Tanner James comes from a long line of peasant farmers, trail riders, elk hunters, alcoholics and agriculture salesmen. As a talented artist he uses a variety of mediums to tell stories that are inspiring, heartbreaking, and gut-wrenchingly funny.

Moved by the power of story to shape our values, ethics, and society, Tanner focuses on brining local stories of misfits, and unsung hero’s out of the woodwork and into our homes. Tanner is a published author, has directed and produced a recent short film ‘Chess for Life’, and is a talented folk singer who has performed across North America.

I met Tanner in Mrs.Nakama’s Kindergarten class. As one of my oldest friends I have enjoyed being on the receiving end of his adventurous stories. Recently Tanner joined the Autumn Goose team as our Chief Story Teller, helping organizations visualize their personal mythos and live into their legends.

In this podcast we talk about the importance of the misfit in societal transformation, the role of failure in learning, and how localizing art can be a path towards diversity and global transformation. Tanner’s own story reminds us of the importance of authenticity and how in the journey of growth perseverance and resolve are just as important as skill.