I’ve always lived a little sideways in the world. Not in a rebellious way — more like the way a river refuses to run in a straight line. I’m left‑handed, which means I grew up flipping notebooks upside‑down, smudging ink across every page, and learning to navigate a world designed for the opposite hand. But somewhere along the way, that sideways way of living became a sideways way of thinking. And that’s where this story really begins. Because being left‑handed didn’t make me

Since leaving the corporate world in late 2025, I’ve had a lot of reflection time to look back at my affinity for maps. I believe it started way back in my early teens when I was introduced to Dungeons & Dragons, specifically the 1st edition Player's Handbook. This one book introduced the core framework, game mechanics, and fantasy elements that would shape the Role-Playing Game (RPG) genre. I remember countless hours over the mid-1980s rolling dice, creating characters, and

If someone had told me back in 2012, when I got Shark Tank-like approval at Merck to create a story map for Global Technology Operations, that I would spend the next decade mapping the entire business and IT organization, I would have called them crazy. Turns out, that’s exactly what happened. What started as a side project became a globally recognized storytelling brand that crossed continents, languages, and learning styles. This is the first blog article and a high-level l

Why Change Needs a Story Map What my career taught me about change, visualization, and helping people see the journey Change is rarely just about a new system, process, or organizational model. Real change helps people understand where they are going, why it matters, and how their work fits into something larger. That is why I believe change needs a story map. Without one, even well‑planned efforts can feel fragmented, confusing, and difficult to sustain. That belief is also

Change is a constant in any organization, and managing it effectively is crucial for success. One of the most powerful tools in change management is the use of storymaps and visuals. These tools help teams visualize the journey of change, making it easier to understand, communicate, and implement. In this blog post, we will explore how to master change management through effective storymaps and visuals, providing practical examples and insights along the way. Understanding Ch

In today's fast-paced digital landscape, capturing attention is more challenging than ever. With countless messages vying for consumer focus, businesses must find innovative ways to stand out. One of the most effective methods to achieve this is through visual storytelling. By combining compelling narratives with striking visuals, brands can create memorable experiences that resonate with their audience. This blog post will explore how engaging visual storytelling can transfo

In today's fast-paced business environment, organizations are constantly seeking ways to adapt and thrive. Business transformation is no longer a luxury; it is a necessity. However, navigating this transformation can be complex and challenging. One effective way to simplify this process is through the use of visualizations and storymaps. These tools not only enhance understanding but also foster collaboration and engagement among stakeholders. Understanding Business Transform