Storytelling secrets—fails, lessons, and how to truly connect.

In this powerful episode of Success Reimagined with Amna Shabbir, MD, I sit down with Jeff Polish—founder and executive director of The Monti, a live no-notes storytelling series that has lit up stages across North Carolina since 2008.

We explore how storytelling transforms vulnerability into connection, why personal narratives carry the power to heal and unite communities, and what it takes to step on stage with nothing but your truth. Along the way, Jeff shares the tips, the fails, and the lessons learned from curating thousands of stories.

By the end of this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why storytelling is one of the most powerful tools for connection and meaning-making
• How vulnerability on stage can dissolve shame and inspire courage in others
• The evolution of The Monti from a small community event to a statewide movement
• Practical tips for shaping and delivering a powerful story without notes
• The biggest mistakes storytellers make—and how to recover when things go wrong
• How storytelling can reshape identity, belonging, and leadership in every profession

About Today’s Guest

Jeff Polish is the founder and executive director of The Monti, a live, no-notes, true personal storytelling series based in North Carolina. Since 2008, Jeff has built one of the country’s most impactful storytelling movements, where people from all walks of life share stories that are raw, real, and unforgettable. Named a Hero of the New South by Southern Living and recipient of the Indies Arts Award, Jeff is widely known for helping people transform vulnerability into connection. He holds a PhD in molecular cell biology and has devoted his career to teaching, curating, and celebrating the art of live storytelling.

🌐 Learn more about The Monti: https://themonti.org/
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.monti/
💼 Connect with Jeff: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-polish-11902b10/

About the Host

Dr. Amna Shabbir, MD, NBC-HWC, CPC is a Dual Board-Certified Physician, TEDx Speaker, with advanced training in Integrative Well-being, Performance, and Leadership Development. She speaks, coaches, and consults on Perfectionism, Sustainable Success, and the well-being of High Achievers.

Connect with Dr. Shabbir:
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.amnashabbir/

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amna-shabbir-md/

🌍 Book Her to Speak: https://www.dramnashabbir.com/Speaking
🌐 No Cost Application - Join the Perfectionism Project Collective: http://perfectionism-project.com/

❌ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical or therapeutic advice. The views expressed are personal and do not reflect those of any employer or institution.

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