The Power of an Effective Story

Robb Mann is an alumnus of the Wexner Heritage Program.  He is President of Henry-Lee and Company, a Chicago based apparel design and sourcing company.   He is the former Chairman of United Jewish Communities’ National Training Department.  Rob lectures throughout North America teaching others how to share their passion for Jewish communal involvement.  He can be reached at robm@henry-lee.com 

As Chairman of United Jewish Communities’ National Training department I’ve taught many leaders to articulate personal stories as a way of moving others to action.

Within a 24 hour period last summer I became forever convinced that the ability to move others with our stories is a cornerstone of leadership. 

In Auschwitz, Poland I said Kaddish where few witnessed the murder of millions.  The following day I was at a small military cemetery in Nahariya, Israel standing with many as mourners for the murder of one.  I was there to support Karnit Goldwasser as she buried her husband, murdered IDF soldier, Ehud Goldwasser.

Karnit gained international attention because of her compelling and impassioned pleas for the safe return of her husband and fellow soldiers Eldad Regev and Gilad Shalit.  Although the return of Ehud and Eldad was not to be, she succeeded in bringing worldwide attention to their plight.  Her stories made others care.

Whether advocating for a loved one or a complete stranger, as Jews we have a responsibility to care for one another.  Only by honing our skills as passionate storytellers can we move others to action.