From community journalism to health care and higher ed, Mike’s career is powered by a passion to discover, create and share stories that connect people and advance strategic priorities.


Does Your Story Pass the Campfire Test?

Does Your Story Pass the Campfire Test?

Photo: Nathan Lindahl @hip_dinosaur from Unsplash

When's the last time you sat around the campfire and listened to a good ad?

Stories matter to people. They connect, inspire, delight, and persuade. Can an ad do the same thing? Sure, if it tells a great story.

But here's the fundamental difference -- a story can engage your audience in a lasting way. By its nature and shape, a story also presents a greater opportunity to be shared in a wider variety of formats, channels, and opportunities, like around the campfire.

A great story can become the centerpiece of your campaign or communication. And it's sure a lot more fun than telling an ad.

What's your campfire story, that compelling insight, example, or testimonial you tell about your organization that's guaranteed to gain attention and get shared?

Put your story to the campfire test. Commit to telling great stories, stories that are worth sharing, and demand retelling.

Dino, Before and After

Dino, Before and After

Lew Archer and I Share a Purpose

Lew Archer and I Share a Purpose