I’m in my martial arts class where we’re deep into advanced weapons training. On this day, our Grandmaster tells us that we’re going to have a special guest instructor join us. I’m thinking, “I’ve got the basics down with my knife. I’ve practiced them and know the foundation, so is this really going to be that different?”

Then Grandmaster Yarrow walks in and starts his workshop. Within minutes, he’s showing us knife techniques that I’ve never considered and didn’t even know were possible! Suddenly, everything I thought I knew about knife work feels limited.

A tension arises as I watch him demonstrate these unfamiliar techniques. Part of me wants to dismiss what I’m seeing, yet another part of me is intrigued and, to be honest, a little uncomfortable. Doubtful thoughts start to creep in. “Have I been doing this wrong all along? What if there’s much more I don’t know?”

This tug of war is happening inside me when something clicks. I start to realize that Grandmaster Yarrow is showing me a whole new world of possibilities. The real value isn’t just in the techniques he’s teaching us; it’s also in the reminder to keep an open mind and not limit your possibilities.

Sometimes, the greatest breakthroughs come in those moments when you’re willing to explore something new, maybe even something risky you’ve never tried before, and step outside of your usual way of doing things to discover hidden gifts and insights.

Similarly to those like Grandmaster Yarrow, my special guest today Lisa Franz has built a career helping people see new possibilities, insights, and stories from an external and internal perspective. In this episode of the Storytelling School Podcast, you’ll hear about finding freedom and personal transformation by embracing discomfort, breaking through limiting beliefs, and making mindful choices with food to increase self-awareness of your internal stories about eating and fitness. Lisa will also touch on the significance personal stories in connecting with others, as well as answer questions like:

How are transitions in certain areas like an unfolding of your life story? How can you break through internal stories about food and fitness that no longer serve you? And why do personal stories make relationships between coaches and clients more effective?

• How finding freedom in food choices can help you shape your lifestyle story
• How your transformation can inspire others to change their story, too
• How slowing down can help take your internal food story to the next level

Lisa Franz has a Master of Science degree in Exercise Science, Health Promotion, and Nutrition. She is the owner and head coach at Nutrition Coaching and Life and host of the Nutrition and Life Podcast. After struggling through various diets herself, she learned about evidence-based ways to change weight and body composition and has been fascinated with nutrition and building muscle ever since.