E108: Why Small Stories Create Big Impact for Nonprofit Leaders with Seth Donlin

Episode notes

I am thrilled to be joined by Seth Donlin, a seasoned marketing and communications coach who helps leaders master the art of authentic storytelling. With decades of experience in journalism, politics, and marketing, Seth now empowers leaders and entrepreneurs to craft compelling narratives that connect, inspire, and grow their impact. In this episode, we dive into the power of “sticky” stories - those memorable, relatable stories that resonate deeply with audiences. Seth shares practical tips for making your storytelling more authentic, using sensory details to captivate listeners, and building trust with donors through podcasts and speaking opportunities. In this episode: [02:43] Seth Donlin, evil mastermind? [07:51] The neuroscience behind why stories bond us [10:50] Why everyday stories are more relatable than “big” dramatic ones [16:00] What makes a story “sticky” and memorable [17:48] Using sensory details to draw your audience in [23:02] Authenticity, honesty, and storytelling in the age of AI [28:19] Why podcast guesting is a powerful tool for nonprofit leaders [36:27] Building confidence to share your story as a podcast guest [39:57] Personal vs.