Why your success stories aren't working (and what to do instead)

Quick question: When did a pie chart last make you cry?

Probably never. But I bet you remember a story that moved you.

Last weekend, I performed in an improv show here in town. As performers, we have one golden rule: make your scene partner look good. When you elevate them, you elevate the entire scene—and yourself in the process.

This got me thinking about how most leaders tell their impact stories. They make themselves the hero:

"We built this program. We served 500 families. We created this solution."

But here's what research shows: people connect 70% more with stories where they can be part of the hero's journey . The problem? Most organizations position themselves as the star of the show.

Here's the shift that changed everything for me:

In your stories, the people you help are the heroes. You're their wise mentor—like Obi-Wan to Luke Skywalker. Your supporters? They're mentors too, making the transformation possible.

Think about it: Luke didn't succeed alone. He had Obi-Wan's guidance, but he also needed the Rebellion's support, resources, and belief in his mission.

When you position others as heroes and yourself as the supportive mentor, something magical happens. Your audience doesn't just hear about change—they become part of creating it.

No long YouTube video this week, but I did upload some Shorts that you might enjoy:

Tired of wondering why your impact stories aren't translating into donations?

Let's change that. Work with me and get crystal clear on how to transform your stories into donor magnetism.

Together, we'll uncover:

• Why your current stories might be missing the mark

• The exact framework to position your community as heroes

• Your next steps to build sustainable funding relationships