Jamie Mackenzie
How to Help People Grow Through Storytelling with Jamie Mackenzie Ep 248 - The Global Discussion
In this episode of The Global Discussion, Host Simon Hodgkins speaks with Jamie Mackenzie, a multi-bestselling author, international speaker, and coach. Jamie's journey is one of transformation—shifting from a high-flying corporate career to a mission-driven path focused on growth and storytelling. His passion for the power of stories has not only shaped his own success but is now inspiring businesses, individuals, and even schools.
From Boardrooms to Bestselling Books
For over two decades, Jamie held leadership roles in some of the world's biggest brands, including Toshiba, Samsung, and Plexi, where he served as Chief Marketing Officer and a board-level executive. Despite an impressive career trajectory, something was missing.
"I was doing the same cycles in different companies," Jamie shared. "It wasn't that I couldn't achieve more, but I felt I needed to do something different to truly grow as a person."
That realization led him to recalibrate his life, stepping away from the corporate world to focus on storytelling—something he had unknowingly been using throughout his career. The result? Two bestselling books, 28 Bags of Sprouts: Storytelling with Impact and Sprouting Happiness: The Five Branches to a Happy and Balanced Life. These books continue to resonate with audiences worldwide.
The Power of Storytelling
Jamie's journey into storytelling started with a seemingly ordinary anecdote about Brussels sprouts. In his first job interview at Toshiba, he unknowingly impressed his interviewers by sharing a personal story about selling 28 bags of sprouts at a local greengrocer. The passion and authenticity in his storytelling landed him the job—proving that stories hold immense power in communication.
This lesson stayed with him throughout his career, shaping how he led teams, engaged audiences, and drove brand growth. Today, Jamie teaches businesses and individuals how to harness the same power to connect, influence, and grow.
"I believe every communication moment is an opportunity to make an impact," he explained. "The more people embrace storytelling in their day-to-day interactions, the greater the positive growth they'll experience."
Helping Businesses, Individuals, and Schools Grow
Jamie's expertise now extends across three key areas:
Business Growth: He works with scaling businesses, coaching executives, and providing fractional support to leadership teams. His storytelling-driven approach helps companies enhance communication, improve branding, and build stronger connections with employees and customers.
Personal Growth: Through coaching and workshops, Jamie guides individuals in improving their mindset, communication skills, and life choices—drawing from his own experiences of reinvention.
Education & Storytelling for Children: Jamie is currently developing children's books designed to teach young minds the power of storytelling, discussion, and self-expression. These books aim to help students and teachers incorporate storytelling into learning, fostering creativity and confidence.
A Future Fueled by Purpose
Jamie's next chapter is all about sustainability—not just financially but in his ability to continue serving and inspiring others. His goal for the next 12 months is clear: to ensure his work remains impactful and reaches those who need it most.
"I took the leap because I wanted to align with my purpose, not just chase financial success," he said. "Now, it's about turning this passion into something sustainable that allows me to keep growing, helping, and making a difference."
About The Global Discussion
The podcast features carefully curated guests from an exciting cross-section of creatives, leaders, and thinkers. New episodes are available on Apple, Google, and Spotify podcasts and several leading podcast platforms. You can listen to and watch the episodes on our dedicated YouTube channel and the website.
To learn more about The Global Discussion, please visit:
https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com
Audio
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3QdMqfzyvca6EVlEJ80I4n
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/ie/podcast/the-global-discussion/id1668702566
Video
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theglobaldiscussion
Website: https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com
Follow us on Social Media
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/theglobaldiscussion
Others: X, Instagram, and Facebook