Stories for change

I collaborate with individuals to effect positive change through great storytelling.

Storytelling can be difficult, until suddenly and almost magically it becomes easy.  Arriving at that transformational spot is the trick.  It's all about 'getting to why.'  My process involves asking informed questions, listening intently, and then writing toward a narrative destination that may change.  Along the creative way I take comfort in knowing that, from Solomon to Spielberg, it has always been great stories that sustain and protect, entertain and connect people.

I draw on what I learned as a national magazine writer to immerse myself in research, conduct revealing interviews, and then shape what I have gathered into compelling narratives that engage and influence my desired audience.  

The mechanics of storytelling (the 'how') matters but storytelling success only happens if the motivation behind the story ('the why') is put in focus.   Take this old three-act story, reworked for a modern audience:

A kid was skateboarding along a sidewalk when he stopped to watch three men in overalls and work-boots, surrounded by large stones.  The boy asked the first man what they were building.  The man growled, "Can't you see I'm layin' bricks?"   The kid rolled ahead and asked the next man the same question.  The second builder stopped, glanced up, and said politely: "I'm putting up a wall."  The kid nodded, went a little farther, and asked the third man what he was doing.  The last man got up, dusted off his hands, and looked proudly his work: "I'm building someone's dream home," he said.  "Cool," said the boy as he nodded, smiled and rolled away.

My passion is telling stories that have power and purpose.   I'm fortunate to have worked with Prime Ministers (two), CEOs, leaders of non-profits, creative teachers (and students), and many others to shape and share narratives that matter.  It's what an old friend and frequent collaborator calls 'fun, hard work.'