• Episode 36: 3 things I know to be true from 59 years on this planet
    Apr 29 2026
    What do 21,537 days of living, learning, stumbling, growing and figuring it out teach you?In this episode of The Business of Stories, Susan celebrates her birthday by reflecting on three lessons she knows to be true after 59 years on the planet.Lessons about being seen, judging yourself less harshly, and reframing the stories that hold you back.You’ll discover:Why people aren’t watching, judging or analysing you as much as you thinkThe uncomfortable truth about who IS judging youThe hidden stories running your decisions (especially around money, visibility, and success)Why celebrating who you are is the first step to owning your storyHow one simple reframe can change the way your whole story plays outThe surprisingly simple exercise that will help you see yourself in a completely different lightIf you’re ready to stop judging yourself, own what makes you powerful, and reframe your story in a way that helps you win at life, this episode is a must-listen.If you have a question you would love Susan to answer on the show, please email it (in writing) to susan@thebusinessofstories.comCheck out The Story Source here Storytelling Mastery here Download my Be The Guide Masterclass hereDownload a free copy of The Business of Stories hereAbout your host Susan Payton:When Susan told her ‘ordinary’ story to 1,500 business owners back in 2015, the response from people who resonated with it and felt connected to her as a result of hearing it, blew her away!In fact, that moment completely changed her business - and her life.Susan has since worked with entrepreneurs all over the world, written the international bestselling book, The Business of Stories, hosted the podcast of the same name, and become a leading authority on how to use storytelling to stand out in your industry.Thousands have used her simple framework to share their message with impact, attract ideal clients and grow their business.Susan has also spoken on stages from Brighton to Barcelona, guested on panels and podcasts and run numerous masterclasses, guest expert sessions and workshops, both online and in person.In a world where it’s getting harder and harder to be heard above the noise, Susan is passionate about showing business owners how to clearly articulate their value and speak to the right people, at the right time, with a simple message and a great story.See my bio here And my speaker page hereConnect with Susan:Email: susan@thebusinessofstories.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanpaytonuk/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SusanPaytonUK/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebusinessofstories/Produced by Winter Audio.Mentioned in this episode:The Story Source
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    20 mins
  • Episode 35: Meltdowns and milestones - the stories behind SnoozeShade with Cara Sayer
    Apr 22 2026
    Behind every business are the stories of what it took to get there.In this episode of The Business of Stories, Susan has an honest and unfiltered conversation with Cara Sayer, founder of SnoozeShade, about what scaling really looks like behind the scenes - from product creation and purpose-led growth to overwhelm, setbacks and having her product ripped off by a major supermarket.You’ll discover:The story that kept SnoozeShade at #1 for 16 yearsWhy ‘selling more’ is the wrong goal (and what to focus on instead)How your values, standards and non-negotiables can become a powerful part of your storyThe uncomfortable truth about building something that lastsThe difference between a product - and a brand people believe inThe simple but powerful question to help you uncover the stories you could be telling nowIn this honest and thought-provoking episode, Susan reflects on how Cara’s story shows what’s possible when you stay anchored in what matters, and why the stories you share as you grow can become some of your most powerful.If you have a question you would love Susan to answer on the show, please email it (in writing) to susan@thebusinessofstories.comCheck out The Story Source here Storytelling Mastery here Download my Be The Guide Masterclass hereDownload a free copy of The Business of Stories hereAbout your host Susan Payton:When Susan told her ‘ordinary’ story to 1,500 business owners back in 2015, the response from people who resonated with it and felt connected to her as a result of hearing it, blew her away!In fact, that moment completely changed her business - and her life.Susan has since worked with entrepreneurs all over the world, written the international bestselling book, The Business of Stories, hosted the podcast of the same name, and become a leading authority on how to use storytelling to stand out in your industry.Thousands have used her simple framework to share their message with impact, attract ideal clients and grow their business.Susan has also spoken on stages from Brighton to Barcelona, guested on panels and podcasts and run numerous masterclasses, guest expert sessions and workshops, both online and in person.In a world where it’s getting harder and harder to be heard above the noise, Susan is passionate about showing business owners how to clearly articulate their value and speak to the right people, at the right time, with a simple message and a great story.See my bio here And my speaker page hereConnect with Susan:Email: susan@thebusinessofstories.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanpaytonuk/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SusanPaytonUK/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebusinessofstories/Produced by Winter Audio.Mentioned in this episode:The Story Source
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    29 mins
  • Episode 34: A 90-Day Plan to Turn Your Stories Into Sales
    Apr 15 2026
    If you’ve ever felt like you’re showing up, doing the posts, writing the emails … and still not seeing the results you want, this episode of The Business of Stories is for you.Susan walks you through her 90-day roadmap to turn your stories into a powerful, consistent sales system.From building strong foundations with your core story and ideal client, to refining your message, creating aligned content, and developing a clear sales strategy - this episode shows you how to bring it all together in a way that feels natural, authentic, and effective.You’ll discover:How your story is more than something you share, it’s something that runs through your entire businessWhy knowing your customer’s real story changes everything - and what happens when you don’tHow the golden threads that link your story to your ideal clients are so much more than your ‘I was where you are now’ storyHow creating a clear, simple message that people instantly understand (and remember) is like writing a songThe most important story your website should tellWhy random content could be killing your sales - and how to fix thatThe importance of having a sales strategy behind your stories, content, and visibilityThis super practical and empowering episode will help you create clarity in your messaging, confidence in your content, and a strategy that supports consistent, story-led sales.If you have a question you would love Susan to answer on the show, please email it (in writing) to susan@thebusinessofstories.comCheck out The Story Source here Storytelling Mastery here Download my Be The Guide Masterclass hereDownload a free copy of The Business of Stories hereAbout your host Susan Payton:When Susan told her ‘ordinary’ story to 1,500 business owners back in 2015, the response from people who resonated with it and felt connected to her as a result of hearing it, blew her away!In fact, that moment completely changed her business - and her life.Susan has since worked with entrepreneurs all over the world, written the international bestselling book, The Business of Stories, hosted the podcast of the same name, and become a leading authority on how to use storytelling to stand out in your industry.Thousands have used her simple framework to share their message with impact, attract ideal clients and grow their business.Susan has also spoken on stages from Brighton to Barcelona, guested on panels and podcasts and run numerous masterclasses, guest expert sessions and workshops, both online and in person.In a world where it’s getting harder and harder to be heard above the noise, Susan is passionate about showing business owners how to clearly articulate their value and speak to the right people, at the right time, with a simple message and a great story.See my bio here And my speaker page hereConnect with Susan:Email: susan@thebusinessofstories.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanpaytonuk/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SusanPaytonUK/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebusinessofstories/Produced by Winter Audio.Mentioned in this episode:The Story Source
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    32 mins
  • Episode 33: EASTER FUN 2 - More questions from my family
    Apr 8 2026
    Need some more inspiration for stories you could share over Easter? In this light-hearted Easter episode of The Business of Stories, Susan pulls more unexpected questions from the hat - and uses them as a springboard for honest reflection, personal insight, and easy content ideas you can borrow for yourself.From talking openly about ADHD to the pressure to do business like everyone else, and what people often assume from the outside looking in, this episode is a reminder that simple questions can uncover stories, memories and insights you might never have thought to shareYou’ll discover:The powerful ADHD metaphor that helped Susan understand herself in a completely different wayThe importance of focusing on the ‘marbles’ that matter most - and letting go of the guilt around the ones you dropWhy letting go of perfection - at home and in business - can create more ease, energy and self-compassionHow to stop measuring yourself against other people’s way of doing business and find what works for youThis honest and uplifting episode will help you see that even the most casual questions can lead to stories that deeply resonate, reveal your unique blend, and help your audience understand you in a more human way.If you have a question you would love Susan to answer on the show, please email it (in writing) to susan@thebusinessofstories.comCheck out Storytelling Mastery here Download my Be The Guide Masterclass hereDownload a free copy of The Business of Stories hereAbout your host Susan Payton:When Susan told her ‘ordinary’ story to 1,500 business owners back in 2015, the response from people who resonated with it and felt connected to her as a result of hearing it, blew her away!In fact, that moment completely changed her business - and her life.Susan has since worked with entrepreneurs all over the world, written the international bestselling book, The Business of Stories, hosted the podcast of the same name, and become a leading authority on how to use storytelling to stand out in your industry.Thousands have used her simple framework to share their message with impact, attract ideal clients and grow their business.Susan has also spoken on stages from Brighton to Barcelona, guested on panels and podcasts and run numerous masterclasses, guest expert sessions and workshops, both online and in person.In a world where it’s getting harder and harder to be heard above the noise, Susan is passionate about showing business owners how to clearly articulate their value and speak to the right people, at the right time, with a simple message and a great story.See my bio here And my speaker page hereConnect with Susan:Email: susan@thebusinessofstories.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanpaytonuk/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SusanPaytonUK/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebusinessofstories/Produced by Winter Audio.Mentioned in this episode:The Story Source Your go to source of stories, ideas, examples and content for your emails, sales, launches and visibility. LIFETIME access for the first 100 people. Buy once. Get LIFETIME access. www.thebusinessofstories.com/source
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    30 mins
  • Episode 32: EASTER FUN 1: Questions from my family
    Apr 1 2026
    Need some inspiration for stories you could share? Or easy content to post over Easter? In this episode of The Business of Stories, Susan lets her family choose some topics for her to discuss - unplanned, unscripted, and surprisingly revealing. Along the way, she shows you just how many stories you already have … and how quickly they appear when you stop overthinking.You’ll discover:Why relaxing can feel impossible when your mind never fully switches off (and what that might be trying to tell you)How your environment shapes your nervous system - and why noticing the stars, seasons and cycles matters more than you thinkThe advice Susan would give herself at 15, 30 and 45 - and what it reveals about trusting your own timingWhy you never have to stay on a path that no longer feels aligned, even if you’ve invested years in itThe surprising days Susan would go back to - from a lost password to a wedding dance nobody filmedHow one simple question can unlock a story that makes people feel closer to youThis light, honest episode is a reminder that storytelling isn’t something you ‘create’” out of thin air - it’s something you notice. In the everyday. In the memories. In the moments you laugh about. In the reflections you didn’t realise mattered. And when you share those with a little intention, people don’t just learn about you … they feel connected to you.If you have a question you would love Susan to answer on the show, please email it (in writing) to susan@thebusinessofstories.comCheck out Storytelling Mastery here Download my Be The Guide Masterclass hereDownload a free copy of The Business of Stories hereAbout your host Susan Payton:When Susan told her ‘ordinary’ story to 1,500 business owners back in 2015, the response from people who resonated with it and felt connected to her as a result of hearing it, blew her away!In fact, that moment completely changed her business - and her life.Susan has since worked with entrepreneurs all over the world, written the international bestselling book, The Business of Stories, hosted the podcast of the same name, and become a leading authority on how to use storytelling to stand out in your industry.Thousands have used her simple framework to share their message with impact, attract ideal clients and grow their business.Susan has also spoken on stages from Brighton to Barcelona, guested on panels and podcasts and run numerous masterclasses, guest expert sessions and workshops, both online and in person.In a world where it’s getting harder and harder to be heard above the noise, Susan is passionate about showing business owners how to clearly articulate their value and speak to the right people, at the right time, with a simple message and a great story.See my bio here And my speaker page hereConnect with Susan:Email: susan@thebusinessofstories.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanpaytonuk/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SusanPaytonUK/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebusinessofstories/Produced by Winter Audio.Mentioned in this episode:The Story Source Your go to source of stories, ideas, examples and content for your emails, sales, launches and visibility. LIFETIME access for the first 100 people. Buy once. Get LIFETIME access. www.thebusinessofstories.com/source
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    28 mins
  • Episode 31: How understanding your energy can change how you show up in business - with Kelly Vikings
    Mar 25 2026
    An important part of sharing your stories, being visible, and showing up as the Guide for your people … is understanding yourself first.In this episode of The Business of Stories, Susan is joined by Kelly Vikings, founder of New Earth Business, to explore what changes when you stop trying to run your business like everyone else. Together, they talk about the cost of fighting your natural rhythm, and how learning your design can help you show up with more ease, self-trust, and confidence.You’ll discover:Why running a business is a journey of self-discovery (and why that matters more than you think)How understanding your energy can make visibility, marketing, and storytelling feel safer and more aligned.The hidden cost of forcing yourself to work in ways that don’t fit - and how it can lead to burnout and breakdown.Why there isn’t one ‘right’ way to build a business (even if the online world tries to convince you otherwise).How to recognise when you’re in alignment vs. when you’re stuck in the shadow.The power of listening to your body’s cues - and using them to guide your decisions.How a simple daily practice can help you tune into your inner world and lead from grounded energy.This episode is a powerful reminder that your business isn’t meant to be a box you squeeze yourself into. It’s meant to be something you build around who you are - your rhythm, your sensitivity, your nervous system and your energy.If you’re ready to stop forcing what doesn’t fit and start running your business with more clarity, compassion and confidence, this episode is a must-listen.If you have a question you would love Susan to answer on the show, please email it (in writing) to susan@thebusinessofstories.comCheck out Storytelling Mastery here Download my Be The Guide Masterclass hereDownload a free copy of The Business of Stories hereAbout your host Susan Payton:When Susan told her ‘ordinary’ story to 1,500 business owners back in 2015, the response from people who resonated with it and felt connected to her as a result of hearing it, blew her away!In fact, that moment completely changed her business - and her life.Susan has since worked with entrepreneurs all over the world, written the international bestselling book, The Business of Stories, hosted the podcast of the same name, and become a leading authority on how to use storytelling to stand out in your industry.Thousands have used her simple framework to share their message with impact, attract ideal clients and grow their business.Susan has also spoken on stages from Brighton to Barcelona, guested on panels and podcasts and run numerous masterclasses, guest expert sessions and workshops, both online and in person.In a world where it’s getting harder and harder to be heard above the noise, Susan is passionate about showing business owners how to clearly articulate their value and speak to the right people, at the right time, with a simple message and a great story.See my bio here And my speaker page hereConnect with Susan:Email: susan@thebusinessofstories.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanpaytonuk/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SusanPaytonUK/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebusinessofstories/Produced by Winter Audio.Mentioned in this episode:The Story Source Your go to source of stories, ideas, examples and content for your emails, sales, launches and visibility. LIFETIME access for the first 100 people. Buy once. Get LIFETIME access. www.thebusinessofstories.com/source
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    38 mins
  • Episode 30: What stories to share when your business is growing
    Mar 18 2026
    As your business grows, your voice, your confidence, and your leadership evolves - so your storytelling needs to reflect that.In this episode, Susan explores how your stories need to grow with you. You’ll discover:Why documenting your milestones, pivots and lessons builds trust and authorityThe power of sharing ‘what I’ve learned along the way’ stories to deepen connectionHow to tell client transformation stories without breaking confidentialityWhy moving from scrappy founder to Guide requires a shift in storytelling energyHow humanising your growth (including the messy parts) builds relatability and beliefThis reflective episode will help you honour how far you’ve come, recognise the depth of experience you’ve already gained, and share your journey - in a way that deeply resonates with the people you’re here to help.If you have a question you would love Susan to answer on the show, please email it (in writing) to susan@thebusinessofstories.comCheck out Storytelling Mastery here Download my Be The Guide Masterclass hereDownload a free copy of The Business of Stories hereAbout your host Susan Payton:When Susan told her ‘ordinary’ story to 1,500 business owners back in 2015, the response from people who resonated with it and felt connected to her as a result of hearing it, blew her away!In fact, that moment completely changed her business - and her life.Susan has since worked with entrepreneurs all over the world, written the international bestselling book, The Business of Stories, hosted the podcast of the same name, and become a leading authority on how to use storytelling to stand out in your industry.Thousands have used her simple framework to share their message with impact, attract ideal clients and grow their business.Susan has also spoken on stages from Brighton to Barcelona, guested on panels and podcasts and run numerous masterclasses, guest expert sessions and workshops, both online and in person.In a world where it’s getting harder and harder to be heard above the noise, Susan is passionate about showing business owners how to clearly articulate their value and speak to the right people, at the right time, with a simple message and a great story.See my bio here And my speaker page hereConnect with Susan:Email: susan@thebusinessofstories.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanpaytonuk/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SusanPaytonUK/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebusinessofstories/Produced by Winter Audio.Mentioned in this episode:The Story Source Your go to source of stories, ideas, examples and content for your emails, sales, launches and visibility. LIFETIME access for the first 100 people. Buy once. Get LIFETIME access. www.thebusinessofstories.com/source
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    21 mins
  • Episode 29: How writing a book can change your story - with Lucy McCarraher MBE
    Mar 11 2026
    Writing a business book isn’t just ‘a marketing tactic’ - it can be a turning point. A moment where you stop keeping your work in your head … and start owning it on paper.In this episode of The Business of Stories, Susan is joined by her publisher, Lucy McCarraher MBE, to explore what really happens when you write the book that builds your business. From credibility and clarity to becoming the Guide in your customer’s story, you’ll hear why a book can shift how people see you … and how you see yourself.You’ll discover:How writing a book can help you refine your process and turn your expertise into something you can teach, scale, and shareHow to get clear on who you’re writing for using Lucy’s Person, Pain and Promise positioning frameworkHow to weave storytelling into your business book without making it all about youThe emotional ‘messy middle’ of writing - and why self-doubt is completely normal How sharing the journey of writing your book can build trust and attract clients before it’s even publishedThis episode is a reminder that writing a book isn’t about proving yourself - it’s about being of service, claiming your IP, and creating something that deeply resonates with the people you’re here to help.If you’ve been thinking about writing the book that could change your business (and your story), this episode is a must-listen.If you have a question you would love Susan to answer on the show, please email it (in writing) to susan@thebusinessofstories.comCheck out Storytelling Mastery here Download my Be The Guide Masterclass hereDownload a free copy of The Business of Stories hereAbout your host Susan Payton:When Susan told her ‘ordinary’ story to 1,500 business owners back in 2015, the response from people who resonated with it and felt connected to her as a result of hearing it, blew her away!In fact, that moment completely changed her business - and her life.Susan has since worked with entrepreneurs all over the world, written the international bestselling book, The Business of Stories, hosted the podcast of the same name, and become a leading authority on how to use storytelling to stand out in your industry.Thousands have used her simple framework to share their message with impact, attract ideal clients and grow their business.Susan has also spoken on stages from Brighton to Barcelona, guested on panels and podcasts and run numerous masterclasses, guest expert sessions and workshops, both online and in person.In a world where it’s getting harder and harder to be heard above the noise, Susan is passionate about showing business owners how to clearly articulate their value and speak to the right people, at the right time, with a simple message and a great story.See my bio here And my speaker page hereConnect with Susan:Email: susan@thebusinessofstories.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanpaytonuk/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SusanPaytonUK/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebusinessofstories/Produced by Winter Audio.Mentioned in this episode:The Story Source Your go to source of stories, ideas, examples and content for your emails, sales, launches and visibility. LIFETIME access for the first 100 people. Buy once. Get LIFETIME access. www.thebusinessofstories.com/source
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    42 mins