How Storytelling Shapes Can Transform Your Podcast
Storytelling isn’t just a buzzword - it’s the scaffolding that turns scattered thoughts into compelling content. In part two of our storytelling series on Showmakers, Ed Barker digs into the practical side: how to use narrative “shapes” to structure your episodes so they’re more engaging, more memorable, and less prone to that business-podcast plague - rambling.
Why Story Shapes Matter
Think of story shapes like blueprints. They don’t lock you in, but they give you something to build around. When you apply a shape, you’re giving your listeners a clear arc to follow. They feel guided rather than lost, and your message lands with more impact.
Here are five shapes you can start using right away:
1. The Hero’s Journey
Joseph Campbell’s classic arc - familiar from Star Wars and Pixar - works brilliantly in interviews. Start with the “normal world,” bring in a challenge, explore resistance, then highlight growth and transformation. It turns a founder’s backstory or a customer’s testimonial into an emotional journey.
2. Before–After–Bridge
Straight out of marketing playbooks, this one is simple and effective. Perfect for case studies, customer stories, or even solo episodes where you want to show change in action.
Before: the frustration or pain point.
After: the success or transformation.
Bridge: how you got from A to B.
3. The Mountain
A favorite in documentaries. Start with a goal, stack up obstacles, raise the stakes, and finally arrive at a resolution. This shape builds suspense and keeps listeners hooked, especially if your podcast covers campaigns, launches, or product journeys.
4. List with a Twist
Everyone loves a good list - but what makes it memorable is weaving in a personal or emotional thread. Deliver your value up front, then reveal something deeper at the end. It’s a great way to add voice and connection to thought-leadership episodes.
5. Spark and Expansion
Kick things off with a surprising stat, provocative statement, or unexpected moment (the spark). Then broaden it out: why does it matter, what does it reveal, how does it apply? This is tailor-made for idea-driven podcasts where you want to sound sharp, reflective, and smart.
Choosing the Right Shape
Ask yourself three questions before recording:
What transformation or arc is present here?
Is the story about a person, an idea, a problem, or a moment?
What will keep my listener emotionally and intellectually engaged?
The right structure helps you decide where to start, when to build tension, and how to land a satisfying resolution.
Repetition Builds Trust
If your listeners start to notice your patterns, that’s not a weakness - it’s a strength. Familiarity creates confidence. It tells your audience: this show will always take me on a journey.
The Takeaway
Story shapes aren’t rigid rules. They’re tools to help you create stronger, more resonant episodes. Next time you sit down to plan, don’t just bullet out questions - ask: what shape does this story want to take?
And if you’d like help designing a show format with story structure baked in, or want a fresh set of eyes on your existing content, I’d love to chat. Drop me a line at hello@1878.studio - strategy sessions with me are always free.
