We believe in the unlimited potential of people. So we invest in learning what helps them grow — and turn what we learn into ways to help them flourish.
Our Inspiration
This is the true joy in life, the being used for a purpose recognized by yourself as a mighty one; the being thoroughly worn out before you are thrown on the scrap heap; the being a force of Nature instead of a feverish selfish little clod of ailments and grievances complaining that the world will not devote itself to making you happy.
I am of the opinion that my life belongs to the whole community, and as long as I live it is my privilege to do for it whatever I can. I want to be thoroughly used up when I die, for the harder I work the more I live. I rejoice in life for its own sake. Life is no “brief candle” for me. It is a sort of splendid torch which I have got hold of for the moment, and I want to make it burn as brightly as possible before handing it on to future generations.
~George Bernard Shaw
What we're Working Toward
We want to understand what actually helps people grow, connect and live well. So we read the research, talk to people doing the work, and pay attention to what happens in a room when people tell stories or improvise together. Then we try to make sense of it in a way that’s useful to everyone.
Research
This is where we share what we’re learning. Some posts dig into the research. Some are about what we’re seeing in workshops and on stage. Some are just ideas worth thinking about. All of it is free to read, and all of it is meant to be useful in real life.
Writing
What helps a person grow? How do we communicate and connect in ways that bring out the best in each other? What turns an ordinary day into a good one? Sometimes, you have to practice it. Through workshops, storytelling shows and live events, we help people find their voice, build their confidence and discover that what they have to say matters.
Experiences
I believe in the potential of people, and in a world that gets better as more of that potential comes to light. Right now, I work at the intersection of improv, storytelling and human connection. I've seen firsthand the transformational effects they can have on people. At Johns Hopkins, I studied the science and research behind why they're so effective: how they build trust, sharpen communication, and help people and organizations adapt and grow. I've also worked with The Moth and Story District, two organizations that have spent decades showing the power of a well-told story. The Splendid Torch Society is my way of giving back, turning what research shows about human connection into ideas and experiences that help people grow.
Hi, I'm Matt!
My Invitation To You
A society isn’t built by one person. It’s built by everyone who shows up. So I’d love for you to be part of this, in whatever way fits your life. Read the latest writing, share your own work or come to an event. Every kind of involvement matters here, and the choice is always yours.
Every good conversation starts with hello. Whether you have a question, an idea, or you’re just curious about what we’re doing, I’d love to hear from you. Drop me a message!
Let’s Talk!
