Story Lab
Overview
Story Lab develops executive-level presence and communication skills through storytelling workshops and events. To be an effective leader — at work, in the community, or in your personal life — you must be able to communicate with impact. Often this means telling stories that are meaningful to you and others, and doing so in the rich language and expressive style of a seasoned storyteller. If you can craft and deliver an effective story, you will be better able to convey your value to recruiters, inspire and motivate classmates and colleagues, and influence your audience. At Story Lab, you’ll find an immersive experience and an opportunity to hone your skills in a safe and supportive environment.
reason why students choose Ross
coaching sessions
Michigan community members reached
Skills
Skills You’ll Learn
Storytelling
Learn how to communicate with impact, enhance your influence, and inspire dialogue and action. The workshop will help you discover your voice and adopt proven storycraft techniques while developing the verbal communication skills effective leaders use to engage and activate people in today’s complex world.
Leading Authentically
Get beneath the surface with your peers and build a more connected Ross community. Through your storytelling, you’ll have the opportunity to go deep, share your authentic self, and connect meaningfully with others. In so doing, you’ll model courageous leadership and learn to foster empathy and trust in others.
Developing Executive Presence
You will build your unique communication style, while practicing a proven combination of verbal skills, vocal tones, and body language that enhance executive presence. Your work at Story Lab will not only increase your confidence, charisma, and credibility; it will help you forge an impactful personal brand.
Learning from Experience & Feedback
You’ll reflect on your life experiences, recall failures, and celebrate moments of resilience and grit. Along the way, you’ll be encouraged to step outside your comfort zone, receive rich feedback from coaches and peers, and gain fresh insights about yourself and the power of your voice.
Registration
Details
Winter 2024 Key Dates
- Winter Retreats: Feb 15 | 4:30-9 PM virtually OR Feb 16 | 10 AM–2:30 PM @ the Michigan Union
Develop your storytelling abilities - Winter Showcase: Mar 28 | 5-6:30 PM @ Robertson Auditorium
Share your story, or come to support your peers
Time Commitment
Story Lab retreats are 4.5 hours, Story Lab Showcase events are 1.5 hours
Participant Requirements
- Deep interest in storytelling, personal growth, and lifelong learning
- Retreats are open to all U-M students
- Showcase events are open to the public
Registration
The Program Structure
Retreats: Two identical skill-building retreats are offered in the fall and winter semesters focusing on the art and architecture of storytelling.
Coaching: Interested retreat participants can sign-up to receive additional 1:1 coaching with professional storytelling coaches.
Showcases & Podcast: Each semester, retreat participants can apply to either take the stage at a public Showcase event to share their story or be featured in a podcast episode.
RSVP for the Winter Showcase below!
Testimonials
Media
Videos & Podcasts
How can storytelling humanize and personalize workplace cultures?
In this episode, Sanger Program Coordinator Nick Viviano speaks with Story Lab participants Noelle Powers (BBA ‘26) and Jackson Irwin (MBA ‘24) about their stories of perseverance and connection.
What is the impact and importance of reframing relationships?
In this episode, Sanger Program specialist Nick Viviano speaks with Story Lab participants John Regan and Josh T. Ferguson, who share stories about loss, connection, and the power of reconnecting with parents in new and unexpected ways.
Gallery
Scenes from the Program
News
Related News
STORY LAB PARTICIPANTS DISCUSS THE VALUE OF CONNECTION ON M-LEAD’S BREAK AWAY PODCAST
How can you value the teachable moments that come from unexpected, brief encounters with others? Storytelling is a powerful tool that the best leaders use to influence and inspire others. At Story Lab, students develop executive-level presence and communication skills...
Story Lab Fall Retreats Attract Nearly 150 Participants
Sanger wrapped up October by hosting our Story Lab Fall Retreats. Between these two workshops, a total of 148 students across U-M degree programs came together to learn how to communicate with impact. Sanger appreciates the support of our sponsors, M-LEAD and the Ford...
Story Lab Participants Discuss Reframing Relationships on M-Lead’s Break Away Podcast
What is the impact and importance of reframing relationships? Storytelling is a powerful tool that the best leaders use to influence and inspire others. At Story Lab, students develop executive-level presence and communication skills through storytelling workshops and...