In this episode of Passion Struck, host John R. Miles sits down with Donald Miller, bestselling author and founder of StoryBrand, to explore the transformational power of storytelling. They discuss the release of Building a StoryBrand 2.0 and how leaders can use narrative frameworks to connect, inspire, and drive action. Donald reveals how storytelling applies not just in marketing, but in family, community, and self-leadership.
Together, they dive into Donald’s personal practices—like writing a eulogy, crafting a family mission, and fighting loneliness through intentional community. This episode goes beyond business advice—it’s about reclaiming your story to live a more intentional and impactful life.
Get ready for eye-opening insights that will help you craft a story that captivates, connects, and inspires action!
“Technology changes, but storytelling remains the most effective way to influence people.”
DONALD MILLER
The Power of Storytelling: How to Make People Care About You
What if the key to influence, connection, and success lies in the way you tell your story? In this episode, Donald Miller unpacks the power of storytelling in every aspect of life—from business and politics to personal growth and relationships. He explores how narratives shape our identity, why communities thrive on shared stories, and how embracing a hero’s mindset can transform the way others perceive you. Donald also discusses the role of media, AI, and branding in crafting compelling messages that truly resonate. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, leader, or someone seeking deeper connections, this conversation will change how you communicate your purpose.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode With Donald Miller:
- The secret to making people care – Why people naturally engage with stories and how to apply this to your life and business.
- Be a hero, not a victim – How shifting your mindset from struggle to strength can transform your personal and professional journey.
- The impact of storytelling in politics and media – How narratives are used to shape public opinion and influence beliefs.
- Building intentional communities – Why loneliness is on the rise and how shared stories can create stronger connections.
- AI’s role in branding and messaging – How artificial intelligence is revolutionizing storytelling and what it means for the future of marketing.
- Practical steps to implement StoryBrand principles – How to craft a clear and compelling message that captivates your audience.
WHY IS THIS EPISODE WITH DONALD MILLER A MUST-LISTEN?
This episode goes beyond traditional branding and marketing—it’s a masterclass in human connection. Donald Miller reveals how storytelling isn’t just for businesses; it’s the foundation of relationships, influence, and success. If you want to be heard, understood, and valued, learning how to tell your story effectively is non-negotiable. Whether you’re a leader, entrepreneur, or someone looking to create meaningful connections, this episode will provide the tools and mindset shifts you need to make a lasting impact.
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Donald Miller on the Power of Story: How Clarity Transforms Lives and Businesses
In an era dominated by distraction, disconnection, and digital overload, clarity isn’t just a business advantage—it’s a life necessity. Few understand this better than Donald Miller, bestselling author of Building a StoryBrand and the mind behind StoryBrand 2.0, the newly released edition that blends timeless storytelling principles with cutting-edge tools like AI to help individuals and organizations clarify their message.
But as I discovered during our Passion Struck conversation, Donald’s work reaches far beyond the boardroom. At its heart, it’s about helping people step out of confusion and into intentional lives—lives where they know who they are, what they stand for, and how to connect meaningfully with others.
“If you don’t use story, you have a very low chance of anybody engaging your ideas,” Donald told me. “But it’s more than that—story helps you make sense of your own life. It brings structure to your identity.”
Clarity Begins with Story
At the foundation of Miller’s StoryBrand framework is the idea that people tune out when they don’t see how information applies to their survival or flourishing. The human brain daydreams nearly 30% of the time unless it’s engaged in a story. This insight has staggering implications—not just for businesses trying to market products, but for all of us navigating life without a clear personal narrative.
Donald shared how he created a personal “brand script” for his life, applying the same storytelling structure to define who he is as a father, husband, friend, and leader. That script gives him daily clarity—and helps him make intentional decisions aligned with his values.
“Every day I put something on the plot,” he said. “When I come home, the phone goes down, and I’m fully present with my wife and daughter. That’s part of the story I’m writing.”
Loneliness: A Villain in Our Collective Narrative: One of the most powerful parts of our conversation focused on loneliness—not as a personal failure but as a societal epidemic.
“Loneliness is spiritual starvation,” Donald said. “It’s a warning light on your dashboard telling you something essential is missing.”
He doesn’t just diagnose the problem—he offers a path forward. In Nashville, Donald helped form a men’s group that gathers regularly for connection, vulnerability, and support. From cigar chats to sharing life lessons, these intentional communities become sacred spaces where mattering is restored. Donald’s advice is simple: if you can’t find a community, create one. Invite a few people to breakfast once a month. Be consistent. Over time, bonds will form, and lives will change.
Storytelling as a Weapon Against Cynicism: Donald also spoke about how story has historically been used, both for good and evil. From Churchill’s inspiring wartime rhetoric to Hitler’s manipulative propaganda, the stakes of storytelling have never been higher.
“All the bombs, the atrocities—those started with words,” he said. “We need to understand narrative so we can use it for good, and recognize when it’s being used to manipulate.”
In a world increasingly shaped by polarized narratives and algorithm-fed outrage, Donald’s message is both timely and timeless: stories shape beliefs, and beliefs shape behavior. Choose yours wisely.
Why Intentionality is the Hero’s Journey: Perhaps the most resonant takeaway was Donald’s framework for personal transformation: vision, milestones, and habits. Using tools like storybrand.ai or even a simple eulogy exercise, we can start shaping our lives the way a writer shapes a story—with an ending in mind and a plan to get there.
“Write your eulogy,” Donald challenged. “Let it be your end zone. If you don’t know where the end zone is, you’re going to get tackled and forget what the game is even about.” In a time when many feel adrift or overwhelmed, that reminder of story as anchor, compass, and call to action could not be more needed.
THANKS, DONALD MILLER
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RESOURCES FROM THE SHOW WITH DONALD MILLER
Please note that some of the links on this page (books, movies, music, etc.) lead to affiliate programs for which The Passion Struck podcast receives compensation. It’s just one of the ways we keep the lights on around here. Thank you so much for being so supportive!
- Donald Miller’s Website
- Donald Miller’s Instagram
- Donald Miller’s LinkedIn
- BUY Donald Miller’s book StoryBrand 2.0: https://a.co/d/32ZwNa7
- Passion Struck Core Value System: https://passionstruck.com/the-passion-struck-core-belief-system/
- Listen to Passion Struck’s interviews with New York Times bestselling authors Gretchen Rubin and Seth Godin.
- Check out Passion Struck’s Episode Starter Packs on Spotify or Passion Struck starter packs to get started with the podcast.
My solo episode on The Science of Healthy Habits
My episode with Ethan Mollick on the Impact of AI on Life and Work
Can’t miss my episode with Robert Breedlove on the Hidden War on Financial Freedom
Catch my interview with Jeffrey C. Walker On: The Criticality of Collaboration in Systems Change
Listen to my interview with Richard Dolan On the Importance of Financial Health in Life
About Today’s Guest, Donald Miller
Donald Miller is a bestselling author, business expert, and the creator of the StoryBrand framework, which has helped thousands of brands clarify their message and grow their influence. As the CEO of Business Made Simple, he teaches leaders how to communicate effectively, build thriving businesses, and create meaningful customer relationships.
His latest book, Building a StoryBrand 2.0: Clarify Your Message So Customers Will Listen, refines and expands on his groundbreaking approach to storytelling in business. A sought-after speaker and entrepreneur, Donald’s insights into branding, leadership, and personal growth have transformed the way people and organizations connect with their audiences.
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