From Elevator Pitches to Origin Stories: Storytelling Tools Every Leader Needs

What if your leadership message could be clear, memorable, and deeply human—all in under 60 seconds? 

In this episode, we’re joined by Erin O’Dwyer, an award-winning journalist, narrative strategist, and founder of Good Prose Studio. With a career spanning major mastheads like The Guardian, Vogue, and Australian Geographic, Erin now works with leaders, founders, and authors to shape stories that influence and inspire. 

This conversation is a masterclass in practical storytelling for leaders. Erin breaks down what makes a great elevator pitch, why your origin story matters more than your resume, and how clear communication can elevate trust, credibility , and connection within your team. 

Whether you’re speaking to a board, running a team meeting, or introducing yourself at a conference, this episode will help you articulate who you are, what you stand for, and why it matters. 

In this episode, we cover: 

• How to distil your elevator pitch into one post-it note 

• The difference between storytelling and strategy (and why leaders need both) 

• Why origin stories are powerful even when they feel “ordinary” 

• The storytelling structures that help leaders communicate with impact 

• Why clarity and simplicity should guide your communication style 

• The risks of internal and external narrative misalignment 

• How storytelling fosters trust, alignment, and performance 

What stayed with me most was Erin’s belief that every leader has a story worth telling. And not just any story—but one that signals what you care about, what you stand for, and how you show up. When we share that story with clarity and courage, we build the kind of trust that teams thrive on. 

Would love to hear what you go out of this podcast.

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