Meet Obiekwe “Obi” Okolo, storyteller, creative director + culture alchemist. 🤝

In this episode of Hold Fast, we’re slowing down to explore the deep, healing power of story with Obi Okolo—visionary creative and founder of Bittersweet Creative. Born in Lagos, raised in Texas, and rooted in purpose, Obi invites us into a conversation about crafting stories that don’t just meet metrics—but move hearts.

From launching his own coffee brand to championing narratives that center identity, belonging, and truth, Obi reminds us that storytelling isn’t just a strategy. It’s soul work. It’s how we make meaning, deepen connection, and imagine new futures.

Your story isn’t a marketing tool—it’s an invitation to be seen, to feel, and to dream bigger.

🎧 Tune in and join us for one of the most heart-expanding conversations of the season.

You'll hear:

• Storytelling helps nonprofits meet goals and expand community.
• Storytelling should be approached as a practice of reconnection and belonging.
• Nonprofits often struggle with their identity and message during crises.
• Creating for everyone often results in creating for no one.
• Silence can be a powerful form of protest and connection.
• Listening to the wisdom of elders can guide our storytelling journey.

Episode Highlights

• The Importance of Relationships in Storytelling (08:58)
• The Role of Nonprofits in Storytelling (11:50)
• The Process of Ethical Storytelling (15:06)
• The Impact of Community in Storytelling (23:55)
• Understanding Audience and Authenticity (36:02)
• Practical Exercises for Better Storytelling (39:30)
• Listening and Learning from Elders (50:10)
• Obi’s One Good Thing “"Look back and borrow strength from the elders." (50:27)

Episode Shownotes: www.weareforgood.com/episode/621

About our Sponsor Givebutter 💛

Nonprofits use Givebutter to bring together multiple categories of tools, including mobile-friendly donation forms, fundraising campaigns, events, auctions, email marketing, a built-in CRM, and so much more. Head to givebutter.com/weareforgood to sign up for your free account today and get started in minutes.

Thank you to our partners 🩵

Big gratitude to Givebutter, RKD Group, DonorDock, Feathr, Whiteboard and Sowen for their partnership in growing the Impact Uprising. If you’re searching for a new CRM, tech tool, brand partner, direct mail partner, or impact strategist— we’d love for you to start with our trusted recs. We’ve vetted them so you don’t have to. Head to weareforgood.com/recs to learn more.

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