Have a Universal Theme to Your Stories
“You have to push through that first fear barrier because it’s one of those universal themes in storytelling, the fear of failure.”
The spark of a great story can come from the most unexpected places. In my recent conversation with Matthew Luhn, an accomplished storyteller and former Disney/Pixar creative, we talk about the magic of universal themes in storytelling, whether for film or business.
Matthew believes the key to unforgettable stories lies in rooting them deeply in personal experiences. He swears by the practice of journaling daily life moments, a habit he’s embraced since his early days at Pixar. Recording these experiences not only provided material for classic films like “Toy Story” and “Finding Nemo,” but also helps him navigate new creative endeavors.
We discussed the undeniable success behind Pixar’s legacy films, which were all anchored by universal themes. Think about “Toy Story’s” fear of abandonment or “Finding Nemo’s” quest for safety. Matthew pointed out how these themes resonate deeply with audiences, making the films timeless. However, he also noted that recent Pixar efforts like “Lightyear” lacked these compelling themes, resulting in less impactful storytelling.
One of the most enlightening parts of our chat was the application of these universal themes in business. Matthew illustrated how themes like safety, security, and resilience can be woven into business narratives, making stories just as powerful in a corporate setting. He shared fascinating examples from industries like health insurance and cybersecurity, reminding us that the “best story wins,” whether you’re selling a product or pitching an idea.
Our exchange reaffirmed the immense value of storytelling across all walks of life. And as someone who continues to sketch, inspired by a creative workshop, I find that these themes are not just for storytellers—they’re for everyone. For more on Matthew’s work, check out his books “The Best Story Wins” and “Santa Yeti” or visit matthewlunstory.com.
Resources:
Order the Book: Santa Yeti
Order the Book: The Best Story Wins: How to Leverage Hollywood Storytelling in Business and Beyond by Matthew Luhn
Connect with Jody
About Jody – https://jodymaberry.com/about-jody-maberry/
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/sugarjmaberry
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodymaberry/
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/sugarjmaberry/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jodymaberry
