Dr. Dennis Rebelo reflects on the purpose of My Story Vault and why surfacing personal work-life narratives impacts individuals, families, students, and communities. In this solo episode, he explains the narrative process, decision points, and the conditions that allow stories to reveal meaning.
In this special solo episode of My Story Vault, Dr. Dennis Rebelo steps out from behind the interviewer’s chair to reflect on the purpose and impact of the podcast series. He explains why he and the team dedicate extensive time and resources to uncovering compelling narratives—stories that guests often don’t realize hold deep professional and personal meaning. Drawing from examples such as Rich Peters, a truck driver who became a chief scientist at SABIC, Dr. Rebelo reveals how the podcast has helped community members, coworkers, and families see individuals in new ways.
Throughout the episode, he highlights how students, teachers, and guidance counselors have responded to these stories, noting that the podcast’s accessible narratives can ignite inspiration during moments of uncertainty. Dr. Rebelo describes the technical and human elements involved in the story-unpacking process, from creating generative dialogue to setting conditions that help guests articulate formative experiences he calls “blue dots.” He discusses resistance, creativity, adaptability, and self-leadership—central concepts that arise in the narratives shared in the Vault.
He also outlines the recurring questions he asks each guest: What were you raised for? What do you want to be known for? What are you doing about it now? These closing questions help link past experiences to present identity and future direction. Dr. Rebelo reflects on decision points, the role of receptivity, and the positive “viral effect” of narrative coherence as guests integrate their stories into their lives. He closes by encouraging listeners, educators, and career centers to use these stories as tools for learning and reflection, emphasizing that every story matters and can help illuminate a path toward understanding and possibility.
Produced by Nate Christy, BIC Studios
Berkshire Innovation Center Accelerator Program:
https://www.berkshireinnovationcenter.com/accelerator-program
Narrative Research Group:
https://narrativeresearchgroup.org/
For more information or to share a question or insight, please email Shannon [at] narrativeresearchgroup [dot] org