Narrative 4

Radical empathy through storytelling—changing the world, one story at a time

Who They Are

Narrative 4 is a global nonprofit that uses personal storytelling to cultivate empathy, break down barriers, and build more connected communities. Founded by artists, educators, and activists—including authors Colum McCann and Ishmael Beah—Narrative 4 believes that the simple act of telling and receiving each other’s stories can spark radical empathy and civic transformation.

With a presence in over 20 countries and active programming across the U.S., Narrative 4 trains educators and community leaders to use its signature story exchange model to foster understanding, healing, and social change.

What They Do

• Story Exchange Workshops
  Narrative 4’s core methodology brings participants together in small groups to share a personal story and then retell a peer’s story in the first person—literally stepping into one another’s shoes.

• Educator & Youth Programming
  Trains teachers and students in the story exchange model, often embedded into school curriculum, leadership development, or arts-based learning.

• Community-Based Initiatives
  From gun violence prevention to racial equity and post-conflict healing, Narrative 4 partners with communities to facilitate story exchange as a strategy for bridge-building and collective repair.

• Global Network of Artists & Leaders
  Narrative 4 engages authors, musicians, activists, and civic leaders who use storytelling to expand belonging and rehumanize public life.

Why They Matter

In an era of disconnection and division, Narrative 4 provides a relational practice that builds empathy at scale. Their work helps shift culture by making it easier—and safer—for people to understand one another across race, class, ideology, and geography. It's more than storytelling. It's structural empathy.

Connection to The Change Lab

The Change Lab and Narrative 4 share a belief in storytelling as a civic act. Narrative 4’s story exchange model offers a powerful tool for Change Lab initiatives centered on belonging, leadership, and bridging divides. Together, we see stories not just as tools for connection—but as catalysts for shared power, deeper democracy, and systemic change.