Narativ Leadership Story Talks

Narativ Inc

Leadership Story Talks is a podcast hosted by Jerome Deroy, CEO of Narativ, and Julienne Ryan, business author, communication and HR specialist, and frequent Narativ training contributor.In each episode, Jerome and Jules discuss the practices that engage, motivate, develop, retain, and attract people to businesses, whether these are your customers or your employees. Their principles and tools are based on real world stories that leverage listening and storytelling to become a better leader and management professional.

  1. 4D AGO

    Leadership Story Talks | How Women Navigate Family, Work & Burnout with Giovanna Rossi

    “Women are asked to parent like they don’t have jobs — and work like they don’t have kids.” What happens when resilience becomes both a survival strategy… and a catalyst for systems change? In this episode, we sit down with Giovanna Rossi — public affairs strategist, leadership coach, founder of Family Friendly New Mexico, and host of NPR’s The Well Woman Show. Giovanna shares the deeply personal story that shaped her work: watching her single mother walk across the stage to receive her diploma after years of sacrifice, determination, and raising a family while putting herself through school. That experience became the foundation for Giovanna’s lifelong mission: improving the systems that impact women, caregivers, and families. From policy work and workplace culture to burnout, invisible labor, and values-based leadership, this conversation explores what it means to lead sustainably in a world that often rewards overwork and perfectionism. Giovanna also shares practical insights from her Well Woman framework — helping leaders align their values with their actions so they can make meaningful impact without losing themselves in the process. This is a thoughtful and deeply human conversation about leadership, caregiving, resilience, and redefining success.  You’ll Hear The childhood moment that shaped Giovanna’s understanding of resilience and possibilityHow her mother’s experience as a single parent inspired her work in systems changeWhy career paths are rarely linear — and how “squiggly lines” often lead to purposeThe hidden conflict many caregivers face: “parent like you don’t have a job, work like you don’t have kids”How burnout is often tied to living out of alignment with your valuesGiovanna’s framework for distinguishing between what’s urgent and what’s truly importantWhy community and group support are essential for women leadersThe invisible workload women often carry — and the pressure to appear perfect and productiveHow workplace policy changes can help women and families thrive instead of merely surviveWhy Giovanna believes busy women are the ones most capable of changing the world Resources Well Woman Life The Well Woman Show (NPR): The Well Woman ShowFamily Friendly New MexicoGiovanna Rossi on LinkedIn: Giovanna Rossi LinkedIn@wellwomanlife on Instagram and FacebookHere's a link to the LISTENING LAB Narativ’s online course in partnership with New Mexico State University Global Campus: Lead With Your Story (self-paced, on-demand course) Podcast listeners get 25% off - Use code NARATIV → Register Here Learn more about how to leverage Narativ’s storytelling method for your pitch and sales team: Download our free e-book, or you’re welcome to schedule a free 15-minute call with Jerome. Please join our mailing list to stay updated on all our latest episodes and events. EMAIL Jerome@narativ.com LINKEDIN https://www.linkedin.com/company/narativ-inc TWITTER @narativ Buy Julienne’s book here

    31 min

  2. MAY 11

    Leadership Story Talks | Jerome & Julienne Discuss Cultural Differences in Business

    “The more you understand where someone comes from, the more you understand how they show up.” In this debrief episode, Jerome Deroy and Julienne Ryan reflect on their conversation with Dean Foster—and the deeper implications of culture in how we listen, lead, and connect. What begins as a discussion about global cultural differences quickly becomes something more personal: a reminder that culture isn’t just geographic—it’s inherited, lived, and often invisible to us. Drawing from their own backgrounds and past podcast conversations, Jerome and Julienne explore how curiosity about others’ stories can unlock trust, deepen relationships, and ultimately make us better leaders. You’ll Hear - Why culture shapes far more of our behavior than we consciously realize - How exploring your own heritage can deepen your understanding of others - The hidden biases we carry—especially around language, accents, and communication styles - Why curiosity (“How did you get here?”) is one of the most powerful leadership tools - How small investments in understanding others can save time and conflict later - The role of storytelling in uncovering identity, building trust, and fostering collaboration - A simple but powerful call to action: ask better questions and invite stories Key Takeaway We often prioritize efficiency over connection—but when we skip the human context, we lose the very thing that makes collaboration work. Understanding someone’s culture isn’t about memorizing differences. It’s about being curious enough to listen to the story behind the person. Resources Listen to the full conversation in episode #184 with Dean Foster Related episode #67 with Heather Hansen on language, accents, and bias Here's a link to the LISTENING LAB Narativ’s online course in partnership with New Mexico State University Global Campus: Lead With Your Story (self-paced, on-demand course) Podcast listeners get 25% off - Use code NARATIV → Register Here Learn more about how to leverage Narativ’s storytelling method for your pitch and sales team: Download our free e-book, or you’re welcome to schedule a free 15-minute call with Jerome. Please join our mailing list to stay updated on all our latest episodes and events. EMAIL Jerome@narativ.com LINKEDIN https://www.linkedin.com/company/narativ-inc TWITTER @narativ Buy Julienne’s book here

    12 min

  3. MAY 4

    Leadership Story Talks | From Wonder to Space With Bryce Kennedy

    “If it weren’t for hope in those 90% failures, I’m not sure where I’d be.” What if a single moment—something as simple as noticing a poster on a wall—could change the trajectory of your life? In this episode, we sit down with Bryce Kennedy, Executive Director of Space Valley Foundation and Space Connectivity Senior Officer at the United Nations’ International Telecommunication Union. Bryce shares the unexpected journey that led him from law, consulting, and even acting… into the world of space. At the heart of his story is a powerful idea: wonder. From a pivotal pandemic moment under the stars to building a global initiative designed to ensure access to space for all, Bryce’s journey is anything but linear. It’s a story of experimentation, resilience, and ultimately aligning with something deeply human—the search for hope and meaning. This conversation invites us to rethink how we approach our careers, our failures, and the values that quietly guide us. You’ll Hear How a chance encounter with a NASA roadmap reignited Bryce’s childhood sense of wonder—and changed everythingWhy a “90% failure rate” can actually be a sign you’re on the right pathThe unexpected throughline in Bryce’s career: from law to acting to spaceHow hope became the hidden driver behind his life and workWhy “wonder” is more than a feeling—it’s a gateway to innovation and global collaborationThe mission behind Space Valley Foundation and the global Space for Good initiativeA powerful reframe: instead of forcing outcomes, align with your “North Star” and let possibilities emergeResources Space Valley FoundationBryce Kennedy on LinkedInHere's a link to the LISTENING LAB Narativ’s online course in partnership with New Mexico State University Global Campus: Lead With Your Story (self-paced, on-demand course) Podcast listeners get 25% off - Use code NARATIV → Register Here Learn more about how to leverage Narativ’s storytelling method for your pitch and sales team: Download our free e-book, or you’re welcome to schedule a free 15-minute call with Jerome. Please join our mailing list to stay updated on all our latest episodes and events. EMAIL Jerome@narativ.com LINKEDIN https://www.linkedin.com/company/narativ-inc TWITTER @narativ Buy Julienne’s book here

    38 min

  4. APR 27

    Leadership Story Talks | Jerome & Julienne Discuss Sequoia v Bonsai

    “It’s not about perfection, it’s about connection.” Overview What if growth isn’t supposed to look polished? In this debrief episode, Jerome Deroy and Julienne Ryan reflect on their conversation with Nicolas Darveau-Garneau and his powerful metaphor: be a sequoia, not a bonsai. A bonsai is carefully shaped, controlled, and aesthetically pleasing—but limited. A sequoia, on the other hand, grows wild and tall over time, shaped by its environment, weathering challenges, and drawing strength from deep roots. This conversation explores what that metaphor means for leadership, storytelling, and organizational culture. From embracing experimentation and failure, to balancing structure with openness, Jerome and Julienne unpack how real growth happens—not through control or perfection, but through connection, listening, and lived experience. You’ll Hear Why organizations that prioritize experimentation over perfection are the ones that truly grow How “messy” stories—especially the ones that didn’t go as planned—build trust and connectionThe hidden tension between control (bonsai) and organic growth (sequoia) in leadership and cultureWhy Narativ’s methodology balances both: structure that creates safety + space for authentic expressionHow storytelling isn’t the starting point—it’s the result of intentional listening and connection-buildingWhy the real goal isn’t just telling a story, but being heard and acknowledgedHow drawing from past experiences—both positive and difficult—creates meaning and forward momentumResources 🎧 Listen to the full conversation with Nick HEREHere's a link to the LISTENING LAB Narativ’s online course in partnership with New Mexico State University Global Campus: Lead With Your Story (self-paced, on-demand course) Podcast listeners get 25% off - Use code NARATIV → Register Here Learn more about how to leverage Narativ’s storytelling method for your pitch and sales team: Download our free e-book, or you’re welcome to schedule a free 15-minute call with Jerome. Please join our mailing list to stay updated on all our latest episodes and events. EMAIL Jerome@narativ.com LINKEDIN https://www.linkedin.com/company/narativ-inc TWITTER @narativ Buy Julienne’s book here

    14 min

  5. APR 20

    Leadership Story Talks | A Life Uncovered with Kenny Leahman

    “If I was scattered, the team was scattered—and it was life or death.” What happens when the life you’ve built is also the life you’re hiding inside? In this episode, Jerome Deroy and Julienne Ryan sit down with leadership coach and former CIA officer Kenny Leahman to explore the concept of “living under cover”—and what it takes to drop it. From volunteering for two years in Afghanistan during the height of the war to navigating the internal conflict of living a double life, Kenny shares how extreme environments sharpened his understanding of focus, trust, and leadership. But it’s his personal journey—coming out to his wife, his organization, and ultimately himself—that reveals the deeper cost of inauthenticity. This conversation moves beyond storytelling into something more fundamental: the courage to be seen, the role of self-awareness in leadership, and the transformational power of dropping the covers that hold us back. You’ll Hear – How a life-and-death leadership environment in Afghanistan clarified what truly matters  – Why focus isn’t just a productivity tool—but a signal of leadership and commitment – The surprising parallel between intelligence work and coaching: deep, trust-based relationships  – What it means to “live under cover”—and why everyone, in some way, does – The internal cost of misalignment between identity, values, and behavior – A powerful story of coming out—and the unexpected leadership response that changed everything  – How fear of being “found out” shows up as imposter syndrome in leaders – The role of self-awareness in leadership—and why lack of it can do real harm – How to identify the gap between the values you claim and the values you live – Why dropping your cover doesn’t just transform you—it expands your impact – The three questions every leader should ask themselves: Who am I? Who do I need to be? How do I get there? Resources Kenny's website Connect with Kenny on LinkedIN Kenny's story on Yahoo! News Here's a link to the LISTENING LAB Narativ’s online course in partnership with New Mexico State University Global Campus: Lead With Your Story (self-paced, on-demand course) Podcast listeners get 25% off - Use code NARATIV → Register Here Learn more about how to leverage Narativ’s storytelling method for your pitch and sales team: Download our free e-book, or you’re welcome to schedule a free 15-minute call with Jerome. Please join our mailing list to stay updated on all our latest episodes and events. EMAIL Jerome@narativ.com LINKEDIN https://www.linkedin.com/company/narativ-inc TWITTER @narativ Buy Julienne’s book here

    38 min

  6. APR 13

    Leadership Story Talks | Jerome & Julienne Discuss Finding Values in Stories

    “It’s the responsibility of leaders to embrace vulnerability—because that’s what creates trust.” In this debrief, Jerome and Julienne reflect on a powerful insight from their conversation with Jim O’Gorman, Chief People Officer at Included Health: values don’t come to life through statements—they come to life through stories. Jim’s example of recognizing employees who embody company values opens the door to a deeper conversation about how organizations can move beyond abstract principles and into lived, everyday behaviors. Jerome and Julienne explore how storytelling—especially authentic, vulnerable storytelling—builds trust and turns values into something people can see, feel, and replicate. Drawing from their work with organizations like Cigna and others, they highlight how simple practices—asking for stories, sharing them, and amplifying them—can create a ripple effect across teams. What starts as recognition of a few individuals quickly becomes a culture where everyone sees themselves in the values and wants to contribute their own stories. At its core, this conversation is a reminder: you don’t need to invent culture—you need to notice it, name it, and share it. You’ll Hear: – From Values to Behavior – Why values only matter when they are demonstrated through real, observable actions—and how stories make that visible. – Authenticity Builds Trust – How leaders who share not just successes but vulnerabilities create deeper connection and credibility. – Recognition as Storytelling – How celebrating employees through stories reinforces culture and creates momentum across an organization. – The Ripple Effect of Shared Stories – Why highlighting a few stories often inspires many more, turning storytelling into a participatory, organic practice. – Start Simple: Ask and Listen – A practical approach to uncovering stories: ask people when they’ve seen values in action, then listen and share. Culture isn’t created in mission statements or posters—it’s revealed in the stories people tell about what actually happens every day. Here's a link to the LISTENING LAB Narativ’s online course in partnership with New Mexico State University Global Campus: Lead With Your Story (self-paced, on-demand course) Podcast listeners get 25% off - Use code NARATIV → Register Here Learn more about how to leverage Narativ’s storytelling method for your pitch and sales team: Download our free e-book, or you’re welcome to schedule a free 15-minute call with Jerome. Please join our mailing list to stay updated on all our latest episodes and events. EMAIL Jerome@narativ.com LINKEDIN https://www.linkedin.com/company/narativ-inc TWITTER @narativ Buy Julienne’s book here

    13 min

  7. APR 6

    Leadership Story Talks | Moments That Matter With Chris Dyer

    “If you're going to show up, show up.” Overview What if the moments that shape us aren’t the ones we think? In this episode, Jerome Deroy and Julienne Ryan sit down with leadership expert and bestselling author Chris Dyer to explore how a seemingly small moment—an uncle showing up—created a lifelong philosophy of leadership. From nearly losing his company during the 2009 recession to rebuilding culture from the ground up, Chris shares how he discovered that great leadership isn’t about systems or strategy—it’s about how we show up in the moments that matter most. This conversation challenges leaders to rethink culture, communication, and connection—not as abstract ideas, but as intentional choices made in real time. You’ll Hear Why the most impactful moments in our lives are often not the most obvious onesHow a childhood experience shaped Chris’s belief in showing up fully for othersThe turning point that led him to rebuild his company culture from scratchWhy transparency unlocks better ideas, engagement, and ownershipHow to move from a culture of execution to a culture of thinking and contributionThe surprising downside of traditional one-on-one meetings—and what to do insteadWhy intentionality is the key to making remote teams thriveHow to recognize, shape, and scale the moments that define leadershipThe difference between leaders people tolerate—and leaders people trustResources 🎤 Leadership Story Talks events👂 The Listening LabLinkedIn TikTokInstagramXwebsiteFacebookYouTube Moments That Matter - AmazonHere's a link to the LISTENING LAB Narativ’s online course in partnership with New Mexico State University Global Campus: Lead With Your Story (self-paced, on-demand course) Podcast listeners get 25% off - Use code NARATIV → Register Here Learn more about how to leverage Narativ’s storytelling method for your pitch and sales team: Download our free e-book, or you’re welcome to schedule a free 15-minute call with Jerome. Please join our mailing list to stay updated on all our latest episodes and events. EMAIL Jerome@narativ.com LINKEDIN https://www.linkedin.com/company/narativ-inc TWITTER @narativ Buy Julienne’s book here

    39 min

  8. MAR 30

    Leadership Story Talks | Jerome and Julienne Discuss The Stories That Shaped Us LIVE

    “It doesn’t have to be… the one moment that really shaped me. It’s really up to you to choose which moment you want to talk about as something that shaped you.”  Overview ~ In this debrief episode, Jerome Deroy and Julienne Ryan reflect on their latest Leadership Story Talks LIVE event, exploring what made the stories so powerful—and what they reveal about how we make meaning from our experiences. From a childhood ballet recital… to a summer job at the zoo… to waking up in a hospital after a coma… the stories shared in this live event remind us that transformation doesn’t always come from the biggest moments. Sometimes, it’s the smallest, most ordinary experiences—revisited through a new lens—that shape how we lead, connect, and show up in the world. This conversation unpacks how storytelling helps us reframe our past, connect the dots, and communicate what truly matters—not through polished bios, but through lived experience. You’ll Hear Why powerful leadership stories often come from small, specific momentsHow the same experience can take on new meaning over timeThe difference between a transformational moment and a chosen storyHow storytelling reveals what a bio can’t: values, motivations, and identityThe role of listening, safety, and structure in helping stories emergeWhy courage and vulnerability are essential to sharing stories that resonateHow live storytelling creates unexpected connections and shared meaning Here's a link to the LISTENING LAB Narativ’s online course in partnership with New Mexico State University Global Campus: Lead With Your Story (self-paced, on-demand course) Podcast listeners get 25% off - Use code NARATIV → Register Here Learn more about how to leverage Narativ’s storytelling method for your pitch and sales team: Download our free e-book, or you’re welcome to schedule a free 15-minute call with Jerome. Please join our mailing list to stay updated on all our latest episodes and events. EMAIL Jerome@narativ.com LINKEDIN https://www.linkedin.com/company/narativ-inc TWITTER @narativ Buy Julienne’s book here

    16 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Leadership Story Talks is a podcast hosted by Jerome Deroy, CEO of Narativ, and Julienne Ryan, business author, communication and HR specialist, and frequent Narativ training contributor.In each episode, Jerome and Jules discuss the practices that engage, motivate, develop, retain, and attract people to businesses, whether these are your customers or your employees. Their principles and tools are based on real world stories that leverage listening and storytelling to become a better leader and management professional.

Information

  • Creator
    Narativ Inc
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    195
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Narativ Leadership Story Talks
  • Show Website
    Narativ Leadership Story Talks

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