The Art of Storytelling with Joshua Sostrin

The Art of Storytelling with Joshua Sostrin

Melissa Vela-Williamson, APR, Fellow PRSA

Joshua Sostrin

Communications work often requires stepping confidently into unfamiliar territory. That's why the ability to simplify complex ideas can be a powerful skill. In this episode, Melissa talks with Joshua Sostrin, the founder and president of Imperative Content, about how his background in comedy launched him into a renowned career in speechwriting and storytelling.

About Josh: 

Joshua Sostrin is a speechwriter with over 20 years of experience and is the founder and president of Imperative Content, an executive communications consultancy. His background spans high tech, national security, academia, law, medicine, politics, and entertainment, with work featured in outlets from the World Economic Forum to The New York Times to The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, including speechwriting for members of the U.S. House and Senate and a presidential candidate.

Connect with Josh on LinkedIn

Visit Josh’s website

Topics covered:

• Josh’s journey to his current career

• The nonlinear path to speechwriting

• Josh’s storytelling process

• What it takes to be a successful speechwriter

• Leveraging research in communications work

• Tips for creating engaging content

Resources mentioned: 

• Cristela Alonzo: Upper Classy

• “A call to kindness: We are stronger together; let’s be a force for good”

• “Storytelling That Elevates”

• Pitch Ideas Like A PR Pro Digital Course

• "Latinas in Public Relations: Shaping Communications, Communities, and Culture"

• "Smart Talk: Public Relations Essentials All Pros Should Know"

• MVW Communications