When Words Met Purpose — and Purpose Became a Calling

 

Some stories begin with a spark — ours began with a surge of purpose. We saw each other across a crowded room... literally, on the campus of Western Michigan University. What drew us together wasn’t just shared attraction or common goals — it was the undeniable energy between us, the drive to become the best versions of ourselves, and a mutual passion for making life count. We saw greatness in one another — and we’ve been igniting that greatness ever since.

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What many don’t know is that our love for storytelling started long before that moment. As children, we both entered and won writing contests in elementary school. Derrick wrote about a young boy determined to help his mom by finding a job, and even when no one would hire him, he didn’t give up until he reached his goal of finding a job. Yolanda wrote about a little girl who found a hurt kitten, brought him home, nurtured him, and gave him the love he needed to thrive. Even then, we knew stories mattered. Words had power. And the things we feel deeply inside — if captured — could touch hearts, heal wounds, and shape the world.

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We’ve spent decades journaling, capturing life’s rawest moments and deepest revelations. We’ve turned those notes, reflections, and lived experiences into books, lessons, and now digital tools that help others do the same. Through The Journey Principle and now Distinctively You, we’ve created more than content — we’ve created space. Space for people to get what’s in their head and heart out into the world. Space for clarity to lead to direction, and direction to become confidence. And space for your story — your fingerprint, your pulse — to become your masterpiece.

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We believe everyone has something meaningful to say, but not everyone knows how to say it. That’s where we come in. Whether through words, strategy, or structure, we help people connect the dots of their journey — and articulate what their soul has always known. Your thoughts have power. Your experiences have weight. Your story was never random. And now, with tools like the D.R.I.V.E. App for Authors, we’re here to help you take decisive action and put your greatest work into the world.