The Corporate Storyteller

I was shocked and deeply saddened to learn recently of the death of David Armstrong, one of my storytelling heroes. He wrote the first book on the use of story as a communication management tool, Managing by Storying Around, the first of several story collections he wrote about “people caught doing things right” at Armstrong International. That book inspired me to search for other companies that led through story when I set out to write my own book.

David was the first person I interviewed for Around the Corporate Campfire, and it was an exciting start to my research. His graciousness and enthusiasm for the subject generated a much longer conversation than I expected of a busy CEO, and it led to an ongoing relationship with Armstrong International for which I’m very grateful.

David died unexpectedly this past summer at the age of 52. He left an inspiring legacy of leading through example, guided by a set of core values that attracted dedicated employees. In keeping with the Armstrong culture, which exemplified the best characteristics of what a family could/should be, David Casterline, corporate director of communications, responded to my note of condolences in part by saying, “He was like a brother to me.”

If you'd like to experience David's enthusiasm for the subject of leadership storytelling, check out the videos and other resources available on the company's website at: http://www.armstronginternational.com/davidarmstrong