How Storytelling Builds Connection on Stage (and in Life)
- Justine Martin
- Oct 16
- 2 min read
Because stories speak the language of the heart.
When I first started speaking, I thought the secret to a powerful presentation was confidence, strong posture, polished delivery, and perfect slides. But I quickly realised that what truly connects people isn’t perfection, it’s storytelling.
Stories are how we make sense of the world. They’re how we connect, how we remember, how we relate. And whether you’re on stage, in business, or simply sharing your journey over a cup of tea, storytelling is the bridge that links one heart to another.
The Magic of Storytelling on Stage
Every time I step onto a stage, I remind myself that audiences don’t want information, they want connection. They want to feel something real.
Facts tell. Stories move.
When I share my journey, the illnesses, the fear, the laughter that came in unexpected places, people see themselves in it. They remember a moment they’ve felt that same fear or found strength in their own storms. That’s the power of storytelling: it turns “me” into “we.”
Authenticity matters more than polish. You don’t need to be dramatic or perfect; you just need to be honest.
Why Stories Stick
Science tells us that our brains are wired for stories. When you tell a story, you activate emotion, empathy, and imagination all at once. People might forget your statistics or slogans, but they’ll always remember how you made them feel.
Stories:
Build trust — because honesty invites honesty.
Inspire action — because people relate to real journeys, not theory.
Create belonging — because shared experience connects us beyond words.
Every great leader, teacher, and speaker understands this truth, that storytelling isn’t a technique. It’s a human instinct.
Connection Beyond the Stage
Storytelling isn’t just for microphones and audiences. It’s for life.
We use stories every day, when we comfort a friend, teach a child, explain an idea, or share a laugh. The moments we’re most open and authentic are often the ones that change relationships, strengthen communities, and remind us we’re not alone.
When you share a story, even a small one, you’re saying, “Here’s a part of me.” And that simple act of vulnerability gives others permission to do the same. That’s where real connection begins.
My Favourite Lesson
After years of speaking, here’s what I know for sure: storytelling isn’t about being centre stage, it’s about shining a light for others.
When you tell your story with courage, you remind others of their own resilience. You help people believe that if you made it through your challenges, they can too.
And that, to me, is the greatest gift we can give, hope.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to be a professional speaker to share your story. You just need to be willing.
Tell the truth. Speak from your heart. Share the moments that shaped you, the raw, the funny, the painful, the profound. Those are the stories that change lives.
Because storytelling doesn’t just connect you to others, it reconnects you to yourself.
Book Justine to speak on resilience, leadership, and the power of storytelling. Contact us here.
Comments