From Play to Presence: Alan Cohen on Storytelling, Letting Go of Outcomes, and Real Influence (Part 2)

Alan Cohen is back for Part 2, and this time we go deeper into storytelling, influence, and staying playful even in high-stakes work. Alan is an executive coach, TEDx speaker, and author of The Connection Challenge, and he believes our stories shape everything — from how we fundraise to how we lead.

In this episode, we talk about:
• Why letting go of rigid outcomes opens the door for better art and business
• How to log everyday moments so you never run out of stories to share
• The power of triggers, presence, and flow when you’re creating
• Simple steps to start telling stories that actually move people
• Why everyone is an influencer, whether you have 2 followers or 2,000

Alan also shares personal insights about honoring his father’s legacy as a storyteller, what it means to pay attention when the “ping pong ball” moments show up, and how ripple networking creates authentic influence.

This is an inspiring, practical conversation that will help you sharpen your storytelling and see your own influence in a new light.