Description

When the world seems so deeply divided, how can we step across barriers and preconceived notions to build avenues for conversation and collaboration? In this episode, Kaitlin Yarnall, Chief Storytelling Officer at National Geographic, argues that storytelling could hold the key.  National Geographic has become synonymous with eye-opening, awe-inspiring, perspective-shifting storytelling. They have been honing the craft for well over a century, telling stories that have helped to alter perceptions, build coalitions, pass legislation, and ignite movements. Kaitlin shares the components for effective storytelling, from the narrative elements to tapping into the right emotions and having a clear understanding of your audience and how to reach them. At S2G, we consider storytelling to be one of the key ingredients for the climate transition. This episode so beautifully illuminates the potential of storytelling and how to tap into its power to move audiences and bring more people into the conversation.

Key Topics: 

1. Tapping Into Awe Instead of Fear: Kaitlin shares some of the research behind which emotions drive people to action. While fear, shame, and anger can motivate someone to act in the short term, emotions like awe, wonder, and hope can get people to think and act differently in the long term. 
2. Translating Science to Storytelling: According to Kaitlin, we need to bring characters into science stories, get creative with communicating scale, and maybe even do a little reframing of the scientific method. 
3. Knowing your audience: As Kaitlin says, “The audience is everything.” It is not enough to say you are creating something “for the public.” We have to have a very clear understanding of who we’re speaking to and what they will relate to. 
4. Communicating about Climate: Kaitlin has a very simple message for those of us trying to communicate and educate about climate: We have to try harder. Polar bears don’t move everyone. We have to reframe the conversation based on what different communities care about. 
5. Storytelling Tips and Tricks: Find the visuals, know the audience, and don’t forget the humor. 

This content is for informational purposes only, should not be taken as legal, business, tax or investment advice, or be used to evaluate any investment or security, and is not directed at any investor or potential investor in any investment vehicle sponsored by S2G. Investing involves risk, including the risk of loss. Specific companies mentioned in this podcast are for educational purposes and should not be construed as an endorsement of any kind. S2G holds positions in the companies referenced, but this podcast is for information purposes only and is not intended to promote any such company. All views of the guests on this podcast are solely their opinions and do not reflect the opinions of S2G. Any past performance discussed is not indicative of future results. Chuck Templeton is a Managing Partner at S2G Investments. All Chuck's views, and the views of the guests on this podcast, are solely their opinions and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of S2G. The views expressed herein are opinions based on certain assumptions and subject to change.

For more important information, please see s2ginvestments.com/disclosures.