kishōtenketsu creates transformation through contrast and reframe• The hidden emotional power of Ring Composition• Why the meaning of a story is sometimes found in the middle• How braided narratives reflect the complexity of modern life• The connection between storytelling, nervous systems, and belonging• Why many people over-explain, over-prepare, or make themselves smaller to stay safe• How alternative story structures can create deeper trust and connection• Practical storytelling experiments you can immediately apply to leadership, speaking, business, and personal growthIf this episode speaks to you, please follow, share, and leave a review.Download Your Stories In Our DNA Season 2 Companion Kit Here:https://helenpackham.com/podcast-season-2/#StoriesInOurDNA #StorytellingPodcast #NarrativePsychology #LeadershipCommunication #Storytelling #PersonalGrowth #ThoughtLeadership

May 25, 202623 min

Stories in Our DNA – Ep 6: The Story We Inherited

What if your story doesn’t need trauma, struggle, or a dramatic breakthrough to matter?In this deeply reflective episode, Helen Packham explores how the hero’s journey became the dominant narrative shaping modern culture, business, leadership, and identity. From Hollywood films to personal branding, we’ve inherited the belief that transformation only counts if it’s dramatic, cinematic, and hard-won.Helen unpacks the hidden cost of the “lone hero” narrative and introduces a more connected way of understanding growth: the relational arc. Through personal stories, coaching insights, and cultural reflection, this episode invites you to stop forcing your life into a battle story and begin embracing narratives rooted in honesty, support, belonging, and connection.In this episode:Why so many people feel their story “isn’t enough”How the hero’s journey became the default story structure in modern cultureThe hidden pressure to earn meaning through struggle and traumaWhy nervous systems heal through connection, not isolationThe three distortions of the hero narrativeWhat mirrors, bridges, and containers reveal about personal growthHow to reframe your story without battle languageWhy quieter turning points are still powerful and worthyIf this episode speaks to you, please follow, share, and leave a review.Download Your Stories In Our DNA Season 2 Companion Kit Here: Podcast season 2 - Helen Packham#StoriesInOurDNA #StorytellingPodcast #HeroJourney #LeadershipThroughStory #PersonalGrowth #NarrativePsychology #Connection #SelfDevelopment

May 18, 202630 min

Stories in Our DNA – Ep 5: The Story I Tell Myself

In this episode of Stories in Our DNA, Helen explores one of the most powerful narratives we ever create — the story we tell ourselves about who we are.While storytelling connects us to culture, history and community, it also shapes our identity, beliefs and behaviour. The internal narratives we carry can influence our confidence, our decisions and the way we interpret the world around us.In this episode, Helen examines how personal stories are formed, why they become so powerful, and how becoming aware of the stories we tell ourselves can help us reshape our lives.This conversation brings the series inward — from the collective stories of humanity to the personal narratives that define our individual lives.In This Episode• Why humans create personal narratives about their lives• How identity is shaped by the stories we tell ourselves• The influence of belief systems on behaviour and decision-making• Why some internal stories empower us while others limit us• How awareness of our internal narrative can create transformationKey InsightThe stories we tell ourselves shape how we see the world and how we see ourselves. By becoming aware of these narratives, we gain the ability to challenge limiting beliefs and consciously choose a new story.About the SeriesStories in Our DNA explores the biological, psychological and cultural roots of storytelling.From the fireside origins of human narrative to the myths embedded in landscapes and the stories shaping our identities today, the series uncovers why storytelling remains one of the most powerful forces in human life.About the HostHelen is a storytelling coach and communication specialist who helps leaders harness the power of story to influence, connect and inspire.Through her podcast Words That Change Lives, she explores how language and narrative shape our relationships, leadership and sense of self.

May 11, 202635 min

Stories in Our DNA – Ep 4: Stories Of Folklore Myth & Landscape

Helen and Jon The Storyteller explore the fundamental role of storytelling in human evolution, its connection to social bonding, and how stories help us navigate uncertainty. They discuss the significance of local legends and folklore, the purpose of stories in conveying moral lessons and entertainment, and the living nature of stories that adapt over time. The conversation emphasises the importance of storytelling in modern contexts and its potential to enrich our understanding of the world.About Jon Norman MasonJon is a Brighton-based storyteller, folklorist and historian with a love for tales linking present, past and place. He is near completion of a PhD exploring storytelling as sensemaking and selfhood, and the role modern myths can play to inspire environmentalism in built environments.Instagram: jonthestorytellerBluesky: @jonthestoryteller.bsky.socialFacebook: Jon Mason stories and musicPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/u6629371 / Jon the StorytellerTwitter: @jonmasehttps://jonthestoryteller.com/Please like, follow, subscribe and share, it means the world and helps more people use their words to change lives, for the better.

May 4, 202657 min

Stories in Our DNA – Ep 3: Wired for Story

Why do stories captivate us while facts often fall flat?In this episode, Helen sits down with Lisa Cron, bestselling author of Wired for Story, to explore the science behind storytelling and why humans are biologically wired to think in narrative.Lisa explains how stories function as a simulation system for the brain, helping us navigate uncertainty, rehearse decisions and understand the world around us.The conversation explores how storytelling influences behaviour, why emotions drive decision-making, and why leaders, speakers and businesses who understand story can create far deeper connection and impact.Together they unpack the neuroscience of storytelling, the emotional mechanisms that make stories powerful, and the storytelling principles that help messages truly land.What You’ll LearnWhy humans are wired for story from infancyHow storytelling functions as a mental simulation for lifeThe brain chemistry behind compelling storiesWhy facts alone rarely persuade peopleThe role of misbelief in powerful storytellingWhy vulnerability creates deeper connectionHow leaders can use storytelling to build trust and influenceLisa Cron is a story coach and author specialising in the neuroscience of storytelling.Her books include:Wired for StoryStory GeniusStory or DieShe works with writers, leaders and organisations to help them harness the power of story to create deeper impact.Website:wiredforstory.comSubscribe to Words That Change LivesIf you enjoyed this episode, make sure you follow the podcast and share it with someone who cares about powerful communication and storytelling.

April 27, 202641 min

Stories in Our DNA – Ep 2: Stories From the Ancient Past

Helen and Marek Kohn explore the deep connections between the earliest forms of human creativity, ancient cave art and the foundational elements of narrative. They dive into how this prehistoric art offers a window into our ancestors' minds, the crucial role of stone tool use in human adaptation, and the importance of cooperation and trust in the structure of early societies. They also consider the parallel emergence of language and imagination, and how these factors have been essential in shaping both human evolution and the future direction of storytelling.If you enjoyed this episode please like, subscribe, follow and review, it really helps me reach more people and help them harness the power of words and stories to change lives for the better!About Marek KohnMarek Kohn lives in Brighton and is a writer. The subjects of his books range from evolutionary theory to climate change, language, trust and moral panics around drug use; diversity, identity and how to live together better are themes running through them all. His most recent book, The Stories Old Towns Tell, has been shortlisted in the US for the 2026 Laura Shannon Prize in Contemporary European Studies, awarded to books that stimulate new ways of thinking about contemporary Europe. Marek co-runs Kupala Brighton, a project exploring what culture and tradition mean to Ukrainians in the UK today.https://marekkohn.info/https://kupalabrighton.org/Download Your Series 2 Story Companion Kit here: Podcast season 2 - Helen Packham

April 20, 202624 min

Stories in Our DNA – Ep 1: The Firelight Beginning

Why are we addicted to stories? Why do they move us, connect us, and sometimes even save us?In this powerful season opener, Helen takes you back to where storytelling began - the firelight. From ancient myths to neuroscience, from Darwin and Harari to boardrooms and dreams, this episode reveals why storytelling is hardwired into our biology, leadership, and healing.Helen also shares her own story, of losing her voice and finding it again through the power of narrative.In this episode:The evolutionary reason behind fear of public speakingWhy Homo sapiens survived — and storytelling’s role in itWhat your dreams teach you about narrativeHow story builds trust, empathy, and connectionReal-world coaching stories that show the power of story in actionIf this episode speaks to you, please follow, share, and leave a review.Download Your Stories In Our DNA Season 2 Companion Kite Here: Podcast season 2 - Helen Packham#StoriesInOurDNA #StorytellingPodcast #LeadershipThroughStory

April 1, 20261 min

Season 2 is coming.

Season 2 is coming.Stories in Our DNA is a journey into the deep past, the stories we live inside now, and the ones we are still writing for the future. Listen to the trailer, and if you want to go deeper, join the listener circle for episode drops, reflection prompts, and my free guide: The Story You Tell Yourself.https://helenpackham.com/podcast-season-2/Are you ready? Then let’s begin.