Elevate Your Coaching Program with World-Class Storytelling Training
Guest Teaching for Coaches and Cohorts
Give your participants a storytelling experience they'll rave about.
Email me! You can reach me at hello@micaelablei.com, or schedule a call with me to discuss and we'll answer all your questions.
Let me guess.
You're looking to give your participants those "aha!" storytelling moments. The kind where they don't just learn powerful storytelling tools, they also connect more deeply with each other in the process.
You know storytelling is a game-changer for your people, whether they're moms managing a life transition, writers wrestling with memoir drafts, or solopreneurs who need to articulate their unique value without sounding like everyone else.
But translating big storytelling concepts into practical, field-specific techniques that your participants can use tomorrow? That's probably not where you want to spend your energy (or where your expertise shines brightest).
Your participants deserve better than those generic "just be authentic!" tips they could get from a YouTube video.
And YOU deserve to offer something truly transformative... that makes your program the one people can't stop talking about.
Let me guess.
You want to give your participants powerful, practical storytelling tools – while creating deeper connections.
You know that storytelling is essential for your participants' success—whether they're entrepreneurs crafting pitches, writers developing memoirs, or professionals articulating their value. But translating storytelling concepts into practical, field-specific applications isn't your zone of genius.
Your participants deserve expert guidance on how to use storytelling to advance their specific goals, without the generic advice they could get anywhere else.
And YOU deserve something truly transformative that makes your program stand out.
Seen in & Trusted by:
Make storytelling feel accessible to everyone, even the ones who swear they "don't have any good stories" or are "terrible at public speaking"
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Create moments of genuine connection and reflection for your folks, while they're learning skills they'll actually use
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Feel like a natural extension of what you're already teaching, not a jarring side quest
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Slide into your program with the kind of expertise and credibility that builds trust and excitement with your group
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You want someone who will:
So you're looking for a storytelling partner who can bring something unforgettable to your program.
Introducing:
Also called "The Mary Poppins Program," because I'll fly into your group coaching or retreat program, help you make some storytelling magic, and I have a giant carpet bag.
Also called "The Mary Poppins Program," because I'll fly into your group coaching or retreat program, help you make some storytelling magic, and I have a giant carpet bag.
Guest Teaching for Group Programs
I've spent 14+ years immersed in storytelling - from intimate theater spaces to the SXSW EDU keynote stage (9,000 people!).
I bring a unique blend of academic and real-world expertise: I've got a PhD in Education focused on narrative, founded The Moth's Education Program, and created their widely-used storytelling curriculum. And I'm an award-winning storyteller myself, so I walk the walk: you might have heard my stories on This American Life, The Moth Radio Hour or Audible.
What makes our work together special? I create "safe conditions for daring decisions." My workshops are spaces where even hesitant participants feel comfortable sharing something real. And yes, it's genuinely fun!
I'll customize an experience that ties storytelling directly to your program goals, helping your group develop the narratives that move their work forward... while building the real, person-to-person connections that make your program unforgettable.
Hi, I'm Micaela.
I've spent 14+ years immersed in storytelling - from intimate theater spaces to the SXSW EDU keynote stage (9,000 people!).
I bring a unique blend of academic and real-world expertise: I've got a PhD in Education focused on narrative, founded The Moth's Education Program, and created their widely-used storytelling curriculum. And I'm an award-winning storyteller myself, so I walk the walk: you might have heard my stories on This American Life, The Moth Radio Hour or Audible.
What makes our work together special? I create "safe conditions for daring decisions." My workshops are spaces where even hesitant participants feel comfortable sharing something real. And yes, it's genuinely fun!
I'll customize an experience that ties storytelling directly to your program goals, helping your group develop the narratives that move their work forward... while building the real, person-to-person connections that make your program unforgettable.
Hi, I'm Micaela.
"Thank you so much for sharing your wisdom with us and leading us through this empowering, bonding, transformative experience. I've learned so much about storytelling, but even more about myself; the past few weeks have been incredibly special for so many reasons. Thank you for making space in which we could be both safe and courageous. I will truly never forget this experience."
"Thank you for making space in which we could be both safe and courageous."
— Sarah Dalgleish, Salt Institute
- One-on-One Story Coaching: Give your participants the gift of individualized attention on their stories
- Follow-Up Q&A: Schedule a session where participants can bring their questions after trying things out
- Multi-Part Series: Develop storytelling skills over time with a workshop series
- Celebration Event: Cap off your program with a special story sharing experience that showcases growth and builds community
What's Included in a Mary Poppins Program?
I'm so glad you asked.
The Main Event: Guest Teaching That Shines
I'll join your program for a lively 45-90 minute session that gets everyone engaged (yes, even on Zoom!). We'll explore storytelling concepts and frameworks specifically chosen for your participants' field—giving them both the "why this matters" inspiration and the "here's exactly how to do it" tools they can apply immediately.
Behind-the-Scenes: Custom Design
Before I ever meet your participants, you and I will have a thoughtful conversation about your program goals. What are you already teaching? What challenges are your participants facing? This isn't a cookie-cutter workshop. I'll customize for your people and your program.
Real-World Magic: Practical Applications They'll Actually Use
We don't want anyone walking away thinking "that was nice, but what do I do with it?" Instead, they'll learn storytelling strategies directly connected to their goals—whether that's landing clients, writing memoir, or leading teams. Practical magic!
Want to Take Things Further? Optional Add-Ons
How will storytelling fit into your work?
Storytelling looks different across fields—here's how I customize for different programs:
For Wellness, Healing & Personal Growth
For Leadership Development
For Career Development
For Creative Writing & Memoir
For Business & Entrepreneurship
(Don't see yourself here? Let me know. I love designing for new industries and areas.)
Those "how did you get started?" questions at networking events? They're storytelling opportunities! We can work on compelling brand stories, captivating pitches, and authentic marketing narratives that don't feel icky or manipulative.
Structure doesn't have to feel like a straitjacket. I'll share practical frameworks that help writers organize their thoughts while maintaining their own voices.
"Tell me about yourself" doesn't have to cause panic. We'll develop techniques to articulate unique value through compelling career stories that highlight transferable skills and memorable experiences.
Great leaders aren't just strategic—they're inspirational. We'll explore ways to communicate vision and values through stories that motivate teams and drive meaningful action.
Our internal narratives shape our experiences. I'll share tools to reframe limiting stories, process emotional experiences through structured reflection, and create meaning from challenges.
After our work, I'll provide you with follow-up resources to help participants continue applying what they've learned.
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If you sign on, we'll schedule for me to deliver a high-impact session and any additional programming. A 10% deposit holds your time in my calendar.
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I'll create a session or program tailored to your cohort and share a proposal. We’ll balance community-building with practical skill development, based on your goals.
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After you fill out the inquiry form, I'll send you a link to schedule a 20-minute, no-obligation call to see if we’re a match! We’ll also discuss your program goals, participant needs, and how storytelling can help with both.
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How it works to bring me to your program
The Logistics
Spirit Rock is a spiritual training institution in the Insight Meditation tradition, grounded in the Buddha's teachings in the Pāli discourses.
"You and your team were marvelous beyond expression. Thank you so much for being exactly what they needed (and wanted) at this point in their training. Your listening skills, your cultural sensitivity, your ability to connect with the 'audience' of new teachers through the Zoom screen and embody what you were teaching was wonderful. One of the participants who is a professional educator said that not only was the content brilliant and illuminating, but that the level of pedagogy and teaching method was so incredibly sophisticated and impactful."
- Explored why storytelling is effective in their deep leadership work
- Shared story ideas in a carefully designed, low-pressure way that engaged even the storytelling skeptics
- Applied a flexible storytelling framework right away to their story ideas
- Celebrated with a "final share" of personal stories they could use in their own leadership practice
By the end of our time together, the cohort was excitedly giving one another skilled story feedback, planning their next stories, and reflecting on the power of the experience to bring them together.
Spirit Rock leaders had taken my signature introductory workshop at a retreat center in Mexico, and they wanted to bring my work to their Teacher Training Program, to build community and dive deep into storytelling for dharma.
The Before
The Client
What we did
In their words
Case Study: Spirit Rock
What's possible?
"You and your team were marvelous beyond expression. Thank you so much for being exactly what they needed (and wanted) at this point in their training. Your listening skills, your cultural sensitivity, your ability to connect with the 'audience' of new teachers through the Zoom screen and embody what you were teaching was wonderful. One of the participants who is a professional educator said that not only was the content brilliant and illuminating, but that the level of pedagogy and teaching method was so incredibly sophisticated and impactful."
"You and your team were marvelous beyond expression."
— ORGANIZER, SPIRIT ROCK BUDDHIST RETREAT CENTER
What's the cost?
Because every program has different needs, I offer customized packages. Programs typically range from $1,000-$4,000 depending on:
Session length and format
Number of participants
Inclusion of 1:1 coaching components
Virtual or in-person delivery
I accept a maximum of 5 guest teaching engagements per month to make sure each one gets my full creativity and attention. We can talk about scheduling on our discovery call!
Investment & Availability
Micaela has an extraordinary combination of experience, technical skill and talent that allows her to understand and support storytellers in a unique and special way. Unlike some story coaches who have one approach that they apply to every storyteller, Micaela co-creates a developmental environment that serves the specific needs of each individual and allows the teller to discover their own voice and style.
Working with Micaela is empowering, revelatory and fun. I understood my own story much better after just 30 minutes with her.
Whether it's for a high-stakes engagement, or just a personal desire to discover and claim one's own stories, everyone should be lucky enough to work with Micaela.
"Working with Micaela is empowering, revelatory and fun."
— KAT KOPPETT, CEO KOPPETT
First, I'm not just talking the talk – I'm actively performing my own stories on national platforms like The Moth and This American Life. When I teach storytelling, I'm sharing techniques I use myself every single day.
And I didn't just take a weekend workshop and decide to start teaching storytelling. I literally wrote the storytelling curriculum that's being used in schools around the world. I've guided hundreds of storytellers from nervous beginners to confident performers.
What makes me especially valuable for your coaching program is a one-of-a-kind combination of skills and experience:
Why bring ME to your program?
Still reading? Maybe you're wondering...
I understand group dynamics.
As a former classroom teacher and program director, I know how to read a room, adjust on the fly, and make sure everyone feels included – even the quiet folks who typically hang back.
Your coaching program already has a solid foundation. I come in as the storytelling specialist who enhances what you've built – not as someone trying to reinvent your wheel.
It's one of my core values, in fact. I'm thoughtful about helping your participants take creative risks without ever feeling exposed or uncomfortable.
Let's be honest: sometimes guest teachers can be a bit... dry. I bring a level of enthusiasm and warmth that energizes your cohort and creates those special moments of connection that participants remember long after the program ends.
After years of teaching storytelling to everyone from CEOs to middle schoolers, I've mastered the art of making sophisticated narrative concepts feel accessible and immediately applicable.
I make the complex feel simple.
I complement your expertise.
I create energy and connection.
I respect boundaries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers
I sure do, on Zoom.
At this point I don't offer curriculum design and "train the trainer" models, but I completely understand the appeal. The good news is I'm working on digital courses and "story circle" activity guides that I'll be launching in 2026. If you're looking for something you can integrate into your own teaching, stay tuned for those offerings (and subscribe to my newsletter where I'll announce them first).
I've had the joy of working with all sorts of cohort-based programs! Business coaching groups, creative writing courses, career development programs, leadership trainings, wellness communities, personal growth programs—if you've got a group of people eager to grow, I'm here for it.
I know you're busy running your amazing program! My goal is to make this ridiculously easy for you. We'll have one 45-minute kick-off call where I'll learn about your program and participants, plus optional check-ins before the session if you'd like them. I handle all the content creation and delivery, so you can focus on what you do best.
What types of programs do you work with?
How much time do I need to commit to the planning process?
Can you just give me the curriculum for me to teach/lead my folks?
Do you work with clients outside of the US?
If your participants are humans with experiences, they're ready for this. So, everyone! No, but really, my approach is designed to meet people exactly where they are. Some folks will come in already comfortable sharing stories, while others might be more hesitant—and that's perfectly okay! I create an environment where both the natural storytellers and the "I don't have any stories worth telling" people feel equally valued and supported.
How do I know if my participants are ready for this?
I have another question. How can I get in touch?
I'd love to hear from you! Fill out the inquiry form here or email me directly at hello@micaelablei.com. Or schedule a call, and we can chat about your questions!
I've had the joy of working with all sorts of cohort-based programs! Business coaching groups, creative writing courses, career development programs, leadership trainings, wellness communities, personal growth programs—if you've got a group of people eager to grow, I'm here for it.
At this point I don't offer curriculum design and "train the trainer" models, but I completely understand the appeal. The good news is I'm working on digital courses and "story circle" activity guides that I'll be launching in 2026. If you're looking for something you can integrate into your own teaching, stay tuned for those offerings (and subscribe to my newsletter where I'll announce them first).
I know you're busy running your amazing program! My goal is to make this ridiculously easy for you. We'll have one 45-minute kick-off call where I'll learn about your program and participants, plus optional check-ins before the session if you'd like them. I handle all the content creation and delivery, so you can focus on what you do best.
If your participants are humans with experiences, they're ready for this. So, everyone! No, but really, my approach is designed to meet people exactly where they are. Some folks will come in already comfortable sharing stories, while others might be more hesitant—and that's perfectly okay! I create an environment where both the natural storytellers and the "I don't have any stories worth telling" people feel equally valued and supported.
What types of programs do you work with?
How do I know if my participants are ready for this?
How much time do I need to commit to the planning process?
Can you just give me the curriculum for me to teach/lead my folks?
Do you work with clients outside of the US?
I have another question. How can I get in touch?
I sure do, on Zoom.
I'd love to hear from you! Fill out the inquiry form [HERE] or email me directly at hello@micaelablei.com. or schedule a call and we can chat about it!
A great intro to telling personal stories, for lots of reasons -- not just onstage.
Read my guide in Psyche magazine
A guide to telling stories
A publication for the story-obsessed. Join me as I nerd out about narrative strategies, cultural storytelling, and the fascinating mechanics behind great stories.
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A Newsletter
Brand new and coming soon! A 10-episode journey through the art of personal storytelling. Subscribe to The Story Letter and be the first to know when it drops.
Brand new and coming soon! A 10-episode journey through the art of personal storytelling. Subscribe to The Story Letter and be the first to know when it drops.
