The Business of Stories with Susan Payton

Susan Payton

In 2015, I shared my ‘very ordinary’ story with 1500 business owners and it totally changed my business - and my life. I went from struggling to be seen and heard, to having dream clients signing up to work with me. It blew my mind. I saw first-hand how sharing stories in business is not just essential; it’s a superpower! Since then, thousands of business owners have bought my book, The Business of Stories, and used my simple storytelling frameworks in their content and marketing - to cut through the noise, communicate their value, build authority and create connection. If you struggle to get across who you are, what you help your clients do and why they should work with you – this podcast is for you. No matter what your life has looked like or what stage of business you are at, your stories are your greatest asset and, every week, I’ll show you how to find and share the ones that will do the ‘selling’ for you in your business, so you don’t have to! Connect with Susan: Email: susan@thebusinessofstories.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanpaytonuk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SusanPaytonUK/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebusinessofstories/ Download a free copy of The Business of Stories here: https://thebusinessofstories.com/freebook/ Grab The Storyteller’s Starter Pack here: https://thebusinessofstories.com/pack/

  1. 5d ago

    Episode 56: How your flaws could be your crazy advantage - with John Spencer Williams

    What if the things you’ve spent years trying to hide, change or smooth over are actually the very things that could help you stand out? What if the qualities you dismiss as flaws, quirks or weaknesses are exactly where your greatest strengths are hiding. In this episode of The Business of Stories, Susan talks to Crazy Successful author John Spencer Williams about why success doesn’t always happen despite the things that make us different - sometimes, it happens because of them. You’ll discover:The surprising reason your biggest flaw could also be one of your greatest advantagesWhy the instinct to fit in could be holding you back in your business.The one place to look when you can’t see what makes you different from everyone else.The “Crazy Idea” hiding in your work that could put you in a category of one.How something you’d never put on your CV could become a powerful reason people choose you.The stories you may be overlooking that could show people exactly what makes you different. This fascinating conversation will help you look differently at the qualities, experiences and stories that make up your unique blend - including the ones you might have spent years wishing you could change. If you’re ready to stop smoothing off the edges, lean into what makes you different and let your stories show people why that matters, this episode is a must-listen. Check out John’s book & profile test at https://crazysuccessfulbook.com/ If you have a question you would love Susan to answer on the show, please email it (in writing) to susan@thebusinessofstories.com FREEBIES: Download Susan’s storytelling blueprint for free here Download her most popular masterclass: Be The Guide here Download a free copy of The Business of Stories here OFFERS: Check out The Story Source here Storytelling Mastery here About your host Susan Payton: When Susan told her ‘ordinary’ story to 1,500 business owners back in 2015, You the response from people who resonated with it and felt connected to her as a result of hearing it, blew her away! In fact, that moment completely changed her business - and her life. Susan has since worked with entrepreneurs all over the world, written the international bestselling book, The Business of Stories, hosted the podcast of the same name, and become a leading authority on how to use storytelling to stand out in your industry. Thousands have used her simple framework to share their message with impact, attract ideal clients and grow their business. Susan has also spoken on stages from Brighton to Barcelona, guested on panels and podcasts and run numerous masterclasses, guest expert sessions and workshops, both online and in person. In a world where it’s getting harder and harder to be heard above the noise, Susan is passionate about showing business owners how to clearly articulate their value and speak to the right people, at the right time, with a simple message and a great story. See my bio here And my speaker page here Connect with Susan: Email: susan@thebusinessofstories.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanpaytonuk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SusanPaytonUK/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebusinessofstories/ Produced by Winter Audio. Mentioned in this episode: Free storytelling masterclass I’m running a free 60-minute storytelling masterclass on Friday 18th September at 12 noon UK time. We'll start in a thrift shop in New York. We'll talk about James Bond. You'll see that you have SO many stories you could be sharing in your business, how to break them down into short, easy to share stories ... and we'll work on one of them on the call. To join me, simply: 1. Register at thebusinessofstories.com/freemasterclass 2. Look out for the zoom link you’ll get sent, and 3. Put Friday 18th September at 12 noon in your diary I’ll see you there.

  2. Sep 9

    Episode 55: How to Do Less and Grow More - with Emma Hine

    Hands up if you started your business because you wanted more freedom and flexibility? I’m hazarding a guess you’ve got your hands up right now. I think we all did. But, have you now got the ‘freedom’ you dreamed of? In this episode of The Business of Stories, Susan talks to Emma Hine, who built a seven-figure business that looked incredibly successful from the outside, while behind the scenes she was working 90 hours a week - and had created what she describes as a “monster”. Emma shares the deeply personal journey that forced her to rethink what success really means, why your business should support the life you want rather than consume it, and how doing less could actually be the key to growing more. You'll discover: The hidden story that drove Emma to keep growing a business she knew was making her unhappy.Why the version of success that looks impressive from the outside can feel very different on the inside.The simple question that could completely change the way you think about your dream business.How to spot the “noise” that’s taking over your business - and know what’s worth keeping.Why constantly adding another offer, platform or strategy could actually be getting in the way of growth.The three questions Emma uses to decide what stays in her business — and what needs to go. This honest and deeply moving conversation is a powerful reminder to question what you’re building, why you’re building it and what you really want your business to give you - so you can create success on your terms, with more clarity about what truly matters. If you have a question you would love Susan to answer on the show, please email it (in writing) to susan@thebusinessofstories.com FREEBIES: Download Susan’s storytelling blueprint for free here Download her most popular masterclass: Be The Guide here Download a free copy of The Business of Stories here OFFERS: Check out The Story Source here Storytelling Mastery here About your host Susan Payton: When Susan told her ‘ordinary’ story to 1,500 business owners back in 2015, You the response from people who resonated with it and felt connected to her as a result of hearing it, blew her away! In fact, that moment completely changed her business - and her life. Susan has since worked with entrepreneurs all over the world, written the international bestselling book, The Business of Stories, hosted the podcast of the same name, and become a leading authority on how to use storytelling to stand out in your industry. Thousands have used her simple framework to share their message with impact, attract ideal clients and grow their business. Susan has also spoken on stages from Brighton to Barcelona, guested on panels and podcasts and run numerous masterclasses, guest expert sessions and workshops, both online and in person. In a world where it’s getting harder and harder to be heard above the noise, Susan is passionate about showing business owners how to clearly articulate their value and speak to the right people, at the right time, with a simple message and a great story. See my bio here And my speaker page here Connect with Susan: Email: susan@thebusinessofstories.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanpaytonuk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SusanPaytonUK/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebusinessofstories/ Produced by Winter Audio.

  3. Sep 2

    Episode 54: Thinking of starting a podcast? Listen to this

    Starting a podcast can feel exciting - until you start thinking about how it’s going to actually work? What topics will you cover? What do you want people to get from it? And how do you create something that your listeners will want to come back to again and again? As The Business of Stories celebrates its first birthday, Susan looks back on a year of podcasting and shares what went into creating it, what she’s loved, what she’s struggled with, and why having somewhere people can really immerse themselves in your world can be so powerful for your business. You'll discover: The one thing every podcast, and every piece of content you create, needs for people to remember it.The two questions Susan asked herself before recording a single episode - and how they shaped everything that followed.The three things that gave Susan clarity on exactly what her podcast should sound and feel like.How to create a structure that feels familiar and consistent without boxing yourself in.The unexpected side of podcasting Susan wasn’t prepared for.And what Susan believes you should put into your podcast if you want listeners to feel like they already know you. This insightful, behind-the-scenes episode will help you think differently about creating content people can go deep on, while giving you practical ideas for making it focused, consistent and unmistakably yours. If you have a question you would love Susan to answer on the show, please email it (in writing) to susan@thebusinessofstories.com FREEBIES: Download Susan’s storytelling blueprint for free here Download her most popular masterclass: Be The Guide here Download a free copy of The Business of Stories here OFFERS: Check out The Story Source here Storytelling Mastery here About your host Susan Payton: When Susan told her ‘ordinary’ story to 1,500 business owners back in 2015, You the response from people who resonated with it and felt connected to her as a result of hearing it, blew her away! In fact, that moment completely changed her business - and her life. Susan has since worked with entrepreneurs all over the world, written the international bestselling book, The Business of Stories, hosted the podcast of the same name, and become a leading authority on how to use storytelling to stand out in your industry. Thousands have used her simple framework to share their message with impact, attract ideal clients and grow their business. Susan has also spoken on stages from Brighton to Barcelona, guested on panels and podcasts and run numerous masterclasses, guest expert sessions and workshops, both online and in person. In a world where it’s getting harder and harder to be heard above the noise, Susan is passionate about showing business owners how to clearly articulate their value and speak to the right people, at the right time, with a simple message and a great story. See my bio here And my speaker page here Connect with Susan: Email: susan@thebusinessofstories.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanpaytonuk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SusanPaytonUK/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebusinessofstories/ Produced by Winter Audio.

  4. Aug 26

    Episode 53: SUMMER REWIND - The story that’s holding you back

    In this final Summer Rewind episode of The Business of Stories, Susan revisits one of the most important conversations of the series - exploring the stories we tell ourselves and the impact they have on the way we show up in our business. Through honest personal stories and practical mindset shifts, you'll discover how changing your inner narrative can help you become more visible, more confident, and more focused on the people you're here to help. You'll discover: How the stories you're telling yourself could be holding your business back.The simple mindset shift that makes showing up feel lighter and more purposeful.How to stop making it about you. The life-changing advice Susan got that changed everything.How to recognise the "what if..." stories that are keeping you playing small.A powerful way to stop comparing yourself and start believing what's possible for you.Why being more you is the greatest advantage you have in business. This uplifting episode is a powerful reminder that when you rewrite the story in your head, everything else becomes easier. Showing up feels more natural, sharing your stories feels more meaningful, and the people you're here to help are far more likely to find you. If you have a question you would love Susan to answer on the show, please email it (in writing) to susan@thebusinessofstories.com FREEBIES: Download Susan’s storytelling blueprint for free here Download her most popular masterclass: Be The Guide here Download a free copy of The Business of Stories here OFFERS: Check out The Story Source here Storytelling Mastery here About your host Susan Payton: When Susan told her ‘ordinary’ story to 1,500 business owners back in 2015, You the response from people who resonated with it and felt connected to her as a result of hearing it, blew her away! In fact, that moment completely changed her business - and her life. Susan has since worked with entrepreneurs all over the world, written the international bestselling book, The Business of Stories, hosted the podcast of the same name, and become a leading authority on how to use storytelling to stand out in your industry. Thousands have used her simple framework to share their message with impact, attract ideal clients and grow their business. Susan has also spoken on stages from Brighton to Barcelona, guested on panels and podcasts and run numerous masterclasses, guest expert sessions and workshops, both online and in person. In a world where it’s getting harder and harder to be heard above the noise, Susan is passionate about showing business owners how to clearly articulate their value and speak to the right people, at the right time, with a simple message and a great story. See my bio here And my speaker page here Connect with Susan: Email: susan@thebusinessofstories.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanpaytonuk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SusanPaytonUK/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebusinessofstories/ Produced by Winter Audio. Mentioned in this episode: Free storytelling masterclass I’m running a free 60-minute storytelling masterclass on Friday 18th September at 12 noon UK time. We'll start in a thrift shop in New York. We'll talk about James Bond. You'll see that you have SO many stories you could be sharing in your business, how to break them down into short, easy to share stories ... and we'll work on one of them on the call. To join me, simply: 1. Register at thebusinessofstories.com/freemasterclass 2. Look out for the zoom link you’ll get sent, and 3. Put Friday 18th September at 12 noon in your diary I’ll see you there.

  5. Aug 19

    Episode 52: SUMMER REWIND - How to turn your message into a movement

    In this episode of The Business of Stories, Susan revisits one of the podcast's most inspiring episodes, exploring what happens when your business becomes about something bigger than the products or services you sell. Through powerful real-life stories, you'll discover how the businesses people remember aren't just known for what they do, but for what they believe, the change they're creating, and the future they're inviting others to be part of. You'll discover:How to uncover the movement that's already taking shape within your business.Why the strongest messages begin with a belief, not a business plan.The powerful question that will completely change how you think about your business.How your own story could hold the seeds of a movement without you even realising it.Why people are drawn to businesses that stand for something bigger than what they sell.The simple exercise that helps you uncover the beliefs at the heart of your business. This inspiring episode will help you find deeper meaning in your message, connect with the people who share your beliefs, and build a business that people don't just buy from, but genuinely want to be part of. If you have a question you would love Susan to answer on the show, please email it (in writing) to susan@thebusinessofstories.com FREEBIES: Download Susan’s storytelling blueprint for free here Download her most popular masterclass: Be The Guide here Download a free copy of The Business of Stories here OFFERS: Check out The Story Source here Storytelling Mastery here About your host Susan Payton: When Susan told her ‘ordinary’ story to 1,500 business owners back in 2015, You the response from people who resonated with it and felt connected to her as a result of hearing it, blew her away! In fact, that moment completely changed her business - and her life. Susan has since worked with entrepreneurs all over the world, written the international bestselling book, The Business of Stories, hosted the podcast of the same name, and become a leading authority on how to use storytelling to stand out in your industry. Thousands have used her simple framework to share their message with impact, attract ideal clients and grow their business. Susan has also spoken on stages from Brighton to Barcelona, guested on panels and podcasts and run numerous masterclasses, guest expert sessions and workshops, both online and in person. In a world where it’s getting harder and harder to be heard above the noise, Susan is passionate about showing business owners how to clearly articulate their value and speak to the right people, at the right time, with a simple message and a great story. See my bio here And my speaker page here Connect with Susan: Email: susan@thebusinessofstories.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanpaytonuk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SusanPaytonUK/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebusinessofstories/ Produced by Winter Audio. Mentioned in this episode: Free storytelling masterclass I’m running a free 60-minute storytelling masterclass on Friday 18th September at 12 noon UK time. We'll start in a thrift shop in New York. We'll talk about James Bond. You'll see that you have SO many stories you could be sharing in your business, how to break them down into short, easy to share stories ... and we'll work on one of them on the call. To join me, simply: 1. Register at thebusinessofstories.com/freemasterclass 2. Look out for the zoom link you’ll get sent, and 3. Put Friday 18th September at 12 noon in your diary I’ll see you there.

  6. Aug 12

    Episode 51: SUMMER REWIND - The story your pricing is telling

    In this episode of The Business of Stories, Susan revisits one of the podcast's most thought-provoking episodes, exploring why your pricing is about so much more than numbers. Through powerful stories and real client examples, you'll discover how your prices shape the way people perceive your value, the clients you attract, and the confidence you bring to your business. You'll discover:How your pricing could be shaping people's perception of your business before they've even worked with you.The surprising story your prices might be telling without you even realising it.Why people don't buy based on price alone, and what they're really investing in.How to know whether your pricing truly reflects the value you create for your clients.The powerful link between pricing, energy, and attracting the right people to your business.Why understanding the transformation you create changes everything about how you price your offers. This thought-provoking episode will help you see your pricing through a completely different lens, so you can communicate your value with more clarity, confidence and purpose. If you have a question you would love Susan to answer on the show, please email it (in writing) to susan@thebusinessofstories.com FREEBIES: Download Susan’s storytelling blueprint for free here Download her most popular masterclass: Be The Guide here Download a free copy of The Business of Stories here OFFERS: Check out The Story Source here Storytelling Mastery here About your host Susan Payton: When Susan told her ‘ordinary’ story to 1,500 business owners back in 2015, You the response from people who resonated with it and felt connected to her as a result of hearing it, blew her away! In fact, that moment completely changed her business - and her life. Susan has since worked with entrepreneurs all over the world, written the international bestselling book, The Business of Stories, hosted the podcast of the same name, and become a leading authority on how to use storytelling to stand out in your industry. Thousands have used her simple framework to share their message with impact, attract ideal clients and grow their business. Susan has also spoken on stages from Brighton to Barcelona, guested on panels and podcasts and run numerous masterclasses, guest expert sessions and workshops, both online and in person. In a world where it’s getting harder and harder to be heard above the noise, Susan is passionate about showing business owners how to clearly articulate their value and speak to the right people, at the right time, with a simple message and a great story. See my bio here And my speaker page here Connect with Susan: Email: susan@thebusinessofstories.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanpaytonuk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SusanPaytonUK/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebusinessofstories/ Produced by Winter Audio. Mentioned in this episode: Free storytelling masterclass I’m running a free 60-minute storytelling masterclass on Friday 18th September at 12 noon UK time. We'll start in a thrift shop in New York. We'll talk about James Bond. You'll see that you have SO many stories you could be sharing in your business, how to break them down into short, easy to share stories ... and we'll work on one of them on the call. To join me, simply: 1. Register at thebusinessofstories.com/freemasterclass 2. Look out for the zoom link you’ll get sent, and 3. Put Friday 18th September at 12 noon in your diary I’ll see you there.

  7. Aug 5

    Episode 50: SUMMER REWIND - How to show up as the Guide in your customer’s story

    In this episode of The Business of Stories Susan revisits one of the most powerful storytelling concepts of all - the Hero and the Guide. Through stories from Star Wars to a vivid jungle metaphor, you’ll discover why understanding your role in your client’s story can transform not only the way you show up, but also how your audience perceives you. You'll discover:How to make it easy for the people who need you, to find youHow a simple shift in perspective can completely change the way you show up in your businessRecognising how your clients are really feeling before they find you, and how to make them feel safe, supported and ready to take the next step.The jungle metaphor that has helped hundreds of business owners reframe any worries about being “salesy”How to overcome the fear of putting your content out there, and what happens when you hold backA powerful visualisation that will inspire you to shine your light more brightly. This inspiring episode will help you show up with more confidence, clarity, and purpose - and step fully into the person your ideal clients are looking for. If you have a question you would love Susan to answer on the show, please email it (in writing) to susan@thebusinessofstories.com FREEBIES: Download Susan’s storytelling blueprint for free here Download her most popular masterclass: Be The Guide here Download a free copy of The Business of Stories here OFFERS: Check out The Story Source here Storytelling Mastery here About your host Susan Payton: When Susan told her ‘ordinary’ story to 1,500 business owners back in 2015, You the response from people who resonated with it and felt connected to her as a result of hearing it, blew her away! In fact, that moment completely changed her business - and her life. Susan has since worked with entrepreneurs all over the world, written the international bestselling book, The Business of Stories, hosted the podcast of the same name, and become a leading authority on how to use storytelling to stand out in your industry. Thousands have used her simple framework to share their message with impact, attract ideal clients and grow their business. Susan has also spoken on stages from Brighton to Barcelona, guested on panels and podcasts and run numerous masterclasses, guest expert sessions and workshops, both online and in person. In a world where it’s getting harder and harder to be heard above the noise, Susan is passionate about showing business owners how to clearly articulate their value and speak to the right people, at the right time, with a simple message and a great story. See my bio here And my speaker page here Connect with Susan: Email: susan@thebusinessofstories.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanpaytonuk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SusanPaytonUK/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebusinessofstories/ Produced by Winter Audio. Mentioned in this episode: Free storytelling masterclass I’m running a free 60-minute storytelling masterclass on Friday 18th September at 12 noon UK time. We'll start in a thrift shop in New York. We'll talk about James Bond. You'll see that you have SO many stories you could be sharing in your business, how to break them down into short, easy to share stories ... and we'll work on one of them on the call. To join me, simply: 1. Register at thebusinessofstories.com/freemasterclass 2. Look out for the zoom link you’ll get sent, and 3. Put Friday 18th September at 12 noon in your diary I’ll see you there.

  8. Jul 29

    Episode 49: SUMMER REWIND - The stories you already have that will build trust

    It’s so easy to believe you need more experience, more clients, bigger results or a longer list of testimonials before you have anything worth sharing. But the truth is, your stories didn’t begin when your business did. They started long before that. In this episode of The Business of Stories, Susan shares why every stage of your journey is filled with valuable stories, even if you're only just starting out, pivoting in a new direction, or building something completely different. You'll discover:The one thing that's far more powerful than having years of experience or a long list of testimonials.The biggest mistake people make when starting a business (and why waiting until you feel credible only holds you back). The simple shift that helps you stop worrying about what you don't have... and start using what you do.Why your business story didn't begin the day you launched - and where your most powerful stories really started.The story that builds credibility before you've ever worked with a paying client.How to know if you're sitting on stories that could transform your content without even realising it. This value-packed episode is a powerful reminder that you don't need to wait until you feel more experienced or more successful before you start telling your stories. If you have a question you would love Susan to answer on the show, please email it (in writing) to susan@thebusinessofstories.com FREEBIES: Download Susan’s storytelling blueprint for free here Download her most popular masterclass: Be The Guide here Download a free copy of The Business of Stories here OFFERS: Check out The Story Source here Storytelling Mastery here About your host Susan Payton: When Susan told her ‘ordinary’ story to 1,500 business owners back in 2015, You the response from people who resonated with it and felt connected to her as a result of hearing it, blew her away! In fact, that moment completely changed her business - and her life. Susan has since worked with entrepreneurs all over the world, written the international bestselling book, The Business of Stories, hosted the podcast of the same name, and become a leading authority on how to use storytelling to stand out in your industry. Thousands have used her simple framework to share their message with impact, attract ideal clients and grow their business. Susan has also spoken on stages from Brighton to Barcelona, guested on panels and podcasts and run numerous masterclasses, guest expert sessions and workshops, both online and in person. In a world where it’s getting harder and harder to be heard above the noise, Susan is passionate about showing business owners how to clearly articulate their value and speak to the right people, at the right time, with a simple message and a great story. See my bio here And my speaker page here Connect with Susan: Email: susan@thebusinessofstories.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanpaytonuk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SusanPaytonUK/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebusinessofstories/ Produced by Winter Audio.

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About

In 2015, I shared my ‘very ordinary’ story with 1500 business owners and it totally changed my business - and my life. I went from struggling to be seen and heard, to having dream clients signing up to work with me. It blew my mind. I saw first-hand how sharing stories in business is not just essential; it’s a superpower! Since then, thousands of business owners have bought my book, The Business of Stories, and used my simple storytelling frameworks in their content and marketing - to cut through the noise, communicate their value, build authority and create connection. If you struggle to get across who you are, what you help your clients do and why they should work with you – this podcast is for you. No matter what your life has looked like or what stage of business you are at, your stories are your greatest asset and, every week, I’ll show you how to find and share the ones that will do the ‘selling’ for you in your business, so you don’t have to! Connect with Susan: Email: susan@thebusinessofstories.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanpaytonuk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SusanPaytonUK/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebusinessofstories/ Download a free copy of The Business of Stories here: https://thebusinessofstories.com/freebook/ Grab The Storyteller’s Starter Pack here: https://thebusinessofstories.com/pack/

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