Derek MacDonald

Writer.
Storyteller.
Software simplifier.

Helping people navigate complexity.

_{Cover photo by Derek MacDonald}

Hey, I’m Derek.

For over 15 years, I’ve been helping people and brands close the gap between what they’re trying to say and what readers, viewers, and listeners actually hear. I went from wilderness guide and hospitality GM to writer, marketer, enablement director, and keynote speaker.

So… I accidentally got really good at finding common threads and weaving them into words that folks connect with. Now I help other people do that, too. When not writing my daily column, weekly essays, or monthly newsletters, I like building websites, running, and getting lost in a good book with a strong cup of coffee.

Oh, and working on my podcast.

I like that a lot, too.

Me & my work.

I care about resonance. I want people to stop and think instead of just seeing something and moving on. You know?? And I’ve found the best way to do that is by inviting them to try out your point of view; sharing how you think and why you think that way.

Want to see what I mean?

Learn more about me.

Or get in touch!

onward.

See the latest.

-> Daily column.

Damage Control
June 23, 2026
Brakes! The brakes!! HIT THE BRAKES!
You've Got Mail
June 22, 2026
I don't want to talk about AI anymore.
Going Full Tilt
June 21, 2026
Ducks in a row are not the same as ducks on the go.

-> Newsletter.

Please Make Time For Keith And Charlie
June 15, 2026
On looking for meaning and those who find it.
Ok, This Is Getting Out Of Hand
June 2, 2026
The amount of things we take on is just… totally unrealistic, right?
Retracing Your Steps In The Alpenglow
May 25, 2026
What I finally discovered about being understood.