The Cause+Effect Podcast The Best Story Wins | Matthew Luhn
Apr 2, 2026
43:29
In this episode of Cause+Effect, Trent Dunham is joined by Matthew Luhn — writer, animator, director, author, and longtime Pixar story leader. Drawing from his work on Toy Story, Monsters, Inc., Finding Nemo, Up, and more, Matthew shares what makes a story memorable and why great storytelling is essential for leaders, ministries, and nonprofits trying to inspire action.
Together, Trent and Matthew explore why facts alone rarely stick, how story creates emotional connection, why the audience should be seen as the hero, and how organizations can better communicate mission through compelling, human-centered narratives. Matthew also unpacks simple storytelling principles leaders can use right away to make their message clearer, stronger, and more impactful.
Show Notes:
Pickup a copy of Matthew's book: https://a.co/d/07QnkFfm
Together, Trent and Matthew explore why facts alone rarely stick, how story creates emotional connection, why the audience should be seen as the hero, and how organizations can better communicate mission through compelling, human-centered narratives. Matthew also unpacks simple storytelling principles leaders can use right away to make their message clearer, stronger, and more impactful.
Show Notes:
Pickup a copy of Matthew's book: https://a.co/d/07QnkFfm