Ep. 92, The Story Isn’t Over Yet, Joyosity™ Summer Sips

Think you’re at the end of your story? You’re probably just in the messy middle.

Episode Summary:

In this Summer Sips episode, Jenn and Shelby revisit their August conversation with keynote speaker and storytelling powerhouse Kindra Hall. From Appalachian tales to leadership truths, this episode reminds us that storytelling isn’t just a communication tactic—it’s a lifeline. Whether you’re leading a team, coaching your kids, or just trying to survive Tuesday, stories shape how we connect, grow, and lead. Kindra’s insight that *“when there’s a problem, there’s a story”* reshapes how we show up at work and in life.

You’ll hear about football sagas in the holler, four-year-old curiosity, and what it means to reclaim your narrative as the main character of your own leadership.

Key Takeaway

When things feel like the end, it’s probably just the middle. And to paraphrase Andy Grammer, grab the pen and write the next part of the story.

Guest: Kindra Hall

Kindra Hall is a bestselling author, keynote speaker, and expert on the strategic power of storytelling. She’s the author of *Stories That Stick* and *The Story Edge* and has been featured in Forbes, Inc., and SUCCESS Magazine. Kindra helps leaders and organizations harness storytelling to build trust, connection, and influence in their work.

Host: Jenn Whitmer

Jenn is an international keynote speaker, leadership consultant, and the founder of Joyosity™, helping leaders create positive, profitable cultures through connection, curiosity, and joy. With a background in communication, conflict resolution, and team dynamics, Jenn helps leaders and organizations navigate complex people challenges, reduce burnout, and build flourishing workplaces. Her insights have resonated with audiences worldwide, blending real-world leadership expertise, engaging storytelling, and a dash of humor to make the hard stuff easier. Whether on stage, in workshops, or with coaching clients, Jenn equips leaders with the tools they need to solve conflict, cultivate communication, and lead with purpose. Her upcoming book, *Joyosity*, hits shelves this fall, offering leaders a fresh approach to joy at work that builds real results. Connect with Jenn at jennwhitmer.com See Jenn in action and check her speaking availability at jennwhitmer.com/speaking.

Co-Host: Shelby Merryweather

Shelby produces many live streaming shows and podcasts, including *Joyosity™ ™.* She is also founder and CEO of Sunshine Lane, where she helps creative entrepreneurs lead with clarity and calm. Connect with Shelby at shelbymerryweather.com.

Pour Yourself a Full Glass:

August 2024 Episodes

• Episode 49: We’re Literally Dying Without Joy [Apple] [Spotify] or [YouTube]
• Episode 50: The Biological Power of Stories for Leaders, part 1 with Kindra Hall [Apple] [Spotify] or [YouTube]
• Episode 51: Storytelling as a People Power Skill, part 2 with Kindra Hall [Apple] [Spotify] or [YouTube]
• Episode 52: ICYMI: Joy at Work and Storytelling with Jenn and Shelby [Apple] [Spotify] or [YouTube]

Grab Kindra’s book The Story Edge

Joyosity Book Coming this Fall: Join the Joyosity™ Works Very Important Party and get:

• Early sneak peeks of the book with real tools to help you in your life, your work, and in your leadership.
• An exclusive chance to shape this message, including cover art, and help other leaders create positive culture with complex people.
• Behind-the-scenes updates and bonuses.

Get it here: https://jennwhitmer.com/books

Resources & Links:

Free 99 Steps: 

Why Do I Keep Doing This? Enneagram Motivations.

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A Party for More: Book Jenn to Speak

When your whole team needs the spark — not just the spark notes — I bring the energy, expertise, and real talk that shifts culture. With contagious joy, practical tools, and plenty of laughter, I help leaders connect, communicate, and make

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