What people are saying about The Goodman Center
Working with Kirsten while preparing for my first large plenary talk really helped me feel like “yes, I can do this.” And I actually enjoyed doing it! I honestly feel transformed by the supportive process.
HB Lozito | Executive Director, Out in the Open
What an amazing keynote Kirsten provided! I’m in awe of how she inspired us all to do more storytelling and gave us some basic tools to make it happen! The session had all of the powerful impact that we hoped for.
Molly French | Project Director, Housing and Services, USAging
Kirsten listens deeply with her whole self; she helps clients understand not only how the words in their message land, but how they make their audience feel. And — she makes the process of writing a speech feel easy! I would work with Kirsten again in a heartbeat.
Aria Florant | Co-Founder, Liberation Ventures
We were set to give one of the first public talks on our work, and Kirsten’s leadership, thoughtfulness, and advice not only provided us with the confidence we needed but also pushed us to tell a story that brought our work to life. In just three sessions, Kirsten ensured that we were more than prepared to give a compelling speech. We’re currently thinking of ways for them to help our partners and us further!
Trevor Smith | Director of Narrative Change, Liberation Ventures
Andy’s work is more than a wonderful resource—it’s that all-too-rare combination of rigorous education and unbridled entertainment.
Diana Aviv | CEO, Partnership for American Democracy
In my 19 years of working in non-profit development and comms, [Telling Our Stories] was the most impactful and beneficial workshop I have attended. The content was excellent and the ability to interact and network was incredibly valuable.
Stephanie Devers | Development Director, United Way of Lake County
We anticipated an inspiring and meaningful presentation, and Kirsten delivered! Her presence was an integral part of our efforts to highlight the importance of storytelling. Kirsten played such a critical role in our event. I am confident that with motivation from leaders like her, our Y will continue impacting lives for generations to come.
Victor Dominguez | President & CEO, YMCA LA
Kirsten brought such thoughtfulness and kindness to the process of developing our storytelling workshop. We were able to incorporate colleagues from every team within our division to make the workshop relevant to everyone, regardless of role. Our workshop centered around our Climate Change Advocacy Strategy and equitable storytelling, and it was motivating and inspiring. Our staff loved Kirsten and appreciated her warmth, sense of humor, and encouraging demeanor. We hope to work with the Goodman Center again in the future to improve the stories we tell for the sake of our global family in need.
Tim Wasem | Training Advisor, Catholic Relief Services
As someone who is at best an intermittent public speaker – Kirsten’s support as an insightful and precise professional strategist was invaluable to me. She listened intently to my topic and guided me toward a logical and well-flowing speech structure. She made me feel confident as the process went on and I know the TED-style talk ended up being both beautiful and inspiring because of her guidance. Advice and engagement with the Goodman Center exceeded my expectations and I warmly recommend Kirsten as a communications professional.
Sonja Merrild | Director of Grants, Blandin Foundation
I had to give a presentation at a national convening and was very nervous. Thank goodness I had an opportunity to work with Kirsten. Kirsten helped me find my voice, tell the story that was speaking to me, while encouraging me to be unapologetically myself. She went above and beyond to make me feel supported throughout the entire process, even cheering me on during my presentation. The folks at the Goodman Center are outstanding at what they do!
Tanya Watkins | Executive Director, SOUL
The Goodman Center brought so much care and kindness to a process that turned people with stories to tell into true storytellers. Kirsten showed an amazing talent for lifting up our speakers to build their confidence while also guiding them to make improvements and teaching them new skills. Our storytellers were so grateful for the opportunity to learn from Kirsten.
Kristin Hoy | Director, Conferences & Events, Council on Foundations
There are rare moments in a career when you realize you’re learning something that will truly change the way you lead and communicate. Working with Kirsten and the Goodman Center was one of those moments. Kirsten helped me shape a message that was, frankly, a mess in the beginning. Her guidance gave me clarity, confidence, and structure. I felt completely supported, and while I know I still have plenty to learn, she put me on a solid path to success.
After my presentation, 20–30 people came up to thank me personally, and our website showed nearly 90 downloads of our resource guide within just 15 minutes. That immediate response was a testament to the power of a well-crafted story, something I couldn’t have done without Kirsten’s help. I’m truly grateful for the experience and can’t wait to apply what I’ve learned moving forward.