Leadership Story Talks | Jerome & Julienne Discuss the LIVE Storytelling Event Artwork

Narativ Leadership Story Talks

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.

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Narativ Leadership Story Talks

Leadership Story Talks | Jerome & Julienne Discuss the LIVE Storytelling Event

June 01, 2026 • Narativ Inc

0:00 | 12:40

“Stories reveal something universal precisely because they are so specific.”

In this debrief episode of Leadership Story Talks LIVE, hosts Jerome Deroy and Julienne Ryan reflect on the powerful themes that emerged from the latest Stories That Shaped Us live event featuring Kelly Skwarcan, Christy Pretzinger, and Jen Mueller. Together, they explore what the stories revealed about leadership, kindness, connection, vulnerability, and what it really means to “win.”

From stepping away from toxic environments, to creating space for others to shine, to building businesses rooted in kindness, the conversation uncovers how deeply personal stories can illuminate universal truths. Jerome and Julienne also reflect on why people are so hungry for authentic connection right now — and how storytelling helps us feel less alone in an increasingly divided world.

You’ll Hear

Why the stories from this live event all connected around the idea of “winning” — and redefining what winning really means
How great leadership often means stepping out of the spotlight so others can shine
Why specific, deeply personal stories often reveal the most universal truths
The connection between storytelling, belonging, and feeling less alone
How curiosity and listening can counter division and polarization
Julienne’s realization that storytelling can permeate even everyday communication like emails and updates
Why storytelling is less about memorizing words and more about being present and connected in the moment

Resources & Links

Listen to the full Leadership Story Talks LIVE event episode: HERE

The Listening Lab

Want to deepen your listening, storytelling, and communication skills in a live community setting?

Take advantage of a special free one-month trial of The Listening Lab:

The Listening Lab Free Trial: https://listeninglabfreespot.carrd.co/

Join Us Live

Want to experience these storytelling events in real time?

Explore upcoming Leadership Story Talks LIVE events here:

Narativ Events Page: https://narativ.com/events/

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