S1/E34: #Beyond Words: The Art of Storytelling Across Cultures with Joanna Sell

Show notes

What if storytelling was more than communication? What if it was the key to empathy, inclusion, and belonging? In this episode, we explore how stories bridge cultures, challenge stereotypes, and create a sense of home anywhere in the world. From the pitfalls of single narratives to the ethics of sharing experiences, discover how listening and telling can transform the way we connect across borders.

Culture Chat In this episode, we welcome Joanna Sell to explore how storytelling goes far beyond simple communication—it's a bridge that connects people, perspectives, and cultures. We dive into Joanna's journey as a cross-cultural coach, her innovative compass model for intercultural storytelling, and why stories are essential tools for empathy and inclusion. Together, we discuss the pitfalls of single narratives, the ethics of sharing experiences, and practical ways to bring storytelling into international work and life. You'll hear fresh insights on how cultural values shape the way stories are told and received, and why listening is just as crucial as telling. Join us as we uncover how stories can help us find belonging, challenge stereotypes, and create a sense of home wherever we are.

✨ What you’ll hear in this episode:

Why storytelling is a bridge between people, perspectives, and cultures
How cultural values influence the way stories are told and received
The risks of single narratives — and how to avoid them
The ethics of sharing experiences across cultures
Practical ways to use storytelling in international work and everyday life
Why listening is just as powerful as telling

About Joanna Sell: Joanna is a certified coach, intercultural trainer, and story facilitator working with executives, multicultural teams, students, and academics. She has led storytelling workshops and visual storytelling courses in India, Malaysia, Japan, and across Europe. Joanna hosts the YouTube podcast OneWordStories, which inspired her latest book The Art of Storytelling Across Cultures. With a background in Intercultural Communication, European Studies, and Art History, she combines her passion for the arts, coaching, and global travel to design rich intercultural and storytelling programs.

Joanna's Book: Sell, Joanna (2024): The Art of Storytelling Across Cultures: Compass of Human Connection.

Intercultural Compass https://interculturalcompass.com

One Word Stories https://onewordstories.net

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/onewordstories_joanna/

The Danger of a Single Story https://www.ted.com/talks/chimamandangoziadichiethedangerofasinglestory

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