Chapter 2: The Up Story

Make Them Forget It's a Talk

So, you've reeled them in with your hook.

Now here comes the part that everyone forgets (even speaking coaches):

You need to make sure people see you as human.

Look, a signature talk can NOT be seen as a lecture.

People's brains and hearts don't like lectures.

They like being involved.

And they LOVE stories.

In your Up Story (which is not necessarily happiness and sunshine) you are going to share the REAL you.

This section is all about crafting an emotional connection and building trust through relatable storytelling.

Here’s why:

Storytelling is The Key to a Connection

Let’s start with what not to do:

Don’t walk on stage and immediately rattle off who you are, how successful you’ve been, or everything the audience can learn from you.

That’s the fastest way to lose them.

Instead, invite them in.

Help them see that you’re just like them — real, relatable, and a little imperfect.

That’s the goal of your Up Story.

(Not necessarily sunshine and rainbows — but something real, lighthearted, and personal.)

This story isn’t about proving your worth.

It’s about building trust.

It’s a chance to share a slice of your life that makes people smile, lean in, and think:

“Okay… I like this person.”

The #1 goal of this section?

Make your audience forget they’re watching a talk.

Make them feel like they’re listening to a friend.

Stuck? Try These Prompts:

If you’re wondering what to share, here are a few places to start:What’s a funny or unexpected story from your childhood?

What happened on your first date?

What’s the best (or weirdest) vacation you’ve ever taken?

When was the last time you laughed so hard you cried?Still stuck? Ask yourself:

“What’s a moment that always gets a good reaction when I tell it to friends?”

The point isn’t to be perfect.

The point is to be you — in the most real, natural, and memorable way.

Because when you show up as your true self, people either love you or… don’t.

But they will remember you. And they will trust you.

Let’s get your story flowing.Grab a sheet of paper.

Set a timer for 2 minutes.

Use the prompts above to brainstorm as many “Up Story” ideas as you can.

Choose your top three — the ones that feel the most like you.Congratulations.

You’ve just cracked open the hearts of your audience — and they’re ready to go on this journey with you.