Eating the Sky

April 18, 2024 • 9 MIN

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.

Who Is Important?

April 4, 2024 • 7 MIN

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.

The Fruit of Letting Go

March 21, 2024 • 9 MIN

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.

Presenting Neuroscience of Coaching (Melinda Cohan)

March 14, 2024 • 26 MIN

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.

A Matter of Perspective

March 7, 2024 • 7 MIN

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.

When Belief Defies Truth

February 22, 2024 • 7 MIN

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.

Presenting Teacher Tom’s Podcast (Lenore Skenazy)

February 15, 2024 • 33 MIN

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.

Wiser Together, Safer Together

February 8, 2024 • 13 MIN

Lisa tells the story of “The Wise Quail,” in which a flock of quail are threatened by a hunter. We learn from the fable how important good leadership, cooperation, and deep introspection are to fending off both external and internal dangers.

Clever and Foolish

January 25, 2024 • 8 MIN

In this very short tale from Bangladesh, Lisa tells of two women — one clever and one foolish. What seems on the surface merely a story about fairness becomes, with Lisa’s insight, a tale rich with meaning and wisdom we can all learn from.

Presenting Consciousness Explored (Stephanie Red Feather)

January 18, 2024 • 36 MIN

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.

The Old Alchemist

January 11, 2024 • 11 MIN

Lisa tells a tale from Burma about a man, his son-in-law, and alchemy. It’s a story rich with business lessons of patience and perseverance, magical thinking and mentorship. And we come to discover transformation can happen in unexpected ways.

Team’s Pick: Unlikely Allies

December 28, 2023 • 8 MIN

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.

The Magic Pomegranate

December 14, 2023 • 13 MIN

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.

The Golden Tree

November 30, 2023 • 11 MIN

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.

Monkeys Rescue the Moon

November 16, 2023 • 7 MIN

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.

Equality Versus Meritocracy

November 2, 2023 • 8 MIN

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.

The Princess and the Pea

October 19, 2023 • 9 MIN

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.

Finding Authenticity in Gifts

October 5, 2023 • 7 MIN

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.

A Leap of Fate

September 21, 2023 • 10 MIN

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.

From Grief to Greed

September 7, 2023 • 8 MIN

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

50th Episode Celebration!

August 24, 2023 • 12 MIN

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.

Divine Intent and Earthly Doubt

August 10, 2023 • 8 MIN

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.

The Poison of Greed

July 28, 2023 • 7 MIN

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.

Unlikely Allies

July 13, 2023 • 7 MIN

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.

Not All At Once

June 29, 2023 • 6 MIN

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.

Drops of Salvation

June 15, 2023 • 13 MIN

Lisa Bloom tells the ancient Indian folk tale of The Brave Little Parrot, which is chock full of elements to interpret. Perhaps most significant, we are shown how the bold actions of even a single soul can turn around a seemingly hopeless situation.

Getting What You Give

June 1, 2023 • 10 MIN

Lisa Bloom tells the Japanese tale of The Sparrow’s Gifts, then explores the many lessons within. Among them, we’re reminded that we reap what we sow — an age-old adage that some businesses nevertheless insist on ignoring.

Facing Monsters, Finding Meaning

May 18, 2023 • 11 MIN

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.

Earning Your Stripes

May 4, 2023 • 10 MIN

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.

The Threads That Connect Us

April 20, 2023 • 9 MIN

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.

Chasing False Magic

April 6, 2023 • 14 MIN

Lisa Bloom tells the story The Magic Ball, a tale of being captivated to the point of endangerment. All too often, entrepreneurs fall prey to distraction, or conversely, blind obsession. Lisa looks at both — then offers a different take on the story’s villain.

Promises and Greed

March 23, 2023 • 14 MIN

Story coach Lisa Bloom tells a short fable, The Snake of Dreams, then examines how we are susceptible to allowing our values to shift with circumstances. And in particular to this story, greed can alter how we approach transactions and relationships

Presenting Behind The Launch

March 16, 2023 • 19 MIN

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.

From the Darkness

March 9, 2023 • 11 MIN

In The Day the Sun Hid, Story Coach Lisa Bloom helps us see how, working through our darkest moments, we will ultimately find light. It comes from the support of others, our persistence, and recognizing that our path out of darkness is a process, not a leap.

Presenting For Better or For Work (Gary and Meg Hirschberg)

March 2, 2023 • 34 MIN

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.

Sincerity is Key

February 23, 2023 • 8 MIN

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.

Healthy Comparison

February 9, 2023 • 8 MIN

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 the Eyes of a Child

January 26, 2023 • 8 MIN

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.

Presenting Blowing Up (Holly Chantal)

January 19, 2023 • 20 MIN

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.

The Value of Loss

January 12, 2023 • 9 MIN

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.

Team’s Pick (Lucia Zenteno)

December 29, 2022 • 13 MIN

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.

Leaving a Legacy

December 22, 2022 • 8 MIN

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.

Presenting To Lead Is Human

December 15, 2022 • 50 MIN

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.

Character Counts

December 8, 2022 • 13 MIN

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.

Dream Big

November 24, 2022 • 17 MIN

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.

Presenting The Self-Awakened Lifestyle (Laura)

November 17, 2022 • 42 MIN

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.

Lighted Paths

November 10, 2022 • 7 MIN

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.

A Wealth of Wisdom

October 27, 2022 • 9 MIN

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.

Casting Stones

October 13, 2022 • 11 MIN

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.

Not-So-Buried Treasures

September 29, 2022 • 7 MIN

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.

Presenting Soul Savvy Business (Lisa Bloom)

September 22, 2022 • 33 MIN

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.

Risks and Rewards

September 15, 2022 • 15 MIN

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.

Star Quality

September 8, 2022 • 11 MIN

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.

Meaning Matters

August 25, 2022 • 11 MIN

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.

A Perfect Reflection

August 11, 2022 • 14 MIN

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 New Perspective

July 28, 2022 • 9 MIN

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.

The Way of People

July 14, 2022 • 11 MIN

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 Plain Sight

June 30, 2022 • 10 MIN

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.

Hidden Wisdom

June 16, 2022 • 11 MIN

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.

A Whole New World

June 2, 2022 • 12 MIN

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.

Fearless Acceptance

May 19, 2022 • 13 MIN

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.

Stolen Trust

May 5, 2022 • 10 MIN

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.

A Long, Long Winter

April 21, 2022 • 17 MIN

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.

Your Story is Pure Gold

April 7, 2022 • 18 MIN

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.

Pick Your Poison or Pick Your Peace

March 24, 2022 • 12 MIN

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.

You Cannot See What You Cannot See

March 10, 2022 • 12 MIN

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.

Success Unfolds Day by Day

February 24, 2022 • 16 MIN

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.

A Brave New (Business) World

February 10, 2022 • 18 MIN

A young girl’s courageous journey to save the lives of loved ones and strangers alike teaches powerful lessons about the evolution of modern business. The story points to honoring our own quest for success while maintaining integrity and compassion.

Passion or Madness?

January 27, 2022 • 13 MIN

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.

Your Perfect Problems

January 13, 2022 • 15 MIN

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.

The Beauty of Truth

December 30, 2021 • 12 MIN

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.

From Inspiration to Legacy

December 16, 2021 • 12 MIN

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.

Trailer for Once Upon a Business

December 3, 2021 • 3 MIN

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.

Our So-Called Flaws Sow Beauty

December 3, 2021 • 14 MIN

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.

The "Perfect" Heart

December 3, 2021 • 16 MIN

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.

“Truth & Story” in Marketing

December 2, 2021 • 14 MIN

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.

From Your Scraps, Create Something New

November 20, 2021 • 13 MIN

“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.

“The Golden Key” for Entrepreneurs

November 20, 2021 • 13 MIN

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.”