Everywhere you turn, someone’s talking about how AI is changing everything—from writing scripts to editing videos and even generating photos. As a storyteller who’s spent decades working alongside nonprofits, missionaries, and small businesses, I see the power of these tools. They can speed up workflows and help organize ideas. But here’s the truth that too often gets overlooked:

AI doesn’t feel. It can’t listen with its heart. It can’t sit quietly in a room and sense what’s happening beneath the surface.

I’ve been in huts in West Africa, cramped apartments in Eastern Europe, and rural towns across the U.S.—camera in hand, listening for the heartbeat of a story. What makes those stories resonate isn’t just the visuals or clean audio. It’s the empathy. It’s the relationship I’ve built with the person sitting across from me. It’s knowing when to ask a question, and more importantly, when not to.

AI can string together words, but it can’t replace presence. One moment that stays with me was while filming a missionary family in Togo. As the mother shared about the challenges they faced with their child’s health, there was a pause—her eyes filled with tears. That silence… that space… spoke louder than words. I didn’t interrupt. I didn’t prompt her to keep talking. I just let the moment breathe.

AI would’ve missed that. Or worse, tried to fill it in with what it thinks people want to hear.

The same goes for storytelling through photos. One of my mentors, Don Rutledge, taught me the power of context. A great image isn’t just about lighting and composition. It’s about showing people within their world—the complete picture of their dignity, struggle, and joy. That takes patience, trust, and relationship-building. AI can generate an image, sure. But it won’t travel the world with you. It won’t pray with a family before you hit “record.”

When a nonprofit or mission agency hires me, they’re not just hiring a camera operator. They’re inviting a partner who knows how to listen well, ask the right questions, and honor the stories they hold sacred.

That’s why human storytellers still matter.

In an AI-saturated world, authenticity is our superpower—not perfection or polish, but honest, human connection.

So, while I embrace today’s tools, I hold even tighter to the craft I’ve been honing for 40+ years—storytelling that breathes, connects, and changes lives.

Because stories still matter. And so do the people who tell them.

In a world bombarded with messages from every direction, it’s easy to feel lost in the noise. But one tool that has always stood the test of time: storytelling. Whether you’re leading a nonprofit, a ministry, or a business, your stories can make all the difference in building lasting, meaningful relationships with your audience.

When we think of storytelling, we often focus on its role in marketing – driving donations, building awareness, or promoting an event. But storytelling goes far beyond that. At its heart, storytelling is about building connections, about creating a space where your audience feels understood, valued, and part of something bigger than themselves.

**Why Relationships Matter More Than Ever ** Let’s step back. Think about the organizations you care about. What makes you stay connected to them? Chances are, it’s not just their products or services, but the relationship they’ve built with you. You trust them. You resonate with their mission. They make you feel like you’re not just a donor, customer, or supporter but part of their community.

For nonprofits and ministries, this relationship-building is essential. You’re not just trying to meet an immediate need; you’re trying to create a lasting impact. You’re cultivating a community that will stand by you through every challenge and every triumph. And the best way to do that? Tell a story that invites your audience into the journey.

Storytelling as a Bridge to Connection

So, why does storytelling work so well for relationship-building? It’s simple: stories are human. They tap into universal emotions like love, fear, hope, and joy. Hearing a story that resonates with their own experiences or values creates an emotional connection. That’s the foundation of any strong relationship – emotional resonance.

Take a moment to think about the stories that have stuck with you. What made them memorable? Was it the plot? The visuals? Or was it the way those stories made you feel? Whetheit’s’s a film, a book, or a personal anecdote, the stories that stay with uaren’t’t necessarily the ones with the most complicated twists or the highest stakesThey’rere the ones that spoke to us on a deeper level, that made us see something in ourselves or the world that we hadn’t noticed before. That’s what storytelling does for your audience. It creates an emotional bond that transcends mere transactions. Your audience will remember how you made them feel, not just the facts or the outcomes. And when you create that connection, your supporters will feel more invested in your cause. They won’t just be passive observers; they’ll be active participants in your mission.

Storytelling as a Tool for Trust

Trust is another essential ingredient in any relationship. People won’t engage with your organization if they don’t trust you, and they won’t stay engaged if they don’t believe in your vision. Stories help build that trust by showing your audience who you are, what you stand for, and why you’re passionate about your mission.

When you share stories about the people you serve, the challenges you face, and the victories you celebrate, you’re being transparent. You’re letting your audience see the real, human side of your work. They get a front-row seat to your journey, with all its ups and downs. This authenticity is what breeds trust. It’s what turns a one-time donor into a long-term supporter.

How to Use Storytelling to Build Relationships: where the rubber meets the road: how can you use storytelling to build stronger relationships with your audience? Here are a few tips:

1. Focus on the People
   While your mission is essential, the people behind it are what make it relatable. Share stories about the individuals you serve – their dreams, their struggles, their transformations. Show your audience how their support directly impacts real people, and make them feel like they’re part of those stories.
2. Be Authentic
   People can spot a fake story from a mile away. Be honest about your journey – the successes and the failures. Vulnerability builds connection; don’t be afraid to share the challenges and setbacks that come with your work. It’s through those struggles that your audience will relate to you the most.
3. Use Visuals to Enhance the Story
   They say a picture is worth a thousand words, and that couldn’t be more true when it comes to storytelling. Powerful imagery can amplify the emotional impact of your story. Whether it’s a photo that captures a meaningful moment or a video that brings the story to life, visuals can create an immediate connection that words alone can’t achieve.
4. Invite Your Audience into the Story
   Encourage your supporters to become part of the narrative. Share stories about the impact of their involvement, whether through a donation, volunteering, or simply spreading the word. When people feel part of the story, their connection to your mission deepens.
5. Be Consistent
   Building relationships takes time. Make storytelling a regular part of your communication strategy. Whether through social media, email updates, or blog posts, continue to share your story – and ensure it evolves. People want to see how their support is making a difference over time.

The Power of a Good Story

Ultimately, storytelling is not just about sharing information but also about creating a lasting bond with your audience and inviting people to be part of something bigger than themselves. When you build that connection, you make a community that will stand by you, not just for one campaign but for the long haul.

So, the next time you sit down to craft a message, ask yourself: What story am I telling today? And more importantly, how can this story help me build a deeper relationship with my audience? The power of storytelling is not just about marketing; it’s about connection, trust, and creating a community that believes in your mission as much as you do.

One of the most common conversations I have with clients starts with this:

“We need a quick video.”
or
“Can you come take a few photos for us?”

While it’s always tempting to jump straight to creating content, my experience, through decades of storytelling, has shown me something powerful:

If you don’t start with a clear story, your project will almost always fall flat.

It’s like building a house without a blueprint. Sure, you’ll end up with something — but it might not be strong enough to weather a storm, and it definitely won’t feel like “home.”

In my work, I’ve found that asking a few key questions before anything else makes all the difference:

• What’s the heart behind this story?
• What emotion do you want people to feel?
• What action do you want them to take?

When we slow down just a little to answer those questions, the final video, photo series, or campaign isn’t just beautiful — it works. It connects. It moves people.

Story first. Always.

If you’re gearing up for a new project — whether it’s a new product launch, a fundraising campaign, or a rebranding — the best thing you can do isn’t to book the photographer or videographer right away.

It’s essential to clarify your story first.

I’d be happy to help you with that.

I specialize in guiding brands and organizations to discover their authentic stories and then helping them visually convey them in a way that resonates.

If you’re interested in discussing how I can help your brand stand out, let’s connect.

When Alvin Toffler’s book Powershift hit the shelves in 1990, I was one of the many who picked it up, read it with curiosity, and wondered what the future might hold.

Toffler made a bold claim: the balance of power would shift — not through brute force or sheer wealth, but through knowledge. Whoever controlled information would ultimately control the future.

Although I understood what he was saying at the time, I honestly had no idea how to apply that insight in my own work. I was focused on journalism, storytelling, and communication. Those were important, sure, but it felt like the “big powers” (media giants, government, corporations) still owned the narrative. It was hard to imagine a world where individuals, small organizations, or nonprofits could wield significant influence.

Fast forward to today — and I can see how much Toffler got right.

The rise of the internet, social media, smartphones, and AI has leveled the playing field. Today, a small nonprofit with a compelling story can reach a global audience. A business owner can build a brand with nothing more than a good story and a smartphone. A storyteller can influence culture as much — and sometimes more — than a billion-dollar company.

And this is where my work, and the work of so many others like me, comes into play.

As a storyteller and brand builder, I help organizations—whether businesses, nonprofits, or faith-based groups—find and share their stories in a way that cuts through the noise. Today’s world is inundated with messages, yet people still yearn for authentic, meaningful connections.

That’s why the skills of journalists, photographers, filmmakers, and communicators are more important than ever.

• We help organizations clarify their message.
• We help them connect emotionally with the right audience.
• We help them build trust — the real currency of influence today.

In this new Powershift reality, it’s not enough to have information. It’s about how you communicate it — visually, emotionally, and strategically.

Organizations that understand this will thrive. Those who don’t will find themselves lost in the noise.

I’m grateful that Toffler’s book planted the seed all those years ago, even if it took the world— and me —a little time to realize its meaning entirely. Today, I get to help others navigate this new world, crafting stories that inform, inspire action, and build lasting impact.

If you’re an organization looking to build real influence, know this: You don’t just need more information.

You need a storyteller.

You need someone who understands the true power of communication in today’s world.

And I’m here to help.

Photo by Dennis Fahringer

As someone who helps businesses and nonprofits tell compelling stories to connect with their audiences, I’ve often wrestled with this question: How frequently should I tell my own story?

When you make a living helping others shine, it can feel awkward—or even self-serving—to turn the camera around and share your journey. But here’s the truth: people don’t just hire my camera or my editing skills. They hired me. And to make that decision, they need to know who I am.

Your Story Builds Trust

In marketing, trust is currency. And trust is built through consistency, clarity—and a bit of vulnerability. Telling your own story gives potential clients a glimpse of the why behind your work. It lets them see the heart behind the lens, the reason you go the extra mile, the values you bring into every project.

When I share a story about a time I failed and learned something important…
Or how a client’s transformation deeply impacted me personally…
Or what got me into this work in the first place…

…I’m inviting people into something more profound than just a business transaction. I’m inviting them into a relationship.

But Don’t Overshadow Your Clients

At the same time, the bulk of my work is about highlighting others. And that’s where the balance comes in. I aim to keep my personal storytelling about 20–30% of my public content. The rest focuses on client stories, behind-the-scenes insights, tips for visual storytelling, and case studies that showcase the impact of effective communication.

Why? Because potential clients need to see the results I get for others. They need proof that I can effectively tell their story. But now and then, sharing my perspective reminds them that there’s a real person behind the work.

A Healthy Mix

Here’s the rhythm that seems to work:

• Client-focused stories (60–70%): Highlight the people and organizations I serve. This builds credibility and trust through social proof.
• Educational content (10–20%): Tips, how-tos, or insights on storytelling and communication.
• Personal stories (20–30%): Reflections, lessons learned, or behind-the-scenes peeks that show my journey, values, and style.

If you’re a fellow storyteller, I encourage you to find your rhythm. The key is authenticity. Share when you have something meaningful to say—and when it will help your audience connect the dots between your story and how you can help them tell theirs.

Because at the end of the day, people hire people they feel connected to.

And your story—told at the right moment—might be the reason they choose you.

David Cifuentes Velazquez, a coffee grower and member of the Just Coffee Cooperative, shares with visitors how coffee is grown in Salvador Urbina, Chiapas, Mexico. His excitement is contagious, especially as he tells how the cooperative’s success brought his son back home from working in the U.S. to rejoin the family farm. Now, all of David’s children live next door, a testament to how Just Coffee is transforming livelihoods, restoring families, and strengthening communities.

One of the most common challenges I hear from missionaries is this:

“We’ve told the same story so many times. That program is fully funded. I want to highlight some of the newer ministries — but their stories aren’t as powerful.”

I get it. You don’t want to keep promoting a coffee co-op or a business training program that already has the necessary resources. You want to shine a light on the rest of the work God is doing through your ministry.

But here’s the truth: you don’t retire your strongest stories — you repurpose them.

Why Your Best Stories Still Matter

Stories, such as a woman learning to sew, creating her own fabric, and starting a business, are more than just donor appeals. They’re trust builders. They give supporters a clear view of transformation — tangible, emotional, and inspiring.

The impact was undeniable when I worked with a missionary running a sewing and business training program for single women aged 18–28. Women gained skills, confidence, purpose, and a means to support themselves. One woman went on to teach others and even started her small co-op.

That kind of story moves hearts — and opens the door for people to care about your broader ministry.

Use Strong Stories as On-Ramps

If a new ministry doesn’t yet have powerful before-and-after stories, don’t force it. Instead, use your strong stories as a bridge.

For example:

“You’ve seen how the sewing program helped young women gain dignity and independence. Now, we’re coming alongside those same women as they disciple others in their community — and we’d love your help to make that possible.”

You’re not misleading your audience — you’re helping them see the continuum of transformation. You’re telling a bigger story, with the strongest chapters leading the way.

Don’t Chase Equal Airtime — Chase Engagement

Not every ministry requires the same level of attention. Think of it more like music: some instruments carry the melody while others support the harmony. Let your strongest stories carry the melody, and let newer ministries build the harmony around them.

If you’re working with programs that don’t have a dramatic or visual story (maybe a counseling program, leadership training, or administrative work), link them to outcomes that matter. For instance:

“Behind every successful story we’ve shared is a team that’s been trained, supported, and equipped. That work happens through our leadership development program — and it’s one of the most important ways we ensure sustainability.”

Invite, Don’t Apologize

There’s no need to apologize for leading with the stories that work. Audiences want to know that their support makes a difference. When they see it clearly in one area, they’re more likely to believe in the rest of your work too.

So keep telling the story of the coffee cooperative. Continue to show how a young woman’s life was transformed by learning to sew. But now, let that story invite people into the next chapter.

Do you need any help shaping those transitions? That’s precisely the kind of strategy I love assisting missionaries to build — and it’s what I do every day.

Caption: Pastor Anani Martouka stands in front of the thriving ABWE church plant he leads in Kpegelonou, Togo. In addition to pastoring, he teaches at the Bible Institute, equipping future pastors to help transform communities across Togo.

One of the questions I get most often from clients and students alike is this: “How do you capture authentic moments in a photo?”

The short answer? You stop chasing perfection and start watching for truth.

Authentic storytelling in photography isn’t about creating perfect images. It’s about capturing honest moments that resonate with the viewer—photos that invite people into the story rather than just showing them what happened. Whether I’m shooting a nonprofit’s work in Africa, a small business in the South, or a faith-based event in a local church, my goal is always the same: to show the humanity behind the mission.

Here are some of the core techniques I use to tell stories with authenticity:

1. Candid Moments Over Posed Perfection

Candid photography is where real life happens. People drop their guard when they’re focused on something other than the camera. That’s when you see connection, emotion, and character.

Tip: Take the time to observe before you start shooting. Blend into the environment. Let your subjects forget you’re there. Patience often leads to the most powerful images.

2. Use Environmental Portraits to Show Context

An environmental portrait tells a deeper story because it puts your subject in their world. Instead of just a headshot, you show their life—where they work, worship, or live.

Tip: When photographing someone, don’t just think about their face. Think about the background. What details help us understand who they are? Let the space speak.

3. Plan a Thematic Series

Sometimes, a single image can’t tell the whole story. That’s where a series of photos, connected by a theme or subject, can bring depth and continuity to your storytelling.

Tip: Think in chapters. Can you tell the beginning, middle, and end of a story in three to five photos? Plan ahead if possible—but leave space for unexpected moments.

4. Let Light and Composition Support the Emotion

Lighting isn’t just about exposure—it sets the mood. A well-lit face in soft morning light feels different than a shadowed silhouette during sunset. Composition guides the eye and tells the viewer what matters most.

Tip: Ask yourself, “What’s the emotion I’m trying to show?” Then adjust your lighting and framing to support that feeling.

5. Build Trust Before You Click the Shutter

This might be the most important one. You can’t capture authenticity without trust. If your subjects don’t feel safe or respected, their body language will show it.

Tip: Slow down. Talk. Listen. Learn their name. Put the camera down sometimes and just be present.

Photo suggestion:
Find moments where it’s obvious the subject feels comfortable—maybe a child holding your hand or someone giving you a genuine smile. Those are the moments trust made possible.

Final Thought

Great storytelling in photography isn’t about technical perfection. It’s about connection. As photographers and visual storytellers, our job is to help people feel something when they see our images. And the more we listen, observe, and stay present, the more authentic those moments will be.

If you’ve got a story to tell—whether for your business, ministry, or nonprofit—I’d love to help you show it with honesty and heart.

As storytellers and photojournalists, it’s easy to fall in love with a “look.” We all have go-to techniques—such as shallow depth of field, dramatic off-camera lighting, or a high-contrast edit—that feel safe and impressive. But if we’re not careful, what started as a creative tool can quickly become a crutch.

I’ve seen it repeatedly—photographers leaning too hard into a style and losing their ability to communicate the depth and complexity of real stories. Think of the impact of Steve McCurry’s iconic Afghan Girl portrait. That one photo inspired generations, but too many have spent their careers chasing a look instead of listening for truth.

Or the obsession with razor-thin depth of field. Yes, it’s beautiful. Yes, it can draw your eye. But it can also rob your viewer of context—where the subject is, what’s happening around them, and why it matters.

The same applies to the popular one-light, off-camera flash portrait taken outdoors. The technique can be powerful. But if every photo in your portfolio feels like a fashion shoot, even when documenting people in crisis or poverty, you’re probably missing the point of visual storytelling.

Let’s be clear: technique isn’t bad. Style isn’t bad. But when your style becomes more important than the story, you’re no longer a communicator but a performer.

Are You Stuck? Here’s How to Tell:

Ask yourself these questions:

1. Are most of your photos shot the same way? (Same lens, same lighting, same framing?)
2. Do you default to a specific technique even when it may not serve the story?
3. Are you making your subject fit your style, rather than letting their environment shape your approach?
4. Do your photos raise more questions than answers—not because they’re mysterious, but because they’re missing context?
5. Have mentors or peers challenged your choices, and have you been quick to defend your style instead of listening?
6. When was the last time you tried something uncomfortable or unfamiliar?
7. Are you more concerned with what looks cool than what communicates well?

You might be stuck in a style loop if you said “yes” to more than a couple of these.

How to Grow as a Visual Communicator:

Here are some ways to stretch yourself and become a more effective storyteller:

1. Shoot with intent, not instinct. Start by asking What do I want the viewer to feel or understand from this image? Let that guide your creative decisions.
2. Use a wider lens for context. Challenge yourself to shoot more with a 24mm or 35mm lens and include more of the environment. Show the whole story, not just the character.
3. Limit your gear. Force yourself out of your routine. Use only one prime lens for a wee,k, or shoot entirely without flash.
4. Study classic documentary work. Look at how great storytellers like Don Rutledge, Dorothea Lange, or Gordon Parks communicated using space, layers, and emotion, not gimmicks.
5. Tell full stories, not just moments. Work in sequences or photo essays that show setting, conflict, resolution, and character.
6. Get feedback. Find trusted peers or mentors who care more about the message than metrics, and listen to their critique.
7. Learn to let go. Some photos may be “wow” shots, but don’t serve the story. Have the courage to leave them out when they don’t belong.
8. Mix things up. If you’re a natural light shooter, learn flash. If you love portraiture, work on your candid moments. Build range.
9. Write captions. You’ll be surprised how much more clearly you’ll shoot when you think about words and narrative.
10. Let the story lead. Ultimately, your subject’s truth should shape your choices, not your signature look.

Final Thoughts

As the storyteller behind Stanley Leary: Crafting Stories that Change Lives, my greatest joy is helping others communicate clearly and with integrity. Style has its place, but when we value aesthetics over authenticity, we miss the opportunity to make a real impact.

Don’t just chase a look. Chase understanding. Chase meaning. Chase truth.

And let your photos speak for the people, not for your portfolio.

Photo Caption: Rynaldo Cifuentes, president of the Café Justo Cooperative and a respected leader in Salvador Urbina, emphasizes one powerful truth — one community, one mission, one vision for a better future.

Most ministries and nonprofits believe they’re telling powerful stories. They have the passion, the photos, and maybe even a video. But here’s the truth: something’s missing if your audience can’t tell someone else what you’re about after engaging with your story.

And usually, it comes down to one thing: you skipped over your purpose.

The Real Problem Isn’t Just the Story—It’s the Strategy

Many folks jump into storytelling because they feel pressure to share what’s happening on the field. So they grab a camera, get some footage, and try to piece something together. But without a clear destination, your story can feel like a road trip with no map.

That’s where one question can make all the difference:

“What do you want someone to do after they engage with this story?”

Simple? Yes.
Easy to answer? Surprisingly, not always.

Why This One Question Matters

This question forces clarity.

• Do you want people to pray for your work?
• Do you want them to give?
• Do you want them to go, to become involved, or even serve themselves?

Once you know the action you’re inviting someone into, everything else falls into place:

• The interview questions you ask.
• The visuals you capture.
• The tone you set in the edit.
• Even the platform you share it on.

A Quick Story from the Field

Not long ago, during one of my storytelling workshops, a participant came in with a story idea about a local ministry doing great work. They had footage, testimonials, and heart, but the video felt scattered.

So I asked, “What do you want someone to do after watching this?”

There was a pause.

Then they said, “I guess I just want people to know we exist.”

That’s not a bad goal, but it’s not powerful either. Once we reframed the goal to “We want people to join our team as monthly supporters,” everything changed. The story tightened. The messaging sharpened. And the final video brought in new donors—people who finally understood how to join the mission.

How You Can Apply This Today

Before your next photo series, newsletter, or video shoot, ask yourself this:

👉 What do I want the viewer/reader/listener to do after this?

Write it down, tape it to your camera, make sure your whole team knows, and let it guide you like a compass.

You’ll be amazed how much more effective (and fruitful) your storytelling becomes when your purpose is clear.

Want Help Clarifying Your Purpose?

I’ve created a free Purpose Clarity Worksheet to help you or your team define the action step behind your next story.
📩 Shoot me an email or message me, and I’ll send it right over.

Let’s make sure your next story doesn’t just move hearts, but moves people to action.

Photo by Jeff Raymond: Stanley Leary in front of the Government Palace of Peru during a storytelling workshop in Lima, guiding participants on capturing powerful visual narratives.

Over the years, I’ve mentored creatives at all stages of their careers—some just starting, others looking to refine their craft and business. I even brought one photographer on for two years in a near full-time role to help them grow and gain experience.

From one-on-one coaching to college classrooms, from international workshops to coffee shop conversations, I’ve had the chance to teach and learn from people across the creative spectrum. While everyone has their own unique journey, a few themes come up repeatedly.

These aren’t the only things creatives need help with, but they surface most often.

If any of these resonate with you, I’d love to help.

1. Storytelling

Everything I do comes back to the story. Whether you’re creating stills or video, the ability to find and tell meaningful stories is what separates you from others in your field.

I help people learn how to discover stories, understand the importance of knowing their audience, connect with their subject, and use their expertise to turn ideas into something clients are excited to pay for. Good storytelling builds trust, and trust builds business.

2. Lighting

Lighting can be one of the most intimidating parts of photography or video, but it doesn’t have to be.

Whether you’re working with hotshoe flashes, studio strobes, or LED lights, I’ll help you use them confidently. We’ll discuss modifiers, gels, placement, and how to shape light to create mood and impact that supports your story.

3. Business Practices

I’ve seen many talented creatives struggle—not because they lacked skill, but because they didn’t understand the business side.

We’ll talk about your Cost of Doing Business (CODB), how to price your work fairly and profitably, how to use model releases, and how to keep track of money and paperwork in a way that doesn’t overwhelm you. You don’t need to love numbers—you need a system.

4. Marketing

If business practices are the engine, marketing is how you drive.

Having a nice website and hoping people find you is not enough. You need a plan to reach potential clients repeatedly so they remember you when the time is right. I help people build portfolios, structure outreach efforts, and create strategies that fit their goals and lifestyle.

5. Networking

Some of the best opportunities in my career didn’t come from a job board—they came from relationships.

Networking isn’t just about handing out business cards. It’s about professional development, learning from others, and placing yourself in communities where people refer and hire you. It also helps you discover your niche and grow in it.

Let’s Talk

If any of these topics resonate with you—whether you’re just getting started or refining your skills—I’d love to connect.

Send me a message, and we can discuss where you are, where you want to go, and how I can help you get there.

You don’t have to figure it all out on your own.

One of the most valuable advice I give aspiring photojournalists, videographers, and writers is to learn to pitch their ideas well.

It’s not just about having talent—it’s about showing people you can deliver and that you’re the right person to trust with the story.

Relationships Matter More Than You Think

This might be the biggest blind spot for many creatives—thinking that a great pitch or powerful content will speak for itself. The truth is, many projects get greenlit not just because the idea is good but also because of who is behind it.

Editors, funders, and comms directors are far more likely to support pitches from people they know or are highly recommended by someone in their network.

That means you need to do more than email cold pitches. You need to connect with people. Go to workshops, network at events, comment on other people’s work, and reach out with encouragement, not just a request. Build authentic relationships before you need something.

Your idea may be solid, but your reputation and relationships move it forward.

Where to Find Places to Pitch (and Fund) Your Ideas

Now, let’s talk practically: where do you find places that want to hear your idea or fund your story? Here are a few to get you started:

1. Grants & Fellowships

• National Geographic Society Grants
• Pulitzer Center Grants
• CatchLight Fellowship
• Open Society Foundations
• International Women’s Media Foundation
• Rory Peck Trust (for freelancers)

Start by signing up for newsletters from these organizations—they often post open calls or deadlines.

2. Media Outlets & Publishers

Identify outlets that regularly cover the kind of content you’re creating. Look for freelance submission guidelines. Some examples:

• The Guardian
• BBC Stories
• VICE Features
• Christianity Today (if faith-based)
• Narratively
• Hakai Magazine (science and communities)
• Local papers or regional magazines

3. Nonprofits & NGOs

Nonprofits always need good storytellers, especially if you already have content that aligns with their mission. Use sites like:

• Charity Navigator
• Idealist.org
• Christian Alliance for Orphans
• Your local community foundation website
  Pro tip: Search nonprofit directories by cause. If you’re passionate about helping people with special needs, look for nonprofits in that space and study their storytelling style.

4. Businesses with a Social Impact Angle

More and more companies are investing in storytelling around their CSR (corporate social responsibility) initiatives. Think beyond NGOs—healthcare providers, tech companies, and educational institutions are telling human-centered stories, too.

Let Passion Guide Your Pitch (Example: Special Needs)

Let’s say you’ve spent time with a family who has a child with special needs, and you’ve captured a few incredible moments on video or in photos. The next step?

1. Define the Story: What’s the heart of the story? Is it inclusion in schools? Is it a parent’s advocacy journey? Is it about faith and resilience?
2. Find Aligned Organizations:
   Search for nonprofits, schools, or government agencies working in that exact space. Ask if they’re interested in collaborating or supporting the story’s completion.
3. Pitch to Outlets that Cover Human Interest Stories:
   Consider local TV stations, niche podcasts, or magazines with family or education audiences.
4. Use Personal Networks:
   Ask people who work in that space to connect you to others. “Do you know anyone who might want to help share this?”

What If You’re “Late to the Game” on a Topic?

It’s true—some topics are heavily covered: human trafficking, AIDS, immigration, even homelessness. But that doesn’t mean the world doesn’t need more stories. The key is how you frame your approach.

Here’s what to consider:

• What’s your fresh angle?
  Maybe it’s hyper-local, or it’s a lesser-known aspect, or it’s from a voice we rarely hear (like a survivor’s or child’s perspective).
• Can you go deeper, not broader?
  Instead of telling a global story about sex trafficking, say the story of one person, one program, or one surprising solution.
• Check what’s trending.
  Use tools like Google Trends or check what major outlets are covering now. This helps you shape your pitch around current angles.
• It’s not always about “new.” It’s about “needed.”
  Some issues need ongoing visibility. If you can tell a timeless story with emotional impact and strong visuals, it’s worth pitching—even if others have done it.

Final Thought

Pitching isn’t just about sending ideas into the void. It’s about showing up with clarity, creativity, credibility, and connection. Your job is to make it easy for someone to say yes.

And when you combine passion, preparation, and persistence, you’re not just pitching.
You’re building trust.