Why Your Story Isn't Moving People (Even Though It's True)

Why do some speakers captivate a room—while others share powerful experiences that somehow fall flat?

In this episode of the You Are a CEO Podcast, Michael E. Parker interviews Cat Coley, a storytelling and public speaking coach who helps leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals unlock confidence, clarity, and connection through story ownership. This conversation goes beyond storytelling tips and dives into story ownership—the difference between simply recounting events and teaching from transformation. Cat explains why stories don’t move people unless the speaker has fully processed the lesson, shifted perspective, and chosen what the story means.

Michael and Cat unpack how to speak from authenticity without oversharing, how to tell the same story from different angles depending on your audience, and why vulnerability is a choice—not a weakness. They also explore how frameworks emerge from lived experience, helping speakers create connection, confidence, and consistency on stage and in life.If you want to become a stronger speaker, develop executive presence, communicate with confidence, and use your story to inspire action—this conversation will change how you think about storytelling forever.

How to Connect with Cat Coley

catcoley.com | IG handle @therealcatcoley