Episodes

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    Unleashing the Power of Authentic Storytelling: The Messy, Glorious Journey

    We're diving into the glittery, gutsy world of authentic storytelling! We're talking no holds barred honesty, raw vulnerability, and that totally relatable messy middle.

    I'll spill the beans on a crazy on-stage mishap that taught me how going off-script and keeping it real can create heart-thumping connections with your audience.

    Science backs this up, folks! Brene Brown and the Social Penetration Theory say the deeper you go, the tighter the bond.

    Ready for some actionable tips? I'll give you a framework to identify your fears, navigate your chaos, and share those golden life lessons.

    So, let's get real, get vulnerable, and craft stories that don't just inspire—they change the world. Get ready to connect like never before!

    00:00 Introduction to Storiespire Podcast
    00:20 The Power of Authenticity in Storytelling
    01:32 A Personal Story of Vulnerability
    04:43 The Science Behind Vulnerability
    07:33 Framework for Crafting Authentic Stories
    12:39 Final Thoughts and Encouragement


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    Thanks for joining us on the StorySpire podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review to help us reach even more speakers like you.

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    Nail Your Story Finale: Stick the Landing!

    In this episode, we're diving into the art of 'sticking the landing.' Yup, just like those gymnasts at the Olympics.

    I'll share a tale about a pastor who missed the crucial call-to-action during a fundraising speech. Big oops!

    We’ve got to make sure our audience knows what to do next—be it whipping out their wallets, joining a cause, or taking a personal leap. I

    Stories need to end with a bang, not a whimper.

    Go practice those story endings and tag me on social—Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, you name it! Let's make some magic.

    00:00 Introduction to Storiespire Podcast
    00:25 Newsletter Reminder
    00:58 Sticking the Landing in Storytelling
    02:40 The Importance of Clear Calls to Action
    04:27 Your Role as a Storyteller
    05:42 Engage with Me on Social Media


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    Thanks for joining us on the StorySpire podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review to help us reach even more speakers like you.

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    Mastering the Art of Passionate Storytelling

    This episode is packed with expert advice, tips, and actionable frameworks for speakers and leaders to craft engaging and passionate narratives.

    Mary illustrates her points with examples, including the Gettysburg Address, and shares her own experience of improvising a powerful story in just 24 hours. Plus, there's a reminder to subscribe to the weekly StorySpire newsletter for more inspiring content.

    Tune in and learn how to ignite your stories with genuine passion!

    00:00 Introduction to Storiespire Podcast
    00:20 Join the Storiespire Newsletter
    00:57 The Importance of Telling Your Story
    01:28 From Recitation to Storytelling
    04:25 Preparing Your Story
    06:18 A Personal Story of Last-Minute Preparation
    08:30 Sharing Your Story Passionately
    09:12 Conclusion and Call to Action


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    Thanks for joining us on the StorySpire podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review to help us reach even more speakers like you.

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    Today, we're diving into the juicy, soul-stirring power of your story.

    Whether you're a speaker, nonprofit leader, or just someone with a story to share,

    I’ve got the tips and pep talk you need!

    Wondering if your story matters? Spoiler alert: It totally does!

    I’ll share heartwarming examples and show you how to find significance in the everyday magic.

    Plus, I've got a fun homework challenge to kickstart your storytelling adventure. Grab your notebooks, because it’s time to realize that your story can change the world! Let's do this!

    00:00 Introduction to Storiespire Podcast
    00:20 Join the Storiespire Newsletter
    00:57 The Importance of Sharing Your Story
    01:31 Examples of Powerful Stories
    02:25 Crafting Your Unique Story
    04:09 Inspiring Stories of Community Impact
    07:08 The Power of Your Story
    09:31 Living Your Story to the Fullest
    11:20 Your Story Matters: Final Thoughts


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    Thanks for joining us on the StorySpire podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review to help us reach even more speakers like you.

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    Connecting Hearts Through Storytelling

    Hey, welcome to the StorySpire podcast with your host and storytelling guru, Mary R. Snyder!
    Dive into the magic of emotional connection in storytelling and why it's a game-changer.
    Mary spills the beans on how emotions drive our decisions, make stories stick, and inspire us to take action. Hear about the nerdy science stuff like mirror neurons and the amygdala that makes our brain tick during storytelling. Want to create stories that touch hearts?
    Mary's got you covered with tips on using personal stories to build trust and community.
    Join in, learn the art of storytelling, and find out how you can change the world, one story at a time!

    00:00 Introduction to Storiespire Podcast
    00:23 The Importance of Emotional Connection
    01:27 The Science Behind Emotion
    06:24 Creating Emotional Stories
    07:30 Practical Examples and Applications
    10:08 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
    10:30 Speaker and Workshop Leader Information


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    Thanks for joining us on the StorySpire podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review to help us reach even more speakers like you.

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    Unlock the Stage: Your Guide to Getting Booked

    Jump into the StorrySpire podcast with Mary R. Snyder, your go-to storytelling strategist, as she dishes out savvy advice for aspiring speakers.

    She breaks down the journey of getting booked to share your story—it's not about shortcuts, but smart strategies!

    Mary chats on making yourself known, from grass-roots networking to crafting an irresistible speaker one sheet.
    Whether you're sending out a good ol' fashioned letter or connecting through social media, learn how to match your online persona with your in-person vibe.

    And here's a golden nugget: Volunteer to get your foot in the door and start building those all-important relationships. So, why wait on the sidelines?

    Let the world know who you are, and step up to that mic!

    00:00 Introduction to Storiespire Podcast
    00:20 The Journey of a Speaker Coach
    00:55 How to Get Booked to Share Your Story
    01:50 Making Yourself Known as a Speaker
    08:17 Old School Tactics for Getting Booked
    13:18 The Power of Volunteering and Networking
    15:49 Building Community and Relationships
    17:19 Conclusion and Encouragement


    Connect with Mary

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    Thanks for joining us on the StorySpire podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review to help us reach even more speakers like you.

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    Pause Like a Pro: The Secret Weapon of Masterful Storytelling

    Buckle up as we dive into the underrated yet game-changing 'Power of the Pause.' Discover how these expertly timed silences can skyrocket your storytelling skills, keeping your audience hanging on every word.

    Mary shares personal anecdotes, no-nonsense scientific insights, and killer tips to perfect your pause game. Get ready to plan, practice, and rock those pauses like a storytelling superstar. Let’s transform those tales and turn your listeners into lifelong fans!

    00:00 Introduction to StorySpire Podcast
    00:20 Join the Story Spire Newsletter
    00:57 The Power of the Pause
    01:30 Personal Story: Speaking Too Fast
    03:28 Defining the Pause
    03:57 The Science Behind Silence
    06:21 Benefits of Pausing
    09:51 Planning and Practicing Pauses
    12:58 Effective Use of Pauses
    13:42 Conclusion and Invitation


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    Thanks for joining us on the StorySpire podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review to help us reach even more speakers like you.

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    Storytelling with Integrity: Inspire, Don't Manipulate

    Join Mary as she delves into the true power of storytelling and the fine line between inspiration and manipulation.

    Drawing from personal experiences and years in the nonprofit sector, Mary passionately advocates for authentic, inspiring narratives that motivate genuine action.

    With actionable tips and expert advice, this episode is a must-listen for authors, speakers, fundraisers, and anyone looking to harness the transformative power of stories without resorting to guilt or deceit

    00:00 Introduction to StorySpire ™

    00:20 Join the Story Spire Newsletter

    00:57 The Power of Storytelling

    02:07 Inspiration vs. Manipulation

    04:35 Creating Impactful Stories

    05:58 Avoiding Poverty Pornography

    08:00 Final Thoughts and Encouragement


    Connect with Mary

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    Thanks for joining us on the StorySpire podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review to help us reach even more speakers like you.

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    Mastering the Art of Storytelling: The Power of the Opening

    In this episode, Mary emphasizes the critical importance of a captivating story opening.

    She introduces the 'stand and start' technique, urging storytellers to dive directly into the story to immediately hook the audience. Avoid generic thank yous and small talk that can lead to disengagement. Instead, start with compelling, descriptive scenes or thought-provoking questions.

    Mary also touches on the ethics of storytelling, aiming to inspire rather than manipulate, and teases future episodes covering voice techniques, pausing, and more to enhance your storytelling prowess.

    00:00 Introduction to Storiespire Podcast
    00:20 Newsletter Announcement
    00:56 Starting Your Story Effectively
    02:48 Engaging Your Audience
    05:34 Using Questions to Captivate
    07:08 Conclusion and Upcoming Topics


    Connect with Mary

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    Thanks for joining us on the StorySpire podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review to help us reach even more speakers like you.

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    Join Mary as she delves into the fascinating world of storytelling. Drawing from personal anecdotes and nostalgic memories, Mary emphasizes the power of conversation in storytelling.

    Learn practical tips for making your stories resonate with your audience, whether on stage, in a newsletter, or video.

    Rediscover the intimate art of connecting through words, and transform your storytelling approach to inspire and engage hearts and minds effectively.

    00:00 Introduction to Storiespire Podcast
    00:20 Join the Story Spire Newsletter
    00:58 The Lost Art of Conversation
    04:41 Storytelling Tips: Engaging Your Audience
    06:50 Reflecting on Family Stories
    08:31 Setting the Stage for Your Story
    09:45 Final Thoughts and Inspiration


    Connect with Mary

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    Thanks for joining us on the StorySpire podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review to help us reach even more speakers like you.

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    In this episode, Mary shares expert advice and actionable tips to create powerful stories that inspire hearts and minds.

    She discusses the StorySpire™ process, emphasizing the importance of understanding your audience and their needs. Mary breaks down the three crucial components of impactful storytelling: what you want your audience to feel, know, and do.

    From handling various audience types to creating compelling calls to action, Mary provides practical frameworks and examples.

    Subscribe, join her email list, and let your stories change the world.

    00:00 Introduction to StorySpire™ Podcast

    00:20 Join the Story Spire Newsletter

    00:57 Understanding Your Audience

    01:48 Crafting the Right Story

    03:29 The Importance of Emotions in Storytelling

    05:35 Incorporating Facts and Figures

    07:35 The Call to Action

    12:25 Conclusion and Final Thoughts


    Connect with Mary

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    Thanks for joining us on the StorySpire podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review to help us reach even more speakers like you.

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    In this episode of the StorySpire podcast, host Mary explores the profound impact of storytelling.

    She delves into the importance of stories in our lives, highlighting childhood fables like 'The Tortoise and the Hare', cautionary urban legends, and historical poems such as Longfellow's 'The Midnight Ride of Paul Revere'.

    Mary emphasizes how stories teach, inspire, and drive change, sharing powerful examples including the Chicago Tribune's 1993 campaign featuring children's deaths.

    Tune in to learn how to craft unforgettable stories that resonate and inspire meaningful action.

    00:00 Introduction to Storiespire Podcast

    00:20 Join the Story Spire Newsletter

    00:56 The Power of Stories

    01:29 Historical and Cautionary Tales

    03:52 Connecting Stories to Hearts

    04:45 The Impact of Stories

    07:51 Cautionary Tales and Their Lessons

    09:13 Inspiring Stories of Triumph

    09:45 Crafting Memorable Stories

    10:22 Conclusion and Encouragement


    Connect with Mary

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    Thanks for joining us on the StorySpire podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review to help us reach even more speakers like you.

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    Kick off the new StorySpire podcast with your host, Mary R. Snyder!

    Mary spills the tea on her mission to merge her expertise in coaching speakers and working with nonprofits into one dynamite show. Get ready for a whirlwind of storytelling magic, where Mary dishes out pro tips and mind-blowing insights to help you captivate hearts and minds.

    Say goodbye to boring details and hello to stories that move mountains. Tune in, because your story has the power to change the world—and Mary’s here to show you how!

    00:00 Introduction to Storiespire
    00:20 The Evolution of StorySpire
    00:34 The Power of Storytelling
    01:49 Common Pitfalls in Storytelling
    02:56 What to Expect from StorySpire
    03:37 Conclusion and Next Steps


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    Thanks for joining us on the StorySpire podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review to help us reach even more speakers like you.

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    This is a very different episode, and I'll be honest...I've been putting off recording this because it is a tough one. I can't believe we've gone through 179 episodes together. From the beginning, the goal has been to encourage and equip you on your speaking journey, and it's been a privilege to witness the growth and impact of this community. It's been an absolute joy to serve you.

    Don't worry - I'm not going anywhere!

    In this episode, you will:

    Understand the reason why the podcast is going on pause for a seasonLearn what I'm doing during this season of pause.

    Full Show Notes Here!

    Links & Mentioned Resources:

    ACTIVATE LIVE

    Take the Stage Speakers Facebook Group

    Join Mary’s email list!


    Connect with Mary

    Join Mary's Facebook group!
    Join Mary's email list!
    Follow Mary on Instagram
    Connect with Mary on LinkedIn


    Thanks for joining us on the StorySpire podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review to help us reach even more speakers like you.

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    I know you might think we've talked about this topic quite a few times on the podcast, but stick with me.

    Are you ready to explore what it means to be called to do the work you love? Or, maybe you're not sure how to navigate the twists and turns in your journey. Today, I'm sharing insights on understanding and embracing your unique calling. It's not about fame or accolades but about serving the one you're meant to serve.

    In this episode, you will:

    Gain insights into what it means to be called to a specific purpose Reflect on the idea that the calling is not about the individual but about serving the purpose and the people they are called to.Learn the key lessons I learned throughout my journey

    Full Show Notes Here!

    Links & Mentioned Resources:

    Take the Stage Speakers Facebook Group

    Join Mary’s email list!


    Connect with Mary

    Join Mary's Facebook group!
    Join Mary's email list!
    Follow Mary on Instagram
    Connect with Mary on LinkedIn


    Thanks for joining us on the StorySpire podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review to help us reach even more speakers like you.

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    I was recently asked - "Mary, you always have a story. Why do you always have a story about everything?" My first thought was it's because I'm a storyteller, but it's more than that. I look at life differently, and I want you to do the same.

    Do you ever feel like you don't have any interesting stories to share? Maybe you think your life is too mundane to inspire others. In this episode, I'm diving into the art of finding captivating stories in life's everyday moments.

    This episode is for you if you want to discover the power of your own unique experiences and their potential to impact and connect with others.

    In this episode, you will:

    Understand the importance of finding and sharing stories in everyday life.Discover how stories can be found in the simple, mundane moments and exciting and funny experiences.Recognize the significance of being intentional and slowing down to pay attention to the people placed in your path

    Full Show Notes Here!

    Links & Mentioned Resources:

    Take the Stage Speakers Facebook Group

    Join Mary’s email list!


    Connect with Mary

    Join Mary's Facebook group!
    Join Mary's email list!
    Follow Mary on Instagram
    Connect with Mary on LinkedIn


    Thanks for joining us on the StorySpire podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review to help us reach even more speakers like you.

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    Alright, so we all know that building a speaking business can be lonely, right? Do you ever feel like you're on this journey alone, craving a community of like-minded individuals who understand and support your passion for speaking and storytelling? You're in luck because, in this episode, I'm sharing the importance of finding your community and sharing insights on where and how to connect with like-minded individuals.

    In this episode, you will:

    Learn about the importance of finding a communityFigure out how to find like-minded people Discover the significance of having and building supportive relationships

    Full show notes here!

    Links & Mentioned Resources:

    Take the Stage Speakers Facebook Group

    Join Mary’s email list!


    Connect with Mary

    Join Mary's Facebook group!
    Join Mary's email list!
    Follow Mary on Instagram
    Connect with Mary on LinkedIn


    Thanks for joining us on the StorySpire podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review to help us reach even more speakers like you.

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    Do you struggle to get a response from event planners? Maybe you've experienced the frustration of being ghosted after reaching out via email or DM. In this episode, we will cover crafting an email that elicits a response and shares a powerful method for re-engaging prospects. This episode is for you if you want to learn how to effectively communicate with event planners to get the response you're looking for.

    In this episode, you will:

    Learn about the importance of following up consistently with event planners.Gain insights into effective communication strategies when reaching out.Find practical tips for re-engaging with individuals who have gone unresponsive.

    Full show notes here!

    Links & Mentioned Resources:

    Take the Stage Speakers Facebook Group

    Join Mary’s email list!



    Connect with Mary

    Join Mary's Facebook group!
    Join Mary's email list!
    Follow Mary on Instagram
    Connect with Mary on LinkedIn


    Thanks for joining us on the StorySpire podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review to help us reach even more speakers like you.

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    Do you have a powerful keynote message that you're not sure how to repurpose for a workshop or social media content? Maybe you want to learn how to engage your audience in an interactive and impactful way. We'll explore how to repurpose your message for various platforms and audiences. If you want to expand the reach of your message and connect with your audience on a deeper level, listen now!

    In this episode, you will:

    Learn how to repurpose a keynote message into a workshop format.Discover how to incorporate activities and audience participation into a workshop setting.Be inspired to expand the reach and impact of your message through repurposing.

    Full show notes here!

    Links & Mentioned Resources:

    Activate Live! Course

    Take the Stage Speakers Facebook Group

    Join Mary’s email list!


    Connect with Mary

    Join Mary's Facebook group!
    Join Mary's email list!
    Follow Mary on Instagram
    Connect with Mary on LinkedIn


    Thanks for joining us on the StorySpire podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review to help us reach even more speakers like you.

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    Do you want to learn how to invest in yourself and your speaking journey? Maybe you're feeling stuck and need some understanding on why your message really matters. In this episode, I discuss the importance of investing in yourself as a speaker and how it directly impacts your audience. If you are ready to invest in your gift and story in the same way God has invested in you, tune in!

    In this episode, you will:

    Learn the importance of investing time, energy, and possibly money into sharing your message with others.Find out how to shift the focus of your message from you to those who need to hear it.Be encouraged to take the steps forward and find support in getting your message to the audience God has prepared for you.

    Full show notes here!

    Links & Mentioned Resources:

    Activate Live! Course

    Take the Stage Speakers Facebook Group

    Join Mary’s email list!


    Connect with Mary

    Join Mary's Facebook group!
    Join Mary's email list!
    Follow Mary on Instagram
    Connect with Mary on LinkedIn


    Thanks for joining us on the StorySpire podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review to help us reach even more speakers like you.