It was a pleasure to be on Julia's podcast about storytelling in the age of AI. Check out her show description below and subscribe to her show!

AI can’t feel. And that’s exactly why your story matters.
What do you get when a media strategist and and lifelong storyteller with a doctorate in clinical psychology meets an AI consultant?

A very real conversation about the limits of AI — and the power of human narrative.
🎙️ I had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Rod Berger PsyD, whose upcoming book The Narrative Edge dives deep into the stories we live, tell, and often forget to own.

We talked about:
• Why AI will never write the real origin story of your brand
• How storytelling influences leadership, team dynamics, and innovation
• Why founders should stop hiding behind features—and start leading with meaning
• What happens when your narrative gets lost in templated content and prompt loops
And yes - we laughed, we went deep, and Rod dropped insights I’ll be thinking about for a long time.

Thank you, Rod, for this ace interview and for reminding us why authentic storytelling still cuts through all the noise.

Book Authoring Webinar mentioned in this episode: https://forms.gle/H4AaqdQkbgwWCdDR6

WATCH this episode on YouTube

In this episode, Michael speaks with Dr. Rod Berger, an expert in storytelling and author of 'The Narrative Edge.' They discuss the importance of authentic storytelling, the writing process, and the challenges faced by first-time authors. Dr. Berger shares insights on finding inspiration, managing time for writing, and overcoming writer's block, emphasizing that everyone has a unique story to tell. In this conversation, Dr. Rod Berger discusses the importance of authenticity in writing, the challenges of the writing process, and his experiences with publishing. He emphasizes the need for writers to find their unique voice and stay true to themselves, as well as the significance of storytelling in connecting with audiences. Dr. Berger shares insights on navigating the publishing world, the role of editors, and the importance of understanding one's own story and its impact. He concludes with advice for aspiring authors on being authentic and the value of storytelling in all aspects of life.

TOPICS

• Everybody has a story.
• The essence of storytelling is universal.
• Writing can be a challenge, but it's rewarding.
• Finding time to write requires flexibility.
• Inspiration can come from everyday life.
• You can write chapters independently.
• Give yourself permission to explore ideas.
• Writer's block is often about lack of inspiration.
• Life experiences can fuel creativity.
• Each person's writing journey is unique. Writer's block often stems from not being authentic.
• Finding your voice is crucial for effective writing.
• Public speaking experiences can shape writing style.
• Authenticity leads to better audience reception.
• The writing process can be daunting but rewarding.
• Initial feedback from editors can boost confidence.
• Daily routines can help manage the writing process.
• Understanding the publishing landscape is essential.
• Storytelling is a powerful tool in all areas of life.
• Not everyone needs to write a book, but everyone has a story.

BOOKS:

The Narrative Edge - Authentic Storytelling That Meets The Moment (Wiley)

I'd like to thank Michael for a wonderful interview and for his passion for writing and educating youth in a powerfully engaging manner. Here is a bit more about his show and how you can continue to learn from his work.

Change the Narrative

By Michael Hernandez

Travel with award-winning educator, author, and international speaker, Michael Hernandez, as he interviews innovation leaders and searches for answers about how to innovate in work, life, and culture.

Find out more about Producer and Host, Michael Hernandez on Linked In: bit.ly/MichaelHernandezLinkedIn and on Instagram: @Changing.The.Narrative

Get more inspiring ideas every month--sign up for our free email newsletter: bit.ly/ChngNarSignup

For those who follow my work, I will be sharing podcast shows that feature interviews with me about my new book, The Narrative Edge: Authentic Storytelling That Meets the Moment (Wiley).

I highly recommend people check out Sean's wonderfully original and raw podcast, The Principal Liner Notes Podcast. You can also connect with Sean on LinkedIn.

Here are the original show notes from my episode with Sean:
In this inspiring episode, I’m joined by the dynamic Dr. Rod Berger—a storyteller, connector, and relentless advocate for the human side of education. Known for his ability to amplify voices that matter in education, business, and mental health, Dr. Berger brings an eclectic perspective shaped by his background in psychology, leadership, and media.

We riff on the power of authentic storytelling, the intersection of education and innovation, and the importance of humanizing school leadership. From his work with Forbes and publications across the globe to his unwavering belief in the power of relationships, Dr. Berger shares personal reflections and professional wisdom that will resonate with every educator and leader.

We also explore Rod's upcoming book with Wiley, The Narrative Edge. Now available for pre-order on Amazon.

Tune in as we explore why vulnerability is a strength, how to lead with empathy in a noisy world, and what it really means to "find your note" in the symphony of leadership.

🔗 Learn more about Dr. Rod Berger: drrodberger.com