Take notice; respond boldly
results, love & kindness
“You remind people of the good stuff in life.”
— Caryn Dodson
Real words and stories of impact and transformation from students, readers, and colleagues—these tiny stories make me proud, grateful, and deeply honoured to share.
Common sense disclaimer: Testimonials reflect the real-life experiences of individuals but do not guarantee similar outcomes for every person.
the impact of story work
These words reflect the depth and life-changing transformations sparked by the DGS story work practice, including how processing tiny life stories has helped people reconnect with their lives and the people in it, find healing, meaning, and more.
This process is gold! I think it has immense power to change people’s relationships. Now I get why these stories are dangerous—because they hold so much potential power. You hit the nail on the head. You change the world with your ideas.”
— Caroline Collins
See how story work has inspired people to (re)notice + embrace what matters most.
“I value everything you do—the amount I’ve learned and how I’ve found my own style instead of copying others. You’ve taught me to be aware of myself and my observations. You stayed true to yourself, never drawn down a path you didn’t want. I respect you so much for that. My mother-in-law passed away on Sunday 😔, and your input has been a huge part of helping me process the loss and be present for my partner (without my camera) and with an observational and preservational eye. I’m still with you all the way—thank you so much.”
— Karen
“I feel the growth! The biggest change is that, now, I first think about why I want to preserve these moments. That’s a shift I wouldn’t have made just two weeks ago.”
— Mathias Krämer
“I’m learning to see the world with ‘new eyes’ because I’m now more aware of the little stories that are all around us.”
— Angela de Crom-Goossens
“People don’t think they’re gonna miss parts of their life. This practice is about awareness of those moments you’ll miss, so you can DO something now.”
— Pam Dubasek
“This work helped me pinpoint the things that are important and memorable vs the things that aren’t. It helps keep me accountable for the things that really matter.”
— Kelly Wagner
“I spent an hour alone, trying to capture my dad’s craftiness, humour, and need for order.
This was an amazingly powerful exercise—helping me process my grief while using my camera to capture more than just the obvious moments.”
— LORA WALLENSTEIN
“Before the Practice, I felt flustered and a little lost. Now, I feel calm and collected and have an action plan going ahead.”
— Alex Finn
program reviews & student love
Words from DGS' signature programs: Story Club, The Life Brand Method, and Creative Rhythm. These programs touch every corner of life—personal growth, lifestyle, creativity, and even business—and gently guide participants through profound self-discovery with actionable insights. Participants uncover their inner voice, clarify their values, and experience emotional shifts—from processing loss to increasing meaningfulness in daily life.
“Through your course, you lit a fire in my soul that had burnt out when I became a mom. My life has changed in ways I couldn't have imagined since completing MMS a year ago.”
— Aubrey Vejvoda, Art Therapy Student
What participants are saying about their journey through these programs— including how they’d describe them to others + what it’s like working with Marie.
“The things you think about here are at a different level than other classes. They’re not superficial. They involve critical thinking skills that get you to dig deep within yourself.”
— caroline collins
“Legacy... What does that word mean to you?
I’ve been pondering this for some time and The Story Club has helped me realize how few memories I have documented with my mother and grandmother.
They were old-school, from a generation that didn’t value being in photos. I have photos of them now, but it feels like it will never be enough. I’ve been contemplating all the memories that I'll never have proof of to show anybody. What if I forget? What if they go to the grave with me never to be told again?
I walked through the hospital corridor with tears in my eyes and filled with emotions of the past and how this woman has been such an instrumental part of my upbringing in ways that even she may not know. I'm not ready. I wish I had more time. 96 years on this earth is a blessing but it's not enough for me...
The point: What we're doing - preserving tangible memories - may be the difference between comfort & closure or regret & remorse for our loved ones when the time presents itself.”
— Eboni Rivera
“You live by all your teachings, and I’m so proud to follow you as a mentor.”
— Liz Perez
“The Practice has made me more aware. I realized my weeks are often filled with worries about my kids, but I also noticed there are so many beautiful things happening around me. Thank you for that.”
— Annemiek Kinneging
“I’m always people-pleasing. The Life-Brand Method helped me slow down and appreciate what I want in life...
My biggest takeaway? I need to appreciate my inner voice and do something for my soul.”
— Elizabeth Perez
What’s been your favorite part of the Story Club (formerly TSS) so far? “Sorry, I can’t choose—I love everything about it! I love the monthly Slow Down Sessions and what they bring me. I loved the Creative Rhythm (formerly Manage Your Time Like a Boss) retreat.
The weekly activities help in small, meaningful steps, and the Playbook is fantastic. I just finished the March Slow Down Session yesterday, and it was so fun.
I’ve learned a lot about myself, how I can improve, and how wildly different the world looked just a month ago.”
— Mathias Krämer
“I love the Slow Down Sessions. They really help me reflect on what went well, what didn’t, and what I want to work on. These sessions are so important to have. In October, I worked on being brave, which I did well with and want to continue. I also worked on loving myself—and I think I did fairly well on that too.”
— Caroline Collins
“I’m so thankful for stumbling across your FB page this year. I’m so glad I invested the time in the Story Club (formerly TPP)! Thank you for putting together such a fun and reflective experience. I’m hoping to do my own rounds next year to keep my personal goals on track.”
— Jean Panuccio
“You create absolutely wonderful courses, and the Story Club (formerly the Tiny Story Society) is fantastic. The Practice exercises are mind-blowing, and I’ve discovered so many tiny stories from my past.
I’ve even planned a photo-sharing meeting with old friends to revisit our past together. I’m having so much fun working on my timeline—exploring old school report cards, visiting places we tagged with years of camping events, and looking up when certain songs were released.
Thank you for being such a source of inspiration!”
— Mathias Krämer
“Loving this journey to creating a deliciously branded lifestyle/life.”
— Lisa Roberts
“Marie, I know we still have a few more days left, but I just want to thank you so much for doing this workshop. I appreciate all of your efforts. Even with so many participants, I feel valued and heard by you—it almost feels like a one-on-one conversation. That’s only possible because you’ve poured yourself into this wholeheartedly. It’s been a fun rollercoaster ride, and I can’t wait to reach the finish line. Thank you a thousand times!”
— Koren
“You’re doing so much good for our genre and industry, and I don’t think I could’ve done everything I’ve accomplished this year without your blog, group, and webinars. You’ve inspired me to follow my heart and given me the strength to say ‘I’m worth it.’ I’m so grateful for you, Marie.”
— sam ash
“In the DGS, I’ve realised that I still have some past issues to process, I haven’t acknowledged all the important people in my life, and I have way more stories than I thought!”
— Caroline C.
Did you know? DGS created the first ever Playbook for your stories!
That’s right! And it’s true… it’s not a journal. It’s a Playbook to unearth and brainstorm how you might want to use the stories that come up following the DGS 5-Part Practice.
Creative flow & brand impact
Discover how embracing authentic creative flow unlocks clarity and confidence to shape impactful brands. These testimonials reflect how creators found their voice, aligned their work with purpose, and transformed their ideas into meaningful brand success.
“You're moving to your mountain story inspired me to reflect on what matters most to me in a home. After that, we bought our dream home.”
— Annemiek Kinneging
What creatives and entrepreneurs are saying about this work:
When I first fell into photography 6ish years ago, I couldn't figure out why the photos I was drawn to and creating weren’t like everyone else’s. I gasped in happy shock when I stumbled on one of your posts on Pinterest. I searched for words to express what I was trying to create, and then there you were. You gave it a name, a purpose, and a vision. Suddenly, those weird off-the-beaten-path images I loved creating were something real. I drank in your words of wisdom. Thank you for voicing what many of us couldn't put into words or feelings just yet.”
— Kirsten Malone
“My photography wouldn’t be where it’s at without having found you. The Goodbye Posing Guide group was instrumental in my growth as both a photographer and business owner. I’ve made so many online relationships through the group, and it makes me sad to see it go. I respect your decision, but I just wanted you to know how much of an impact you and GPG have had on me. Best of luck as you move forward!”
— Blimie T
“I’m loving going through all of your products. I felt like I’d died and gone to heaven when I found your website!
Like you mentioned in your emails, it’s so easy to wander off track and forget what you originally loved shooting. Many of us learn from courses and tutorials and end up being influenced by others, thinking their way is ‘right.’ Being able to be my own boss has been amazing, but after a few months of soul-searching and brand defining, I stumbled across your work, and now I’m hooked."
— JoJo Cooper
Subject: Tears and Thank You.
“I’ve been awake since 4:00 AM with my big goals and no sense of direction—until I Googled something and there you were. Now, I can’t stop crying tears of joy and hope. I started with your 10 Non-Salesy Booking strategies and now I can’t stop!
I finally found what I’ve been missing all along. Thank you so much! I have a lot of work to do, and I’m so excited to get started.”
— Tammy Tarabola
“Thank you, Marie!! My memories project improved so much after I found your podcast, website, and courses!”
— Suzanne Sewell 🇨🇦
“You opened my eyes to the most wonderful layer of documenting the simplest moments in my own family, yet the most meaningful ones. Thank you!”
— carol porta
“I had my first workshop tonight. I was nervous and felt like I should memorize Marie’s talk, lol.
Instead, I edited my slides to make them my own. When the class started, it all just flowed—I never should have doubted myself. We know this stuff like the back of our hand.
Thank you, Marie, for giving me the voice and direction to teach with confidence.”
— Ronni Gehron
“I’m lying in bed with my husband snoring beside me and my 18-month-old son, Levi, asleep next to me. I couldn’t sleep, so I searched your name in my email for inspiration. F&F and the Facebook group have become a photography home for me.
My emotional radar is constantly on overdrive, both with my family and my clients. Sometimes, it feels overwhelming when I look through photos, and I long to freeze time, if only for a moment. Photography lets me do that. It captures what might seem insignificant now but will be cherished later.
Thank you for giving me the courage to keep going and document what matters, even when others don’t get it. You rock, Marie!”
— Brandy Miller
“I just wanted to take a second and say THANK YOU so, so, SO much for the amazing photography course resources.
I’ve been really anxious about building my class and procrastinating because of it. Going through your materials, I could literally cry with relief.
Thank you, thank you, thank you! Keep doing what you’re doing—you are such an encouragement to others!”
— Kelly
“You gave me the confidence to follow my dreams! Your no-nonsense, actionable approach has made documentary photography a sellable genre. You’ve changed the world, sister!”
— Susan Ryan Kalina
“Your email this morning and the podcast last night only made me more relentless in my pursuit of joy and art through photography. Thank you so much!”
— Camilla Montanhani
“After reading many of your blogs and ideas, I finally picked up the camera for ME after almost three years and blogged about it. I hope to turn this into a personal project or series. I started—and that’s the most important part. From here, I can only move forward.”
— Shannon Mulligan
“I want to send a huge thanks to Marie for all the fabulous information. Every time I read your emails or listen to your FB live sessions, I get a spark—sometimes too many sparks, and my head starts to spin!
I also forget that I have some of your ebooks and resources, but when I remember and dive back in, they always answer the questions I’m struggling with.”
— Kelly Haymes
“You were my first introduction to documentary family photography. I remember the absolute giddy elation when I discovered that other people did what I loved—it was a ‘real’ genre. Thank you so much. I can’t wait to read your book!”
— Marie O’Mahony
“I found you on Pinterest! You are exactly what I’ve been searching for in my photography journey! Thank you for sharing so much valuable information.
I just started digging in, but I already feel like this is exactly what families need!”
— Arlene Garcia
“Your marketing always destroys me 🤣 I’m anxiously waiting haha 😘”
— Anonymous
Colleagues, mentors & Partners
Professionals I’ve had the pleasure of working with have shared their thoughts on my work and impact. Their kind words reflect the mutual respect and collaboration that fuels meaningful projects and deep connections. A sprinkling of mentor feedback, too.
“You're really good at teeing up what the listener is thinking! You start with where we're at mentally. You're a very charming and engaging interviewer. It's great!”
— Jay Acunzo, former Google digital media strategist and head of content at HubSpot, Founder of Unthinkable Media and Author of Break the Wheel.
What my colleagues and partners have to say:
Rachel Greiman, Founder of Green Chair Stories (Collective of Copywriters)
Newsletter & Reader notes
These are the heartfelt responses from people who have connected with my eBooks, newsletters, Substack, and articles. Their feedback reflects how words can inspire reflection, personal growth, and action.
Stories and insights that readers have shared with me.
“Oh my goodness—it’s awesome and full of incredibly valuable content. Thank you so much!” (Meaningful Pictures Guide)
— Megan Carling
“This line: ‘I think most people say they want to die knowing they lived a full life. For me, I want to know I lived awake for the life I lived.’
Wow, it hit me so hard! I often see you talk about living awake, but in this context, it really landed.
As I read, I pictured my grandparents’ home and all the little details that brought it to life. You put tiny, often overlooked things into sharp focus. I’m ready to read more! Get going! ❤️”
— Caryn Dodson
“BEST EMAIL EVER. Oh man, did I need this. Thank you!”
— Danielle MacInnes
“Marie! I have absolutely loved reading your emails over the years. I opened this particular thought explosion and grinned—your beginner thoughts echo so many of my own.
It’s great to see how you’re leaning into authenticity and challenging others to do the same. Thank you for that encouragement!”
— Laura Moore
“Your emails have an amazing way of hitting me right where it hurts—in a good way.
I’ve stopped reading them sometimes because I know I’ll get engrossed and come away with more ideas—like a Facebook ad, a WordPress post, or a new service to offer—when I should be working on something else! I love your work.
— SKP
“I just wanted to tell you how much I enjoyed this email. You’ve been adding that personal touch back into your business, and it’s so refreshing compared to all the other emails I receive. I actually open yours instead of archiving them for ‘later’ (whenever that may be, ha)! The journal suggestions were great—I even added a few to my Amazon cart. Thanks for all you do. You rock!”
— Kortney fox
“Thanks for the therapy session.
I love your content and sometimes wish I could lock myself in a room just to execute every idea I’ve stored away from you.
Thank you for putting hope and love into the world. And your kids are the cutest! You are a great role model.”
— Sarah Howell
“Thanks for verbalizing the ‘broken record’ concept—something I’ve been wrestling with but needed to hear. This post was everything I needed tonight. THANK YOU for showing up!”
— Rebecca Cooper
“Ok. I love the stories. They feel like popcorn, and it works.”
— Christi Garland
“A good reminder of how easy it is to overlook or miss those tiny stories. The observation list helped me think back on those stories again and made me want to document them. When there’s a lot going on or when I’m not feeling totally fit, I tend to get caught up in the ‘daily flow of life’ and live on autopilot. It’s good to have something that brings me back to earth.
This ‘blind spot’ piece reminded me right away of a forgotten story about my grandma. Every time I left her house, she would walk me to the end of her driveway and wave goodbye, staying there until I was out of sight. Thank you for reminding me. 😘”
— Angela Goosens
“I listened to your Survival Mode podcast episode last night, and I just wanted to thank you for giving a name to something I couldn’t quite figure out—why I feel the way I do. I think I spend 80% of my life in survival mode, sleepwalking through my life and consumed by my business. I will be making changes to be more intentional, awake, and present.”
— Celeste Cilliers
“Just wanted to reach out and thank you, Marie, for all the content you share so generously for free. There’s never been a time when I thought, ‘Man, that was a waste!’ I always leave with valuable insights.
I attended another webinar recently and felt like the whole thing was just leading up to a sales pitch. What’s different about DGS (formerly F&F) is that you care.
Honestly, if you didn’t need to make a living, I believe you’d give it all away for free. Thanks for helping me stay focused and ignore all the noise from others trying to sell me things I don’t need.”
— Dreama Spence
“Marie, thank you for your emails and your business. They make me happy and bring joy—something we all need these days. Thank you for not giving up. And thank you for you.”
— Mollye Miller
“I so enjoy the journey you share with us and the passionate example you are! Love seeing your stories come to life in each post—you’re an AWE-MAZING mama and creator. So grateful to know you, Marie!!”
— JAMIE E
“I don’t know you personally, but I have to tell you that your courageous post was exactly what I needed to hear. I’ve also been having a tough couple of years, and your post gave me hope. Thank you.”
— Kelli M
“As I was reading, I automatically started transforming the story into a few of my own in my mind. This also made me reflect on my current tendency to live for the future, especially given the state of the world. I think readers will be ready to jump right in after reading this! Looking forward to the next section.
— Witney
“Your intention with is clear: Notice your stories, and then think about what you can do with them and go deeper inward. Your story reminded me immediately of some of my own from when I was a kid, when I also wanted to grow up as fast as possible.
It made me think about the things I missed then by not living in the here and now—and what I don’t want to miss now, with the time I still have left on this earth.”
— angela
“Reading these stories sparked memories of my own—it made me want to dive back into the stories I hadn’t thought about in years.”
— Dreama Spence
“I absolutely loved being in your FB group for the last four years! It has always been one of my favorites and one of the only ones I have notifications set for. I learned so much, and it pushed me to make amazing and positive changes in how I photograph—not just clients, but my own family!
I’m a faithful podcast listener and love your emails and blog posts. I often go back to listen and read more than once!”
— Mary Beth Miller
“This email was truly gold, Marie! Thank YOU!”
— Marta B
“Thank you for this email! It grabbed my attention—this is the first email I’ve received in five years that offered workshops. I always look forward to your emails; they’re different, practical, useful, and straight to the point.”
— Reem Alshaikh
“I love the way you write. It’s so inspiring and motivating. I’ve been following you for years, and you still manage to say what’s in my head—only much more eloquently! Thank you for your dedication to inspiring others to live in the moment.”
— Lisa Jacob
“Ok, I just have to tell you this because you brought me to tears today! I was checking out your new offering and thought, ‘Oh, I’ll log into Podia.’ I had NOT found the Freesources before today, and I’m literally in tears over how much stuff is there to draw on for my business. Thank you so much!”
— Tara Maxey
“Reading this makes me want to have my journal next to me so I can write and reflect while reading your book. I’m a huge writer myself, so that’s the experience I’d have with this.”
— Jodi Swansey
“I'm super geeked watching this unfold. It’s like a Tarantino movie—it’s driving my thoughts and memories to the past and pulling up details I’ve forgotten or buried.
Some of these memories hurt, some I thought I’d ‘moved on’ from, and others only felt irrelevant at the time.”
— Toni Candelario
“Each time Marie posts something, it always makes me sit and let it marinate for a while.
The other day, she asked her followers to thank someone for a story, and now I have a running list of people in my mind I need to thank—so many important people who’ve played pivotal roles, both big and small, in my life.”
— lauren webster
dgs podcast reviews
It’s been incredible to hear from listeners about how the podcast, Dangerously Good Stories (formerly Intentional Documentary®) has inspired and encouraged them. These reviews and love notes capture the essence of the show.
What listeners have said:
“I know this was a long letter, but you are kind of an understanding soul at this point. You get it. You are a calming inspiration for me when I listen to your podcast. It might be your voice, your wit, your knowledge, or the way you explain things you’ve learned. Whatever it is, you’ve made things really, really clear to me about a lot.”
