Stories by ssentially

A farmer's journey toward sustainable agriculture is guided by an unlikely companion—a paper straw scarecrow. Through a devastating flood, the scarecrow sacrifices itself to save the farmer, becoming a powerful metaphor for temporary solutions that bridge us to more sustainable practices. The story weaves together themes of environmental stewardship, cradle-to-cradle manufacturing, and the importance of mindful choices in farming a...

Meet Koa TallChief, a groundbreaking Two-Spirit product leader whose journey bridges Indigenous wisdom and modern technology. As a respected figure in Silicon Valley, Koa transformed traditional product management by embracing both masculine and feminine energies, creating inclusive spaces where innovation flourishes. Their story challenges industry norms, particularly during crucial moments like their influential AI Ethics Summit ...

This story follows Brian Chesky's leadership journey at Airbnb during the pandemic, when the company faced an 80% drop in business. His first-principles leadership approach guided Airbnb through crisis to transformation. The company adapted its business model while maintaining its social impact through Airbnb.org. It shows how principles and adaptability, combined with meaningful social contribution can generate organizational resi...

Emma, a perceptive 13-year-old, navigates the instability of modern America—a nation that operates like a corporation, making promises only to break them, hiring and firing without warning. She watches as her world shifts unpredictably, from the deportation of her best friend, Maria, to her father’s sudden layoff from the FBI. The story explores America's inconsistency, not just in employment but also in its commitments to its citi...