When I was first diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis about years ago, whenever I had to tell someone that I had M.S. the first thing they would say is “I’m so sorry.” At first I would kind of cock my head to the side and say “Thank you?”. I wasn’t really sure how to respond to that question. But now I know it’s because I honestly hadn’t done the research to know the dark side of this disease.

When you watch a movie and then watch the credits roll you will see that there are a many many individuals that helped to bring that story to the screen. Some of the individuals you saw on screen during the film but there are many more are active beyond the screen such as the crew, marketers,  casting directors, managers and producers to name a few.

Having tough conversations isn’t easy but they can make a huge impact. Here are some tips for facilitating a difficult group conversation.

We live in a very polarized time where issues like racism, politics, faith and mental health are part of our daily conversation. Except we don’t have conversations with each other. We have them at each other. Through social media and other impersonal forms. When we lose our ability to have civil engagement with people who look, live, and think differently then a break down of communication occurs.

These days everyone and their neighbor are interested using stories to better their businesses, work environments, sermons and brands. But do you know the reasons why compelling stories create change? As a filmmaker, I’ve been very intrigued by the WHY behind story. I’ve always known that stories engage people, change communities and basically make everything in life better. Our greatest leaders used story to get their messages across. I’ve always believed that film was especially powerful in communicating powerful messages to their viewers that inspire and change their lives. If you’re wondering how stories create change keep reading.