What does it take to move from feeling powerless to becoming an agent of change? In my recent conversation with Sam Daley-Harris, the answer starts with one simple but profound idea: your story matters.

Sam’s journey—from a percussionist in the Miami Philharmonic to founding RESULTS and Civic Courage—was shaped by what Marshall Ganz calls the “story of self.” It’s the thread that connects your life experiences to your purpose. For Sam, pivotal moments pushed him to ask: Why am I here? That question led to a lifetime of fighting poverty and empowering everyday people to use their voices.

At the heart of his work is transformational advocacy—going beyond signing petitions to building relationships with decision-makers and, just as importantly, transforming how you see yourself.