Welcome back to MOJO: The Meaning of Life and Business! In today’s episode, host Jennifer Glass explores the profound impact of storytelling with Amanda Johnson, widely recognized as the “Story Oracle.” If you’ve ever felt called to write a book—or simply struggled with self-doubt and the voices in your head telling you “you’re not good enough”—this conversation will help you quiet those inner critics and discover the magic of your own story.

Amanda shares how her journey, inspired in part by the Oracle character in The Matrix, led her to empower others to truly own their stories. She discusses the importance of identifying your audience, defining the goal behind your message, and embracing both the triumphs and struggles that make your narrative authentic. You’ll hear memorable examples, from the emotional resonance of a post-9/11 commercial to the behind-the-scenes stories of Broadway performers, illustrating how stories can create deep connection and drive lasting change.

Together, Jennifer Glass and Amanda Johnson walk through the practical elements of crafting a story—like structure, sensory detail, and perspective—whether you’re presenting onstage, marketing a business, or penning your memoir. You’ll discover how sharing the real journey behind your expertise builds trust and opens doors for your readers and listeners to see themselves in your successes.

This episode is packed with actionable insights for entrepreneurs, aspiring authors, public speakers, and anyone who wants to leverage story to communicate, connect, and inspire. Listen in to learn how to break through your hesitation, clarify your message, and begin sharing your story in a way that is impossible to ignore.

About my guest: Amanda Johnson, The Story Oracle, helps individuals transmute their pain into a more magical future using story, writing, and community.

Connect with Amanda on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and on the web at https://the-story-oracle.com.

Check out the #Budweiser 9/11 commercial we mention at https://youtu.be/LyP0JsyvYnA.

Keywords: entrepreneurship, book writing, self-doubt, overcoming fear, storytelling, marketing, story in business, identity, The Matrix oracle, Socratic questioning, personal growth, connecting with audience, emotional connection, advertising, PTSD, 9/11 survivor, fiction writing, sensory details, perspective in writing, character development, neurological impact of story, public speaking, trust building, testimonials, story arc, audience engagement, historical storytelling, disruptive storytelling, memoir writing, intention setting, publishing process