Story First Design

About Us

We help learning and development teams create more effective and remarkable learning solutions by leveraging the power of stories and digital learning technologies.

Our team specializes in all aspects of instructional design—from eLearning and multimedia to virtual and in-person courses. If you’re looking for a seasoned professional or team who can design and deliver your next learning experience with a collaborative spirit and without adding to your workload, we’re here to help. Select the services below to learn more.

eLearning Courses

eLearning Courses

Micro and deep-dive courses

Podcasts

Conversational, investigative, and narrative podcasts

Videos

Animated and live-action videos

Courses and Workshops

Courses and Workshops

In-person, virtual and hybrid courses and workshops

Consulting

Learning design, leadership, and innovation consulting

Presentation Skills Coaching

Presentation Skills Coaching

Helping presenters shine and audiences stay hooked

Put your story front and center

Why put your story first?

Stories are the backbone of meaningful learning experiences, yet in most training, they are often reduced to brief narratives or minor elements within a larger lesson. Story First Design flips this approach by making the story the driving force of the entire learning experience.

A compelling story captivates learners, creates emotional connections, and provides context that makes information more memorable and actionable. Instead of weaving a small narrative into an otherwise traditional course, Story First Design ensures that every interaction, challenge, and decision is rooted in a rich, immersive story.

This approach deepens engagement, enhances retention, and transforms learning into an experience that feels relevant and impactful. When learners see themselves in the story, they are more invested in the journey—and more likely to apply what they’ve learned in real-world situations.

Story First Design founder, Mike Myers, explores how stories can unlock transformative learning in his blog post, 'The Power of Stories in Learning Experience Design.'

Story First Design Approach

The Story First Design approach isn’t about turning every learning experience into an immersive story — after all, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Instead, it’s about harnessing the power of storytelling throughout the design process to create learning grounded in real-world examples. Click the right arrows to see how stories shape our process—from analyzing learning needs to demonstrating impact.
Stories to Enhance

Analysis

Story listening is a vital part of our analysis phase at Story First Design. We engage key stakeholders, subject matter experts, and end users to uncover authentic experiences, challenges, and insights that shape the learning context. These stories reveal themes, gaps, and opportunities that inform meaningful learning objectives. By grounding our strategy in real-world experiences, we design solutions that resonate, connect, and drive meaningful change.
Ensure your course is a

Truly Engaging Experience

"Engaging" is often used as a buzzword in learning design, but what does it truly mean? We believe it’s about drawing learners in—both cognitively and emotionally—in ways that connect to their past experiences while inspiring them to step boldly into new possibilities. Effective engagement invites learners to think deeply, reflect meaningfully, and embrace challenges that expand their understanding and skills.
Supporting people as they

Learn in the flow of work

When learners complete your formal learning experience, the real journey begins. We specialize in designing just-in-time and peer-to-peer learning opportunities that complement self-directed study, as well as synchronous virtual and in-person sessions. Our approach ensures learners have the structure and support they need to apply what they've learned, reflect on their experiences, and share insights with others.
Become a meaningful part of your learner's

Professional Development Story

We create remarkable learning experiences — the kind that people talk about. Our goal is to be an inspiring and meaningful part of the story your learners tell about their day, their year, and their development. We strive to create pivotal moments that not only support personal growth but also inspire them to help others succeed.

Mike Myers: Founder & Principal Learning Experience Designer

Mike Myers is a digital learning leader with over sixteen years of experience creating story-driven, transformative learning experiences. View his personal portfolio for a sample of what Story First Design can bring to life for you.

Open Mike's Portfolio

Send us a message to explore ways the power of storytelling can enrich your learning solutions.