319. Open the Portal: The Simple Science Behind Impactful Storytelling
About this episode
Troy Campbell discusses the psychology behind storytelling and how to make communication more impactful.
“Causality is this foundation that really allows us to anchor what we’re trying to do when we’re telling stories.” Storytelling doesn’t require a dramatic narrative. For behavioral scientist and former Disney Imagineer Troy Campbell , even everyday information can become a story when we explain the “because” behind it, connecting what happened to why it matters. In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart , Campbell joins Matt Abrahams to unpack the psychology behind storytelling and persuasion. From structuring ideas around goals, insights, and actions to creating “portals” that prepare audiences for what comes next, he shares practical ways to make communication more relevant, persuasive, and memorable. Takeaways: Stories are built on cause and change. Connecting information through the “because” behind it turns isolated facts into a narrative that helps audiences understand why something happened and why it matters. Start by preparing your audience for what comes next. Effective “portals” create anticipation, shift people into the right mindset, and provide just enough context to help them engage with your message. Activity: Create a portal. Choose an upcoming meeting or…
More episodes of Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques
- 322. Talk Back: Why Arguing With Yourself Can Help You Flourish
- 321. The Respect Effect: What Stereotype Threat Teaches Us About Communication
- 320. Quick Thinks: How to Prepare, Stand Out, and Ace Your Interview
- 318. Quick Thinks: Network Smarter and Make Better Connections
- 317. Plot Twist: The Second Story Hiding Inside Every Great Pitch
- 316. The Persuasion Equation: Grab Attention & Make Your Message Meaningful
Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques podcast page.