The Power of Storytelling for
Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
Copyright Melissa Balmer 2017
Image by Lisa Beth Anderson of Sofia and Ryan Johnson
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
About this Power Point Presentation
This power point presentation and its notes are from my presentation “The Power of Storytelling for
Compelling Presentations” for the League of American Bicyclists’ National Bike Summit in March of 2017.
My goal in sharing this presentation with you is to help you revolutionize your own presentation skills by laying
out a step by step way you and your organization to measurable improve your presentations.
You can find an earlier version of this presentation as a video webinar here:
http://www.pedallove.org/webinars/. You can also find further storytelling tools and tips on our website here:
http://www.pedallove.org/becoming-a-masterful-storyteller/.
Support
Engage
Please note: Please request permission to use any of the images with photo credits that aren’t of presentation
experts. The images without photo credits are either screenshots of promotional images, or from Canva.com
and can be purchased very inexpensively for your own use if you plan on using parts of this presentation with
anyone beyond your own team.
Perform
If you feel you need more guidance than what I’ve provided here I’m also happy to work with your and/or your
organization as a coach on the material. Email me: [email protected], or call me (562) 221-9672. Yours
in creating culture shift for more active, mindful mobility.
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
Melissa Balmer is the Founder/Director of PedalLove.org. She
is the former Media Director for the California Bicycle Coalition.
She currently handles the marketing and media outreach for
the Electric Bike Association.
She has hosted dozens of webinars, talks and trainings on the
power of storytelling and media outreach to grow active,
sustainable, mindful mobility. She is a writer, artist, media
relations specialist, and speaker passionate about sharing the
power of storytelling to create culture shift.
Through her outreach efforts the California Bicycle Coalition,
the Electric Bike Association, and Pedal Love have been
featured in media outlets such as Associated Press, Bicycling
Magazine, Cosmopolitan Magazine, CityLab, The Los Angeles
Times, Momentum Magazine, National Public Radio affiliates,
Next City, Living on Earth, Reuters, Sierra Club Magazine and
Image of Melissa by Lisa Beth Anderson
others.
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
Presentation Notes
Slide: 5
At Pedal Love we’re dedicated to elevating the voice and impact of those working for more active,
sustainable, mindful mobility – biking, walking and public transit. We do this by offering storytelling,
leadership and media outreach tools and trainings. Our main focus is on women, but men are always
welcome too.
We believe those of us working for more active mindful mobility are part of one of the most important
conversations of our time. We want to make sure we all have the training, skills and resources we
need to make as big and powerful and positive an impact as we possibly can.
This is a big year for us at Pedal Love. We’ve shifted our focus from being a California centric
organization to expanding across the U.S. Next week we’re launching the Pedal Love Culture &
Lifestyle Council 18 month storytelling and media outreach project starting with 17 female thought
leaders in biking across the U.S., and inviting women across the country to join us in measurably
increasing the positive stories about women and bicycling.
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
About Pedal Love
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
The Pedal Love Culture & Lifestyle Council
From left four members of the Pedal Love Council: Monica Garrison Black Girls Do Bike – Pittsburg PA; Robin Bylenga of Pedal Chic – Greenville
SC; Maria Contreras Tebbutt of the Woodland Bike Campaign, - Davis CA; and Maria Boustead of Po Campo Bags – Brooklyn NY
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
Presentation Notes
Slide: 7
Let’s Tie Great Visual Allure + Storytelling Together to Give Memorable Talks
This is Chris Anderson the leader of TED who believes that public speaking is one of the most important
leadership tools of our time.
Over the past 15 years that he’s been at the helm of the organization and made it a world wide
phenomenon by first hosting some of the most creative thought leaders and changes agents on the TED
Global stage, then making the talks available for free over the Internet, and allowing people around the
world to create their own TED Global-like experiences with TEDx.
He is also the author of “TED Talks – The Official TED Guide to Public Speaking” which is a must read for
anyone who wants to be a more powerful speaker and presenter.
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
Support
Chris Anderson from TED.com
“As a leader – or an advocate –
public speaking is the key to
unlocking empathy, stirring
excitement, sharing knowledge
and insights, and promoting a
Engage
sharedPerform
dream.”
Chris Anderson, from TED Talks
- The Official TED Guide to Public
Speaking
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
Presentations notes
Slide: 9 - 11
Here’s the #1 thing I want you to remember from today “Approach is as Important as Content.” How you give
your presentations is as important as the information you share in them.
Each one of the mistakes I’m asking you to avoid today are mistakes I’ve made. Each one of the tools and tips
and strategies I’m asking you tried and tested. They work. Over the past three years I’ve revolutionized my
storytelling and presentation skills and I want to share exactly how with you.
The experts I’m sharing with you today aren’t bike advocates, or new urban or active living professionals for the
most part, they’re culture shifters for our U.S. culture at large and in some cases the world.
This is Amy Cuddy. Her TED Talk “Your Body Language Shapes Who You Are”
(http://www.ted.com/talks/amy_cuddy_your_body_language_shapes_who_you_are) is one of the most popular
to date with over 39 million views. A social psychologist, she has gone on to share her research on body
language in her best selling book “Presence.” This is where I got the term “Approach is As Important as
Content.” It was a concept I understand before but this phrase crystalized what I wanted to share with others to
transform their own skills. Approach works whether you’re giving a webinar, sitting on a panel, teaching a live
class or giving a keynote speech.
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
Approach is as important as content
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
Approach is as important as content
Amy Cuddy
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
Approach is as important as content
Amy Cuddy author of Presence
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
Presentations notes
Slide: 13 - 16
Here’s the #1
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The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
The Science Behind Storytelling
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The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
The Science Behind Storytelling
10 Keys to Crafting Engaging Stories
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The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
The Science Behind Storytelling
10 Keys to Crafting Engaging Stories
5 Ways to Put Power Into Your Powerpoints
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
The Science Behind Storytelling
10 Keys to Crafting Engaging Stories
5 Ways to Put Power Into Your Powerpoints
11 Steps to Memorable Presentations
www.pedallove.org
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
Presentation Notes
Slides: 18 - 19
The human brain is literally wired for storytelling, here’s how
1. Stories are easier to remember than facts alone.
Dopamine*
When the brain encounters an emotionally charged event (i.e. a story) it releases the
neurotransmitter of good feeling dopamine which makes it easier and more accurate to remember.
Recognize that emotion drives giving, including of our attention.
Cortex Activity*
Watching, listening, reading an emotionally engaging story activates more parts of the brain than
when the brain is processing facts alone. An activated brain is an engaged mind.
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
The human brain is wired for stories
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
The human brain is wired for stories
Stories are easy to remember.
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
Presentation Notes
Slides: 21-22
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
The human brain is wired for stories
2. Stories quiet our audience’s inner critic
According to Robert McKee, one of the world’s most respected screenwriters and storytelling
coaches, the problem with sticking to the facts in your presentations to your professional colleagues
is that while you’re presenting your data your audience might well be arguing in their heads with you
with their own facts and figures.
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
The human brain is wired for stories
Stories are easy to remember.
Stories quiet the inner critic.
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
Presentation Notes
Slides: 21-22
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
The human brain is wired for stories – only stories can change hearts and minds
3. Neural Coupling *
When someone is listening to, reading or watching a story the part of the brain activates that allows
the listener/reader/watcher to turn the story into their own ideas and experience. This is why so many
of us feel the “force” within.
4. Mirroring*
When people are enjoying a story, not only those listening to, reading or watching having similar
brain activity to each other, but so is the storyteller as well. Storytelling breeds compassion.
*This information is taken from the terrific infographic “The Science of Storytelling” on OneSpot.com.
This subject has also been covered more in depth in a variety of very informative articles:
https://www.fastcompany.com/3020044/the-science-of-storytelling-how-narrative-cuts-throughdistraction
https://hbr.org/2014/10/why-your-brain-loves-good-storytelling
https://www.forbes.com/forbes/welcome/?toURL=https://www.forbes.com/sites/stevedenning/2012/03
/09/the-science-of-storytelling/&refURL=https://www.google.com/&referrer=https://www.google.com/
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
The human brain is wired for stories
Stories are easy to remember.
Stories quiet the inner critic.
Only stories change hearts
& minds.
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
The 10 Keys Crafting Engaging Stories
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Communications
by Melissa Balmer
Presentation Notes
Slide: 26 - 28
1. Anyone can become a masterful storyteller.
Anyone of any age and any background. All it takes is the interest and the focus. Pedal Love Council
Member Kellie Morris is also a Leagued Certified Instructor with the League of American Bicyclies. She
became an LCI is 2013 and because of her years of experience as an I.T. training (traveling the world) she
quickly excelled and became a much sought instructor.
She and her husband Dave have been able to go completely off blood pressure medication because of
changes in their diet and leading a car-light bike-friendly lifestyle as well. For many years they shared one
car.
I knew she was storytelling gold – and I asked her to be in this photo session so we could have great
pictures of her to share as I pitched her story to different media outlets. She said “yes” on the phone but
immediately felt the mental gremlins come out to tell her that no one would want to see pictures of her.
Boy was she wrong. Fortunately she didn’t listen and images of her from this session have been shared far
and wide, including in Momentum Magazine.
>> Dig deeper from our website including more of Kellie’s story: http://www.pedallove.org/masterfulstoryteller-introduction/
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
1. Anyone Can Become a Masterful Storyteller
Kellie Morris by Lisa Beth Anderson
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
1. Anyone Can Become a Masterful Storyteller
Kellie Morris was sure no
one wanted to hear her
story.
Kellie Morris by Lisa Beth Anderson
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
1. Anyone Can Become a Masterful Storyteller
Kellie Morris was sure no
one wanted to hear her
story.
Boy was she wrong.
Kellie Morris by Lisa Beth Anderson
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
Presentation Notes
Slide: 30 - 32
2. The first step to becoming a masterful storytelling is to find the heart of your story – also known as your
why.
Simon Sinek who’s TEDxPugentSound talk “Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Action” is the most
watched TEDx of all time with over 31 million views.
It’s launched him as a superstar speaker and successful business man all focused on starting with why.
And here’s a crucial point – according to best selling author and speaker Carmine Gallo whose latest best
selling book is “The Storyteller’s Secret” the power of your story isn’t in your success but in your struggle
and your overcoming.
Make sure in your presentations and communications outreach you’re sharing exactly why you and your
organization are doing this work, and what the struggle and the overcoming you’ve done (and your clients,
fans and followers have done), in order to get where you are today.
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
2. Find the Heart of Your Stories
“Start With Why: How
Great Leaders Inspire
Action” Simon Sinek’s
TEDX has over 27 million
views.
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
2. Find the Heart of Your Stories
Why are you doing what
you’re doing?
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
2. Find the Heart of Your Stories
Why are you doing what
you’re doing?
The story of your struggle
& overcoming are your
power.
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Communications
by Melissa Balmer
Presentation Notes
Slide: 34-40
3. Map Your Story to the Narrative Arc or Dramatic Structure
This is also known as known as Freytag’s Pyramid. Freytag was a Nineteenth Century German novelist who
studied the common patterns in the plots of stories – he studied mostly ancient Greek plays and
Shakespeare – stories that have really stood the test of time.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
The exposition sets the stage for the beginning of the story – when the first conflict arises.
The rising action is when things heat up, the challenge becomes more dangerous and real
The climax is the turning point where things get very tough and then turn for the better
Falling action is where there’s a reversal of fortune – one more challenge to overcome
The resolution or dénouement or conclusion in the hero’s journey
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
3. Map Your Story to the Narrative Arc
Also known as Freytag’s Pyramid
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The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
3. Map Your Story to the Narrative Arc
Also known as Freytag’s Pyramid
Introduction
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
3. Map Your Story to the Narrative Arc
Also known as Freytag’s Pyramid
Rising Action
Introduction
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
3. Map Your Story to the Narrative Arc
Also known as Freytag’s Pyramid
Climax
Rising Action
Introduction
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
3. Map Your Story to the Narrative Arc
Also known as Freytag’s Pyramid
Climax
Rising Action
Falling Action
Introduction
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
3. Map Your Story to the Narrative Arc
Also known as Freytag’s Pyramid
Climax
Rising Action
Introduction
Falling Action
Resolution ☺
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Communications
by Melissa Balmer
Presentation Notes
Slide: 41-43
4.Frame Your Stories for More Impact
Sometimes it’s best not to start at the very beginning with your story. Sometimes it’s best to jump in at the
heart of the action, or to reflect back, in order to give your story more dramatic impact.
In 1996 Charlie Gandy (the founder of Bike Texas, and now the Vice Chair of the California Bicycle
Coalition) was a part of the three member team who made the first request of the national bike industry to
get involved in bike advocacy on the national level.
I nicknamed this story “The Big Ask.” Charlie is a charismatic storyteller and you can here his short story of
“The Big Ask” here on youtube: https://youtu.be/PlFFKsQYvY8 His story starts at 19:00.
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
4. Frame for Impact
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The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
4. Frame for Impact
Sometimes is best not to
start at the very beginning.
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The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
4. Frame for Impact
Sometimes is best not to
start at the very beginning.
Focus in on the action and
drama.
www.pedallove.org
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
Presentation Notes
Slide: 45-47
5. Use Evocative Language
Think of your story as a love letter to your audience. Use colorful, interesting, emotionally engaging and
descriptive language.
The name Pedal Love came to me in the middle of the night a few years ago when I wanted to move away
from the useful but wonky title of “Women on Bikes California.”
For us the play on “Pedal” and “Peddle” is very powerful because it’s only by peddling love that we’ll truly get
to safer, more vibrant, healthy streets for everyone rather than our current speed freak culture with drivers of
cars being considered more valuable than those walking or taking transit.
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
5. Use Evocative Language
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
5. Use Evocative Language
Think of your story as a love
letter to your audience.
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
5. Use Evocative Language
Think of your story as a love
letter to your audience.
Use descriptive, interesting,
memorable words.
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
Presentation Notes
Slide: 49-52
6. Approach is as Important as Content
Remember how you present your story is as important as what’s in it. Former First Lady Michelle Obama is a
charismatic speaker who’s mastered excellent posture and hand gestures to give her talks presence, poise
and impact.
Your voice is key to being a masterful storyteller. Your tone, pacing and inflection can add tremendous interest
and drama to your storytelling. And just as anyone can become a masterful storyteller, anyone can
dramatically improve the sound and quality of their voice.
Top speech coach Carolyn Goyder breaks down how you can best use this very valuable tool in her TEDx talk
“The Surprising Secret to Speaking with Confidence.”
Maria Contreras Tebbutt is a Pedal Love Council Member who has a marvelous storytelling voice. You can
listen to her short piece on her journey to bike advocacy here: https://soundcloud.com/pedal-love/mariacontreras-tebbutt-telling-your-story.
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
6. Approach is as Important as Content
Michelle Obama courtesy of Buzzfeed
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
6. Approach is as Important as Content
Your posture, gestures, &
how you move matters.
Michelle Obama courtesy of Buzzfeed
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
6. Approach is as Important as Content
Work with your voice.
Perform
Engage
Top speech coach Caroline Goyder
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
6. Approach is as Important as Content
Work with your voice.
Perform
Harness the power of tone,
pacing, and inflection
for
Engage
drama.
Top speech coach Caroline Goyder
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
Presentation Notes
Slide: 54-55
7. Create “Aha” Moments
Throughout your narrative arc, you have opportunities to share with your audience moments that changed your
world view and will allow your readers and listeners to do so as well.
This is where hearts and minds are really changed.
Because I struggle with chronic pain and fatigue challenges I had forgotten that the bike is actually a strength
maximizer. I didn’t think I could ride a bike again and get anywhere I really wanted to go. It took my then friend
and now partner Charlie Gandy six months to convince me to go on a bike ride with him. I hadn’t been on a
bike in over 35 years.
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
7. Create “Aha” Moments
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
7. Create “Aha” Moments
Offer an opportunity to see
the world differently.
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The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
Presentation Notes
Slide: 57-58
8. Always Have a Call to Action
What do you want people to do because of you sharing your story? Make it very very clear.
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
8. Have a Clear Call to Action
Perform
Engage
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
8. Have a Clear Call to Action
What do you want your
audience to do?
Perform
Engage
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
Presentation Notes
Slide: 61-64
9. Shorter is Sweeter
Here’s some food for thought. No scene in an average movie is over 3 minutes long, and TED talks are
formatted from between 8 and 20 minutes long, because that’s how long research shows that our human
attention span can focus on one topic for.
Your elevator or phone pitch – 30 to 60 seconds
2-3 minutes personal story, or story of how your work, or your organization’s work is
Helping others
Your personal story 2 to max 6 minutes max for a longer presentation such as a keynote is the advice from
best selling author and motivational guru Lisa Nichols.
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
9. Shorter is Sweeter
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The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
9. Shorter is Sweeter – Story Lengths to Prep
30 – 60
seconds
Elevator Pitch
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
9. Shorter is Sweeter – Story Lengths to Prep
30 – 60
2-3
seconds
minutes
Elevator Pitch
Panels/Conversations
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
9. Shorter is Sweeter – Story Lengths to Prep
6
30 – 60
2-3
seconds
minutes
minutes
max
Elevator Pitch
Panels/Conversations
Key Note
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
Presentation Notes
Slide: 65
10. Only Practice Makes Perfect
Seth Godin is right when he points out that it takes more than being right to earn attention and action.
Why should we listen to Seth? He’s the creator or permission based email marketing and a multi best selling
author who approaches marketing as a form of service. He’s a change agent and thought leader who is one of
the few people who’s spoken at TED Global multiple times.
Food for thought: TED Global works for 6-9 months with speakers before putting them on their international
platform for all of the world to see.
There’s a reason why so few TEDx talks have reached the level of Simon Sinek’s. They simple weren’t that
polished and powerful to be that popular.
What time and effort will it take you to get your storytelling to the next level? And then the next level after that?
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
10. Only Practice Makes Perfect
“…It takes more than being
right to earn attention and
action.”
Seth Godin
TED speaker, best selling author, and
change agent
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
Putting Power Into Your Powerpoints
“The key to a great
Powerpoint presentation
is big fonts and big
graphics.”
Guy Kawasaki “Lessons of
Steve Jobs” TEDxUCSD
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
Presentation Notes
Slide: 68-69
1. Your powerpoint isn’t your presentation. You are. Think of your powerpoint as the accompanying music to your presentation. A
beautifully crafted powerpoint makes you look great, a poorly crafted one detracts from what you’re sharing and makes your audience
feel you didn’t care enough to do your very best. Showing up with a less than polished powerpoint for any presentation – even one
you’re giving for free – really detracts from the power of your message.
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The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
1. Your Powerpoint Isn’t Your Presentation.
You are.
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Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
1. Your Powerpoint Isn’t Your Presentation.
You are.
Your Powerpoint is your
accompanying score.
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
Presentation Notes
Slide: 71-74
2. Create a Style Guide for Your Presentations
AKA Use One Format for Your Entire Presentation
Don’t cobble together slides from different presentations and then to forget to create one overall look and feel, or format. I recommend
you create something called a “style guide” for all of your organization’s powerpoints so they’re always polished and professional.
Decide ahead of time on the template for all of your presentations so you don’t need to reinvent the look and feel each time.
One Color Palette with No More than 3 Colors
You can use different shades within those three colors (which is what I’ve done today) but don’t go all over the place with your color
scheme to be dynamic. It’s jarring to the eye. Also, make sure your color palette either matches or complements your logo.
Use 32 pt. Font Size as Your Touch Stone for Text Size on Your Screen Even for a Webinar.
It keeps you from crowding your screen and it make sure everyone can read what you’ve shared.
Keep the Different Types of fonts You Use to a Minimal
I’m sticking to two different ones today. And use clear easy to read fonts. Above all make sure your powerpoint slides are clear, clean
and easily legible.
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
2. Creating Visual Allure with a Style Guide
Visual
Music
One
Format
3
Colors
32 &
Clear
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
2. Creating Visual Allure with a Style Guide
One
Format
32
32 &
point
Clear
font
One Template
www.pedallove.org
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
2. Creating Visual Allure with a Style Guide
32 &
Clear
One
Format
One Template
Uniform color palette
www.pedallove.org
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
2. Creating Visual Allure with a Style Guide
32
32 &
point
Clear
font
One
Format
One Template
Uniform color palette
Minimum
www.pedallove.org
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
Presentation Notes
Slide: 76
3. Use Stylishly Complimentary Clipart & Photography
You need to recognize the world has been going through a digital design revolution. Just as advocates and
professionals for biking and walking have been radically rethinking their websites and email
newsletters it’s time to radically revamp the look and feel of our powerpoints.
And for that we need great images – photos, clipart and graphics.
Why are great images so important to our powerpoints over overall? The human brain processes images 60x
faster than words.
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
3. Use Stylishly Complimentary Clipart
& Images
One
Format
3
Colors
32 &
Clear
Notice a theme here?
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
Presentation Notes
Slide: 78-80
4. Use Emotionally Engaging Imagery
Use clipart and photos that have emotional resonance for what you’re talking about and whose look and feel
work well together.
I purchased the previous hand-drawn images from Creative Market because I liked the fun way they represent
what I’m talking about – with a fun use of a heart to show off that my organization is about peddling love.
I want to stop for a moment here and say that while I’m so proud of the evolution of the look and feel of the
graphics and design of many biking, walking and public transit advocacy websites, email newsletters, and
other outreach efforts it’s time for our industry across the board to grow up and recognize the need to pay
creatives for their talent.
Let’s start building the real world costs of talented graphic designers, photographers, videographers and other
creatives into our overall budgets – if we do, and if we exponentially raise the look and feel of what we’re
producing I am convinced it will exponentially increase our positive impact.
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
4. Use Emotionally Engaging Imagery
Jenna Burton CoFounder Red, Bike &
Green Oakland.
Photographer
Lisa Beth Anderson
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
4. Use Emotionally Engaging Imagery
Charlie Gandy of the
California Bicycle
Coalition and Claudia
Wasko of Bosch eBikes
USA.
Photographer:
Allan Crawford
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
4. Use Emotionally
Engaging Imagery
Models for the Bike
Long Beach Campaign
in 2012.
Photographer:
Allan Crawford
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
Presentation Notes
Slide: 82-86
5. Keep Your Visuals Simple
Photography
As often as possible go for one great clear photo per slide. I know our work involves a lot of infrastructure but
as often as possible make sure the people are facing front and even better if they’re smiling.
Tired, unhappy people in images don’t sell the improved quality of life concept that biking, walking and taking
transit make possible.
Even if you don’t have a professional photographer or graphic designer on your team great images are now
available for very low cost. Many of the images I’ve used in this presentation are from Canva.com.
The image here is of Ryan and Sofia Johnson of Los Angeles from a photo session Lisa Beth Anderson took
for Pedal Love for a special social media campaign for Metro Los Angeles.
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
5. Keep Your Visuals Simple
Support
www.pedallove.org
Highlight
Engage
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
Presentation Notes
Slide: 82-86
5. Keep Your Visuals Simple
Photography with Text
Don’t get too artsy. I see this all the time. We can’t read this.
Better – now we’ve added a background that allows us to see the font + raised it to 32 points.
Best – simply clear and easy to digest.
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
5. Keep Your Visuals Simple – Don’t
Simplify - Use text and bullet
points sparingly on your slides –
make sure there’s plenty of white
Support
space so that
your text doesn’t
crowd your images.
Highlight
Make sure the images and clip art
you share are clear, crisp and have
emotional resonance for your
topic.www.pedallove.org
Engage
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
5. Keep Your Visuals Simple – Better
Simplify - use text and
bullet points sparingly
on your
slides
Support
Engage – use crisp
clear images and
graphics
www.pedallove.org
Highlight
Engage
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
5. Keep Your Visuals Simple – Best
Highlight with
engaging images
Support
& key text
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Highlight
Engage
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
Presentation Notes
Slide: 88-91
11 Steps to Giving Memorable Presentations
1. Have a Clear Mission
Have a clear purpose for your presentation. It’s also called a through line. Can anyone guess what mine is for
this presentation?
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
11 Steps to Giving Memorable Presentations
Support
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. courtesy of National Geographic
Perform
Engage
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
Presentation Notes
Slide: 90-91
1. Have a Clear Call Mission
What’s your through line? What’s your presentation’s purpose?
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
1. Have a Clear Mission
What’s your presentation’s
purpose?
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
1. Have a Clear Mission
What’s your presentation’s
purpose?
Have a clear through line.
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
Presentation Notes
Slide: 93-96
2. Flip the Script On What A Presentation Is
Think of it as a gift to your audience. Your present to them. Your gift to them.
The best presentations are a cross between a conversation and a performance. Even if you need to use notes
make sure you take breaks to make eye contact, and give dramatic pause.
I’ll introduce presentation czarina Nancy Duarte shortly – for right now just know she recommends no one
present a report as a presentation. Hand out the report – the presentation is only the highlights.
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
2. Rethink what a “present”ation means
Think of it as a gift
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
2. Rethink what a “present”ation means
Think of it as a gift
It’s a cross between a
conversation & a
performance.
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
2. Rethink what a “present”ation means
Think of it as a gift
It’s a cross between a
conversation & a
performance.
Hand out the report, give
your presentation.
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
Presentation Notes
Slide: 93-96
3. Approach is as Important as Content
Think of it as a gift to your audience. Your present to them. Your gift to them.
The best presentations are a cross between a conversation and a performance. Even if you need to use notes
make sure you take breaks to make eye contact, and give dramatic pause.
I’ll introduce presentation czarina Nancy Duarte shortly – for right now just know she recommends no one
present a report as a presentation. Hand out the report – the presentation is only the highlights.
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
3. Approach is as Important as Content
Remember your posture &
movement.
Amy Cuddy – again!
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
3. Approach is as Important as Content
Remember your posture &
movement.
Harness the power of your
voice.
Amy Cuddy – again!
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
3. Approach is as Important as Content
Remember your posture &
movement.
Harness the power of your
voice.
Record & videotape
yourself.
Amy Cuddy – again!
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
Presentation Notes
Slide: 100-103
4. Simplify Your Language
Let go of your jargon and special vernacular. Use metaphors to make unfamiliar concepts easy to understand.
When I first heard that Long Beach was putting in a “Cycle Track” I was very confused. I couldn’t see how a
cycling sport facility could fit in the area they were talking about.
Once someone explained they were “separated” or “protected” bike lanes I got it - and now thankfully this is
the term most used.
Understand that for most people in the U.S. cycling means the sport of cycling. Recognize that you’re making a
lot of people feel uninvited, or simply your words won’t interest them as much when you use the term cyclist.
Most people consider themselves people who like to ride bikes.
We’re really bad about this in advocacy. We nickname our group “The Bike Coalition” when we’re actually a
coalition for a very specific region. We rattle off the LACBC, the League, CalBike etc.
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
4. Simplify your Language
Cut the vernacular.
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
4. Simplify your Language
Cut the vernacular
Use metaphors to clarify.
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
4. Simplify your Language
Cut the vernacular
Use metaphors to clarify.
Avoid acronyms.
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
Presentation Notes
Slide: 100-103
5. Shorter is Sweeter
Again remember that TED Global has asked people to give talks from 8-20 minutes long because that’s what
the human attention span can handle.
Less is more. Leave people wanting more of you rather than being overwhelmed by you.
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
5. Shorter is Sweeter
Less is more.
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
5. Shorter is Sweeter
Less is more.
Leave your audience time
for their specific questions.
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
5. Shorter is Sweeter
Less is more.
Leave your audience time
for their specific questions.
Leave them hungry for
more.
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
Presentation Notes
Slide: 109-112
6. Use Evocative Language
Just as you do with creating great stories, use descriptive, evocative language. Drop overused words in
exchange for ones that are more interesting and colorful
Repeat key words phrases to emphasize your point and make it easier for people to remember – Martin Luther
King Jr. was a master of this.
On that note listen to how great speakers use language. Listen to I have a Dream. Watch the top TED talks.
Pay attention to your favorite radio hosts. What are they doing with their voices that makes them appealing to
listen to? Record yourself and see what you can do to make your voice more compelling. I guarantee you can
make some pretty dramatic improvements. I know. I’ve done it.
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
6. Use Evocative Language
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
6. Use Evocative Language
Think of it as a love letter.
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
6. Use Evocative Language
Think of it as a love letter.
Repeat key words &
phrases.
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
6. Use Evocative Language
Think of it as a love letter.
Repeat key words and
phrases.
Listen to great speakers.
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
Presentation Notes
Slide: 114-115
7. Layer Your Presentation with Storytelling
Go through your presentation and find places to layer in short stories, just as you put something sweet
between the layers of a cake to make it more delicious.
Even tiny snippets of stories can bring emotional resonance to your data and statistics.
I’m keen on getting more people for active, mindful mobility to share their stories because we really a broader
array of stories to be told to engage a broader audience. This is especially true of getting more women of all
ages and races and backgrounds.
It took Charlie six months to convince me that I could ride a bike again. I had given up my car in 2007 for both
health and financial reasons which was relatively easy to do because my hometown of Long Beach has a very
good public transit system. I was watching a dynamic bike culture blooming around me as I walked and rode
the bus for my meetings and errands, but I had forgotten that the bike is a strength maximizer. I wasn’t afraid
to ride a bike again. I knew I could. But I was afraid I wouldn’t be able to go anywhere that made it worth while.
Now I ride my bike to meetings and events often several times a week.
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
7. Layer Your Presentation with Stories
Build your presentation like
a cake.
Support
Perform
Engage
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
7. Layer Your Presentation with Stories
Build your presentation like
a cake.
Support
Layer stories throughout
to
Engage
Perform
illustrate data & key points.
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
Presentation Notes
Slide: 117-122
8. Next Shape Your Presentation
Nancy Duarte head of Duarte Communications teaches very talented people how to give the presentations of
their lives. She and her team worked with Al Gore on the presentation for An Inconvenient Truth.
studied and discovered that the shape of some of the most memorable talks such as Martin Luther King’s I
Have a Dream, the Gettysberg Address and Steve Jobs iPhone product launch all share similar characteristics.
They start with what is now that’s such a problem and compare and contrast today with their vision of what can
be, or what this project or product made possible.
They build drama and support by going back and forth between the two.
I give you a short sweet version of that in these slides – but I encourage you to watch Nancy’s great TEDxEast
“The Secret Shape of Great Talks.”
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
8. Shape Your Presentation
Support
Nancy Duarte studied the
verbal shape of some of the
greatest speech’s of all time.
Engage
Nancy Duarte
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
8. Shape Your Presentation
Support
Nancy Duarte studied the
verbal shape of some of the
greatest speech’s of all time.
Engage
They all have similar shapes.
Nancy Duarte
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
8. Shape Your Presentation
Support
Engage
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
8. Shape Your Presentation
What can be
Support
Engage
What is
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
8. Shape Your Presentation
What can be
What can be
Contrast
Support
Contrast
What is
What is
Engage
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
8. Shape Your Presentation
What can be
What can be What can be
Contrast
Support
Contrast
What is
What is
Happy Future
Engage
What is
What is
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
Presentation Notes
Slide: 126
9. End with Future Bliss
Right now active, mindful mobility is a movement in the U.S. of very smart, dedicated, passionate people who
will create true culture shift in how Americans travel if we can transform our communication skills and become
truly compelling for broader and broader audiences.
To change hearts and minds you have to paint a picture for your audience with your images with your words
with your stories. How do we move away from congestion, pollution, diabetes and asthma?
Active, sustainable, mindful mobility.
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
9. End With the New Bliss
Paint a rosy picture of what
the future can be.
Perform
Engage
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
Presentation Notes
Slide: 126
10. Have a Clear Call to Action
What is a very concrete step someone can take from watching you speak? Can they sign up for your
newsletter? Can they follow you on Twitter? Can they attend an event? Can they call a congressman?
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
10. Have a Clear Call to Action
What do you want your
audience to do?
Perform
Engage
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
Presentation Notes
Slide: 126
11. Only Practice Makes Perfect
Remember that the TED Global team works for 6-8 months with a speaker before setting them loose on the big
TED stage.
Imagine what will happen for active, sustainable, mindful mobility when our talks on biking and walking and
public transit are not just at the TEDx level but TED Global.
Something I’ve noticed about many of us working in active mindful mobility is that we’re chronically overbooked
and we often wait until the last minute to finish preparing for a live talk.
And in the past I’ve been as guilty as anyone else. I’m asking us now to raise our game on everything from our
live presentations, our email newlsetters, our panels to keynotes and everything in between. Let’s give
ourselves time to learn the skills we need
I invite you to consider digging in and going deeper. We need your voice to create culture shift. We need you
to help change hearts and minds.
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
11. Only Practice Makes Perfect
Give your presentations
time to flourish.
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017
The Power of Storytelling for Compelling Presentations
by Melissa Balmer
11. Only Practice Makes Perfect
Give your presentations
time to flourish.
Create a support network
for excellence.
www.pedallove.org © Melissa Balmer 2017