Winning Edge

#65 The Middle of a Good Story

• Commonwealth Partners

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Most people know how to start a story. But few know how to keep people listening once they’re in it. 

In this episode, we break down what actually makes the middle of a story work, using a Nate Bargatze clip (played in the episode) as the case study.

Key ideas:

  • Why great storytellers rely heavily on dialogue
  • How two or three details can paint an entire scene
  • Why stories move through action and reaction, not timelines
  • The difference between a story and a Wikipedia entry
  • How cause-and-effect keeps listeners engaged

A simple framework to use immediately:

  • Open strong
  • Add dialogue
  • Add a few details
  • Show action then reaction

Good stories are never great the first time. You need to test it, revise it, and tell it again.


[Free PDF Here for Making a Story Using the Tools Discussed Here]

Winning Edge gives you the tools you need to lead and influence in the political and policy arenas. Every other week, Winning Edge releases short (approximately 5-minute) spots—or “snacks”—focused on one of four areas: fundraising, media, policy, or persuasion.

For more, visit our website: www.thecommonwealthpartners.com.