by Kat Koppett

Last time we talked about the definition and power of story. What improvisers bring to the field, (beyond Kenn Adams’ famous Story Spine) are ways of exercising our in-the-moment storytelling skills. Even the best storytellers in the general field tend to focus on rehearsing and honing a set narrative ahead of time. But it is when we can apply our storytelling skills dynamically and responsively that we can harness their power most effectively as leaders, facilitators and communicators.

Why? Because there is never just one “right” story or one “best” way to share it. Recognizing that meaning-making is a collaborative endeavor between the initiator and the receiver allows us to flex our stories for best effect. 

Wired Magazine has a wonderful series in which experts explain their expertise at five different levels of difficulty from child to expert. Check out this example in which Dartmouth college professor. Chandrasekhar Ramanathan, explains quantum sensing.

Then think about your favorite stories? Are they reified into one version you always tell? Where might it behoove you to adapt them in the moment? How might you better respond to your listeners as you tell them?