The Storytelling Lab

• Brandon Sanderson’s Simple Storytelling Model that Always Works

  “Think about what your story promises and then ask yourself if you're actually moving toward it.” — Rain BennettTired of overcomplicated storytelling formulas?In this episode, Rain simplifies the process with a three-step model inspired by bestselling fantasy author Brandon Sanderson: Promise, Progress, Payoff. This framework is rooted in classical storytelling principles but designed for clarity and ease—whether you're telling a short story, a brand narrative, or a social media post.Rain breaks down what each step means, how to apply it in your work, and why it's so effective at keeping your audience engaged and emotionally invested. You’ll hear examples from The Lion King, Star Wars, and even YouTube tutorials to show how Promise, Progress, and Payoff show up across formats.If you're feeling overwhelmed by storytelling theory, this episode brings you back to what matters most: clear expectations, forward motion, and satisfying endings.In this episode, you will learn to:Use Promise, Progress, Payoff to guide any story you’re telling, no matter the format or length.Establish clear expectations early to draw your audience in and build trust.Keep your story on track by checking whether each moment is moving the narrative forward.Deliver a satisfying resolution that rewards the time and attention of your audience.Adapt this structure to content of any scale, from brand videos to epic novels.For more storytelling tips and tricks,Visit my website rainbennett.com, orFollow me on TikTok @rainbennett.storyellerFollow me on Twitter @rainbennettFollow me on Instagram @rainbennettFollow me on Facebook @thestorytellinglab Subscribe to my Youtube Channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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• How to Make Indie Filmmaking Sustainable with Erika Arlee and Kristi Ray

  “If you get your timeline pushed back, think of it as another year to make the story better.” — Erika ArleeWhat does it really take to build a sustainable filmmaking career?In this episode, Rain sits down with Erika Arlee and Kristi Ray, the powerhouse duo behind Honey Head Films, to explore how they’ve grown a production company that balances passion, purpose, and profit.They share the story of their debut feature A Song for Imogene, and how they expanded it from a short film into a fully realized, distributed feature while staying true to their vision.Erika and Kristi break down how they built their brand around authentic Southern stories, women filmmakers, and a collaborative, values-driven approach. You’ll learn how they crowdfunded, built community buy-in, and turned obstacles into creative opportunities.If you’re dreaming of turning your passion for film into a business that lasts, this conversation is packed with hard-earned wisdom and inspiration.In this episode, you will learn to:Build an authentic film brand that aligns with your values and attracts the right collaborators.Create momentum around your project by involving your community early and often.Balance client work with creative projects so your passion stays alive while paying the bills.Approach collaboration strategically to find the partners who can help you grow.Treat your indie film like a startup by thinking about your audience and exit strategy from the start.Follow Honey Head Films on:InstagramFacebookOr visit their website HERE!*** A Song for Imogene is now on Amazon Prime!For more storytelling tips and tricks,Visit my website rainbennett.com, orFollow me on TikTok @rainbennett.storyellerFollow me on Twitter @rainbennettFollow me on Instagram @rainbennettFollow me on Facebook @thestorytellinglab Subscribe to my Youtube Channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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• Turn Your Content Into a Show They Can't Stop Watching with Shawn Walchef

  “We make our media the same way we make our barbecue, and that’s low and slow.” — Shawn WalchefHow do you run a business and still find time to create content? In this episode, Rain sits down with Shawn Walchef, owner of Cali BBQ and founder of Cali BBQ Media, to explore how storytelling and content creation aren’t distractions—they’re growth engines. Shawn shares how he went from struggling restaurateur to building a thriving media company on top of his barbecue brand, and why every business today needs to think like a media company.They break down how to overcome the fear of looking foolish, why quantity and speed matter more than perfection, and how to turn your phone into your most valuable tool. Shawn also gives practical tips on stacking content, building a team, and staying consistent without burning out. If you’ve ever wondered how to juggle business and content—or whether it’s worth the effort—this episode will change your mindset.In this episode, you will learn to:See content as a growth tool, not a chore and shift your mindset around its value.Overcome the fear of looking foolish online so you can finally start creating.Focus on quantity and consistency first because that’s what leads to real quality.Use simple tools like your phone to build a media presence without expensive gear.Stack and schedule your content so that your “show” runs even when you’re busy.Follow Shawn on:LinkedInInstagramOr visit his website HERE!For more storytelling tips and tricks,Visit my website rainbennett.com, orFollow me on TikTok @rainbennett.storyellerFollow me on Twitter @rainbennettFollow me on Instagram @rainbennettFollow me on Facebook @thestorytellinglab Subscribe to my Youtube Channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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• Save the Cat (and Your Story) with Blake Snyder’s Beat Sheet

  “Your story comes from your heart, and then you structure it to deliver it in the best way.” — Rain BennettEver hear the term "story beat" and wonder what it really means? In this episode, Rain breaks down the mysterious middle ground between scenes and acts—the story beat. And he uses Blake Snyder’s popular (and sometimes polarizing) Save the Cat beat sheet to do it.You’ll get a clear explanation of what a beat is, how the 15-beat structure works, and why it's helped thousands of storytellers—from screenwriters to brand strategists—craft more compelling narratives. Rain walks you through the full beat sheet, explains how it maps to The Lion King, and shares tips on how to use this structure for your own business, brand, or film storytelling. If you’ve been overwhelmed by big frameworks, this episode will give you a clear, practical tool to work with.In this episode, you will learn to:Define what a story beat is and understand how it fits between scenes and acts.Use Blake Snyder’s 15-beat sheet to outline or revise your story with more clarity.Apply structural thinking without becoming rigid or formulaic.Break down familiar films like The Lion King to see how classic stories follow this shape.Build emotional momentum in your stories by anchoring each beat to character decisions. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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• The Key to Building a Creative Career That Actually Lasts with Stewart Cohen

  “People want to feel heard. If you don’t create a collaborative space, they won’t come back.” — Stewart CohenHow do you build a long, successful creative career when you are the brand? In this episode, Rain sits down with director and visual storyteller Stewart Cohen to explore the balance between artistry and entrepreneurship. With decades of experience in commercial production, photography, and branded storytelling, Stewart has mastered the dance of creating great work while sustaining strong client relationships—and still making time for passion projects.They discuss how personal work often leads to professional opportunities, the importance of trust and collaboration, and how to get authentic performances from real people. Stewart shares how his curiosity drives his creativity, why connection is the true metric for success, and why making stuff just for fun might be the smartest business decision you ever make. If you're a storyteller trying to make it in a noisy world, this episode is packed with hard-earned wisdom.In this episode, you will learn to:Balance creative work and client relationships by focusing on trust, collaboration, and communication.Use curiosity and personal projects to fuel professional growth and keep your creative spark alive.Make non-actors feel comfortable on camera by creating a safe, relaxed environment that encourages vulnerability.Understand how story-first branded content builds stronger emotional engagement than traditional marketing.Recognize the long game of creative careers and why real relationships outperform short-term wins. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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