Year of the Mamba 2024

Growth is Pain

Author

AJ Louis
December 23, 2024

What Up Creators,

As the year draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on a transformative journey filled with learning, growth, and a sprinkle of serendipity. If you’ve ever wondered how design thinking can revolutionize storytelling—or how storytelling can fuel personal and professional growth—you’re in the right place!

2024: A Year of Transformational Storytelling

This year has been nothing short of a rollercoaster ride. I’ve delved deep into the world of design thinking, uncovering how its principles can transform storytelling into a dynamic tool for problem-solving and education. Stories aren’t just for spinning tales; they’re the anchors of communication, shaping how we perceive and impact the world.

Facing Fears and Embracing Growth

Attending Techstars in Tulsa wasn't just a temporary program—it was a catalyst for embracing fear and chasing growth. In transitioning from a lifestyle consultancy to a tech startup, I learned that real progress requires stepping outside of comfort zones and embracing larger challenges head-on.

Embracing Simplicity

In navigating the complex maze of modern solutions, one truth became clear: simplicity triumphs over complexity. This year has taught me that user-friendly solutions addressing specific challenges provide more value than trying to be everything to everyone.

Feedback: The Secret Sauce

Feedback has remained the secret sauce to refining ideas and crafting effective solutions. This year’s journey emphasized filtering out noise to focus on constructive, actionable insights—leading to some exciting client wins.

Celebrating Accomplishments

Oh, the milestones! Here’s a quick snapshot of what was achieved this year:

  • Completed second year at Apple Developer Academy

  • Accepted into Techstars program

  • Founded my first startup

  • Expanded LinkedIn Newsletter to 400 followers

  • Created and launched FreeWriter

  • Published 200 articles

  • Released "Everybody Must Die" story

  • Wrote St. Nicc Christmas story

  • Grew FreeWriter to 75 subscribers within 2 months

  • Delivered my first pitch presentations

  • Secured 3 new pitch deck clients

  • Helped a client secure $1.1 million in funding

  • Celebrated a client's pitch competition victory

  • Guided a client through to VC due diligence

  • Hosted a Hackathon with ACT House

  • Joined Plug and Play as a mentor

  • Completed Operation School program

The FreeWriter Adventure

FreeWriter has been a labor of love, striving to empower others to tell their stories more effectively. The key lesson? Balance technical innovation with user-friendly design to serve diverse communities, including those with ADHD.

Sign up for free today: FreeWriter

Expanding Horizons

Beyond FreeWriter, I’ve expanded influence through mentoring with Plug and Play and honed strategic acumen by graduating from Operation School.

Looking Forward

As we step into a new year, these experiences have shaped a clear path forward: creating simple solutions, embracing authenticity, and using storytelling to bridge the gap between innovation and human connection.

Through my journey in the exhilarating—and often challenging—world of pitch competitions, I've mastered the craft of storytelling. This year I made it a point to overcome no matter the pain, just like Kobe. Now it's your turn to shine! Whether you aim to win over investors or engage an audience, storytelling is your most powerful tool. Together, let's transform those butterflies into compelling narratives.

If you're ready to elevate your pitch game and forge genuine connections with your audience, here are some handpicked resources to light your path:

  • Book a Storytelling Strategy Session: Let's craft your authentic narrative, anchored in perseverance and vision, so it resonates with others.

  • Utilize our FreeWriter Tool: Bring your story to life, refine your ideas, and make your "Why Story" shine with clarity and impact.

  • Join Our Community of Storytellers: Subscribe to Designer Stories for inspiration and insights that fuel your creative journey.

  • Support Diverse Storytelling: By buying us a coffee, you help us provide essential resources to creators, ensuring that diverse voices are heard and celebrated.

Remember, every great storyteller started with their first tale. Embrace the journey, learn from every stumble, and be ready to weave your stories with authenticity and flair.

Here’s to your storytelling success!

Reply

or to participate.