Episode 165 - Story Building Experiences with Bill Blankschaen
With over 4.5 million podcasts out there, most shows keep things short—20 to 40 minutes, in fact. That’s what makes Experience by Design different. Only about 15% of podcasts run an hour or more, but we choose long-form conversations for a reason:
Stories take time.
At ExD, the goal has always been to uncover the humans behind the experiences—what drives them, shapes them, and inspires the work they put into the world. Think of it as a “Humans of Experience Design” approach. As an ethnographer, I know that stories are how we make sense of the world—and how we connect more deeply with each other.
This week’s guest is someone who lives and breathes storytelling: Bill Blankschaen, bestselling author and founder of StoryBuilders. Bill joins me to discuss his book, Your Story Advantage: A Proven Path to Maximize Your Impact, Influence, and Income, and to explore why telling your story might be the most important thing you can do.
In this episode, we dive into:
• Finding purpose by following your passion
Bill shares his path from studying English and History to leading a private school—and ultimately answering the call to help people tell their stories.
• Writing as a journey, not a destination
Together, we unpack how writing can be a powerful tool for discovery, clarity, and personal growth.
• How StoryBuilders guides authors
From business leaders to cultural influencers, Bill’s team helps creators at every stage—whether they have a clear vision or just a spark of a story that needs shaping.
• The rise of hybrid publishing
We talk about why publishing today is more customizable than ever, and why aligning your publishing strategy with your goals is crucial.
• The emerging role of AI in writing
Bill offers a grounded perspective on how AI can support creativity, not replace it—especially when it comes to storytelling.
Bill’s insights highlight a simple truth: your story is one of the most powerful tools you have. And when you tell it well, you can amplify your impact in meaningful ways.
StoryBuilders, LLC
https://mystorybuilders.com
Connect with Bill on LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/billblankschaen/
Bill’s book: Your Story Advantage
https://www.amazon.com/Your-Story-Advantage-Maximize-Influence/dp/1954521901
Episode Intro Music - The Tall Pines - “The Key”
Episode Ending Music - Ketsa - ”Dreaming Days”
