Derek MacDonald

Writer & editorial leader specializing in
brand narrative, strategy, and
storytelling operations.

Hey, I’m Derek and I’m a writer who designs brands.

I create stories and build software systems.

Find out more about me here.

COMING SOON

I got to share my story on national TV! Keep an eye on your local GBH station to catch my appearance on Stories From The Stage.

My Most Popular Essay Of 2025

Of more than 150 published works in 2025, the one that resonated most was What Lonely Men Won’t Say Online (Or In-Person).

Praise For The Unobstructed Podcast

After debuting in February of 2025, the pod landed in the top 10% of most-shared shows on Spotify in its first year.

Top Performers Of 2025

See what resonated most with readers from all I published in 2025.

Sometimes, a different way of seeing things is all it takes to get unstuck.

Join readers from over 37 countries who believe big ideas and small steps can create enough clarity to become unobstructed.

Hypervigilance And The Modern Expectation Of Constant Availability
The price of existing is going up and I’m not convinced keeping up is worth it.
What (And Where) To Share
We had a handheld label maker when I was a kid that stressed me out a ton.
Rhythmic And Heartfelt, Personal And Witty
You know when you can feel yourself grinning like an idiot?