Here’s How to Tell Stories with Emotion

You know the difference between a good storyteller and a great one? Great storytellers have the ability to tell stories with emotion. It’s hard for many personalities. For others, it comes naturally

Melissa Etheridge is one of those great storytellers.

Several rock stars have become radio personalities with varying degrees of success. Kim Mitchell has had a popular show on a rock station in Canada for many years (he had a hit in the 80s called “Go For Soda”). Other examples include Greg Kihn, David Lee Roth, Bob Dylan, Tom Petty, Chaka Khan, Alice Cooper, and Nicki Sixx. I’m probably leaving others off the list, but you get the idea.

Melissa Etheridge had a radio show that featured stories from her life in music. She’s passionate, bold and has strong opinions. But what separated her from was the way she could tell great stories that made each listener feel that she was their friend.

You see, just being a rock star with stories to tell doesn’t automatically mean they become great, or even good, radio personalities. After the novelty wears off, the critical factor is the performer’s ability to tell stories.

When you can tell stories with emotion, the appeal is broader than you might expect.

Having known Melissa for many years, I knew she could tell great stories. She had  color and depth. She knows how to create interest by dramatizing her content. And she had a natural way of connecting with others, both on and off the stage.

So when offered the chance to coach her radio show, I jumped at the opportunity.

Stories With Emotion: Melissa Etheridge