My guest this week is a former lawyer turned empathy guru, and she's here to share her secret sauce for creating a more connected workplace: storytelling.

Dr. Ann Kowal Smith and I explore how stories aren't just for entertainment—they're powerful tools for challenging our assumptions, widening our circles of empathy, and sparking those "aha" moments that bring us closer to our colleagues. We delve into the magic of literature, from short stories to essays, and how they create safe spaces for us to share and grow together.

Imagine expanding your imagination, seeing the world through different lenses, and finding common ground in the most unexpected places. That's the power of storytelling in action, and Dr. Smith is here to guide us through it. It feels counterintuitive, but we can make our workplaces more ‘real’ through fiction. 

Shownotes

See more at http://www.zoerouth.com/podcast/leadership-stories-ann-kowal-smith

Key Moments 

Planet Zoë: Zoë has swapped skiing for running as she settles back into her routine, plus exciting developments as the launch of Olympus Bound gets ever nearer. If you would like to get an advance eBook copy and write a review before the launch, Zoë would be thrilled! You can do so here.

Building a More Empathetic Workplace (00:02:26)

Zoë introduces the topic of building a more empathetic and connected workplace.

Using Stories to Build Connection and Empathy (00:03:41)

Dr Ann Kowal Smith discusses using stories to build connection and empathy in the workplace.

The Genesis of the Work (00:05:44)

Dr Smith shares the genesis of using stories to create genuine, engaging conversations in the workplace.

Encouraging Engagement with Literature (00:07:01)

Dr Smith discusses overcoming resistance to engaging in literature-based conversations in the workplace.

The Power of Stories to Expand Imagination (00:13:35)

Dr Smith explains the power of stories to expand imagination and push people beyond their comfort zones.

Deriving Personal Connections from Stories (00:16:51)

Dr Smith and Zoë discuss how individuals derive personal connections and lessons from stories.

Using Written Word for Interpretation (00:19:04)

Dr Smith explains the use of written word to allow participants to visualise and interpret stories without external influence.

The Importance of Stories in Unpacking Assumptions (00:20:01)

Discussion on how stories can reveal cultural biases and unpack assumptions.

Curating Stories for Building Connections (00:21:37)

The process of curating stories with specific parameters to spark meaningful conversations.

Duration and Frequency of Reflection Point Assignments (00:25:38)

The ideal duration and frequency of sessions with a team for building the muscle of connection and empathy.

Facilitation and Structure of Conversations (00:28:27)

The facilitation methodology, emphasising process-oriented facilitation and the importance of open-ended conversations.

The Intersection of Fiction and Workplace Practices (00:38:27)

Zoë and Dr Smith discuss the integration of fiction into workplace practices and its impact on leadership and connection.

The Power of Stories in the Workplace (00:39:50)

Using stories to unite communities and improve workplace collaboration.