Rebel in the Writer’s Room with Joel Novoa
The RebelRebel Podcast
“I couldn’t afford a Plan B. It was all or nothing.” In this episode, Michael Dargie sits down with Venezuelan-American filmmaker Joel Novoa, a passionate storyteller whose journey winds through political unrest, deep personal reflection, and a relentless pursuit of creative expression. This episode is sponsored by my new book , helping you find, shape, and share your story with the world. Joel shares how his early life in Venezuela shaped his worldview, teaching him to move forward even when everything around him felt stuck. With both a legal background and a master’s in...
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Villains, Rogues, and Heroes of NYC
The RebelRebel Podcast
“If you want to create change, do it. Don’t wait for permission.” In this episode of The RebelRebel Podcast, host Michael Dargie sits down with Rebecca Bratspies, a law professor, author, and environmental justice advocate, to explore the fascinating and often overlooked history of New York City’s place names. Her book, Naming Gotham: The Villains, Rogues, and Heroes Behind New York Place Names, reveals the incredible (and sometimes shocking) stories behind the names of streets, bridges, and parks in NYC. This episode is sponsored by my new book , helping you find, shape, and share...
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Slow Trains and Big Ideas
The RebelRebel Podcast
“You have to be an advocate for curiosity.” In this episode of The RebelRebel Podcast, host Michael Dargie welcomes back Lou Maxon, a creative powerhouse whose journey spans branding, architecture, and the fascinating world of trains. Lou shares insights from his recent travels to Japan, where he immersed himself in the culture, history, and craftsmanship that continues to inspire his work. From exploring Komiko Art House to visiting a hidden model railroad museum in Yokohama, his experiences reinforced the idea that the best bets in life and work are the long ones. This episode is...
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One Golden Nugget For Creative Rebels
The RebelRebel Podcast
“There’s never a perfect time. Just begin.” In this episode of The RebelRebel Podcast, host Michael Dargie welcomes Steven Foster, the founder of One Golden Nugget, to share his remarkable journey through entrepreneurship, personal struggle, and self-discovery. From sleeping in his office during lockdown to creating a global platform that collects and shares wisdom nuggets, Steven’s story is as inspiring as it is humbling. This episode is sponsored by my new book , helping you find, shape, and share your story with the world. Steven takes listeners back to his early days when his...
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Taking The Fight Forward
The RebelRebel Podcast
“At what age should I stop achieving? At what age should I stop improving?” When most people hit their 50s, they might slow down, lean into comfort, and start looking forward to retirement. Not Stuart Warren Dansby. He did the opposite—he stepped into the ring. In this powerful episode of The RebelRebel Podcast, host Michael Dargie sits down with Stuart to talk about his journey into competitive fighting later in life, a path filled with punches, humility, and the relentless pursuit of personal growth. This episode is sponsored by my new book , helping you find, shape, and share your...
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Success Rooted In Resilience
The RebelRebel Podcast
“The secret hack of life is empathy.” In this gripping episode of The RebelRebel Podcast, Michael Dargie sits down with Anthony McDuffie Jr., a man whose incredible life story is a testament to resilience and redemption. Growing up in South Central Los Angeles during a volatile period, Anthony experienced both the warmth of a loving family and the chaos of a troubled community. When tragedy struck, and his father passed away, Anthony’s life spiraled into rebellion, leading to a gang-affiliated crime and a 25-year prison sentence at the age of 17. This episode is sponsored by my new book...
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Middle Earth, Marketing, and Kiwi Birds
The RebelRebel Podcast
“Your dreams matter, but it’s your actions that get you there.” In this inspiring episode of The RebelRebel Podcast, Michael Dargie connects with Callum Armstrong, an environmentalist and entrepreneur from New Zealand, whose work bridges the gap between conservation and business. Callum shares his journey from childhood business ventures to becoming the founder of Paste and Publish, a marketing coaching and consulting company, and Conservation Amplified, a charity aimed at raising awareness and funds for environmental protection. This episode is sponsored by my new book BRANDJITSU,...
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From Archaeology To Voiceovers
The RebelRebel Podcast
“You make your own luck by saying yes to opportunities.” Liz Drury’s journey from an academic career in archaeology to becoming a successful voiceover artist is a masterclass in embracing unexpected opportunities. During this episode, Liz shares how a passion for storytelling and a chance experience with media led her to pivot from academia into the creative world of voiceovers. Liz discusses the evolution of the industry, the challenges posed by AI, and the importance of human connection in narration. This episode is sponsored by my new book , helping you find, shape, and share your...
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Bringing Human-Ness Back To Business
The RebelRebel Podcast
“The more technology we embrace, the less we interact on a human level.” In this episode of The RebelRebel Podcast, host Michael Dargie welcomes David Blake, known as the Flip Flop Philosopher. David is a motivational speaker, corporate trainer, and advocate for bringing human-ness back to business in an era increasingly dominated by technology. Blake shares his incredible journey of transformation after a life-altering surgery left him temporarily unable to walk, talk, or even hold himself up. This pivotal moment sparked his unique philosophy—embracing the power of “flip-flopping”...
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The Science Behind Better Water
The RebelRebel Podcast
“We’re energizing water in a way that’s scientifically backed. It’s a game changer for performance and recovery.” In this episode of The RebelRebel Podcast, host Michael Dargie chats with entrepreneur Krish Sidhu, the visionary behind Evolve Co. and its groundbreaking Perform H2O. Broadcasting from Vancouver, Krish walks us through his latest venture in hydration science—a tech-enhanced water that improves absorption using frequency technology. Developed over ten years with $12.5 million in research, this water’s secret lies in a sticker embedded with thousands of nano layers,...
info_outline"We absorb information from narrative, from stories. It’s our operating system."
Host: Michael Dargie, THEREBELREBELPODCAST.COM
Guest: Neal Foard, STORYFIRE.NET
In this episode of The RebelRebel Podcast, host Michael Dean Dargie sits down with storytelling expert Neal Foard. Known for his deep understanding of narrative and its impact on business and personal communication, Neal shares his journey from the advertising world to becoming a renowned storyteller. The conversation delves into Neal's philosophy that the ability to communicate ideas clearly through storytelling is one of the most timeless and valuable skills.
Neal discusses his unique course, StoryFire, which is designed to teach people how to tell better stories. He emphasizes the importance of empathy, listening, and making others the hero of the story. Neal's anecdotes, including one about a life-changing encounter at an auto repair shop, illustrate the power of positivity and human connection.
Throughout the episode, Michael and Neal explore the intricacies of effective storytelling, the significance of the first few seconds in a presentation, and the importance of conflict and contrast in narratives. Neal's insights are not only enlightening but also practical for anyone looking to enhance their storytelling abilities, whether in business or personal interactions.
Cool Things Neal Says
"The most timeless skill you can have in any field is the ability to communicate ideas clearly."
"We absorb information from narrative, from stories. It’s our operating system."
"A truly great presenter is often a very good listener because the best presentations are conversations."
"You don't have to be alone. Your job isn’t to fight your own loneliness, it’s to cure somebody else’s."
"Just being at the typewriter, and yes, you ground out one more sentence, you are already winning because you are in the process, and the process is the victory."
Episode Highlights
- StoryFire Course: Neal talks about his storytelling course, StoryFire, which includes 18 modules on effective storytelling techniques.
- Power of Empathy in Storytelling: Neal emphasizes the importance of empathy and listening in creating compelling stories.
- Personal Anecdotes: Neal shares a touching story about an encounter at an auto repair shop, illustrating the impact of kindness and positivity.
- Contrast and Conflict in Stories: Discussion on how conflict and contrast make stories interesting and memorable.
- Impact of First Impressions: Neal explains why the first few seconds of a presentation are crucial for capturing attention.
- Neal’s Life Philosophy: Neal shares his belief in improving others' lives and how it leads to personal happiness.
- Travel and Connection: Neal expresses his desire to travel across the country, meeting people who have invited him for coffee or a beer.
Links from Episode
Neal Foard Website (https://storyfire.net)
Neal Foard on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/neal-foard)
Neal Foard on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@nealfoard)
Neal Foard on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/nealfoard/)
Neal Foard on TikTok (https://www.tiktok.com/@nealfoard)