Once Upon a Business

Lisa tells a fascinating tale from Nigeria of a time when the sky generously provided for all human needs—until greed disrupted the harmony. From this fable, Lisa offers thoughts on work, wants versus needs, and the environmental crises we face.

Lisa tells the story of the parts of the body debating which of them is most important. At once silly and profound, it speaks volumes about how businesses operate and how they will find success, once they get to the heart of what matters.

Lisa tells the story “Strawberries” about a couple who fall into a rift of anger. It’s ripe for interpretation about many emotional aspects of business, including the challenge of differences, reconnecting with passion, and the possibility of hope.

Host Lisa Bloom introduces Neuroscience of Coaching, a new show on the Mirasee FM podcast network, hosted by Dr. Irena O’Brien. In this bonus episode, Melinda Cohan and Dr. O’Brien dive head first into the surprising hidden science behind motivation.

Lisa tells the old Jewish story of “The Crowded House,” in which a desperate man seeks the wisdom to solve his situation. Through his experience, we learn the value of mentorship — and most of all, perspective.

Lisa tells the Paulo Coelho story of “Nasruddin and His Donkey.” We learn that, under the right mix of circumstances, false belief can overtake truth. It’s a business adage that perception trumps reality — and this story is a keen reminder of that.

Host Lisa Bloom introduces Teacher Tom’s Podcast, a new show on the Mirasee FM podcast network, hosted by “Teacher Tom” Hobson. In this bonus episode, Lenore Skenazy reveals ways parents harm their children’s development and what they can do instead.

Host Lisa Bloom introduces Consciousness Explored, a new show on the Mirasee FM podcast network, hosted by Melissa Deal. In this bonus episode, guest Stephanie Red Feather dives into what it’s like to live your life as an empath.

Once Upon A Business producer Michi Lantz chooses a favorite episode of the season to run again over the holiday break. Hear Lisa Bloom tell an Indian tale of elephants and mice, with a potent lesson on the power of small entities in the world of business.

Lisa tells the tale of three brothers. Each embarks on a journey and returns with a souvenir. And we as listeners come away with souvenirs of our own, in the numerous business lessons we learn from the three brothers’ story.

Lisa tells a Jewish tale from India of a king seeking forgiveness. From his journey, we can glean much about how gender plays part in business, as well as how to conduct ourselves professionally, operate with integrity, and move past our mistakes.

Lisa tells this fable from Tibet of a group of monkeys seeking to save the moon from perceived peril. In their effort, we come to discover much about reality as we perceive it, the value of wise and experienced elders, and the consequences of alarmism.

Lisa tells the fable Coyote and the Frog People in which Old Man Coyote tricks the frog people to access their water. The tale raises questions of fairness, and Lisa ponders a shift in the entrepreneurial world towards social justice and inclusivity.

Lisa tells the classic Hans Christian Andersen tale of a princess who seeks refuge in a storm. Lisa then shares how, despite the outdated gender-based tropes, the story holds business lessons about our self-worthiness, independence, and true path.

Lisa tells the Siberian story Why Hares Have Long Ears, which features the meeting of a majestic elk and a timid hare. From the elk’s gift, the hare learns an important lesson. And we in turn learn the value of authenticity in our business endeavors.

Lisa tells the Hans Christian Andersen fable The Leaping Match, which pits a flea, grasshopper, and frog against one another. We then learn how businesses can suffer the same fate — falling into hubris or serving their markets with good intentions.

Lisa tells a tale from Nigeria that dramatizes how quickly we can fall into dissatisfaction. Wanting ever more, we can lose sight of our humanity and community. As Lisa ties this to business, we’re reminded that our highest mission is to serve others

To mark our 50th episode, Lisa tells a fable from Sudan of how bats came to hang upside down. Shunned in the story, bats represent the exclusion we’ve all felt. But like bats, we must embrace our gifts to claim our unique place in the world.

Lisa tells of a “twisted message” in a story from Africa. When a heavenly message is muddled, divine intentions clash with earthly doubts. Caught between truth and deceit, humans are left questioning eternity's enigma.

Lisa Bloom tells the Middle Eastern fable "Two Men and One Horse." With its unconventional ending, we are faced with a multitude of human truths. And a significant one is that individual greed has the potential to erode the good will of a community.

Lisa Bloom tells an Indian tale of elephants and mice. They develop a unique friendship, and through it we glean potent lessons on partnership, diversity, and the power of small entities in the world of business.

Lisa Bloom tells a Persian tale of a mullah and a stable attendant. Despite being the more learned one, the mullah learns an important lesson from the attendant. And we in turn are reminded of the importance of being in tune with those around us.

Lisa Bloom tells the story of The Princess and the Crow. Enduring great hardship over two years, a princess seeks to save a crow — and from Lisa we learn numerous business insights regarding sacrifice, purpose, and perseverance.

From the ancient epic poem Ramayana, Lisa Bloom tells a tale that is as rich as it is simple. When the characters come together to save the queen, we learn the value of small roles, the need for patience, and the risk of rash judgment.

Lisa Bloom tells the parable Dance with Your Hands Free, a story of envy and deceit. In business (as in life), we are all vulnerable to these traits — perhaps our own, but most often that of others. But how do we respond? Lisa proposes compassion.

Host Lisa Bloom introduces a new show on the Mirasee FM podcast network — Behind the Launch, hosted by Cynthia Lamb. In this bonus episode, we take a ride from the elation of a million-dollar launch to disappointment when the next launch falls short.

Lisa Bloom introduces For Better or For Work, the Mirasee FM podcast network’s new show hosted by Bhoomi Pathak and Danny Iny. In this bonus episode, guest couple Meg and Gary Hirshberg candidly talk about their early business conflicts and choices.

In this trickster tale, The Leaning Silver Birch, we're reminded that entrepreneurs need to be sincere and authentic or customers will spot shallow promises. Connecting genuinely, providing solutions, and showing vulnerability are keys to lasting relationships.

Through the tale, Three Raindrops, Story Coach Lisa Bloom highlights how healthy comparisons can result in growth and collaboration. She cautions against being so driven by our egos that we feel superior and close ourselves off from learning from others.

Through this week's folklore, Lisa Bloom explores how we often overlook the needs of those we serve in favor of what we think is best. She shares how viewing our business with childlike innocence allows us to examine how our values align with our actions.

Host Lisa Bloom introduces Blowing Up, a new podcast in the Mirasee FM podcast network. In this bonus episode, hosts Linda Claire Puig and Ari Iny talk with Holly Chantal about how to find success with messaging.

Story coach Lisa Bloom tells the tale of a shepherd who stumbled across the treasure of a lifetime and just as quickly lost it. He used this great loss to inspire his village, much like you can use your own story to inspire those around you.

Mirasee FM director Cynthia Lamb chose this favorite episode to play again during the holiday break. In the episode, a compassionate hero reminds us that the vast diversity in our world does not hinder us; it serves us when we honor others just as they are.

In today’s story, we are reminded that life is a precious gift. And what we leave behind is its own story made up of a series of choices in a finite series of moments. Whatever path you choose, be mindful of the story you’re writing along the way.

Producer Cynthia Lamb introduces To Lead Is Human, a new podcast in the Mirasee FM podcast network. In this passionate, bonus episode, host Sharon Richmond talks with Shalini Verma about the transformational benefits of conscious leadership.

In today’s story, endearing animals display human characteristics that encourage us to take a closer look at our own integrity, mindfulness and motives. We are inspired to honor the wisdom of our elders and value the loyalty of true friends.

In today’s story, a young orphan boy demonstrates the power of perseverance and resilience. It can be difficult to pursue our dreams when they seem so far away, so impossible. But the magic happens when we truly believe in ourselves and don’t give up.

Host Lisa Bloom introduces The Self-Awakened Lifestyle, a new podcast on the Mirasee FM podcast network. In this bonus episode, host Esco Wilson guides his guest through a journey of healing painful memories and regrets to a commitment for a more empowering future.

In today’s lighthearted story, we explore foolishness as a messenger of truth. Lisa tells of a beloved thirteenth century character whose tales force us to examine our own beliefs and behaviors. We’re encouraged to look closely to discover where true value lies.

In today’s story, a poor villager’s dreams come true only to reveal his genuine heart’s desires. It reminds us that what we want is often viewed through a very narrow lens. And in the realization of our surface desires, we may discover what is truly missing.

In today’s story, a clever defendant gives us all reason to pause and think about the way we view ourselves and others. Our judgment is like a looking glass into our own souls. If we are willing to look, we can see what is being reflected.

In today’s story, a wise old father shares valuable lessons. We, entrepreneurs, are reminded of the value of dedication and allowing success to unfold in its due time. We also find the benefit of seeing through the eyes of those with a broader perspective.

In this bonus episode, producer Cynthia Lamb introduces a new show to the Mirasee FM podcast network. In Soul Savvy Business, Katy Valentine explores the intersection of business and spirituality. Her guest in this episode is the host of Once Upon a Business, Lisa Bloom.

In today’s fanciful story, a curious boy finds courage in a precarious adventure. We are reminded as entrepreneurs of the value and potential consequences of taking risks. And, also, if we keep a level head, we will always find our way to safety.

In today’s story, a petulant character’s quest to feel special leads us to question our own perceptions. We are encouraged to look a little deeper and examine the gifts we are blessed with, the value we offer and the impact we have.

How do you measure value? Today’s powerful story shows us that value lies not in time but in purpose and meaning. And we will be remembered by the impact we have on others. So, it’s important that we remember how meaningful each moment can be.

What image do we present in our business? What do we see in others? How can we know who to trust? Today’s charming tale illustrates that what makes a flawless reflection isn’t perfection; it’s vulnerability, confidence and honesty.

A clever and delightful rabbi illustrates how things can turn out differently than we expect when we don’t limit our perspective. The more diverse our influences, the more likely we are to see innovation and opportunities in our business.

Today’s story weaves drama, comedy and insight as a brave king demonstrates honorable leadership with a diverse group of subjects. We are reminded that there can be great rewards for stepping out of our comfort zone and thinking independently.

In today’s rich episode, we see that fear of knowledge or what is new only leads to detriment. We are also reminded not to get so caught up in chasing success that we don’t even notice when we’ve found it.

Today’s story demonstrates the power of determination and perspective. Challenges arise that seem beyond our capacity to overcome. But when we listen to ourselves and collaborate with trusted others, we will find solutions. When we don’t succumb, we thrive.

As this episode reveals, when we show up authentically and confidently, the world changes to meet us where we are. The same is true when we don’t invest in our own transformation. Our world remains as it always has. Our perception makes the difference.

We are often frightened or distrusting of those who look, think or act differently than us. In this episode, a compassionate hero reminds us that the vast diversity in our world does not hinder us; it serves us. But we must honor others just as they are.

When you have good boundaries, you can build and grow your business without burnout. Today’s story also reminds us that respect and discernment are paramount to helping us honor our gifts and nurture the hearts of those with whom we wish to connect.

Bleak periods in our businesses can feel as though they’ll never end. Today’s touching story was written by a giant himself, Oscar Wilde, who faced his own share of winters. This story reminds us that when we open our hearts and minds, the spring always returns.

As entrepreneurs, we try to create something valuable—a precious treasure to share with the world that we hope will make an impact. This touching tale reminds us that with a bit of faith and integrity, we can transform lives with the magic of our own stories.

When storms arise, we tend to focus on the problem, limiting our ability to find a solution. As a wise king illustrates in this powerful story, there is another option. We can look through the chaos, find our peace, and make a broader, more positive impact.

Not everyone will see the value of your service or know your worth, but as one very special woman demonstrates in today’s story, you are the only one that needs to. Accept blindness without retribution, and know when to move on fearlessly and decisively.

One man’s optimism reminds us that our reactions to a world we can’t control can lead us to prosperity–or ruin. Believe in the value of your service. Have faith in the power of your determination and your ability to overcome, and success will follow.

As entrepreneurs, we can sometimes become insatiable in our pursuit of success and blind to our own shortcomings or the weaknesses in our business. Lisa Bloom tells an amusing tale that inspires us to awareness, acceptance and accountability.

Through this episode’s tale, Lisa Bloom illustrates how our own inner resources uniquely equip us to bear our individual burdens. Often, others can help guide us to that place inside where we can find solutions through our own experience, gifts and wisdom.

In this episode, Lisa Bloom explores the remarkable subjectivity of both truth and beauty in life and in business. We see how experience mixed with interpretation reveals our own story, and if we sprinkle in a bit of perseverance, it can be a success story.

In this episode, Lisa Bloom describes how ideas can be fragile at first. They require a well-timed, protected gestation period and a little faith to fully hatch. When we nurture them and enjoy the whole process, we can create a legacy of value that lasts.

In each episode of Once Upon a Business, Story Coach Lisa Bloom tells a fairy or folk tale and then extracts rich business lessons that are applicable for entrepreneurs of all stripes. As she puts it, a tiny tale of nine sentences can encompass worlds.

Through "The Cracked Pot," Lisa Bloom shows us that the path to success is not one of perfection but of perception. Our own perceived flaws, if we embrace them bravely and authentically, can become valuable assets, moving us forward on our true path.

In this episode, Lisa Bloom explains that hidden in the rifts of every perceived failure is a beautiful piece of the story of your business and the success waiting to be born. Each scar and jagged edge tells a story of trying, failing, learning and healing.

Through a tale that’s told all over the world, story coach Lisa Bloom acknowledges the deep connection between Truth and Story. In this episode, Lisa explores how embracing this connection in our marketing leads to powerful results.

“The Tailor’s Coat,” as told by Story Coach Lisa Bloom, beautifully evokes the entrepreneurial experience. Just like the tailor, we take the scraps of what we've done, shed what's not working and find the creativity to create something new.

Story coach Lisa Bloom extracts business gold from this little-known tale by the Brothers Grimm. Its power, she says, is to “reconnect us to that spirit of adventure, that spirit of imagination, that spirit of we can do that thing that seems almost impossible.”