Helping Others Tell Their Story: Derrick Hatch on All Things Narrative

Amber Stitt
Jul 8
3 min read

Updated: Jul 10

Unleashing the Power of Your Story: Lessons from Derrick Hatch on Pathways with Amber Stitt

Everyone has a story to tell. That’s the resounding theme from the special episode of Pathways with Amber Stitt, featuring Derrick Hatch—author, entrepreneur, and founder of All Things Narrative. Broadcast live from the "Unleash Your Superpower" conference in Delray Beach, Florida, this inspiring conversation dives deep into the art of storytelling, the power of narrative therapy, and how embracing your personal story can unlock a more meaningful, intentional life.

Storytelling Is for Everyone

Derrick Hatch opens the discussion by challenging the notion that storytelling is reserved for "naturals." He passionately asserts, "Everybody does have a storytelling voice and a style that is natural to them, but we need someone to draw that out." This belief is at the heart of his mission: helping people discover, clarify, and share their stories—whether they’re entrepreneurs, leaders, artists, or anyone seeking purpose.

Amber Stitt, host and fellow storyteller, echoes how vital stories are not just for personal growth but for community. The books they've launched, the collective of authors they connect with, and events like this conference all point back to the transformative impact of sharing our lived experiences. As Amber notes, “Stories are so important to help not only ourselves, but others.”

The Journey to Narrative Expertise

Derrick’s own narrative arc began early, with creative pursuits in writing, music, and the arts. “In first grade, I got to be in a play. I got to have the lead role. That was kind of like my first taste of, ‘Oh, I really like bringing stories to life in creative ways,’” he recalls. Over time, his fascination with stories evolved into a vocation—helping others articulate and make sense of the narratives in their own lives.

This journey led Derrick to the field of Narrative Therapy, which he studied at the graduate level. His thesis became the foundation for his flagship course, designed to immerse people in the art of storytelling—not just as an artistic exercise, but as a means to greater self-clarity and intentional living.

What is Narrative Therapy?

So what exactly is narrative therapy? Derrick explains it as the narrative metaphor: “We make sense of our lives through stories. As human beings, story has been a part of our language. It’s universal across cultures... Storytelling is a way that we make sense of the world around us and the world within, as well—our own experiences, our identity, our relationships.”

He emphasizes that we each have a multitude of narratives—unique combinations of experiences, yet always with common threads that connect us all. The paradox of narrative, he says, is that our stories are both entirely individual and yet remarkably universal. This is how we connect, empathize, and learn from one another.

Living—and Leading—Your Authentic Narrative

For Derrick, embracing his own story meant taking control of his path as an entrepreneur, father, and husband. He shares candidly about the shift: “I wanted to create a lifestyle for myself where I could be more present with [my family], where I can do the things that I love, but on my own terms and not living somebody else’s dream.” That decision, he reflects, has brought more fulfillment, purpose, and connection than ever before.

Amber ties this back to the heart of leadership: “There’s a bit of control in a good way, controlling your own narrative. But what you’re ultimately talking about is leadership… It’s really we can show our fans that they can do it, too."

Your Story Matters

One of the most touching moments comes as Derrick’s young daughter is asked to join the podcast, although her shyness prevailed, she embodies the next generation of storytellers. Derrick beams with pride as he reveals, “She told me, ‘Daddy, I want to be an author one day.’ She’s literally over there writing a book right now.”

Whether you feel like a natural or are just starting your journey, the message is clear: your story is worth telling. As Derrick affirms, “At All Things Narrative we want to be your guide towards telling and living that story more meaningfully.”

So what are you waiting for? Start exploring your narrative, and watch how it transforms your life—and maybe even the lives of those around you.